As I wrote in another article, Koh Lipe definitely gets more beautiful with each visit. On my first visit, I found the island rather unremarkable; upon my return, I was already completely captivated before even leaving.

The previous post focused primarily on arguing whether a trip to Lipe is worthwhile. This post, however, aims to help you plan your trip once you've already made a final decision to visit.

This is the only Koh Lipe itinerary you need, but be warned: time flies on Koh Lipe. So be sure to plan plenty of time, no matter what else you want to do.

Accommodation in Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe essentially has three hotel areas. The most exclusive hotels are located on Sunrise Beach, particularly at the aptly named North Point. The options range from budget-friendly bungalows like the Castaway Resort to luxurious resorts like the Bulow Casa Grand View Resort. The second area actually offers two different types of accommodation: the secondary beaches of Pattaya Beach and Sunset Beach.

A third option is to stay along Koh Lipe's convenient pedestrian zone. Whether you choose a hotel like the Leelawadee Lipe Resort or a smaller one (some of which aren't even bookable online!), you'll be right next to the island's main pedestrian area. From there, you can reach both Sunrise Beach and Pattaya Beach in just a few minutes' walk.

My favorite activities in Koh Lipe

Spend the afternoon at Sunrise Beach

It might sound paradoxical to visit Sunrise Beach just before sunset, but listen to me. The sun shines from the west onto this east-facing beach, especially as it gets lower in the sky. Therefore, this is the time to take the most beautiful photos; it's also the best time for swimming in the crystal-clear water.

Hike to the Koh Adang viewpoint

No trip to Koh Lipe is complete without a visit to Koh Adang. This significantly larger (but completely untouched) island lies north of Koh Lipe (accessible by longtail boat) and offers a breathtaking viewpoint. From its three levels (only the two uppermost are worth seeing), you have a fantastic view over the entire island of Koh Lipe.

(And swim at the beach)

Along Koh Adang Beach, there are neither bars nor restaurants – and, as it turns out, no palm trees either. Instead, towering palm trees rise above the dazzling white sand and crystal-clear water, rivaling the perfect beaches of the main islands.

Let yourself be swept away by Lipe's relaxed atmosphere

My Koh Lipe guidebook doesn't go into as much detail about bars as some others – I don't deny that. On the other hand, in the almost ten years I've been visiting the island, I've seen many bars come and go, and I can tell you that it's less about the name (although I do like Nomad Bar) and more about the atmosphere.

Make full use of the pedestrian zone.

As far as so-called "pedestrian zones" in Thailand are concerned, I'm generally rather indifferent. However, the Walking Street on Koh Lipe completely captivated me. Not only does it house most of the island's restaurants (and a considerable number of bars), but it's also extremely convenient, as it connects Sunrise Beach with Pattaya Beach.

Perhaps take a day trip to the "Seven Islands"?

To be perfectly honest, the version of the popular Seven Islands day trip I took from Koh Lipe was the worst excursion I've ever experienced in Thailand, perhaps even worldwide. The islands themselves were disappointing, as was the planning. My small group (who could barely leave Koh Lipe due to the rough seas) ended up having lunch on an island where monkeys were stealing our food. Go ahead and do the trip, but check your tour operator more thoroughly than I did mine.

How many days should you spend on Koh Lipe?

Koh Lipe isn't a huge island, but you should definitely allow yourself enough time to explore it. Most travelers plan two to three days for this. This gives you one (or even two) days to enjoy Koh Lipe's stunning beaches and another day to leave the island. I personally usually took a short boat trip to Koh Adang and its fantastic viewpoint, but you can, of course, also go snorkeling.

If money and time are no object – and especially if you don't think you'll get bored easily – there's really no maximum length of stay on Koh Lipe. You could stay a week or even longer, although personally, I'd probably get a little restless after that long. Ultimately, though, the decision is yours: only you know what kind of traveler you are.

More frequently asked questions about your trip to Koh Lipe

Is Koh Lipe still worth a visit?

Koh Lipe is still absolutely worth a visit. Having been there in 2015 and then again in 2024, I have to say I like it even better now. The island has developed beautifully and offers an even better balance than before: sophisticated, but not stuffy; alternative, but not deserted; lively, but not overcrowded.

Which month is best for a trip to Koh Lipe?

Like most other islands in Thailand's Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is most beautiful during the dry season, roughly from late November to late March or early April. While travel outside this period is possible, even in good weather, the availability of transportation and accommodation can be limited.

Is Koh Lipe a party island?

For an island of its size, Koh Lipe actually has a large number of bars and nightclubs. On the other hand, there are also plenty of ways to enjoy yourself away from the party scene; most accommodations are far enough away from the nightlife that you won't be bothered by it unless you're specifically looking for a lively atmosphere.

Conclusion

I hope this Koh Lipe itinerary helps you plan an unforgettable trip. I personally like to spend at least three days on Koh Lipe. On the first day, you can relax with a swim, perhaps in the shallow waters around North Point, or enjoy sunset cocktails at the Nomad Bar. On the second day, you can experience some adventure: take a longtail boat to Koh Adang or even further out for snorkeling or diving. On the third day, you can relax back on Koh Lipe itself, whether on Sunrise, Sunset, and Pattaya beaches or on the lively Walking Street. Need help planning your Thailand island getaway? Then let me create a personalized itinerary for you!