8th July 2025
Koh Lipe is a small island in southern Thailand known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise water, and world-class diving. But because the island has no airport, getting there takes a bit of planning. If you’re wondering how to get to Koh Lipe from Bangkok, this guide covers all the best travel options available in 2025 — from the fastest routes to budget-friendly alternatives.
Fly From Bangkok to Hat Yai, Then Transfer to Koh Lipe
The most popular and convenient way to get to Koh Lipe from Bangkok is by flying to Hat Yai, then continuing by van and ferry.
Several airlines operate daily flights from Bangkok to Hat Yai. Flights depart from either Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) or Don Mueang Airport (DMK). The flight time is about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Booking your flight early can help you get better fares, especially during high season. Expect to pay anywhere from 1,000 to 2,500 THB, depending on the time of year and how early you book.
Once you arrive in Hat Yai, the next step is to get to Pak Bara Pier in Satun province. The drive takes approximately 2 hours. You can book a shared minivan or private transfer directly from the airport. Many providers offer combination tickets that include the van and the ferry, making this part of the journey seamless.
From Pak Bara Pier, speedboats depart for Koh Lipe several times per day, typically between 9:30 AM and 3:30 PM. The boat ride takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. During the high season (November to April), it’s recommended to book your ferry ticket in advance. In the low season (May to October), departures are more limited and may be cancelled due to weather.
Travel tip: Book a combination ticket
To avoid dealing with multiple bookings, you can reserve a combination ticket that includes the van transfer from Hat Yai and the ferry to Koh Lipe. These can be booked online through platforms like 12Go Asia, or arranged at the airport or through your hotel.
Travel From Bangkok to Koh Lipe by Train or Bus
If you’re traveling on a tighter budget or prefer to avoid flying, there are overland options as well. These routes take longer but are commonly used by backpackers and slow travelers.
Train From Bangkok to Hat Yai
You can take an overnight train from Bangkok to Hat Yai. Trains depart from Hua Lamphong or Bang Sue Grand Station. The journey takes about 13 to 15 hours, depending on the train and class. Once in Hat Yai, follow the same steps: transfer to Pak Bara Pier by van, then take the ferry to Koh Lipe.
Bus From Bangkok to Hat Yai or Satun
Long-distance buses to Hat Yai depart from Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal (Sai Tai Mai). The trip takes around 13 to 15 hours. Some buses also go directly to Satun, which is even closer to Pak Bara Pier. From either location, you can catch a van to the pier and continue to Koh Lipe by ferry.
Travel Tips for 2025
Flights from Bangkok to Hat Yai can fill up fast in peak season — book early if possible.
If your flight arrives in Hat Yai after 12:00 PM, you may not reach Koh Lipe the same day. Consider staying overnight in Hat Yai.
Ferry services are more frequent in high season. Always check updated schedules during the rainy season.
Buying a combo ticket (flight or overland + van + ferry) is the easiest and most reliable option for smooth travel.
Final thoughts
The easiest and fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Koh Lipe is to fly to Hat Yai, take a van to Pak Bara Pier, and board a ferry to the island. The total travel time is around 6 to 7 hours, making it very doable in a single day if you take a morning flight.
While overland travel by train or bus is cheaper, it takes significantly longer and usually requires at least one overnight journey.
Whether you’re coming for diving, relaxation, or adventure, getting to Koh Lipe is part of the experience — and well worth the effort.
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