Koh Lipe, in Thailand, is one of those small islands where white sandy beaches and marine life make for an idyllic place to relax. Once unknown to the public, the island has gained in popularity with travelers from all over the world. Difficult to access but easy to explore, it’s also the reason why tourists and adventurers flock here. So grab your ferry ticket and come and relax in its peaceful atmosphere.
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Things to Do on the Island
Let’s be honest, why spend hours in an uncomfortable speedboat to get to an island? Mainly for the beaches and laid-back atmosphere, right? That’s what usually brings travelers to Koh Lipe, because it’s not a party island. I’m not saying you’ll have to stay in your hotel room at night – don’t worry, the island does have a nightlife, but it’s not as lively as Bangkok!
As the island is easy to explore, here are the best things to do on Koh Lipe.
1. Koh Lipe’s Beaches
Although the island is tiny, there are four main beaches to choose from. Whether you want to relax or watch the pretty fish, this is the place to be. The great thing about Koh Lipe is that you don’t have to wake up at crazy hours to be sure of a nice spot on the beach, as all the beaches offer long stretches of sand.
North Point Beach
As its name suggests, this beach is located at the northern tip of Koh Lipe. The vast expanse of sand and the view over Koh Adang make it an ideal place to bask in the sun. Shade is a little hard to find here, so it’s best to arrive early or put on sunscreen regularly.
And if you continue walking west from the beach, you’ll find a snorkeling spot where you can observe some pretty coral and fish.
To get there from the center of the island, just walk along the sand from Sunrise Beach to North Point Beach. Alternatively, head inland and follow the signs to the Zodiac Sun Resort.
Sunrise Beach
Like the previous one, the name says it all. The beach on the east side is the best for sunrises and beach bars. Note that you need to walk a little further along the beach to avoid the crowds of long-tailed boats, especially at the end of the day.
Sunset Beach
Obviously, this is the best beach for sunsets, at least if it’s not too cloudy. But it was also one of my favorites because there was hardly anyone around and it was the only one where I found a little shade. Surrounded by palm trees and calm blue water, it was truly a moment of pure tranquility and rest.
Pattaya Beach
The busiest beach in the south of the island and the arrival point, this is where you’ll find many beach resorts. It’s not the best place to relax, but it’s a must-see as there are plenty of restaurants, bars and fire shows at sunset.
2. The Walking Street
From craft stores to restaurants, this is THE street where you’ll find anything and everything. You can also get from one part of the island to the other in 15 minutes. While the street is pleasant and quiet during the day, at night it becomes crowded and busy with people looking for food or entertainment.
As you stroll through its narrow streets, you’ll probably hear a “yoo hoo” at some point. Don’t worry, it’s just the old lady at the restaurant of the same name beckoning you in.
Empty at some point, tourism has changed Koh Lipe a lot anyway, I have the impression that even the pedestrian street has lost some of its former charm as it becomes more and more popular.
3. Water Sports
Diving and snorkeling are among the best things to do on Koh Lipe, especially near Sunrise Beach. The clear, calm waters make it easy to discover the underwater world. But I was rather sad to see the state of the coral… Climate change, pollution and all the toxic products that humans throw into the sea have really had an impact on the environment. You can still see colorful corals and different species of fish, but less and less than before.
If you’re not into underwater activities, you can rent a kayak (200 baht for 1 hour: $5.63) on one of the main beaches. Indeed, it’s one of the best ways to visit the island while enjoying a superb view.
4. Koh Adang
Accessible by kayak or longtail boat from Sunrise Beach, Koh Adang is a secluded island where you can escape the sometimes crowded Koh Lipe. Quiet, postcard-perfect and still wild, it’s what I call a perfect day trip for relaxing.
You can spend the day at the beach, see the waterfall or go snorkeling without the crowds.
The island also boasts a beautiful viewpoint (Chado Cliff) offering panoramic views of Koh Lipe and the surrounding islands.
5. Yoga & Massage
What could be more peaceful than yoga in beautiful surroundings? If you’ve never tried it, you should attend the sunrise yoga classes at Keirita’s Yoga. It’s a great way to start the day energized and relaxed.
If you don’t want to put your flexibility to the test, or simply don’t like this kind of activity, you might want to get a massage. There are many stores on Koh Lipe that will help you get rid of tension in an energetic but effective way:.
Best Restaurants
With so many restaurants on such a small island, the choice can be tricky. As always, the best thing to do is to listen to the locals’ recommendations, but also check out the reviews on the Internet, here are some of my favorites:
- Tonkow Restaurant
- Nee Papaya
- Elephant
- Ten Moons’ Restaurant
Where to Stay?
You’ll find plenty of options depending on your budget and where you want to stay. Here are my top two choices:
On a budget: The Chic Lipe
Just five minutes from Sunrise Beach, The Chic Lipe offers clean, spacious rooms in an ideal location. The staff are also very friendly and welcoming. More than you’d expect from a youth hostel!
Ten Moons Lipe Resort
Ten Moons Resort is a great place to feel like you’re on your own idyllic island. Located on Sunrise Beach, you won’t want to leave your bungalow once you’re in – you’ve been warned!
Getting Around the Island?
The best option is to walk, as the island is small and easy to explore, no matter where you stay. What’s more, the main attractions and beaches are all within walking distance, but you can also rent a bike from one of the rental stores if you feel like it.
How to Get to Koh Lipe?
From Bangkok
First you need to fly to Hat Yai International Airport. From there, you can take a bus or van to Pak Bara Pier and finally catch a ferry. Allow between 5 and 6.5 hours for the whole journey. Flying is the most convenient way, and you can find package deals for the whole trip, which will save you time and the hassle of booking every stage separately.
From Krabi
You can take the ferry from Klong Jilad Pier, but be aware that the journey takes between 4.5 and 7 hours. I hope you don’t get seasick, as it can be difficult to spend half a day on a boat depending on the weather.
You can also opt for the van + ferry option, which means less time on a boat and more “comfort”. The trip will take you from Krabi to Pak Bara Pier, where you will then take the ferry to Koh Lipe. Total travel time: 7 hours.
From Koh Lanta
The trip takes between 2.5 and 3 hours by speedboat from Saladan Pier to Koh Lanta. Watch out for bumps!
From Langkawi
If you’re coming from the archipelago of islands off the coast of Malaysia, you’ll need to take a speedboat from Kuah Jetty or Telaga Harbor Marina. The journey takes between 1.5 and 2 hours. Bear in mind that since you’re crossing an international border, the ticket will be more expensive, and you’ll need to check entry requirements and obtain a visa if necessary.
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit is between November and April, when the weather is pleasant and rain is scarce. If you plan to visit in the off-season, bear in mind that, in addition to the rain, most stores will be closed.
In a nutshell
A victim of its own success, Koh Lipe has undergone many changes over the years. The once-unknown island is now a tourist destination where people come to enjoy the beautiful beaches and, above all, to party. If you’re not the party type, you can skip Koh Lipe or just spend 2 days there to enjoy the other activities, but if you are, I’m sure you’ll love the island.
All of these beaches look so beautiful, I really like the sound of Sunset beach. Would love to visit and get out more. Thanks for the travel Inspo!