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  1. Thailand 🎫
  2. Koh Lipe

Discover Koh Lipe

About Koh Lipe, Thailand

Koh Lipe is a small island located in the Andaman Sea, part of Thailand's Satun Province near the Malaysian border. It is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, known for its clear waters and coral-rich diving spots. Originally inhabited by the Chao Leh, or Sea Gypsies, Koh Lipe has evolved into a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and relatively secluded beaches. Traveling to Koh Lipe involves understanding its main attractions, climate conditions, travel expenses, and transportation options.

Main Points of Interest in Koh Lipe
  • Pattaya Beach: The main beach, known for its soft white sand and lively atmosphere.
  • Sunrise Beach (Hat Chao Ley): Offers beautiful sunrise views and is ideal for snorkeling.
  • Sunset Beach (Hat Pramong): A quieter beach perfect for watching the sunset.
  • Koh Adang: Located just a short boat ride away, known for hiking trails and panoramic island views.
  • Tarutao National Marine Park: A protected area with diverse marine life, ideal for diving and snorkeling.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe has a tropical climate with a distinct dry and wet season. The best time to visit is from November to April, when the weather is dry and temperatures range from 27-32°C (81-90°F). The wet season, from May to October, features higher humidity and occasional heavy rains, though the island remains accessible.

Budget and Travel Costs in Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe offers a range of prices, with options for budget travelers and luxury seekers. The conversion rate is approximately 37 THB to 1 USD.

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Guesthouse: $20 - $40 USD (740 - 1,480 THB) per night.
    • Mid-range Bungalow: $50 - $100 USD (1,850 - 3,700 THB) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Street Food Meal: $3 - $5 USD (110 - 185 THB).
    • Restaurant Meal: $10 - $20 USD (370 - 740 THB).
  • Activities:
    • Snorkeling Trip: $15 - $30 USD (550 - 1,100 THB).
    • Diving Excursion: $60 - $100 USD (2,220 - 3,700 THB).
Transportation To and From Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is accessible by sea, with regular ferry services from nearby locations.

  • Airports: The nearest airports are Hat Yai International Airport and Langkawi International Airport, with transfer services available to the ferry terminals.
  • Ferry Routes:
    • From Pak Bara Pier (Thailand): Frequent ferries operate, taking approximately 90 minutes.
    • From Langkawi (Malaysia): Seasonal ferries connect to Koh Lipe, taking about 1.5 hours.
  • Local Transport: Once on the island, transportation is mainly by foot or taxi boats.

Koh Lipe Ferry Operators

OperatorDestinationsOffersMin PriceRating
1
6
$9.40
  4.6

Bus from Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
3
11:00
11:30
19h0m
$48.91
  4.8
1
1
09:30
09:30
10h30m
$26.81
1
2
11:30
11:30
13h43m
$42.66
1
2
10:30
11:30
3h20m
$7.18
1
1
10:30
10:30
6h40m
$16.45
1
1
11:30
11:30
22h16m
$58.69
1
3
11:30
11:30
22h1m
$39.21
1
1
11:30
11:30
17h12m
$55.13
1
1
11:30
11:30
8h41m
$44.43
1
5
13:30
13:30
12h27m
$35.17
1
2
11:30
11:30
5h10m
$32.08

Ferry from Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
13
10:30
16:00
1h30m
$27.74
  4.5
1
23
09:30
13:30
4h0m
$16.34
  5.0
1
5
09:00
12:30
5h50m
$53.94
  3.2
1
7
09:00
12:30
3h0m
$29.28
  4.0
4
15
09:30
13:30
1h29m
$13.87
  4.2
1
5
09:00
12:30
4h15m
$47.46
  4.7
1
2
09:00
12:00
2h0m
$31.07
  4.6
1
1
09:30
09:30
6h0m
$27.74
  3.8
1
1
09:30
09:30
8h30m
$67.81
  4.7

Van from Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
24
09:30
13:30
4h0m
$16.95
  4.0
1
6
09:30
11:30
6h22m
$19.42
  3.5
1
1
09:30
09:30
9h5m
$29.28
  2.0
1
8
09:30
11:30
6h5m
$20.03
  5.0
1
1
09:30
09:30
9h0m
$30.82
  5.0
1
1
09:30
09:30
8h30m
$30.82
1
2
09:30
09:30
4h5m
$18.18
  5.0

Bus to Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
7
16:00
17:20
18h30m
$49.04
  5.0
1
1
06:00
06:00
6h30m
$23.58
1
1
05:20
05:20
5h3m
$41.10
1
3
05:00
05:30
11h30m
$44.32
1
1
08:00
08:00
6h30m
$35.09
1
2
15:25
16:25
3h20m
$7.20
1
1
10:30
10:30
6h40m
$16.40
1
3
23:15
23:45
13h55m
$51.09
1
1
17:15
17:15
22h16m
$68.20
1
3
19:15
19:15
19h28m
$55.84
1
1
02:45
02:45
8h41m
$53.94

Ferry to Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
7
09:00
13:30
3h0m
$33.90
  4.3
1
16
08:20
11:30
4h20m
$15.41
  4.6
2
23
09:15
14:30
1h12m
$27.74
  5.0
1
4
09:15
12:30
4h0m
$47.16
  4.1
1
6
08:15
11:15
5h15m
$53.94
  4.0
4
15
09:30
13:30
1h36m
$13.25
  3.8

Van to Koh Lipe

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
48
08:00
11:30
4h53m
$15.72
  5.0
1
7
06:00
08:00
7h0m
$19.42
  3.0
1
1
08:00
08:00
7h0m
$34.40
  4.8
2
8
06:40
07:20
5h45m
$19.42
  4.7
1
1
05:00
05:00
9h0m
$40.87
  3.8
1
4
08:50
09:15
4h22m
$19.73
  4.5

Popular Questions

Does Koh Lipe have beaches?

Koh Lipe is well-known for its beaches, each offering distinct experiences. Pattaya Beach is the island’s main hub, with a lively atmosphere and numerous bars and restaurants. Sunrise Beach offers a quieter environment, perfect for early-morning views and snorkeling opportunities. Sunset Beach provides a more tranquil setting, ideal for those looking to enjoy serene evening views.

Water Quality: The waters around Koh Lipe are generally clean and suitable for swimming, with vibrant coral reefs nearby for snorkeling and diving.

Swimming Safety: While the beaches are generally safe, it's always wise to observe local swimming advisories, especially during monsoon season when currents can be stronger.

These beaches make Koh Lipe a popular destination for tourists seeking sun, sea, and relaxation.

Is tap water in Koh Lipe safe to drink?

Tap water in Koh Lipe is not considered safe for drinking. It is best to rely on bottled water, which is widely available at local shops and restaurants. Alternatively, you can use water filtration systems or purification tablets if you prefer. As for swimming, the beaches around Koh Lipe are generally clean and suitable for swimming. Local authorities monitor water quality, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. Always check for any local advisories regarding water conditions during your visit.

Why is Koh Lipe famous?

Koh Lipe is known for its pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The island is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, which contributes to the preservation of its natural beauty and diverse underwater ecosystems.

Accommodation and Dining: Options range from budget bungalows to luxury resorts, with dining choices including fresh seafood and Thai cuisine at beachfront restaurants.

Transportation: Koh Lipe is accessible by ferry from several Thai mainland locations, including Pak Bara Pier. On the island, walking is the primary mode of transportation due to its small size.

Local Customs and Tips: Respect the local environment by avoiding littering and supporting eco-friendly practices. The tap water is not safe to drink, so bottled or filtered water is recommended.

Swimming Safety: The beaches are generally safe for swimming, with Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach being popular choices. Water quality is monitored, ensuring a clean and enjoyable experience.

Are things cheap in Koh Lipe?

Koh Lipe, while offering a range of budget-friendly options, tends to be more expensive than other areas in Thailand due to its remote location. Accommodation can range from 500 to 4,000 THB per night ($15 to $120), depending on the season and style (beachfront resorts tend to be pricier). Meals at local eateries might cost around 100 to 200 THB ($3 to $6), while dining at higher-end restaurants could rise to 500 THB ($15) or more per person.

Transportation: Local transportation mainly involves walking or using motorcycle taxis, which typically cost 50 to 100 THB ($1.50 to $3) for short distances.

Water Cleanliness: Tap water is not recommended for drinking; bottled water is advisable. The beaches and waters around Koh Lipe are generally clean and safe for swimming, with regular monitoring to ensure water quality.

What is the most scenic part of Koh Lipe?

Koh Lipe's Sunrise Beach is particularly known for its beauty. This eastern beach offers clear turquoise waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling, with views of nearby islands. The sunrise over the ocean is a highlight, making early mornings a perfect time to visit. Pattaya Beach, located on the island’s south side, is another popular spot with a lively atmosphere and a range of dining and accommodation options. For a quieter experience, Sunset Beach on the western side provides a relaxed setting with beautiful sunsets and fewer crowds. Each beach has its own charm, catering to different preferences for travelers.