How To Get To Koh Lipe: A Simple Guide
Getting To Koh Lipe Without Any Stress
So, you’re thinking about heading to Koh Lipe? Awesome choice! I remember when I first visited and was completely blown away by its beaches and waters.” But at one time, I had no idea how to get there.
If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
I’ve spent almost half a year bouncing around Thailand, and let me tell you, Koh Lipe is something special. But yeah, getting there can be a bit tricky if you don’t know what you’re doing. That’s where I come in!
I know it can be frustrating trying to figure out how to reach a place that feels like it’s in the middle of nowhere. Been there, done that.
But trust me, it’s totally worth it. Whether you’re in Bangkok, chilling in Phuket, or even hanging out in Malaysia, I’m gonna break it down for you nice and simple.
So, let’s chat about how to get you to Koh Lipe without all the stress. By the time we’re done here, you’ll be all set to start your own amazing island adventure.
Let’s begin.
Disclosure: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means that if you make a booking through them, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.
Map Of Koh Lipe and Surroundings Ferry Terminals
Pakbara to Koh Lipe
When we visited Koh Lipe we took the ferry from Pakbara Pier.
We bought our tickets from one of the many tour operators in the street near Pakbara Pier.
It cost 650 Baht one way or 1,200 baht return.
To be honest, it went very smoothly, and the ferry was on time. During the low season, Pakbara Pier is the only pier in the Andaman Sea that takes people to Koh Lipe.
We were told numerous times that the high season starts on October 15th, so from then on, there will be more ferry options.
The only times the ferry leaves Pakbara Pier in low season are at 11.30 AM and 01.30 PM
So note that if you are planning a trip.
When we arrived at the ferry terminal, we had to pay a National Park fee of 220 Baht each. Nobody mentioned this, and we completely forgot, so be prepared for that.
You can only pay in cash but thankfully there are many ATMs around Pakbara so just ensure you bring cash with you.
Langkawi to Koh Lipe
In the low season, you cannot get to Koh Lipe from Langkawi directly. From October to May the ferry operates between Langkawi and Koh Lipe.
Again, visitors will arrive at the same pier on Pattaya Beach and tickets cost 160 MYR Per Person. Langkawi is not in Thailand but rather Malaysia which many people don’t realise.
In the high season, you can easily get to Koh Lipe. You have two choices – a 09.30 AM ferry and a 02.00 PM ferry.
The best advice for travelling in Thailand I can give you after nearly 6 months is to prebook tickets to avoid ruining your plans.
Give yourself some days in advance, especially in high season.
You can purchase tickets here in advance to make sure you get the date you want.
Don’t forget you need to get through immigration so you must add three hours to be safe.
Bangkok to Koh Lipe
The best way to get from Bangkok to Koh Lipe is by first flying to Hat Yai. From there, take a taxi to Pakbara Pier before hopping on the ferry across the Andaman Sea.
I recommend staying overnight in Pakbara if you’re flying in internationally or arriving late in Hat Yai.
We spent a night at a lovely place called Best House Resort, just a few minutes drive from Pakbara Pier. The next morning our hotel arranged a tuk-tuk to transport us and our bags to the pier, and off we went.
As Pakbara is nearly 1,000 kilometres I suggest you fly and don’t even consider a bus or taxi.
Don’t be crazy! Domestic flights are very affordable in Thailand so you can expect to pay upwards of €25.00 each way.
Not bad in my view.
Penang to Koh Lipe
To reach Koh Lipe from Penang you will need to travel to Hat Yai and then you will depart for Pakbara Pier.
My research suggests there is no direct way to go to Koh Lipe from Penang.
Once at the pier, you’ll board the ferry to Koh Lipe. Keep in mind that you’ll need to go through immigration from Malaysia, which will add extra time to your journey before you leave.
Plan accordingly!
Final Thoughts/Conclusion
This post shows you how to get to Koh Lipe easily. I hope you can make the trip one day if you haven’t already. Or make it again!
Getting around Thailand is easy thanks to the country’s awesome transport infrastructure. Time after time, I have experienced superb service without any problems for the most part and getting to Koh Lipe from Pakbara was no exception.
While the floating pier was fine when we arrived it was much trickier to navigate safely to the boat because of the tide.
My suitcase (which was holding my drone) ended up in the sea. I checked all inside and only a little water penetrated so all was fine.
But this is my unlucky experience.
Overall, Koh Lipe is an epic island with real raw beauty. Spend some time exploring it for yourself if you can.
Let me know if you already had the chance to visit any of these locations.
If you enjoyed this post check out my article on the 15 Unmissable Things To Do In Koh Lipe
Thanks for reading,
James
FAQs
What Is The Closest Airport To Koh Lipe?
The closest international airport to Koh Lipe is on the island of Langkawi, about a 1.5-hour ferry trip from Koh Lipe. Note that this is in Malaysia and not Thailand. Many people fly into Langkawi and get the ferry across in a smooth process. The next closest airport to Koh Lipe is in Hat Yai, a short distance to the Malaysian border in the south of the country.
Is It Worth Going To Koh Lipe?
I feel a visit to Koh Lipe will not disappoint any person who loves amazing tropical beaches, fun activities like scuba diving and snorkelling as well as swimming, relaxation and seaside vibes. While we enjoyed 7 days on the island you could appreciate the beauty and activities for a longer or short period.
- Is Ninh Ninh Worth Visiting: My Honest Thoughts
- 15 Things To Do In Ninh Binh
- Ta Van Village: What To Expect From Your Visit
- Getting To Halong Bay From Hanoi Airport: 5 Great Options
- Where To Stay In Halong Bay: My Ultimate Guide
