Koh Lipe, Thailand – What to do, Where to stay, Where to eat
If you are looking for quieter islands in Thailand. We were surprised on how a small island can have everything you need – access to several amenities, good and affordable food, great underwater adventures, and vibrant nightlife. It is one of the lesser-known islands of Thailand that’s absolutely worth the trip – you get an authentic Thai island feel without the crowds.
We have explored several islands in a month of staying in Thailand and Koh Lipe is definitely one of our favorite! This comprehensive Koh Lipe travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know including transportation, things to do, where to stay, where to eat and practical tips to make the most of your trip to this stunning island paradise.
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How to get to Koh Lipe, Thailand
As an island, the only way to get to Koh Lipe is by ferry or speedboat and you cannot fly directly here. Here is a more detailed explanation on getting in the island.
By Air
The nearest airport to Koh Lipe is Hat Yai International Airport (HDY), which is well-connected to major cities in Thailand and Southeast Asia. From Hat Yai, you will need to travel to Pak Bara Pier, which is about a 2-hour drive. Avoid booking shuttle services and taxis at the airport, instead book online to save money.
By Ferry
From Pak Bara Pier in Hat Yai, you can take a speedboat or a ferry to Koh Lipe. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Speedboats are faster but can be a bit bumpy, while ferries offer a more leisurely ride. Make sure to check the schedules and book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season (November to April).
It is also possible to take a ferry straight from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Lipe, Koh Lanta to Koh Lipe and Langkawi to Koh Lipe.
By Bus and Train
For those traveling on a budget, buses and trains are available from Bangkok to Hat Yai. While buses are cheaper, the train offers a scenic and comfortable journey. From Hat Yai, you can then proceed to Pak Bara Pier and catch a ferry to Koh Lipe. If you are considering stopping at Hat Yai for a couple of days, check out our guide to the best things to do in Hat Yai.
Where to Stay in Koh Lipe, Thailand
There are several resorts around the island of Koh Lipe and offers a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hostels. You can also consider the beaches and things to do before deciding on where to stay (more to that later).
Luxury Resorts
- Idyllic Concept Resort: Located on Sunrise Beach, this resort offers luxurious rooms, beachfront, and several amenities, including an infinity pool and a gourmet restaurant.
- Akira Lipe Resort: Situated at Pattaya Beach, Akira Lipe Resort is perfect for travelers seeking comfort and elegance. The resort features modern rooms, multiple swimming pools, and a beach bar.
Mid-Range Hotels
- Mali Resort: With its prime location on Sunrise Beach, Mali Resort combines comfort with affordability. The resort offers beautiful bungalows, a spa, and a beachfront restaurant.
- Mountain Resort Koh Lipe: A beautiful beach-front property on North Point Beach, featuring bungalows, pools and free breakfast.
Budget Accommodation
- The Chic Lipe: A budget-friendly option with clean and modern rooms located near Walking Street, providing easy access to shops and restaurants.
- The Noi Guesthouse Koh Lipe: Perfect for backpackers, this hotel offers quaint rooms with laundry and Wi-Fi, right in the heart of the walking street.
Beaches and Activities in Koh Lipe
The beaches are surely the main draw of Koh Lipe. We loved being able to walk to any beach with our snorkeling gear and be able to find tropical fish and coral reefs. These 4 beaches are where most of the hotels are located.
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya Beach is the main beach on Koh Lipe, known for its powdery white sand and clear turquoise waters. It’s the busiest beach on the island as it is where the main pier is and where most boats for tours depart and arrive. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops nearby. It’s an excellent spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports like jet skiing and parasailing.
Sunrise Beach
As the name suggests, Sunrise Beach is the perfect spot to watch the sunrise. This beach is quieter than Pattaya Beach and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. The calm waters and beautiful coral reefs make it ideal for swimming and kayaking.
Sunset Beach
For a more tranquil experience, head to Sunset Beach. Roughly, a 20-min walk from Pattaya beach, this smaller beach is perfect for those seeking peace and relaxation. As the day ends, it becomes a popular spot to watch the breathtaking sunset.
North Point Beach
Continuing the naming creativity, the northern point of the island is called North Point Beach. These picturesque sandy shores offer great views of Koh Adang, which is beautiful as sunset. Come back after dark for some excellent nightlife at Zodiac Beach Bar.
Diving and Snorkeling in Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a diver’s paradise, with numerous dive sites teeming with marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of options available. This is probably our most favorite activity in Koh Lipe – exploring marinelife.
Diving
- Adang Sea Divers: Offers PADI-certified courses and guided dives to various sites around Koh Lipe, including 8 Mile Rock and Stonehenge.
- Koh Lipe Diving: Known for its experienced instructors and well-organized dive trips, Koh Lipe Diving is a great choice for exploring the underwater world.
Snorkeling
For those who prefer snorkeling, Koh Lipe offers some of the best spots right off the beaches. The waters around Sunrise Beach and the nearby Koh Kra and Koh Usen islands are teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. There are also two main tours which visit the surrounding islands: Inner Tour and Outer Tour.
Both of these options can be booked in a Private Tour and both pass by Koh Hin Ngam where you would learn about a local legend of the origin of the stones.
- Koh Lipe Inner Tour: Visit nearby islands and reefs, such as Jabang Dive Site and Koh Yang Island.
- Koh Lipe Outer Tour: visit more remote spots, including Ko Hin Son and Monkey Beach.
How to Explore the Island of Koh Lipe
Walking Street
Walking Street is the main thoroughfare of Koh Lipe, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and massage parlors. It’s the perfect place to stroll in the evening, enjoy delicious street food, and shop for souvenirs.
Going around the island
There are no motorized cars on the island – it is possible to explore the entire island by foot. For longer trips, there are locals offering transport service with their motorcycles to get you to your destination.
Koh Adang, nearby island from Koh Lipe
Take a day trip to the nearby Koh Adang, part of Tarutao National Marine Park. This larger island offers excellent hiking opportunities, including a trek to the viewpoint for a panoramic view of Koh Lipe. You can also explore the island’s waterfalls and pristine beaches.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline of Koh Lipe at your own pace. You can paddle to nearby islands or simply enjoy the serene waters around the island. For the best vibe, time this activity around sunset.
Dining and Nightlife in Koh Lipe, Thailand
Koh Lipe offers a variety of dining options, from traditional Thai cuisine to international dishes.
Where to eat in Koh Lipe
Though a small island, we find that there are plenty of restaurants in Koh Lipe serving a good variety of food from fresh seafood, local dishes to fast food options.
- Elephant: A popular spot on Walking Street, Elephant serves delicious Thai and Western dishes in a relaxed setting.
- On The Rocks Restaurant: Located at the Serendipity Resort, this restaurant offers stunning views of the sea and a menu featuring fresh seafood and Thai specialties.
- King Crab Restaurant – Also along the Walking Street, you can choose your fresh fish or shrimp on display at the entrance to the restaurant. All meals come with generous amounts of sides.
Bars and Nightlife
- Reggae Bar: A laid-back bar on Pattaya Beach, perfect for enjoying cocktails and live music in the evening.
- Maya Bar: Known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails, Maya Bar is a great place to dance the night away.
- Zodiac Beach Bar: Located at North Point Beach, visit this spot for some nightlife. They’re also a good destination if you’re looking for some full moon party.
Practical Tips
Best Time to Visit Koh Lipe, Thailand
The best time to visit Koh Lipe is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is sunny and the sea is calm. The monsoon season (May to October) can bring heavy rains and rough seas, but it’s also a quieter time with fewer tourists.
Health and Safety
- Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be very hot, so make sure to drink plenty of water.
- Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and seek shade during the hottest parts of the day.
- Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings. Use insect repellent to avoid bites.
Money and Currency
Koh Lipe has several ATMs and currency exchange facilities. It’s a good idea to carry some cash (Thai Baht), as smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
Internet and Connectivity
While Koh Lipe offers decent internet connectivity, Wi-Fi can be slow in some areas. Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes provide free Wi-Fi for customers, but you can always get an affordable e-sim to stay connected.
Final Thoughts
Koh Lipe, Thailand is a true tropical paradise with natural beauty, exciting activities, laid-back atmosphere and authentic Thai experience with less crowd. We hope this travel guide will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time on this enchanting island.
Looking for more places to visit in Thailand? Don’t miss our guide exploring Khao Sok National Park, things to do in Hat Yai. And make sure you have these top helpful apps and remember these tips when traveling.
Check out our guides on these travel destinations: Lombok, Indonesia; Hanoi, Vietnam; Hakone, Japan and the Top 20 Best Countries for Digital Nomads!
Safe travels!
