Ko Lipe is a Thai island in the Andaman Sea, near Malaysia’s border. It’s part of Tarutao National Marine Park, which is populated with small islands and known for its coral-rich waters. The island has sandy beaches, including Pattaya and Hat Chao Le. Dive sites in the area include the 8 Mile Rock pinnacle and the Yong Hua Shipwreck. Ko Lipe is home to many aboriginal Malay people, known as the Urak Lawoi. A fantastic spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, often compared to a tropical paradise.
KO LIPE
POPULAR ATTRACTIONS:
• Sunrise Beach
• Pattaya Beach
• Walking Street
• Lipe Secret Beach
• Pura Vida Diving Koh Lipe Dive Center
• North Point Beach, Koh Lipe
• Lipe Dive Station
• Ko Hin Ngam
• Hantalay Temple
POPULAR MARKETS:
- Koh Lipe Walking Street: The island’s central hub for shopping, dining, and nightlife. This lively street, which connects Pattaya Beach and Sunrise Beach, features numerous shops, restaurants, and cafes, transitioning from a daytime marketplace to a bustling nightlife area in the evening.
CULTURAL & CULINARY EXPERIENCES:
- Beachfront Dining: Enjoy meals with ocean views and beach breezes.
- Thai Cooking Classes: Participate in hands-on classes to learn how to cook local dishes.
- Lipe Walking Street: Explore the island’s main street to find a variety of eateries and enjoy the vibrant local atmosphere.
- Learn from the Urak Lawoi: The island is home to the Urak Lawoi, a Malayic-speaking sea gypsy people. Explore their rich cultural heritage by observing their traditional boat-building skills and unique way of life.
- Stroll Walking Street: This lively street offers a vibrant hub of island life, providing a blend of local culture and activities.
- Fresh Seafood: Indulge in the abundance of fresh seafood caught daily from the Andaman Sea. Look for grilled fish, prawns, squid, and crab.
- Chao Le Food: Try traditional dishes from the local sea gypsy tribe.
- Southern Thai Cuisine: Indulge in spicy, authentic Southern Thai dishes.
- Burmese Cuisine: Experience unique Burmese dishes, such as creamy pumpkin coconut curry and tea leaf salad.
- Authentic Thai Dishes: Savor traditional dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, Massaman Curry, Tom Yum Soup, and Som Tum (papaya salad).
- Thai Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to immerse yourself in Thai flavors. Many classes include a guided visit to a local market to select fresh ingredients.
- Tropical Fruits: Enjoy a variety of fresh tropical fruits available on the island.
- International Cuisine: Koh Lipe also caters to diverse tastes with international food options, including wood-fired pizza and cafes serving dishes like Greek salads.
- Beachfront Dining: Many restaurants offer a romantic experience with candlelit dinners by the sea, allowing you to watch the sunset while you eat.
- Koh Lipe Walking Street: This street is the central hub for street food vendors, restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, making it a must-visit.
WHY VISIT:
Koh Lipe for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for snorkeling and diving, and a laid-back atmosphere, a stark contrast to the party islands. The island offers a tropical paradise within the Tarutao National Park, with unique underwater landscapes, opportunities for island hopping, and a convenient, walkable environment without cars.
HOW TO GET THERE:
From the Satun to Koh Lipe, you can take a Car or Van + Speedboat.
BEST TIME TO VISIT:
November to April: Sunny with minimal rain. Calm seas, clear skies, and excellent visibility for diving and snorkeling. Ideal for all beach activities, as well as boat trips to other islands.
May to October: It’s a period of frequent rain, which can be heavy but often comes in short bursts with sunny intervals.