Holiday
Why visit Koh Lipe
Discover the Maldives of Thailand around pristine Koh Lipe island
Fantastic snorkeling just off the shore
Powder-soft beaches surrounded by turquoise waters
Immerse in the natural beauty of Tarutao National Marine Park
Meet Chao Lay “sea gypsies”
Hike 690m on Koh Adang for a spectacular panorama over Koh Lope
Trek jungle to discover waterfalls on Koh Rawi and Koh Adang
Learn the fascinating pirate history of Koh Tarutao
Encounter civets, mouse deer, boars, and crab-eating macaques
Build volcanic stones castles on Koh Hin Ngam
Snorkel sensational coral reefs around Koh Yang
Kayak endless beaches fringed by palms and casuarina trees
Dive 30 sites with hard and soft coral gardens, shipwrecks, submerged pinnacles, and an extraordinary abundance of marine life
Cozy walking street, restaurants, and cafes in Koh Lipe island
Breathtaking sunrise and sunset from the aptly named beaches.
How to reach Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe, a tiny dot on the map, is located just a few kilometers away from the Malaysian border in the Satun province of Thailand. The nearest airport is in Hat Yai in Thailand, or Langkawi in Malaysia. From either, you will need to arrange a land transfer to your preferred pier, and then a boat trip to Koh Lipe. Speak with the Islander team now if you are looking for a private boat transfer from Langkawi to Koh Lipe or a private boat from Hat Yai via the Pak Bara pier.
Best time in Koh Lipe
The best time to visit Koh Lipe, like the rest of the southern Thai islands in the Andaman Sea, is from November to late April. January is the peak month when most tourists arrive on Koh Lipe island, and rainfall levels are close to none. The high season features an abundance of boat tours and sea adventures, including the best diving and snorkeling. You will enjoy snorkeling not only on Koh Lipe but also across other pristine islands of Tarutao National Marine Park, including Koh Adang and Koh Rawi.
Rainy season in Koh Lipe
Rainy season in Koh Lipe and around Tarutao National Marine Park lasts from May until October, with the monsoon’s peak around August-September. The low season features slow days on the island accompanied by regular rain, wind, and high tides. Therefore, visiting Koh Lipe during August-September is the worst time for snorkeling tours and dive trips. On a positive side, the temperature never falls below 25°C year-round, and sunny days are usual, even during the monsoon period.
Tarutao National Marine Park
Koh Lipe belongs in Tarutao National Marine Park that spans over 50 pristine islands. The most notable islands are Koh Rawi, Koh Tarutao, and Koh Adang, each promising untouched nature, deserted beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful reefs. For adventurers who’re into rock climbing, the best option might be Koh Khai. There is also an interesting Koh Dong, or Monkey Island, where you can observe dozens of cheeky creatures any time of the day directly on the beach. Finally, a Malaysian jewel, Langkawi island, is over an hour away from Koh Lipe and is an excellent option for continuing your Southeast Asia holiday.
Koh Lipe or Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is probably the most touristic place in whole southern Thailand, but for the right reason. Koh Phi Phi Don island is remarkably scenic, well-connected, and serves as an ideal starting point for island-hopping to Krabi or Phuket. Koh Lipe is a way less-touristy island with the most beautiful diving spots in Thailand. If you have only a short time and planning to visit multiple places, then Koh Phi Phi might be a better option.
Koh Lipe or Koh Tao
Koh Tao and Koh Lipe feature a very similar vibe and level of development. If you’re looking for a bit off-the-beaten and remote island with a relaxed and quiet atmosphere, then Koh Lipe is a winner. Koh Tao is generally cheaper, more comfortable to access, and promises a more lively nightlife. But if you’re looking for a diversity of snorkeling spots and dive sites, then going to Koh Lipe is a must. Note, however, that seasonality is opposite between Koh Tao and Koh Lipe.
Koh Lipe or Similan Islands
Similan Islands destination is au par with Koh Lipe when it comes to natural beauty, coral reefs, and Instagrammable scenery. However, there is a very basic infrastructure with no accommodation options on the Similan Islands. Similan islands are an excellent option for a day-trip from Phuket or Khao Lak, as well as overnight boat tours. But if you’re looking for more variety, then head over to Koh Lipe.