Koh Lipe (Floating Platform) Ferries

Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.

Travelers typically reach Koh Lipe by ferry from mainland Thailand or nearby islands, with the floating platform serving as the island's main arrival point. From Pak Bara pier on the mainland, the journey takes approximately 1.5-2 hours depending on sea conditions. During high season (November-May), additional ferry connections operate from Langkawi (Malaysia), Koh Lanta, and other Andaman islands. Upon arrival at the floating platform, longtail boats transfer passengers to their beach of choice for a small fee. Note that during monsoon season (May-October), ferry services are reduced, with most routes operating only from Pak Bara.

Nestled in the Andaman Sea near the Malaysian border, Koh Lipe is a small yet stunning Thai island known for its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The island serves as a gateway to the protected Tarutao National Marine Park, offering visitors an authentic slice of tropical paradise. Arriving by ferry at Koh Lipe's floating platform, travelers step directly into a pedestrian-friendly island where barefoot luxury meets untamed natural beauty.

Koh Lipe enjoys a tropical climate with distinct dry and wet seasons that shape the island experience. The prime time to visit falls between November and April, when clear skies, calm seas, and optimal underwater visibility create perfect conditions for snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs. February and March offer the most reliable weather with temperatures hovering around 28-32°C (82-90°F). The shoulder months of November and April provide a good balance of pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Ferry services reach their peak frequency during these months, with multiple daily departures connecting Koh Lipe to the mainland and neighboring islands.

Koh Lipe serves as an excellent base for exploring the 51 islands of Tarutao National Marine Park. A 30-minute ferry ride takes you to Koh Adang, where jungle hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints overlooking Koh Lipe. Venture about 1-2 hours by boat to Koh Tarutao, the largest island in the archipelago, featuring pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and fascinating pirate history. During high season, ferries connect Koh Lipe to Langkawi (Malaysia) in about 90 minutes, offering an opportunity for an international day trip or onward travel. The journey between islands often reveals playful dolphins and stunning karst formations rising from azure waters.

Koh Lipe's compact size belies its wealth of activities centered around three main beaches, each with distinct character. Snorkel directly from Sunrise Beach to vibrant coral gardens teeming with colorful fish, or arrange a boat trip to nearby islands for world-class diving spots. Wander through Walking Street, the island's pedestrian thoroughfare, to sample authentic southern Thai cuisine featuring fresh seafood and spicy curries unique to the region. For a cultural experience, visit the original Chao Ley (Sea Gypsy) village and learn about their traditional way of life. As evening approaches, head to Sunset Beach to witness the sky transform into brilliant shades of orange and pink while local musicians create a laid-back soundtrack.

Despite its growing popularity, Koh Lipe has no cars or motorbikes, making it one of Thailand's few truly pedestrian islands where everything is accessible by foot. The island's name translates to 'Paper Island' in the local Chao Ley language, referring to its flat, paper-like appearance when viewed from a distance. Koh Lipe sits at the crossroads of migratory routes for whale sharks, which occasionally make appearances in the surrounding waters between February and April. The floating platform arrival system was implemented as an eco-friendly alternative to building a permanent pier, helping to preserve the island's delicate marine ecosystem.