Where To Stay in Koh Lipe: Best Hotels For ALL Budgets
Did someone say paradise? Well, you've found it! Koh Lipe is a stunning tropical island off the coast of Thailand and part of Tarutao National Marine Park. It is populated with small islands and is known for its coral-rich waters, making it a diver's haven.
On top of that, you can enjoy this hidden gem without the big crowds, as it is not as touristy as popular islands like Koh Phangan or when staying in Koh Samui in Thailand.
Koh Lipe is one of Thailand's smallest islands. It's so tiny that you can reach everywhere on the island on foot. Thus, you don't have to worry about transportation while picking your hotel on Koh Lipe because most properties are located very close to everything on the island.
However, there are still different areas and hotels to choose from. I have gathered up my favorite areas and beaches so you can easily decide where to stay in Koh Lipe.
The best places to stay in Koh Lipe
South Coast
Here, you will find the famous Pattaya Beach and easy access to all the shopping streets in the city center. The area is popular among divers for its coral-rich waters, as well as budget travelers who want to stay near the hustle and bustle of Koh Lipe's nightlife.
North Coast
If you're looking for a peaceful and quiet stay, then the North Coast is perfect. There are some stunning beachfront properties here that offer beautiful views of the distant islands. It's also where Sunset Beach is located, which definitely lives up to its name.
East Coast
Are you looking for paradisiacal beaches? Then the East Coast could be perfect for you! Along Sunrise Beach, you'll find some remarkable resorts with exquisite beachfront villas and stunning views. It's a great choice if you're in search of luxurious accommodations in Koh Lipe.
1. Where to stay in Koh Lipe for the first time: Pattaya Beach
If you want to be in a convenient location on the island, book a hotel in Pattaya Beach. This area is where you'll find the boats to Koh Lipe, the immigration office, and the start of the Walking Street. It is also the first place you'll see and experience on the island.
The beautiful beach is definitely the most crowded on the island. Boats arrive here every day, so it can get a little busy. However, one can always just wander to one of the ends of the beach and usually find some quieter spots.
Best area for:
Solo traveler
Backpackers
Nightlife
Things to see & do in Pattaya Beach
If you're looking to have a crazy night out, Pattaya Beach is the right spot for you! It's the perfect place on the island for beach bars and clubs. Live music from different bars fills the beach, and every night you can witness fire dancers lighting up the atmosphere.
Pattaya Beach is also where most diving boats depart. If you're a diver, this area is perfect for you! Pop over to Pura Vida Diving School or Koh Lipe Diving School, book a course or a day dive and your boat will be leaving from Pattaya Beach in the morning.
Best hotels to stay in Pattaya Beach
($$$) AKIRA Lipe Resort
Akira Lipe Resort is one of the best luxury hotels on the island, where guests can experience a high level of comfort and quality. Located in Pattaya Beach, this resort offers stunning views of the crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches of Koh Lipe.
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($$$) Bundhaya Villas
Bundhaya Villas offers a classic luxury Thai experience with its thatched-roof villas set right by the beachfront. The villas even come with an outdoor swimming pool, garden, and bar.
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($$) Ananya Lipe Resort
Ananya Lipe Resort is the perfect choice for budget travelers! This hotel offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of the ocean, ideal for those who want to have beachfront accommodation without breaking your bank account.
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($$) Mali Resort Pattaya Beach
This three-star resort is the perfect spot for couples and small families who want to stay near the beach and explore the city. It has a swimming pool, restaurant, and terrace with stunning views of Pattaya Beach.
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($) Sita Beach Resort
Sita Beach Resort is a super-affordable luxury 4-star resort. I recommend it to everyone who is on a budget but still wants to treat themselves to a luxurious vacation or honeymoon.
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2. Where to stay in Koh Lipe for the best beaches: Sunrise Beach
Koh Lipe Sunrise Beach, the longest beach on Koh Lipe, is located on the east coast of the island. It is commonly known as the best beach on the island, and I absolutely agree.
It is a beautiful spot with clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and a relaxed atmosphere. During the low season, Sunrise Beach is sheltered from monsoon winds, and during the high season, it enjoys a refreshing breeze. If you're an early riser who wants to catch the sunrise, this is the perfect place for you.
Best area for:
Families
Couples
Beach vacations
Things to see & do in
Sunrise Beach is an ideal spot for anyone who likes to explore the underwater world. There are plenty of snorkeling spots here, so if you're a keen snorkeler, this is your place! You can also rent a kayak and paddle around the beach in search of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs.
If that's still not enough snorkeling for you, then I suggest you join a longtail boat snorkeling tour! It was one of my absolute favorite activities in Koh Lipe. You can visit some of the best snorkeling sites around the island, such as Adang Island and Tarutao National Marine Park.
Lastly, for all my vegetarian friends out there, I highly recommend popping by Benny's on the beach for some vegetarian tacos or delicious smoothie bowls right on Sunrise Beach.
Best hotels to stay in Sunrise Beach
($$$) Irene Pool Villa Resort
Irene Pool Villa Resort is the top pick when it comes to staying in Koh Lipe, offering a luxurious experience. The resort features elegant villas with private outdoor swimming pools, as well as stunning views of Sunrise Beach.
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($$$) Mali Resort Sunrise Beach
Malis Resort Sunrise Beach is a great budget option for couples and families. It offers cozy Balinese-style villas and a beautiful outdoor swimming pool.
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($$) Ten Moons Lipe Resort
Ten Moons Lipe Resort is great for couples who want a romantic stay at the beach. This hotel offers stunning views of Sunrise Beach and cozy rooms with private balconies. On top of that, it's also super affordable.
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($$) Castaway Resort Koh Lipe
Castaway Resort Koh Lipe is the ideal pick for those who are looking for an affordable stay near the beach. The resort offers private beach bungalows, a swimming pool, and direct access to Sunrise Beach.
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($$) Serendipity Beach Resort
Serendipity Beach Resort is a family-friendly hotel located in one of the most stunning spots on the island. It offers private beach villas with private plunge pools and an outdoor swimming pool, as well as direct access to Sunrise Beach.
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($) Cabana Lipe Beach Resort
If you're looking for a beachfront stay that doesn't break the bank, then Cabana Lipe Beach Resort is the perfect pick! This little resort offers clean and comfortable bungalows right on Sunrise Beach.
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3. Where to stay in Koh Lipe for ultimate relaxation & away from the crowds: Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is a great place to go if you're seeking some privacy and hoping to avoid large crowds. Whether you're on a honeymoon, seeking a romantic getaway, or simply looking for some alone time, I recommend checking out Sunset Beach!
The hotels here may not be as fancy as those on Pattaya Beach or Sunrise Beach, but the tranquility and peaceful atmosphere that you find here definitely make up for it.
And, of course, here you can catch the best sunsets on the island.
FYI: Even though the island, in general is pretty walkable, Sunset Beach is a bit of a walk away from Walking Street!
Best area for:
Honeymoons
Couples
Relaxation
Things to see & do in Sunset Beach
Sunset Beach is not as developed as the other beaches on the island, making it the perfect spot to just hang out in a more relaxing setting. Grab a book and your favorite beach towel, and just lay out on the beach or take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
If that's not enough, you can always head to the Beach Bar at the Bayview Sunset Resort. It's a great spot to enjoy some local Thai food, grab some cocktails, and watch the sunset!
Best hotels to stay in Sunset Beach
($$$) Casa De Lipe
This 5-star hotel is one of my favorite Ko Lipe hotels!. All rooms come with a balcony that offers a view of the sea and you will also get access to your own private beach.
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($$) Bayview Hill Resort
Located on a hillside at sunset beach, this resort offers stunning views of the sea and the islands around Koh Lipe. The rooms are cozy and comfortable with modern amenities.
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($) Bayview Sunset
Tucked away in the jungle, Bayview Sunset offers super-affordable bungalows so that you can enjoy a relaxing stay away from the crowds. It is perfect for those who want to chill out and relax.
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4. Where to stay in Koh Lipe on a budget: Walking Street (Centre of the island)
Koh Lipe's well-known Walking Street is a promenade that stretches across the island, connecting the famous Pattaya Beach in the southwest to the legendary Sunrise Beach in the east. The area around Walking Street offers many affordable hotels and hostels, especially for backpackers!
Koh Lipe Walking Street is a great spot for anyone on a budget. Accommodation is super cheap; you can grab cheap street food at every corner, especially at night, and you are staying within walking distance of all the beaches!
FYI: Here you will also find your 7-Eleven, and even more importantly, many ATMs!
Best area for:
Solo Travelers
Backpackers
Lively streets
Things to see & do near Koh Lipe Walking Street
The island center is the best spot to grab some quick street food, get your souvenirs, and explore the variety of bars and pubs. Especially when it comes to street food, I always recommend trying as much as you can!
However, in case you want to take a break from all the Thai food, I recommend checking out the Elephant Cafe & Bar for some Western food. It's cheap and super tasty!
Best hotels to stay near Koh Lipe Walking Street
($$) The Reef Hotel
The modern boutique hotel is a great choice for those who want to stay in the center of Koh Lipe. Centrally located on Walking Street, it offers comfortable and stylish rooms with modern amenities.
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($) Bloom Cafe & Hostel
This budget-friendly option is ideal for backpackers and solo travelers. Located in the heart of Koh Lipe, it offers cozy dorms as well as private rooms with access to a shared kitchen and living area.
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($) La Luna Italian
La Luna Italian is a great pick for those who are looking to stay in the center of Koh Lipe on a budget. It offers cozy and comfortable rooms with en suite bathrooms, as well as delicious Italian food in the restaurant.
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3-Day Koh Lipe Itinerary
Day 1: Explore the Beaches of Koh Lipe
Start your three-day trip to Koh Lipe by exploring all of its stunning beaches! Begin with Sunrise Beach, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters and watch the most beautiful sunrises.
Then, move on to Karma Beach and its breathtaking sandbank, which offers spectacular views and a wonderful atmosphere.
Right after, you can head to Sanom Beach before making your way to Sunset Beach at around 6 pm to witness your first Koh Lipe sunset!
Day 2: Go Island Hopping
Why not try an island-hopping adventure on your second day and explore Koh Adang, the neighboring island of Koh Lipe? Several boats depart from various beaches, and the journey takes only about 15 minutes.
Once on Koh Adang, take a hike up the highest peak of the island, and you will be rewarded with stunning views over Koh Lipe. Remember to pack a picnic lunch and take plenty of pictures!
Day 3: Relax on Walking Street and Enjoy the Nightlife
Your last day in Koh Lipe is all about relaxation and soaking up the atmosphere. Wander around Walking Street and explore its many bars, restaurants, and shops.
Head to The Box for some gourmet tapas or to Thai Derm for delicious Thai food! Don't forget to grab a few souvenirs for your family and friends back home! When night falls, check out the nightlife scene and dance the night away.
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Where to stay in Koh Lipe – Frequently Asked Questions
⭐ Is Koh Lipe worth visiting?
Yes, Koh Lipe is definitely worth visiting! This stunning island offers some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, and it is the perfect place to relax, explore, and party. It's the perfect paradise destination for any budget traveler!
🛥️ How do I get to Koh Lipe?
It is possible to get to Koh Lipe from both Thailand and Langkawi in Malaysia. From the Thai mainland, you can take a ferry or a speedboat from Pak Bara, Krabi, Phuket, Phi Phi Island, and Koh Lanta in Thailand. You can also take a ferry from Langkawi, Malaysia.
🤿 What’s there to do in Koh Lipe?
In Koh Lipe, you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. What really brings a lot of people here is scuba diving; Koh Lipe is the perfect spot for those wanting to explore the underwater world, as there are plenty of dive sites around the island.
📍 Where’s the main area in Koh Lipe?
Koh Lipe Walking Street is the main area of the island, which connects Pattaya Beach in the southwest to Sunrise Beach in the east. It’s also a great spot for shopping, eating, and nightlife.
🚶 How do I get around Koh Lipe?
When you visit Koh Lipe, you really don't have to worry about transportation. It's a small island, and most places can be reached within walking distance. If you want to explore more distant areas, you can rent a scooter or take a tuk-tuk.
📅 How many days should I stay in Koh Lipe?
Three days is the perfect amount of time to spend in Koh Lipe. You will have enough time to explore all the beaches, go island-hopping, and shop and eat along Walking Street. However, if you want to relax and take some time off, you can easily spend a week or more on the island!
❓ Should I stay in Koh Lipe or Phuket or Langkawi?
This really depends on what kind of holiday you are looking for. Phuket and Langkawi offer some of the best nightlife, while Koh Lipe is more laid-back and perfect for a relaxing beach holiday. If it's a combination of both that you're after, maybe check out Krabi.
Where to stay in Koh Lipe – Final Words
Koh Lipe is an amazing place to visit if you are looking for a relaxing tropical getaway. The tiny island has beautiful beaches, amazing diving, delicious food, and the perfect balance of activities and rest. From couples to solo travelers, backpackers, and honeymooners, Koh Lipe should definitely be on your list of must-visit island destinations in Thailand.
I hope my guide will make it easier for you to get a feel for the island and to decide where to stay in Koh Lipe during your next vacation.
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