Planning your 2025 trip to Koh Lipe?
The fastest route from Bangkok is a flight to Hat Yai, a transfer to Pak Bara Pier, and a speedboat to Koh Lipe.
This updated guide explains all travel options — flight + ferry, bus + ferry, train routes, travel times, prices, and where to book tickets — so you can reach Koh Lipe smoothly and stress-free.
🧭 Koh Lipe Overview – Distance, Location & Best Access
Where Koh Lipe Is Located
Koh Lipe is a small island in the far south of Thailand, close to the Malaysian border.
It’s part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, famous for its crystal-clear water, coral reefs, and quiet beach vibe.
Because it’s far from major cities, most travelers reach Koh Lipe via Hat Yai and Pak Bara Pier.
How Far Is Koh Lipe from Bangkok?
Koh Lipe is roughly 840–950 km from Bangkok, depending on the route.
There is no direct flight or ferry, so you’ll need a combination of flight + car/van transfer + speedboat to reach the island.
The journey typically takes 5–7 hours using the fastest flight connection.
Fastest & Cheapest Ways to Reach Koh Lipe
- Fastest Route
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Bangkok → Hat Yai (flight → 1.5 hrs) → Pak Bara Pier (van → 2 hrs) → Koh Lipe (speedboat → 1.5 hrs)
This is the quickest and most comfortable option for most travelers. - Cheapest Route
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Bangkok → Trang / Hat Yai (bus → 10–12 hrs) → Pak Bara (songthaew/van) → Koh Lipe (ferry)
It takes longer but is budget-friendly.
These two routes cover nearly all travel patterns and match what most travelers search for when planning their Koh Lipe trip.
Best Time to Visit Koh Lipe
The best time to visit is the dry season (November–April), when the sea is calm and speedboats run regularly.
During the rainy season, services may be reduced or delayed due to rough waves.
✈️ Bangkok → Koh Lipe by Flight + Ferry (Fastest Route)
There’s no direct flight or ferry from Bangkok to Koh Lipe, but it’s easy to combine a flight or bus with a ferry transfer.
Flight Options & Travel Time
Flying to Hat Yai (HDY) is the fastest way to reach Koh Lipe.
AirAsia, Thai VietJet, Nok Air, and other airlines operate multiple daily flights from BKK or DMK.
- Flight time: About 1.5 hours
- Frequency: Several flights per day
- Tip: Book early for the best fares
After landing, continue by van or private transfer to Pak Bara Pier.
Hat Yai Airport → Pak Bara Pier Transfer + Ferry
From Hat Yai Airport, take a shared minivan or private car to Pak Bara Pier.
- Transfer time: 1.5–2 hours
- Speedboat duration: Around 1.5 hours
- Departure window: 9:30–15:30 (seasonal)
Speedboats arrive at Pattaya Beach on Koh Lipe.
This is the smoothest and most time-efficient route, ideal for first-time visitors.
🚌 Bangkok → Koh Lipe by Bus + Ferry (Budget Route)
Bus Routes & Travel Time
If you’re looking for the cheapest way to reach Koh Lipe, taking an overnight bus from Bangkok is Taking an overnight bus is the cheapest way to reach Koh Lipe.
Buses leave from Bangkok Southern Terminal (Sai Tai Mai) or Mo Chit, heading to Trang or Hat Yai.
- Travel time: 10–12 hours
- Cost: Very budget-friendly
- Tip: VIP or First Class buses are the most comfortable
After arriving in Trang or Hat Yai, transfer to a van bound for Pak Bara Pier.
Ferry from Pak Bara Pier
A shared minivan takes 1.5–2 hours from Trang or Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier, where speedboats depart for Koh Lipe.
- Speedboat time: About 1.5 hours
- Departure window: Usually 9:30–15:30
- Arrival: Pattaya Beach on Koh Lipe
This route takes longer than flying but is the best option for travelers who want to save money.
🚆 Bangkok → Koh Lipe by Train (Slow but Scenic)
Train Schedule to Hat Yai
Taking a train is the slowest but most scenic way to reach Hat Yai before continuing to Koh Lipe.
Trains depart from Bangkok’s Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station, with both daytime and overnight options available.
- Travel time: 14–16 hours
- Best choice: Sleeper trains for comfort
- Arrival: Hat Yai Railway Station
After arriving, you’ll continue by van to Pak Bara Pier.
Transfer to Pak Bara Pier & Ferry
From Hat Yai Railway Station, catch a shared minivan to Pak Bara Pier.
- Van transfer: About 2 hours
- Speedboat: 1.5 hours to Koh Lipe
- Where you arrive: Pattaya Beach
This route takes considerably longer than flying or taking a bus, but it’s a relaxing and scenic option for travelers who enjoy slow travel.
🌴 Alternative Routes from Phuket or Krabi
Phuket → Koh Lipe by Speedboat
During the high season (usually November–April), you can travel directly from Phuket to Koh Lipe by speedboat.
Boats depart from Rassada Pier or Bang Rong Pier, stopping at a few islands along the way.
- Travel time: 3–4 hours
- Seasonal: Operates only in good weather
- Tip: Expect a bumpy ride on windy days
This route is convenient for travelers already exploring the Andaman Sea region.
Krabi → Koh Lipe Travel Options
From Krabi, speedboats to Koh Lipe also run in the high season, departing from Pak Meng Pier or Hat Yao Pier.
- Travel time: 2.5–3.5 hours
- Connections: Some routes include stops at Koh Ngai, Koh Mook, or Koh Kradan
- Best for: Island-hopping itineraries
If you’re traveling outside the speedboat season, you’ll need to go via Trang or Hat Yai → Pak Bara Pier instead.
- No account needed – book your ferry tickets easily on 12Go without signing up. Simple, fast, and secure!
🏨 Where to Stay in Koh Lipe
Best Areas to Stay
- Pattaya Beach
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The most popular area with plenty of restaurants, cafés, and easy access to speedboat arrivals. Great for first-time visitors.
- Sunrise Beach
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Quiet, scenic, and perfect for snorkeling. Ideal for travelers who want a peaceful and relaxing stay.
- Sunset Beach
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Smaller and more laid-back, known for beautiful evening views. Great for couples or anyone wanting privacy.
Top 3 Recommended Hotels
- 🔗Idyllic Concept Resort
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A stunning beachfront resort perfect for honeymooners and couples seeking tranquility. Enjoy luxurious rooms and amazing ocean views.
- 🔗Akira Lipe
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Featuring a relaxing pool and just steps away from the vibrant Walking Street, Akira Lipe offers comfort and convenience for travelers.
- 🔗Mari Lipe
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Cozy and charming, Mari Lipe has accommodations on both Sunrise Beach and Pattaya Beach, offering easy access to beautiful shores and local attractions.
💡 Travel Tips & FAQs
Koh Lipe is a small island, and transport can be affected by weather and seasonal schedules.
These quick tips will help make your trip smoother and more comfortable.
✔️ H2: Summary – Best Route to Koh Lipe
The fastest and easiest way to reach Koh Lipe from Bangkok is:
Bangkok → Hat Yai (flight) → Pak Bara Pier (van) → Koh Lipe (speedboat)
This route takes about 5–7 hours and offers the smoothest overall experience.
For budget travelers, the cheapest option is:
Bangkok → Trang or Hat Yai (overnight bus) → Pak Bara Pier → Koh Lipe
It’s slower, but ideal for saving money while still reaching the island comfortably.
Whichever route you choose, Koh Lipe rewards you with clear water, soft beaches, and a relaxed island vibe—perfect for a memorable getaway.
