Ko Lipe (also spelled Koh Lipe, Thai: เกาะหลีเป๊ะ) is a small island in the Andaman Sea, located in the Satun Province of Thailand, close to the Malaysian border. It is part of the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, which forms part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, though Ko Lipe itself is technically situated just outside the park's strict boundaries, allowing for commercial development.
The island is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Its three main beaches are:
- Pattaya Beach: The busiest beach, serving as the main entry point for speedboats and offering a wide array of accommodations, restaurants, and shops along its "Walking Street."
- Sunrise Beach (Hat Chao Ley): Located on the eastern side, known for its stunning sunrises and views of the surrounding islands. It also houses a sea gypsy (Chao Ley) village.
- Sunset Beach (Hat Pramong): A quieter beach on the western side, popular for watching sunsets.
Ko Lipe serves as a gateway to the uninhabited islands of the Tarutao National Marine Park, offering opportunities for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving trips to nearby islets like Ko Adang, Ko Rawi, and Ko Jabang. The marine park is home to diverse coral reefs and various fish species.
The island's tourism infrastructure has expanded rapidly since the early 2000s, transforming it from a remote backpacker haven into a more developed tourist destination with a range of resorts, bungalows, and guesthouses. Access to Ko Lipe is primarily by speedboat from Pak Bara Pier in Satun province, and seasonally from other hubs like Langkawi (Malaysia), Phuket, and Krabi.