• Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is Thailand’s southernmost island, 60 km from mainland Satun Province, facing the mainland’s Malaysian border, and part of the Tarutao National Marine Park. The Marine Park is home to 51 islands with pristine coral reefs, diverse marine life, and beautiful sandy beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island is significantly more developed than the Trang islands, with numerous resorts of all levels, a small Walking Street with restaurants, bars, shops, diving centers, and a lively atmosphere.
Snorkeling and diving are Koh Lipe’s main attraction with excellent underwater visibility, healthy coral coverage, and abundant marine life including turtles, reef sharks, rays, and countless tropical fish species. The best snorkeling and diving sites require boat trips to nearby islands including Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, and others.
The island’s three main beaches are:

  • Pattaya Beach
    The most developed and busiest beach in the eastern coast, with numerous resorts, restaurants, and bars. The beach is highly crowded during high season.
  • Sunrise Beach
    A quieter less developed beach south of Pattaya Beach, with a mix of budget to mid-range accommodation. Snorkeling is available off the Beach.
  • Sunset Beach
    A relaxed, pristine sandy beach on the western coast backed by resorts and facing spectacular Andaman sunsets. The beach is 15-20 minutes away from the island’s center. Snorkeling is available by taking a short swim from the beach.

Koh Lipe operates almost in November-April. During the Monsoon season, May-October, most of the resorts are closed, boat services are suspended or limited, and the island goes to minimal activity. Reach the island from the Pak Bara pier in Satun Province and from Langkawi, Malaysia. Seasonal boat routes connecting Koh Lipe with Koh Lanta and from Phuket take more than 4 hours and are expensive.

Koh Lipe offers beautiful beaches and excellent snorkeling and diving, but whether it’s worth the extra travel time and effort depend on preferences and itinerary. If time allows visit Koh Lipe 3-4 days out of Krabi Province.

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Koh Lipe in the Andaman Sea south of Krabi Peninsula, Thailand, Travel with Joy

Koh Lipe in the Andaman Sea south of Krabi Peninsula, Thailand, Travel with Joy