Koh Lipe is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets. This tropical paradise was once the destination of only the most seasoned travelers but has now become more open to the public. If you are wondering where to stay in Koh Lipe, there are three main beaches that cater to just about every taste and style.
The paradise that is Koh Lipe is a quiet destination, although it is developed enough to have all of the amenities that you need to have a comfortable vacation. We will cover the best places to stay in Koh Lipe and what you can expect from each one of these spectacular beaches.
Like most tropical places in the world, Koh Lipe is full of fun, things to do outdoors. The activities are as varied as the number of areas to stay in Koh Lipe, and there is truly something for everyone.
Koh Lipe is a tiny island that’s only a little more than a mile long, so it’s possible to trek around the whole thing in an afternoon. You can enjoy all of the beaches, plus stroll down Koh Lipe’s famous Walking Street.
Koh Lipe’s beaches are the stuff of legends. Sprawl out on one of the gorgeous sandy expanses that make up this beautiful island. Catch some rays or dip into the crystal blue waters.
It has fantastic diving, free diving, and snorkeling. Jump into the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and see some of the most incredible fish in the world. All of the beaches in Koh Lipe boast amazing water sports, so hop on in.
When it comes to where to stay in Koh Lipe, visitors are really spoiled for choice! All of the beaches have their pluses and minuses.
Where to stay in Koh Lipe: 5 Best Places
1. Pattaya Beach, where to stay in Koh Lipe for the first time
Pattaya Beach is the most popular area to stay in Koh Lipe, and it is easy to see why. This white sand beach is incredibly beautiful. At night, the beach lights up with fire shows and events, so you will never be bored while you are staying in Pattaya Beach.
Pattaya Beach is the most convenient location on the island. It is very close to Walking Street, perfect for shopping and dining, and it´s where most ferries and boats arrive at Koh Lipe.
The beach is beautiful, and if you want to avoid the people coming from the boats, just walk towards one of the ends of the beach, where you will find quiet spots perfect for relaxing, swimming and tanning.
Your dining options include higher-end fare as well as traditional Thai favorites, and the places to stay are just as varied. You can find higher-end hotels and resorts in Pattaya Beach, as well as backpacker-friendly bungalows and hostels.
If you are looking for some nightlife (be warned that nightlife on the island is very relaxed), Pattaya Beach is the right place to stay in Koh Lipe! Here, you will find a few beach bars and fire dancers lighting the atmosphere.
Pattaya Beach can get a little wild during the busy season, so if you are not interested in the party you might want to look elsewhere. For those who want a mix of excitement and an island vibe, Pattaya Beach is perfect.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KOH LIPE IN PATTAYA BEACH
- ($$$) AKIRA Lipe Resort
- ($$) Sita Beach Resort
- ($) Good Mood Resort
2. Sunrise Beach, my favourite beach to stay in Koh Lipe
For fabulous sunrises, check out Sunrise Beach on Koh Lipe’s west side. Sunrise Beach is also known as Hat Chao Ley and is a white sand beach that is the perfect place to catch an amazing sunrise. Without doubts is the best beach in Koh Lipe.
Like Sunset Beach, this area is less likely to be populated by tourists than Pattaya Beach, so there’s a great chance that you’ll have the sunrise all to yourself if you come during the offseason.
People are starting to catch on that Sunrise Beach is a great place to stay in Koh Lipe.
As such, many higher-end resorts are popping up on or near Sunrise Beach. If you’re looking for a spot to pamper yourself, get a good glimpse of the ocean, and dine on some amazing Thai cuisine, Sunrise Beach is it.
Additionally, Sunrise Beach is a great spot to stay in Koh Lipe for people who love the outdoors and watersports. There is plenty of amazing snorkeling right off the coast, and you are bound to see some amazing aquatic animals.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN SUNRISE BEACH
3. Karma Beach, where to stay in Koh Lipe for the best beach
Karma Beach, part of Sunrise Beach, is located at the island’s northern end. It is a truly unique little beach; for many, it is the most beautiful spot on Koh Lipe.
This beach stands out for its fine white sand and the impressive sandbank, which stretches out like a crescent moon in the turquoise sea.
Karma Beach is perfect for swimming, snorkelling or exploring the coastline by kayak. The tranquil atmosphere also invites you to relax. In addition, you can always enjoy a magnificent view of the neighbouring island of Koh Adang.
There are only a few accommodations around this beach, so if you stay at one of them, you will surely enjoy a very peaceful stay.
Karma Beach is an excellent choice to stay in Koh Lipe for a relaxing holiday. A short walk will also take you to the livelier areas of Sunrise Beach, where you will find good restaurants and bars, or, if you walk a little further, the Walking Street.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KOH LIPE IN KARMA BEACH
- ($$$) Bulow Casa Grand View Resort
- ($$$) Irene Pool Villa Resort, Koh Lipe
- ($$) Mountain Resort Koh Lipe
4. Walking Street, where to stay in Koh Lipe on a budget
Walking Street is the busiest area of Koh Lipe and the hub of everything exciting happening on the island. If you are looking for a traditional Thai massage, a bowl of amazing noodles, or a place to sip a cold Chang beer while people watching, Walking Street is right up your alley.
Walking Street is also slightly less expensive than some of the other options on the island. You will not find the resorts of Sunrise Beach here. Instead, it’s a great place for backpackers to lay their heads, and since it’s relatively close to Pattaya Beach, you can really get the best of both worlds.
As for food, you can find some amazing street food on Walking Street, so if you are looking for a true Thai experience you will want to at least pay a visit to this busy Koh Lipe hub.
Walking Street gets booked up quickly during the busy season, which runs from November to April, so if you are planning to visit during this time of year make sure you book in advance.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN WALKING STREET
5. Sunset Beach, best place to stay in Koh Lipe for total relaxation
If you love nature, you should definitely check out Sunset Beach. As the name suggests, this beach boasts the best sunsets on all of Koh Lipe. This gorgeous stretch of beach is illuminated in golden hues when the sun dips below the waves.
It is a relaxed beach that will give you a true understanding of the island vibe that defines Koh Lipe, but since this island paradise is so small, it’s only about twenty minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Walking Street.
There are also some casual dining options for fresh and authentic Thai food on Sunset Beach, plus a couple of laid back bars. You will not find clubs in this area of the island though, so if you’re looking for the party you might want to go somewhere else.
As for accommodation, you will find mostly bungalows on Sunset Beach. If you’re looking for a backpacker vibe or a fancy resort, you’ll have to check out somewhere else. This beach is all about relaxing and reconnecting with nature.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN KOH LIPE IN SUNSET BEACH
- ($$$) Casa De Lipe
- ($) Bayview Hill Resort
- ($) Bayview Sunset
Koh Lipe does not have the name recognition of Koh Samui or Phuket, but it should not be overlooked on your next trip to Thailand.