12 of the best things to see and do on Ko Lipe

Ko Lipe is proof positive that good things come in small packages. This diminutive island in the Andaman Sea is home to dazzling beaches, aquamarine waters, and a relaxed vibe. Despite its compact size, there are plenty of attractions in and around Ko Lipe. Whether you want to go island hopping, learn more about local culture, or simply relax on the beach, lovely little Lipe has got you covered. Shown here in no particular order are a dozen of the best things to see and do on Ko Lipe 

1) Stroll on the soft sand 

The only way to reach Ko Lipe is by boat and it doesn’t matter how many times you do the journey, there is always something magical about that final approach to the island. Seeing the white sand beach and those turquoise waters never gets old. 

The tiny size of Lipe means that wherever you choose to stay on the island you are only a short walk away from the beach. Take a daily stroll on the soft sandy beaches and feel any stress and tension melt away.

2) Go island hopping 

Ko Lipe is part of Tarutao National Marine Park and an ideal base to go island-hopping. Take a longtail boat to nearby islands like Ko Rawi, Ko Hin Ngam, Ko Ro Khloi, and Ko Yang. Each island has its own unique identity and this is an ideal way to appreciate the natural beauty of Ko Lipe and the surrounding islands.

3) Discover the underwater world

The inviting tropical waters around Ko Lipe are home to coral reefs that are perfect for snorkelling and diving. Many island-hopping day trips include an option for snorkelling where you have the opportunity to see vibrant corals, a variety of tropical fish, and maybe even sea turtles.

Ko Lipe is also a good base for divers with some excellent dive locations nearby. One of the best is 8 Mile Rock which is renowned for whale shark sightings. Stonehenge is another superb dive location where leopard sharks are often seen.

4) Watch the sunrise and sunset

If you’re an early bird, take in the sunrise and tranquillity on the aptly named Sunrise Beach. If you don’t wake up early when you’re on holiday, try Sunset Beach instead and watch the sun slowly drop below the horizon at the end of another relaxing day on Ko Lipe.

5) Chill out at a beach bar

Unwind with a drink in your hand, and toes in the sand at any of Ko Lipe’s beach bars. The most popular time is early evening where you can watch a fire show at several locations along the beach.

6) Go fishing 

Join a local fishing trip for a more immersive island experience. Whether you are trying fishing for the first time or are more experienced, these trips are a good way to learn more about traditional local life on Ko Lipe. Guides will usually be local Chao Ley fishermen who will help you with your technique and will also cook the freshly caught fish on the boat for you to enjoy. 

7) Support local traders on Walking Street 

Walking Street is Ko Lipe’s main commercial street connecting Pattaya Beach with Sunset Beach. The narrow street is lined with shops, restaurants and small bars. This is the ideal place to try local Thai cuisine, buy souvenirs, and support the local traders. You’ll also see several tour offices here where you can book day trips or arrange onward travel.

8) Climb the viewpoint on Ko Adang

The neighbouring island of Ko Adang is much larger than Ko Lipe, but has not been developed. Travel by longtail boat taxi across the water  to enjoy the solitude of Ko Adang. Take the well-marked hiking trail that leads up Chado Cliff. There are three different viewpoints and while you don’t need to be super-fit, there are some points higher up where you need to clamber over rocks. Wear suitable footwear, keep hydrated and take your time. The views are well worth the effort.

9) See the glowing plankton

When conditions are right, you can see bioluminescent plankton in the waters near Ko Lipe. The best option is to book an afternoon tour which includes snorkelling. When the sun drops, the boat will then go in search of the glowing plankton; a natural phenomena which has been described as the ‘northern lights of the ocean‘.

10) Explore by kayak

Rent a kayak to paddle to Ko Lipe’s nearby islands and beaches. Kayaking around Ko Lipe is a wonderful way to explore and allows you to escape the crowds and visit more remote and secluded beaches. 

11) Dine with a view 

With a sublime location at the far end of Sunrise Beach, Mountain Resort offers an elevated view over North Point Beach and Ko Adang beyond. The restaurant is open to non-guests and it’s a lovely spot to enjoy the panoramic views. 

12) Be a responsible traveller

As beautiful as Ko Lipe is, it isn’t perfect and litter can be an issue at times. Visitors should be responsible travellers and adhere to the old adage, ‘take nothing but pictures, leave nothing but footprints’. If you’d like to go a step further, join one of the regular beach clean-ups with Trash Hero. This volunteer group is made up of a friendly mix of holidaymakers, long-term residents and locals. The beach clean-ups are a great way to meet new people and give a little something back to Ko Lipe.

Ko Lipe has been nominated in the category of Most Desirable Island (Rest of the World) in the 2024 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards. The Awards are run by Wanderlust, the UK’s largest and longest-running travel magazine.
Itinerary Ideas for Ko Lipe
Vote for Ko Lipe in the 2024 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards

You may also enjoy: