10 Things to do in Koh Lipe (Our experience)

Koh Lipe

What you will find on this article

When approaching this small Thai island, the sight of the intense turquoise clear waters immediately sets the mood for a memorable stay.

Our initial plan was to stay on the island for three days but we were feeling so happy and relaxed that it did not take long before we changed our plans to extend our stay to three additional nights.

Before we get into what to do, let’s give you some insight about Koh Lipe, how to get there and where to stay.

About Koh Lipe

The Chao Ley, or sea gipsies, were the first to populate the island about one hundred years ago. Nowadays, there are a few hundred Chao Ley, constituting most of the workforce, and running some of the local businesses.

For those who appreciate long walks, Koh Lipe can be easily explored by foot in about one and a half.

There is an abundant choice of Thai and international restaurants and no less offer of accommodation options, for all tastes and pockets, from backpacking hostels and bamboo bungalow to highly luxurious resorts.

White sand beaches surround the island and its coral-rich sea attracts snorkelers and divers from all over the world.

Getting to Koh Lipe

During high season (November to May) boats arrive on a water pier at Pattaya Beach. Instead, during low season (May to November), they arrive on Sunrise Beach.

Coming from Langkawi, Malaysia, passports are held at departure only to be returned once in Koh Lipe.

Upon arrival, after picking up one’s passport, the first stop is at immigration, followed by the table where guards of the Tarutao National Marine Park collect 100 THB per person, a contribution toward preservation of the park.

Getting around Koh Lipe

Our eco stay at Pattaya Beach

On the first morning, we had to look for a place to have breakfast as since the Green View Resort does not serve any meals.

We ended up in Cafe Lipe, just a couple of places down the beach, toward Walking Street, the main road of the Island.

The breakfast was so incredibly delicious that we chose to have the same breakfast there religiously every day.

After three days we moved to Cafe Lipe’s bungalows as the Green View resort did not have available rooms.

It was quite an experience!

Check the two videos below and let us know, in the comment at the end of the page, which of the two you would choose.

10 Things to do in Koh Lipe

1 – Visit the 3 main beaches: Pattaya, Sunrise and Sunset Beach

Pattaya Beach, situated on the west side of the island, is the longest and most popular beach.

Sunrise Beach, on the east side of the island, is sheltered from the monsoon during the low season and is home to the Chao Ley village. A few bars and restaurants and diving schools can be found here, as well as a hospital and a school.

Sunset Beach, on the north of the island, is the favourite destination for watching the sun go down behind the sea horizon. Crowds gather around the short shore to appreciate the magnificent spectacle. Some of the higher end resorts are located in this part of the island.

2 – Snorkelling and scuba diving

Snorkelling and scuba diving are the main activities of the island and its surroundings. Diving schools can be found all around the island for certification and rental of equipment. Many of the hotels provide snorkelling equipment for their guests.

Compare diving schools here.

3 – Kayaking

Enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the crystal clear turquoise blue water while doing some exercise. Kayaking is better done in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the burning sun. Kayaks are for rent can be found on hotels and along the main beaches.

5 – Participate in a Beach cleanup with TRASH HERO KOH LIPE

Give back to Mother Earth by joining the Trash Hero, on Mondays, for a beach cleanup.

Make a difference to the environment while exploring stunning uninhabited islands and get a simple free meal at the end, at the Bundaya Resort on Pattaya Beach.

Check out below our beach cleanup while in Kho Lipe.

6 – Explore the island by foot

Explore Koh Lipe by foot in just about one hour and a half. All across the island, there are connected roads that allow for thorough exploration.

7 – Explore Walking Street for food, shopping, activities and entertainment.

Walking Street is the main commercial street of the island. Here you will find most of the restaurants, bars and shops, but also hostels and budget hotels.

The street is the ideal place to go shopping for souvenirs, clothes and accessories. This is also where many diving schools are located, where you can buy or rent equipment or take a course to become a certified diver.

There are ATMs on Walking Street to facilitate the shopping spree!

8 – Enjoy a memorable sunset at Sunset Beach

As already mentioned, Sunset beach is the favourite spot to watch the sun go down while enjoying a cold drink, juice or coconut water.

The experience is certainly not to be missed.

9 – Nightlife

Although not our choice of entertainment, nightlife seems to be lively and fun in Koh Lipe.

Pattaya Beach and Walking Street are the best options for nightlife, with bars and clubs thumping music until late at night. (We could certainly hear them while trying to sleep!).

10 – Chill out

Last but not least, one of the best activities on the island, is to take in the island rhythm and just chill out.

Koh Lipe is a perfect place to recharge while enjoying a laid-back and friendly ambience.