Koh Lipe

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Koh Lipe

Situated in Tarutao National Park at the southern end of Thailand’s Andaman coast, Koh Lipe is a tiny tropical island close to the Thai-Malaysia border.
Tarutao National Park comprises over 50 islands most of which are uninhabited, so Koh Lipe is a great base for exploring some untouched scenery both above and below the water.
Prior to the advent of tourism the island was settled by nomadic Chao-Ley (sea-gypsy) fisherman who took refuge on Koh Lipe. You can still find a traditional village with school on the island, and local fishermen go about their daily business using large Thai longtail boats.
Koh Lipe has become increasingly popular with visitors over the past few decades, but is still much less developed than other destinations in Thailand. The small size of Koh Lipe and remote location mean the island remains off the mass- tourism map. However there are now a range of places to stay and choice of restaurants on the island, especially along Pattaya Beach which has become the most popular area.
Apart from relaxing on the beaches (which are spectacular), most people visit Koh Lipe to enjoy activities in the water. You can snorkel across coral reefs straight off most of the beaches, or kayak around the bays of the island. The highlight using Koh Lipe as a base for scuba diving throughout Tarutao Marine Park, which offers some cracking dive sites. Countless coral reefs, spectacular marine life, and there is even a decent size ship wreck (the Yong Hua) lying just off Koh Lipe.