Embedded Files
Koh Lipe - The Maldives of Thailand
Koh Lipe - The Maldives of Thailand
Sunrise Beach Koh Lipe - Dive Soul Thailand
Discover Koh Lipe in the Andaman Sea
Discover Koh Lipe in the Andaman Sea
Koh Lipe, often called the “Maldives of Thailand,” is a small paradise island located in the southern Andaman Sea. Part of the Butang Archipelago and close to Koh Tarutao National Marine Park, Koh Lipe is famous for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs.
The Butang Archipelago – A Diver’s Paradise
The Butang Archipelago – A Diver’s Paradise
The Butang Archipelago is made up of around 20 islands. Some are large and covered in lush rainforest, while others are tiny rocky islets made of diorite, similar to granite. This area has the largest tides in Thailand, creating strong currents that bring nutrients and attract an incredible variety of marine life.
Stonehenge soft coral garden - Dive Soul Thailand
Stonehenge soft coral garden - Dive Soul Thailand
Scuba Diving, Freediving & Snorkeling in Koh Lipe
Scuba Diving, Freediving & Snorkeling in Koh Lipe
The nutrient-rich waters around Koh Lipe make it one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations in Thailand. Here you can explore:
Colorful coral gardens teeming with reef fish
Turtles, nudibranchs, and seahorses
Pelagic species drawn by the strong currents
Thriving ecosystems ideal for scuba diving, freediving, and snorkeling
Whether you’re a beginner snorkeler or an advanced diver, the waters of Koh Lipe offer unforgettable underwater adventures.
Why Visit Koh Lipe?
Why Visit Koh Lipe?
Nicknamed the “Maldives of Thailand”
Gateway to the Butang Archipelago & Tarutao National Marine Park
Stunning beaches, laid-back island vibe, and rich marine biodiversity
Sunset Beach - Dive Soul Thailand
Koh Rawi - Dive Soul Thailand
Koh Lipe & Tarutao National Park Dive Sites – Mini Guide 2025 by Dive Soul Thailand
Koh Lipe & Tarutao National Park Dive Sites – Mini Guide 2025 by Dive Soul Thailand
Koh Lipe Weather – Best Time to Visit
Koh Lipe Weather – Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November – May)
Dry Season (November – May)
Koh Lipe enjoys two main seasons. The dry season runs from November to May, making it the most popular time for visitors. From November to February, the cool northeast monsoon winds bring refreshing breezes from the east coast of Thailand. This pleasant weather is one of the reasons why the Chao Leh village is located on the island’s northeast side.
From March to May, the winds calm down, creating hot and sunny conditions—perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling in Koh Lipe thanks to calm seas and excellent visibility.
Rainy Season (June – October)
Rainy Season (June – October)
The rainy season, also known as the Green Season, begins in June and lasts until late October. During this time, the southwest monsoon brings rain across the Indian Ocean, and daily transport connections are reduced to just one boat from Pakbara at 11:30 AM.
Although there is more rainfall, this season allows Koh Lipe’s fragile ecosystem to recover from tourism and flourish. The quieter months also offer a chance to experience a more authentic and peaceful side of Koh Lipe.
👉 Best time to visit Koh Lipe: November to May for sunshine and diving, while June to October is ideal for travelers who enjoy tranquility and fewer crowds.
Koh Lipe History & Culture
Koh Lipe History & Culture
The Chao Leh – Sea Gypsies of Koh Lipe
The Chao Leh – Sea Gypsies of Koh Lipe
The original inhabitants of Koh Lipe are the Chao Leh, or “people of the sea,” often referred to as sea gypsies. The Chao Leh of this region are known as the Urak Lawoy, whose ancestors migrated from Malaysia and Indonesia. Settling across Koh Adang, Koh Lipe, Koh Bulon, and Koh Lanta, they established distinct communities deeply connected to the sea.
The first headman of Koh Lipe, To Kiri, was invited by the governor of Satun in 1909. Later, the King of Thailand granted him stewardship of the island, encouraging Chao Leh families from Koh Lanta to settle here. Today, around 700 Chao Leh live in Koh Lipe and Koh Adang, while smaller populations remain on Koh Bulon Don and Koh Bulon Leh.
Language, Beliefs & Traditions
Language, Beliefs & Traditions
The Chao Leh language reflects their Malay-Polynesian roots. Many still practice animist traditions, believing in both good and bad spirits connected to the sea, land, and their ancestors.
Twice a year, during the full moons of May/June and October/November, the Chao Leh hold a spiritual festival known as pla juk or loy rua. During this three-day event, they build a symbolic wooden boat filled with offerings such as food, chili peppers, rice, cakes, hair, and nail clippings. After nights of music, dance, and celebration, the boat is set adrift. If it sails away, it is considered a good omen for the coming year.
Modern History of Koh Lipe
Modern History of Koh Lipe
In 1973, the creation of Tarutao National Marine Park—later recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site—ended the sea gypsies’ traditional nomadic freedom. Settlements on Koh Rawi and Koh Adang were relocated to protect coral reefs and rainforests, consolidating the community on Koh Lipe.
Tourism arrived in the mid-1980s, and the first resorts appeared in the 1990s. Since then, Koh Lipe has grown into a world-class diving and holiday destination while still retaining the cultural heritage of its Chao Leh community.
How to Get to Koh Lipe – Travel Guide
How to Get to Koh Lipe – Travel Guide
Koh Lipe Transfers & Speedboat Tickets – Hassle-Free with Dive Soul
Koh Lipe Transfers & Speedboat Tickets – Hassle-Free with Dive Soul
Planning your Koh Lipe trip? Dive Soul, can organize all transfers and speedboat tickets from Satun, Hat Yai, Trang, Krabi, Phuket, and nearby locations, making your journey smooth, safe, and stress-free.
How to Reach Koh Lipe
How to Reach Koh Lipe
The most reliable route is via Pakbara Pier in Satun Province, southwest Thailand.
Travel Time: About 1.5 – 2 hours by car from Hat Yai or Trang, depending on traffic and stops.
Transfers: Private taxis or minivans are available from airports, train stations, or hotels. Dive Soul can arrange your transfer from any location, so you don’t have to worry about logistics.
Speedboat Tickets: We can also book your speedboat ticket in advance for a seamless journey to Koh Lipe.
Speedboat Schedule from Pakbara Pier:
1st departure: 9:30 AM
2nd departure: 11:30 AM
3rd departure: 1:30 PM
Operating Schedule: Speedboats run all year round, making Pakbara Pier the most reliable departure point.
Tip: During high season, book your transfer and speedboat tickets in advance to secure your spot. Contact Dive Soul to arrange everything hassle-free.
Why Book Koh Lipe Transfers with Dive Soul?
Why Book Koh Lipe Transfers with Dive Soul?
✅ Hassle-Free Service – We handle everything from private land transfers to speedboat tickets.
✅ Expert Knowledge – Over 10 years of experience in Koh Lipe and the Andaman Sea.
✅ Flexible Pickup Locations – Hat Yai, Trang, Satun, Krabi, Phuket, and other nearby cities.
✅ Reliable & Safe Travel – Private vehicles, professional drivers, and official speedboat operators.
Plan your Koh Lipe trip smarter than your dive computer – contact Dive Soul today!
From Langkawi, Malaysia
From Langkawi, Malaysia
During the high season, there is a direct ferry from Langkawi to Koh Lipe.
Operating period: October 15th – May 15th every year
Immigration: Passengers clear Thai immigration upon arrival in Koh Lipe at Bundhaya Resort or Bunga Resort
Convenience: This connection makes the route Kuala Lumpur / Singapore → Langkawi → Koh Lipe much shorter than traveling via Bangkok.
This ferry route is very popular among travelers from Europe and Asia visiting Koh Lipe for short beach holidays or diving trips.
Flights to Hat Yai, Trang & Langkawi
Flights to Hat Yai, Trang & Langkawi
From Bangkok: Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, and AirAsia offer regular flights to Hat Yai and Trang
From Kuala Lumpur: AirAsia and Malaysia Airlines fly to Langkawi
From Singapore: Scoot, AirAsia, and other carriers fly to Hat Yai or Langkawi
From these airports, onward travel to Pakbara Pier or direct Langkawi ferries makes reaching Koh Lipe fast and simple.
Why Pakbara Pier is the Best Option
Why Pakbara Pier is the Best Option
While ferries from Langkawi only operate seasonally, Pakbara Pier offers year-round access to Koh Lipe, making it the most reliable and flexible choice for travelers.
📺 Watch the Dive Soul Thailand France 2 ReportDiscover Koh Lipe, a hidden paradise with Clément from Dive Soul Thailand in France 2 TV Channel 1 PM report. Explore crystal-clear waters and unforgettable underwater adventures.Découvrez Koh Lipe, un paradis caché avec Clément de Dive Soul Thailand dans le reportage du 13h sur France 2. Plongez dans ses eaux cristallines et ses aventures sous-marines inoubliables.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse