The island of Koh Lipe in Thailand is becoming increasingly popular, with its magnificent beaches and crystal-clear waters. Located in the Adang-Rawi Archipelago, it attracts travelers in search of relaxation. Koh Lipe is renowned for its rich seabed, perfect for diving and snorkeling. But where are the best places to stay on Koh Lipe?
In this guide, we’ll help you choose where to stay in Koh Lipe according to your preferences and budget. For each area, we’ll highlight what makes it special and the different points that characterize it. We’ll also make recommendations for suitable accommodation. So your stay on Koh Lipe will be as exceptional as its scenery.
Things you need to know
Before going into detail on each area to help you decide where to stay in Koh Lipe, here are some key things you need to know about the city. This’ll give you a better idea of the city.
Our favorite places to stay
If you’re in a hurry, here are our top places to stay in Koh Lipe:
- $ this accomodation offers family bungalows next to the ferry terminal
- $$ this hotel ideally located overlooking Sunset Beach
- $$$ this high-end establishment on Koh lipe’s waterfront
Map of different areas to stay in Koh Lipe
Here’s a map which includes our picks of hotels and flats. You can also use this map to pinpoint the different areas we’ll cover in this guide.
We’ve used the following colour code: green for budget hotels, blue for mid-range hotels and red for luxury hotels.
Essentials to stay in Koh Lipe
Areas where to stay in Koh Lipe
Let’s get to the heart of the matter with a review of the main areas where we recommend staying on Koh Lipe.
To stay at Sunrise Beach
Located on the east side of the island, Sunrise Beach takes its name from the spectacular sunrises it offers every morning. This side of the island offers a quiet, rejuvenating place to stay.
The atmosphere is relaxing and tranquil. The beach generally attracts travelers looking for a more peaceful time and a quieter stay than the island's busier beaches. It's an ideal place for travelers who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, with the perfect combination of serenity and natural beauty.
It's the ideal place for couples in search of tranquility and romance.
The beach offers a variety ofwater sports activities for visitors. Known as ideal for diving enthusiasts who can explore the colorful coral reefs nearby, while for those seeking a more relaxing experience this beach also offers the opportunity to kayak or simply relax on the fine sand. Of course, the breathtaking sunrises are not to be missed.
Sunrise Beach has the advantage of offering a wide variety of incredible hotels and easy access to water sports, bars and restaurants.
However, to stay in this part of the island is still very expensive, and is mainly aimed at travelers in search of serenity.
Our recommended hotels for accommodation in Sunrise Beach
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The hotel offers individual accommodation with bedroom and bathroom, with sea or garden views. Clean, with a restaurant, it's right on the beach. It's a great choice to stay at Sunrise Beach, at a lower price.
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Overlooking Sunrise beach, this establishment offers individual villas with private balcony, television and minibar. There's also an outdoor swimming pool, bar and restaurant. Good value for money accommodation on Koh Lipe.
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Located on Koh lipe's seafront, this 5-star establishment offers individual accommodation with private pool, decorated in a very chic and luxurious style. It also offers guests a superb sea-view outdoor pool, gym, restaurant and bar. The ideal place to stay for an upscale stay.
Pattaya Beach, for accommodation in the liveliest part of Koh Lipe
Pattaya beach in the south of Koh Lipe is the island's best-known area, offering the perfect combination of white sand, crystal-clear waters and a lively atmosphere.
By day, travelers can relax under the warm sun, dive in the clear waters, or indulge in a variety of water sports.
The relaxed style of the day transforms into evening entertainment. Beach bars light up, seaside restaurants offer local specialties and night-time entertainment creates a festive atmosphere.
Pattaya Beach is the vibrant heart of the island, offering a livelier stay than the more remote beaches.
What sets this beach apart from others is its proximity to shops, local markets and a variety of restaurants. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking for accommodation with a lively nightlife and shopping opportunities.
When it comes to dining, this area offers authentic Thai as well as international cuisine. Fresh seafood stalls are also present, providing visitors with a local culinary experience.
Affordable accommodation to stay attracts budget-conscious travelers, while its vibrancy appeals to party-goers.
However, during high season, the beach can become crowded, which can be a drawback for those who prefer peace and quiet.
Recommended accommodation in Pattaya Beach
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This establishment offers family bungalows made of bamboo, wood and stone. A free WI-FI connection is available, as well as a private beach and bar. Very good value for money accommodation on Koh Lipe.
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Located by the sea, the 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms with a superb outdoor pool, gym and garden. Three restaurants, a bar and room service are also available for your complete comfort on the island.
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The establishment offers accommodation in large rooms with contemporary Thai decor. It boasts an infinity pool overlooking the ocean and offers luxury spa treatments. It's the perfect place to stay for the ultimate in comfort and beauty.
Stay on Walking Street, the island's pedestrian street
Koh Lipe's Walking Street, located in the eastern part of the island, is close to Pattaya Beach and the tranquil Sunrise Beach. It's a pedestrian street filled with bars, stores and restaurants.
Once the sun goes down, the street comes alive with bright lights, lively music and a festive atmosphere. Street stalls offer a variety of delicious Thai dishes, fresh seafood and exotic cocktails, perfect for a local culinary experience. There's also entertainment such as fire-dancing shows.
What's more, its boutiques offer clothing and handicrafts, perfect for souvenirs. Travelers can also book boat excursions to explore neighboring islands or take part in water activities.
Unlike the quieter beaches, this street offers a vibrant nightlife, attracting a young, energetic crowd in search of adventure after sunset.
With no direct access to the beach, this part of the island offers cheaper accommodation to stay than the rest of Koh Lipe. Beware, however, as this makes it a popular tourist spot, and in high season it can be difficult to find a place to stay.
Our suggestions for where to stay in Walking Street
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Located on Koh Lipe's pedestrian street, this establishment offers comfortable shared or private accommodation with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. We're looking for budget accommodation here.
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This 2-star hotel, just 400 meters from Pattaya Beach, features clean rooms with simple, modern decor. Each room has a TV and private bathroom. Good value for money to stay on Koh Lipe.
To stay at North Point Beach, in a more secluded area of Koh Lipe
North Point Beach, as its name suggests, is the beach located to the north of Koh Lipe. A secluded spot where you can stay if you're looking for seclusion, a need to recharge your batteries or connect with nature.
This area remains an incredible beach, with an expanse of white salt and turquoise water. Ideal for exploring the marine world.
However, as North Point Beach is a secluded corner of Koh Lipe, to find any facilities such as restaurants, bars or stores, you'll have to move to other parts of the island.
The choice of hotels for accommodation is equally limited.
That's why this area is best suited to travellers who want to be alone with nature, and where getting around is not a problem.
Recommended places to stay in North Point Beach
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Affordable family rooms overlooking beautiful North Point Beach. A good place to stay for less.
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This hotel offers 5-star accommodation with a breathtaking view of the island's northern beach. It offers rooms with or without private pool anda springboard. An ideal place to stay, with all the comforts you'll need on the island, and enjoy a luxurious, peaceful stay.
In short, choosing where to stay on Koh Lipe depends on your preferences and budget. Sunrise Beach offers a tranquil atmosphere with spectacular sunrises, but prices can be high. Pattaya Beach is the lively heart of the island, ideal for nightlife. Walking Street offers a lively pedestrian street, but without direct access to the beach. Forseclusion and nature, North Point Beach offers a more secluded experience.
Whatever your choice, your stay on Koh Lipe promises to be exceptional. However, as a sought-after destination, staying on this island must be planned in advance. That’s why it’s essential to book your accommodation in advance, so you’ll have more choice to suit your needs.