Koh Lipe
The "Maldives of Thailand" — pristine white sand, turquoise water, and coral reefs at the country's southernmost inhabited island.
About this place
Koh Lipe sits in the Tarutao National Marine Park near the Malaysian border, and its isolation has preserved some of Thailand's most stunning marine environments. Sunrise Beach faces east with calm, crystal-clear water and visible coral from shore. The walking street offers surprisingly good restaurants and bars for such a small island. Snorkeling trips visit Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, and Koh Hin Ngam (the stone island). Access is by speedboat from Pak Bara pier (1.5 hours) or seasonal ferry from Koh Lanta. Only accessible November through May.
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Best Time to Visit
Seasonal Access
Koh Lipe is only reliably accessible November through May. Ferries from Pak Bara (1.5 hours, 750 THB one-way) and speedboats from Koh Lanta (seasonal) are the main access. During rainy season, seas can be too rough for safe passage.
money-saving
Eat on Walking Street
Skip the overpriced beachfront restaurants. Walking Street in the center has Thai restaurants with full meals for 100-200 THB. Sunrise Beach has the best water but the priciest food — compromise by eating in town and sunbathing on the beach.
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