8th July 2025
Planning to visit Koh Lipe from Phuket? You’re not alone. Many travelers look to combine the lively energy of Phuket with the laid-back, tropical charm of Koh Lipe. While these two destinations are on opposite ends of the Andaman Sea, getting from Phuket to Koh Lipe is straightforward — once you know your options.
This guide breaks down all the ways to get from Phuket to Koh Lipe, including ferries, transfers, and flights, with updated information for 2025. We’ve also included links to reliable transportation platforms and useful travel resources to help plan your trip.
Option 1: Direct Ferry From Phuket to Koh Lipe (High Season Only)
During Koh Lipe’s high season, which runs from November to April, there are daily speedboats and ferries that travel directly from Phuket to Koh Lipe. Boats usually depart from Rassada Pier in Phuket and arrive at Pattaya Beach in Koh Lipe. The journey can take between 4.5 to 6 hours depending on sea conditions and whether the ferry stops at other islands along the way, such as Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lanta.
This is by far the most scenic way to get to Koh Lipe. The route offers beautiful views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands. However, the ride can feel long on choppy days, so it’s not ideal if you’re prone to seasickness. Services are typically operated by companies such as Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, Bundhaya Speed Boat, or via online booking platforms like 12Go Asia.
It’s important to note that this route only operates in the dry season. If you’re traveling outside of these months, you’ll need to consider other alternatives.
Option 2: Fly From Phuket to Hat Yai, Then Transfer to Koh Lipe
For travelers visiting during the low season or those who prefer more reliable travel, flying is a smart option. While there are no direct flights from Phuket to Koh Lipe (since Koh Lipe has no airport), you can fly from Phuket to Hat Yai, then continue the rest of the journey by land and sea.
There are daily flights from Phuket International Airport to Hat Yai Airport, typically with a short layover in Bangkok. Airlines such as Thai AirAsia, Thai VietJet, and Bangkok Airways operate on this route. Once you arrive in Hat Yai, you can take a two-hour van or minibus transfer to Pak Bara Pier, the main departure point for ferries to Koh Lipe.
From the pier, ferries and speedboats run regularly to the island, taking about 90 minutes. The full trip — including flight, transfer, and ferry — usually takes 7 to 8 hours. Many travel platforms offer combination tickets that cover all three legs of the journey, which you can book online at sites like 12Go Asia.
Option 3: Overland Travel From Phuket to Pak Bara Pier, Then Ferry
If you’re not in a rush or are traveling on a budget, you can go overland from Phuket to Pak Bara Pier without flying. Buses and minivans depart from Phuket’s main bus terminal and travel to Hat Yai or Satun. From either of those towns, it’s a short transfer by van to Pak Bara Pier.
This route can take between 12 to 14 hours in total, depending on connection times and road conditions. It’s not the quickest option, but it’s affordable and often used by backpackers and slow travelers. You can check current schedules and prices on booking platforms like BusOnlineTicket o 12Go Asia.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
If you’re traveling in high season, booking your ferry in advance is highly recommended. Seats are limited, and popular dates fill up quickly. Also, if your ferry arrives at the floating pier off Pattaya Beach in Koh Lipe, be prepared for a short longtail boat transfer to shore, which costs around 50 THB per person.
In low season, ferry schedules can change based on weather. Always double-check departure times close to your travel date, especially if you’re relying on same-day connections.
For those prone to motion sickness, consider bringing medication for longer ferry rides, especially on the open sea between Phuket and Koh Lipe.
Which Route Should You Choose?
If you’re visiting Koh Lipe between November and April and want the most straightforward route, the direct ferry from Phuket is your best bet. It’s simple, scenic, and doesn’t involve airport transfers.
If you’re traveling outside of high season or prefer more comfortable transportation, the flight to Hat Yai followed by a transfer to the pier is the most efficient and reliable way to get to the island.
Travelers on a budget, or those looking to experience Thailand overland, may enjoy the bus and ferry combo — just be ready for a longer day of travel.
Final Thoughts
Getting from Phuket to Koh Lipe takes a bit of planning, but it’s entirely doable with the right timing and route. Whether you prefer the speed and comfort of a flight, the adventure of a long ferry ride, or the value of a budget-friendly overland trip, there’s an option for every kind of traveler.
Once you arrive in Koh Lipe, you’ll quickly see why the effort was worth it. If you’re heading here for scuba diving, island hopping, or simply to relax, don’t forget to check out our dive trips, PADI courses, and local tips here on our blog. Safe travels — and we hope to see you underwater soon.
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