Koh Lipe is tucked away in the Andaman Sea near the Malaysian border. It’s a tiny island paradise. It’s often called “Thailand’s Maldives” but without the luxury price tag. After spending a few days exploring this gem, I can confidently say it is developed enough for comfort. Yet, it is unspoiled enough to feel like you’ve discovered something special.
Getting There: The Journey is Part of the Adventure
Let’s be honest: Koh Lipe isn’t the easiest place to reach, and that’s part of why it remains relatively unspoiled. During high season (November to April), you can take a speedboat from Pak Bara pier on the mainland (about 1.5 hours) or island hop from places like Koh Lanta or Phuket (seasonal schedules apply). During low season (May to October), boat services are significantly reduced, with many operating only from Pak Bara.
If you have ever felt unwell on any form of transport, and I cannot stress this strongly enough…..take a travel / seasickness tablet before you get the ferry! The boats are small. Our crossing was pretty bumpy. It was a very long hour and a half on the way out. We didn’t make that mistake on our way back to the mainland. I’m sure it isn’t always rough. We were in low season, so the weather wasn’t amazing. This shouldn’t be enough to put you off visiting. It’s just something to know in advance.Pro Tip: Book your ferry tickets a few days in advance during peak times (December to February). The small boats fill up quickly, and getting stranded at Pak Bara isn’t how you want to start your holiday.
We used 12Go to book all of our ferries and other major transport around Thailand. You can often buy a combo type ticket, which will include a ferry ticket and minibus transfer.
Where to Stay: From Simple to Splendid
Koh Lipe has three main beaches, each with its own distinct vibe:
Pattaya Beach
The island’s main beach and where most ferries arrive. It’s the busiest area with plenty of accommodation options and restaurants. The central part can get crowded, but the edges offer more tranquility.
Mid-range Pick: Serendipity Resort offers comfortable bungalows starting at ฿2,500 / $75 USD / €67 per night. They come with A/C and hot water. The bungalows are just a 2-minute walk from the beach.
Sunrise Beach
My personal favorite. The long stretch of white sand faces east (perfect for morning people) and offers spectacular views. This area tends to have more upscale options.
Splurge-Worthy: Idyllic Concept Resort is at the south end of Sunrise beach. It offers a range of rooms from private garden cabanas to seaview suites. There are multiple pools and a swim-up bar. The restaurant served the best steamed fish that we had across all of SouthEast Asia! Prices start at around ฿3,500/$107USD/€93. The beachfront location justifies the price. This is especially true during low season when rates drop by 30-40%.
Sunset Beach
The quietest of the three main beaches, perfect for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. Accommodation is more limited here, but that’s part of the charm.
Budget-Friendly: Sunset Beach Bungalows offers simple fan rooms from ฿1,000/$30USD/€30, just steps from the sand. Don’t expect luxury, but location and value are unbeatable.
The Underwater World: Snorkeling Paradise
Koh Lipe sits within the Tarutao National Marine Park, which means the snorkeling is exceptional even right off the beaches. Rent equipment from shops on Walking Street for around ฿150 per day. The cost may be included, depending on your accommodation.
If you book beachside accommodation, you can likely see some really cool coral and fish. They are on the beach right outside your hotel. But if you want to make a day of it and explore further afield, then there are a couple of must-visit snorkeling spots:
- Koh Adang Reef: Just a 15-minute longtail boat ride away (฿200 round trip). The coral gardens here host an impressive variety of marine life, including clownfish, parrotfish, and occasional reef sharks.
Jabang: A submerged pinnacle not far from the island. The current can be strong, so this is best visited with a guided tour (฿700-1,000 for a half-day trip).
Remember not to stand on, or touch, any of the coral or marine life. This can seriously damage it. The coral or marine life can also be pretty sharp!
Beyond the Beaches: Island Activities
Koh Lipe is a gorgeous and very chilled-out island. You will have a fantastic time if you just want to lie on the beach with a cocktail. But, if you do get bored of sipping cocktails and snorkeling, there are a couple of other activities. They are well worth doing.
Hiking Koh Adang
Take a longtail boat to neighboring Koh Adang (฿200 round trip) and hike to its viewpoint. The 40-minute trek is moderately challenging but rewards you with panoramic views of Koh Lipe and the surrounding Andaman Sea. Start early to avoid the midday heat.
Walking Street
The island’s main pedestrian thoroughfare comes alive in the evenings. It’s a mix of restaurants, souvenir shops, massage places, and travel agencies. Despite catering to tourists, it retains a laid-back charm that fits the island’s vibe.
Thai Massage on the Beach
After a day of snorkeling, treat yourself to a Thai massage right on the beach (฿300-400 for an hour). The combination of sea breeze and skilled massage techniques is the ultimate relaxation experience.
Seasonal Considerations
Koh Lipe’s high season runs from November to April, with peak prices during Christmas and Thai New Year (mid-April). May to October brings lower prices (up to 50% off accommodation) but also increased rainfall, especially September-October.
Sweet Spot: May-June and November offer great value with good weather and significantly fewer tourists. Important: During monsoon season (especially June-October), ferry services are reduced and sometimes canceled due to rough seas. Always build flexibility into your travel plans if visiting during this period.
Final Thoughts
Koh Lipe offers the best of both worlds. It is developed enough to have all of your usual comforts. It does not sacrifice its soul to mass tourism. Whether you’re seeking underwater adventures, beach relaxation, or a taste of island living, Koh Lipe provides opportunities that exceed expectations. It offers more than what you would expect from a small island.
Is it worth the effort to get there? Absolutely – especially if you’re looking for something beyond the more accessible options like Phuket or Koh Samui. Just be sure to give yourself enough time to settle into the island’s relaxed rhythm. Three nights is a minimum; five is ideal.
Have you been to Koh Lipe or are you planning a trip? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!
Wander with Orla 
Leave a comment