07 Feb 2020

Located in southern Thailand, in the Andaman Sea near the Malaysian border, Koh Lipe is one of the most stunning islands in the country. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystalline emerald-colored waters, and exceptional marine ecosystems, Koh Lipe and its landscapes are straight out of a postcard. Its name translates to "paper island" due to its relatively flat topography, making it the ideal destination for those seeking relaxation and underwater exploration. Here's what you need to know about this remarkable gem of southern Thailand…

Home to the Sea Gypsies

Before its development into a tourist destination, Koh Lipe long served as a refuge for those known as 'the sea gypsies'. Also called the Chao Ley, members of this semi-nomadic ethnic minority have found shelter here for over 100 years. They are also found on other islands throughout the Andaman Sea. They possess their own dialect, have historically lived primarily off fishing (and now tourism), and maintain extraordinary knowledge of the sea. Today, Koh Lipe is home to approximately 700 permanent residents, the majority of whom are descendants of the Chao Ley.

Paradisiacal Beaches

Given its diminutive size (just 2 km²!), Koh Lipe boasts only 3 main beaches:

• Pattaya Beach: Located on the southwest, this is where everyone arrives, as it's where boats dock! In other words, it's the most lively beach and home to the most tourist infrastructure. If you're seeking a quieter retreat, you can venture to the small Sanom Beach nearby, accessible by passing through the hotel of the same name.
• Sunrise Beach: More tranquil than Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach stretches along the entire eastern coastline. The beach is renowned for its stunning marine life, making it the perfect spot for snorkeling. You can even rent a kayak to paddle out to nearby islets before diving into the fabulous world of Nemo (clownfish are plentiful here!).
• Sunset Beach: Koh Lipe's most secluded beach, though easily accessible on foot or by boat. Located on the northwest coast, it's the ideal place to watch the sunset while savoring a cocktail…

A Paradise for Diving and Snorkeling

Koh Lipe is part of a collection of 50 islands within the Tarutao National Marine Park. The waters of this archipelago are home to 25% of the world's tropical fish species! This is why Koh Lipe is a premier destination for divers and snorkeling enthusiasts. There are no fewer than 20 diving sites to explore, catering to all skill levels!

The reefs of the Tarutao National Marine Park are primarily composed of rocky formations and pinnacles where you'll encounter numerous soft corals, diverse tropical fish, and notably impressive marine mammals! Among the most sought-after species are dugongs, dolphins (including the Irrawaddy dolphin), sea turtles, minke whales, sperm whales, sharks (leopard sharks, whale sharks, coral sharks…), rays (manta rays, eagle rays…), barracudas, tuna, groupers, snappers, nudibranchs, seahorses, stonefish, scorpionfish, and many more! The good news? Most dive sites are located less than 30 minutes by boat from Koh Lipe.

Florine Dergelet

Florine Dergelet

A web writer for over a decade, Florine Dergelet is a traveler driven by a passion to discover the world with an open heart. Each of her articles is an invitation to slow down, to listen, to understand. For her, travel isn't about ticking countries off a map, but about forging connections—often invisible yet always powerful—with places, peoples, and all manner of creatures. Her philosophy? Counsel travelers with integrity, awaken their consciousness about animal welfare, respect for cultures, and the importance of humble, sustainable tourism. Because the most beautiful memories often emerge far from the spotlight, in the shadow of a trail, in a quiet conversation, or in the gentle whisper of a world we finally take time to truly hear…