Getting to Koh Lipe: a little known way to cross from Malaysia to Thailand by boat
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Koh Lipe is a small island in the southernmost part of the Andaman Sea, off the coast of Thailand. Because of its proximity to both Thailand and Malaysia, you can visit it as part of your border crossing (by sea) between these two countries.
What you need to know
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You can only make the direct border crossing between Langkawi (Malaysia) and Koh Lipe (Thailand) between mid-October and May. Outside of this season you will have to travel indirectly via Satun to get your paperwork stamped. That said – June to September are very quiet months on the island (there will be Monsoon rains in the afternoon) so you’ll have the place to yourself!
Koh Lipe not as well-known as many of the other Thai Islands, so it feels far less developed and touristy. Be aware that there are currently no ATMs on the island, so you need to come prepared with enough cash, or pay your way by credit card.
I visited Koh Lipe in March 2015 after spending 10 days in Langkawi. You can catch a boat from the port in Langkawi which takes around an hour, and is by far the quickest route.
Getting to Koh Lipe - how to cross the border
Koh Lipe is accessible year round by boat. During high season (November to early May) boats depart daily from the Thai islands of Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, as well as from Langkawi in Malaysia.
Immigration offices are located at the ferry office in Langkawi and on Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe where your boat will dock. The staff on the ferry will guide you through the immigration process so everything is made clear.
Why should you visit Koh Lipe?
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The island has a fantastically relaxed atmosphere and you’ll find there’s a real mix of backpackers, families and locals enjoying a holiday. One side of the island is home to about 500 sea gypsies who live in the villages, and the other side is developing for tourists. It's not that huge, so I found a 5-7 night break here is long enough.
There are two main beaches; Pattaya beach is where the boats arrive, which is lined with beach bungalows, some larger resorts, small cafes, restaurants and beauty salons. The second is Sunrise Beach which is quieter and has smaller bungalow-style accommodation.
The two beaches are connected by 'Walking Street’, a lovely, café-lined street with an abundance of shops, a little post office, and some cafes and bars. You can’t miss a visit to ‘You hoo pancakes’, whose owner sings “You hoo!” to call you in to try her selection of pancakes!
Excellent snorkelling and diving
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Koh Lipe has exceptional snorkelling and diving. Even standing on the shoreline paddling, fish swim across your feet and the water is crystal clear. The sea is also very calm and flat, so it’s a perfect environment for young children.
Best time to travel to the Thai islands
I travelled in March and stayed in a beach bungalow which I booked when I arrived, however if you’re travelling in December and January it’s always advisable to book in advance as demand is much higher. You’ll also find the island is very popular at weekends with Thai and Malaysian families visiting the islands, so booking ahead for weekend is recommended.
Where to stay in Koh Lipe
Unlike some of the larger Thai Islands, Koh Lipe is still incredibly good value. My beach Koh Lipe beach bungalow was £10 per night and that included a fan and hot water. Jonny took this trip with his family and can recommend places for families to stay and who to keep the kids entertained!
For something a little more luxurious (although there are no hugely luxurious accommodations here), I recommend you try the beautiful beachfront bungalows at the Castaway Resort in Koh Lipe. Don’t expect air conditioning or hot showers, but instead focus on the amazing views right out over the beach!
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Interested in getting to Koh Lipe?
If you like the sound of this little island and want some help working it into your itinerary – we can build your perfect itinerary and get the details arranged. We can also plan a tailor-made Thailand or Malaysia holiday to suit your timescale, budget and taste – just call us or request a quote by email to get started on the planning!
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About the author Bryony Dunn
Marketing Manager
Bryony is an explorer in every sense of the meaning. In 2013 she took the plunge, quit her marketing job and decided to face down her lifelong panic disorder to begin life as a freelance digital nomad. Journeying all over Asia, for years she earned her keep writing for travel brands. Almost by accident, she ended up in Cali, Colombia where she discovered a remarkable (as yet latent) talent for Salsa dancing. After spending a year in sequins shimmying from dance show to dance show, she returned to the UK, tanned, toned and ready to settle down. Bryony joined Travel Nation as a round the world specialist in 2016 and is now the Marketing Manager, with a little salsa on the side.
