Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe: The Turquoise Jewel of the Andaman Sea

Tucked along Thailand's southern border in Satun Province, Koh Lipe is a postcard-perfect island. Small enough to walk around in an afternoon, it punches far above its size with dazzling white sand and some of the richest reefs in the country.

Geography & Location

Koh Lipe is part of the Adang-Rawi archipelago, in the heart of Tarutao National Marine Park. It is Thailand's southernmost island, just 30 km from the Malaysian island of Langkawi.

Did you know? Koh Lipe is the only inhabited island in the archipelago, home to the "Chao Ley" (Sea Gypsies), who fiercely protect the soul of their island.

The 3 Must-See Beaches

The island is shaped around three main beaches, each with its own personality:

• Pattaya BeachLively & buzzing — the ferry arrival point and heart of the nightlife.
• Sunrise BeachPeaceful & authentic — perfect for sunrise walks and a fresh sea breeze.
• Sunset BeachWild & romantic — the ideal spot to end the day with a cocktail facing the setting sun.

Diving & Snorkeling: an open-air aquarium

Thanks to its sheltered location, Koh Lipe boasts some of the most beautiful soft coral gardens in all of Southeast Asia.

• Stonehenge A spectacular rocky pinnacle famous for its carpets of pink and purple soft corals.
• 8-Mile Rock An advanced site where whale sharks and manta rays are regularly spotted.
• Koh Hingham A mysterious island covered in polished black pebbles, surrounded by reefs teeming with clownfish.

Walking Street: the heart of the island

The main artery connecting Pattaya Beach to Sunrise Beach.

• Shopping Local crafts, dive shops and souvenirs.
• Food Ultra-fresh seafood grilled on the barbecue and the famous Thai pancakes.
• Unwind Plenty of massage parlours to recover after a day of exploring.

Practical Info

• Best season November to April (dry season), with optimal underwater visibility.
• Access By speedboat from Pak Bara year-round; by ferry from Langkawi in high season.
• Park fee 200 THB per person on arrival — keep the ticket, it's valid for all surrounding islands.

Expert tip

"Koh Lipe is the perfect stopover after a Similans liveaboard. It's the island where you take off your watch and live by the rhythm of the tides. Don't forget your water shoes to explore the little reefs right off Sunrise Beach!"