The island paradise of Koh Lipe, nestled in the southwestern waters of Thailand, offers an array of stunning beaches, each with its unique charm. From secluded spots perfect for peace and tranquillity to bustling beaches teeming with activities, Koh Lipe caters to all beach-loving travelers. This article explores five notable beaches on Koh Lipe, detailing their pros and cons, and concludes by crowning the best beach on the island.
Billa Beach
Billa Beach is a small, secluded spot facing the Andaman Sea. It doesn’t attract the crowds that other Koh Lipe beaches do, making it an excellent choice for those in search of peace and quiet.
Pros: The beach’s seclusion doesn’t detract from its appeal. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling or kayaking, and you can find some decent spots for sunbathing or beachcombing.
Cons: One potential downside is that Billa Beach is rocky, which could be a reason it’s not as crowded as other beaches.
Sanom Beach
The picturesque Sanom Beach is a hidden gem offering varying shades of turquoise waters so clear you can see the underwater rocks.
Pros: Sanom Beach boasts beautiful white sand, calm waters ideal for swimming, and the chance to spot small parrots, hornbills, and Mynah birds visiting from the nearby jungle. The main draw for this beach, however, is the world-class diving opportunities.
Cons: Sanom Beach is tiny, and accommodation options are limited to one seasonal resort offering seaside bungalows and a dive center.
Sunset Beach
Living up to its name, Sunset Beach is the smallest of Koh Lipe’s major beaches and the place to witness truly spectacular sunsets. It’s located on a secluded lagoon in western Koh Lipe.
Pros: Sunset Beach is a great spot to relax, chill out on a beach towel, or swim in the small bay. Accommodation is available in the form of a few nice hardwood bungalows.
Cons: The beach’s small size and secluded location mean there aren’t many options for accommodation or activities.
Pattaya Beach
Pattaya Beach is the largest and most visited beach on Koh Lipe. It’s located on the southern part of the island and serves as the landing point for ferry boats during the high season.
Pros: Pattaya Beach offers a range of activities, from volleyball and Frisbee on the powdery sand to kayaking in the bay. It’s also where most of the island’s partying and nightlife take place.
Cons: The beach is often filled with fishing boats, which can sometimes make swimming less appealing.
Sunrise Beach
Finally, we arrive at Sunrise Beach, also known as Hat Chao Ley Beach. Located on the east side of Koh Lipe, it’s an excellent spot for early risers to start their day watching the sunrise.
Pros: Sunrise Beach is popular with snorkelers who can explore the exotic marine life right off the shore. The refreshing breezes throughout the day keep sunbathers cool. It’s also conveniently located just a five-minute walk from the town of Chao Ley.
Cons: Despite its numerous advantages, Sunrise Beach may be less appealing to night owls who prefer late-night activities and socializing.
In conclusion, while all the beaches on Koh Lipe have their unique appeal, Sunrise Beach stands out as the best beach on the island. Its long stretch of beautiful white sand, crystal clear waters, snorkeling opportunities right off the shore, and availability of amenities make it a must-visit. Not to mention, it offers the chance to witness some of the most beautiful sunrises in Thailand. Whether you’re an early bird, a marine life enthusiast, or just someone looking for a perfect beach experience, Sunrise Beach has something to offer you.