Introduction: The Allure of the “Maldives of Thailand”
Tucked away in southern Thailand within Tarutao National Marine Park lies the petite island of Koh Lipe. Although the official name is Koh Lipe, the island’s most beloved stretch of sand—Loh Lipe (Sunrise Beach)—often becomes the island’s unofficial name.
This peaceful, walkable island has no cars, no chaotic streets, and no towering resorts. Instead, Loh Lipe offers powdery beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a slower pace where life syncs with the tides. This guide covers everything you need to know to plan your dream escape.
How to Get to Loh Lipe, Thailand
Reaching Loh Lipe is part of the charm. The island has no airport, which helps preserve its untouched feel.
1. By Air + Speedboat via Hat Yai
- Fly into Hat Yai International Airport (HDY)
- Take a 2-hour van to Pak Bara Pier
- Board a 1.5-hour speedboat to Koh Lipe
Combined van + boat tickets are available for smooth transfers.
2. From Langkawi, Malaysia (International Route)
Take a 1.5-hour speedboat from Langkawi (high season).
Immigration is processed directly on Koh Lipe.
3. From Other Thai Islands
(High season only: November–May)
Speedboats connect Lipe with:
- Koh Lanta
- Koh Phi Phi
- Phuket
Pro Tip:
Speedboats anchor offshore to protect coral reefs. Passengers transfer via long-tail boats—your first magical view of Loh Lipe.
Exploring the Three Main Beaches of Koh Lipe
1. Sunrise Beach (Loh Lipe)
Perfect for early risers and peaceful mornings.
- Vast, soft-white sand
- Calm waters ideal for swimming
- North end: tide pools
- South end: beachfront resorts
2. Pattaya Beach
Lipe’s social center and main entry point.
- Wide beach
- Calmest waters (family friendly)
- Bars, restaurants, Walking Street access
- Stunning sunsets
3. Sunset Beach (Pramong Beach)
Smaller, rustic, quieter.
- Low-key bars and bungalows
- Best sunset views on the island
- Ideal for couples and relaxing evenings
Unforgettable Things to Do in Loh Lipe
Snorkeling & Diving
Loh Lipe is surrounded by vibrant reefs filled with marine life.
Top Snorkeling Spots
- Koh Kra – crystal-clear water, coral gardens
- Koh Usen – clownfish and tropical fish
- Koh Jabang – deeper snorkel site with huge coral formations
- 8-Mile Rock – advanced dive site with whale shark sightings
Dive shops offer PADI courses and daily trips.
Walking Street: The Island’s Cultural Hub
The lively, car-free lane connecting Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach.
Find:
- Thai street food
- International restaurants
- Bars and nightlife
- Shops and souvenirs
- Massage & spa salons
- Tour operators
It becomes especially vibrant after sunset.
Kayaking & Island Hopping
Rent a kayak to explore hidden coves or paddle along Lipe’s shoreline.
For a full-day adventure, visit Tarutao Island, known for its untouched forests and history as an old prison colony.
Sustainable Tourism in Loh Lipe
Help protect Loh Lipe by practicing responsible tourism.
- Avoid single-use plastics
Bring a refillable bottle. - Use reef-safe sunscreen
Protects delicate coral ecosystems. - Do not touch marine life
Even gentle contact can damage coral. - Support local communities
Eat local, hire local long-tail boats, and shop local.
Practical Tips for Visiting Loh Lipe
Best Time to Visit
- High season: November–April (best weather)
- Low season: May–October (many businesses close)
Getting Around
The island is tiny (2 km × 1 km).
Walk everywhere or take a motorcycle taxi for luggage.
Currency
Cash is preferred. ATMs available but may charge high fees.
Where to Stay
Choose from:
- Backpacker huts on Sunset Beach
- Mid-range hotels
- Luxury beachfront resorts on Sunrise and Pattaya Beaches
Book early for high season.
Conclusion: Your Loh Lipe Adventure Awaits
Loh Lipe is a small island with a big heart—where turquoise waters, peaceful beaches, and breathtaking sunsets become memories that stay with you long after you leave. While it may require extra travel, the reward is a genuine paradise untouched by mass tourism.
Pack your reef-safe sunscreen and sense of adventure: Loh Lipe’s magic awaits.
Are you planning a trip to Malaysia? If so, then you’ll want to read “Getting Around Malaysia: Complete 2025 Transportation Guide”
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