Koh Lipe

Koh Lipe is a seasonal island: most accommodation and restaurants are open from November to April. During the rainy season (May, October), most of the island closes. Boat connections are cancelled during stormy weather. Best months: December, February (dry, less wind). April is hot but popular due to the summer holidays.

There are no direct flights to Koh Lipe. Options: (1) fly to Hat Yai or Trang, then take a bus to Pak Bara pier and a speedboat (1 hour). (2) Fly to Langkawi (Malaysia) and take the direct boat from Langkawi (1 hour). Option 2 is sometimes faster and cheaper. Book the boat in advance during the high season, as they fill up.

Yes. Koh Lipe is more expensive than Koh Lanta, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. Its remote location makes food and drink prices higher (everything is delivered by boat). Expect 20-30% more for similar accommodation than on the popular islands. Budget for a week: €70, €120/day per person including accommodation, food and activities.

For Thailand: yes. The coral is living and varied, especially around the reef areas near Koh Hin Ngam and Koh Usen. It is not at the level of the Maldives or the Philippines, but for a beach-accessible reef, it is excellent. The best coral areas are reachable without a boat at high tide; at low tide, snorkelling is limited.

Yes: a direct speedboat to Langkawi (Malaysia) takes one hour. This makes Koh Lipe a perfect link if you are combining Thailand and Malaysia. The border crossing works well (Thai exit stamp on Koh Lipe, Malaysian entry stamp on Langkawi). Bring your passport; the boat will not let you board without it.