A sun-kissed haven and a modern-day hippie’s dream, Koh Lipe is an enchanting island tucked away in the southern reaches of Thailand. What started as an impromptu trip turned into a series of unforgettable experiences that drew me back to this paradise time and again.
An Escape To Paradise
Nestled far from the bustling full moon parties and notorious magic mushrooms of Thailand, Koh Lipe beckons with its laid-back charm. Here, you can unwind on the shores, sunbathe with a captivating novel, and sip bottomless Mai Tais or Watermelon Margaritas without being pestered by overzealous beach vendors. With each passing moment, the salty hair, sun-kissed skin and the perfect instagramable shot becomes a reality in this piece of heaven.
Under the protective wings of Koh Tarutao National Park, Koh Lipe is blessed with turquoise blue waters of the Andaman Sea, fine white sands, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s like stepping into a postcard-perfect dream that you never want to wake up from!. Koh Lipe is an idyllic sanctuary for both beach bums and marine enthusiasts.
Getting There
Now that you’re enticed, let’s uncover the path to this island oasis. From Langkawi Island in Malaysia, you can hop on a ferry that departs from either Kuah or Telaga Terminal. For a seamless experience, I recommend choosing the ferry from Telaga Terminal – it’s not only closer to Koh Lipe but also conveniently accessible from Langkawi’s popular beaches.
Here’s a little tip. Don’t be alarmed when the ferry staff takes your passports; it’s just part of the process. You’ll get them back once your arrival details are processed for immigration clearance on the island.
When you arrive on the island, you will have to get off the ferry and hop on a small boat to the beach. The low tide situation doesn’t allow big boats to moor near the beach.
Alternatively, you can reach Koh Lipe from Pak Bara Jetty near Hat Yai in Thailand or Phuket, but be prepared for significantly longer travel times.
Koh Lipe has the coolest immigration office on earth. The arrival hall is actually a small section of the white sandy beach overlooking the turquoise blue Andaman ocean. You can wait for your turn to clear immigration with your feet in the sands, and Chang beer in your hand!
Sold with the idea yet?
Walking Street
Despite its small size, Koh Lipe is big on charm. With a leisurely stroll, you can traverse the island from one end to another in barely 45 minutes. If you prefer a quicker mode of transport, hop on a ‘tuk-tuk’ or rent a bicycle.
The heart of Koh Lipe is Walking Street. This bustling road boasts an array of delights, from bars and restaurants to clothing shops, massage parlours, and even cannabis stores! Amidst the excitement, the Coconut Doughnut man stands out, his melodious call echoing through the night. Head towards 7-11 near Pattaya Beach, follow the tune as you get closer and you’ll be rewarded with a delightful local dessert!
Beaches
Koh Lipe reveals its magnificence through its three main beaches: Pattaya, Sunrise, and Sunset Beach.
Pattaya Beach, the main arrival and departure point, dazzles with its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters, despite its bustling boat traffic. It’s an ideal spot for travellers with families, offering easy access to Walking Street and an abundance of restaurants and nightlife.
On the Eastern stretch lies Sunrise Beach, a breathtaking oasis where early risers can catch the first rays of the day. Perfect for leisurely breakfasts with a view or afternoon cocktails, this beach is also lined with bars, restaurants and a variety of beachfront hotels that fit all budget ranges.
Sunset Beach, just a short walk from Pattaya Beach and Walking Street, lives up to its name with spectacular sunsets, tranquillity, and inviting beach boulders. After sunset, Zodiac, a beach bar with fiery shows, awaits to enthral you with its cool props and laid-back vibes.
A Gastronomic Adventure
For the foodies, Koh Lipe serves up an exquisite culinary journey. Walking Street, lined with a variety of Thai restaurants and street food vendors, will leave your taste buds tantalised. Whether it’s Thai traditions or international delights, Koh Lipe, despite the island size, serves it all. Bon appétit!
Cafe Lipe
Situated on Pattaya Beach, just a few steps away from the immigration office, Cafe Lipe offers breathtaking views and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re just arriving on the island or preparing for your departure with a refreshing Chang beer or coconut juice, this charming cafe is a must-stop destination. the perfect stop for arrivals on to the island and pre-departure Chang, or coconut juice. Great view, good food and the staff are friendly. This cafe serves the best Greek Salad on the island. I couldn’t believe that my salad is often loaded with olives and feta! Delicious!
Wangcha-Aon Thai Food
Tucked away on the quieter end of Walking Street, Wangcha-Aon Thai Food is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Located on the quieter end of Walking Street, it’s never flooded with tourists, serving up beef and chicken noodle soups that will leave you craving more. With authenticity at its core, this eatery takes you on a journey through the heart of Thai cuisine.
It doesn’t stop there; prepare your taste buds for a delightful explosion with every dish. From the zesty Mango Salad to the flavorful Papaya Salad, Wangcha-Aon Thai Food captures the essence of Thailand in each carefully crafted creation. And for my Muslim readers, rejoice, as Wangcha-Aon is a halal restaurant, offering a welcoming haven for all.
Papaya Mom
Papaya Mom Restaurant, an absolute hit among tourists. Located in the heart of Walking Street, this vibrant eatery serves up scrumptious delights and mouth watering BBQs that will leave you licking your fingers. Just a word of advice—be prepared for a bit of patience during busy times, but trust us, it’s worth every minute of the wait.
Bung Roon
Next up, we have Bung Roon Restaurant, buzzing Thai seafood haven that attracts both locals and Asian tourists alike. The magic happens as live local music fills the air, setting the stage for karaoke battles and random song bursts that’ll have you chuckling to the rhythm. It’s like a TikTok extravaganza come to life! Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture while savouring delectable seafood dishes that’ll make your taste buds sing along.
Bloom Cafe And Hostel
Let’s take a breather and indulge in some Western delights at Bloom Cafe and Hostel, the ultimate breakfast haven! This charming café serves up steaming cups of good coffee to kickstart your day and an array of Western breakfast options that’ll make you feel right at home. But that’s not all—fresh salads with tantalising dressings are here to rescue you from rice and noodles, providing a delightful break for your taste buds.
On The Rocks At Serendipity
Are you ready for a dining experience that’ll take your breath away? Head over to On The Rocks at Serendipity, a restaurant perched in the heavens, offering breathtaking ocean views and cocktails so beautifully crafted they deserve an Instagram award! You might have to be a bit patient while waiting for your feast, but with such views to feast your eyes upon, who’s complaining? Just make sure not to visit when you’re ravenous—otherwise, you might eat the cocktails too!
Ten Moons
Ten Moons is a lovely resort tucked away in a quiet bay. The beach beckons with its beauty, inviting you to snorkel off the shore while your lunch is being prepared. Speaking of lunch, brace yourself for a delightful blend of Thai and Spanish flavours that will transport your taste buds to paradise. As the clock strikes 4pm, a daily happy hour extravaganza awaits, ‘Buy 1 get 1 free’ cocktails that’ll put a smile on your face without emptying your pockets!
The Box
For those seeking a deviation from traditional Thai fare, The Box is an exciting destination. This lively restaurant is a gastronomic fiesta, blending Mexican and Spanish flavours with a touch of Koh Lipe’s spirit. As you step in, the vibrant ambience beckons, drawing you into a world of culinary wonders.
From sizzling fajitas to scrumptious tacos, The Box crafts each dish with precision and passion. Their Spanish selections are perfectly complemented with their famous Sangria, leaving your taste buds dancing with joy.
To ensure a delightful experience, consider arriving early or make a reservation.
As you venture to Koh Lipe and immerse yourself in its magic, let the island’s spell weave itself into your heart, leaving you with memories that will forever echo in your soul.
So pack your bags, book that ferry ticket, and unlock the magic of Koh Lipe – an enchanting journey awaits, where time takes a backseat, and unforgettable experiences lie around every corner.
