Phuket to Koh Lipe: How to Get to Koh Lipe in 2025
Planning a tropical escape from bustling Phuket to the tranquil shores of Koh Lipe? You’re in the right place. This comprehensive guide explains how to get there and offers insight into which route best suits your travel style, timeline, and budget. Known as the “Maldives of Thailand,” this small island paradise is famous for its soft white sand, turquoise water, and laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're heading there for diving, relaxation, or to explore hidden gems in the Andaman Sea, here’s everything you need to know to travel from Phuket to Koh Lipe.
How to Get to Koh Lipe from Phuket: 3 Best Travel Options
While there is no direct flight or highway connecting Phuket to Koh Lipe, several convenient options make the journey both doable and memorable. These include:
- Speedboat
- Bus + Ferry
- Plane + Bus + Ferry
Let’s break each one down
Option 1: Direct Speedboat from Phuket to Koh Lipe
⏱ Duration: Approx. 5 hours 💰 Cost: 2,500–3,500 THB (~$75–$105 USD) 🚢 Departure Point: Rassada Pier 🏝 Arrival Point: Bundhaya BeachTaking a direct speedboat from Phuket to Koh Lipe is the most scenic and adventurous way to travel. Most services stop briefly at iconic spots like Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, allowing you to glimpse more of the Andaman's beauty en route.
✅ Pros:
- Fastest direct route
- Incredible sea views and photo opportunities
- Minimal transfers
❌ Cons:
- Can be rough during high seas
- Prone to weather-related delays or cancellations
- Higher cost than other options
Tip: Book your speedboat in advance, especially during peak season (November to April).
Option 2: Bus + Ferry via Pak Bara Pier
⏱ Duration: Approx. 10–12 hours 💰 Cost: 1,500–2,000 THB (~$45–$60 USD)A more economical way to get from Phuket to Koh Lipe is by taking a bus from the Bus Terminal to Pak Bara Pier, followed by a ferry ride to the island.
🗺 Route Overview:
- Bus from Phuket to Pak Bara (7–8 hours)
- Ferry from Pak Bara to Koh Lipe (1.5–2 hours)
✅ Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Great views of Thailand’s countryside
- Reliable ground and sea travel connections
❌ Cons:
- Long journey with multiple transfers
- Can be tiring
- Requires coordination between bus and ferry schedules
Tip: Look for combo ticket deals that include bus and ferry—often cheaper and easier to manage.
Option 3: Flight + Bus + Ferry (Fastest Route)
⏱ Duration: Approx. 5–7 hours 💰 Cost: 3,500–5,000 THB (~$105–$150 USD)For those prioritizing speed and comfort, the most efficient way to travel from Phuket to Koh Lipe is a multi-leg journey involving a flight to Hat Yai, followed by a transfer to Pak Bara Pier, then a ferry to the final destination.
🗺 Route Overview:
- Flight: Phuket to Hat Yai (1.5 hours)
- Bus/van: Hat Yai to Pak Bara (2 hours)
- Ferry: Pak Bara to Koh Lipe (1.5–2 hours)
✅ Pros:
- Quickest overall journey
- Smooth and comfortable
- More dependable during rainy season
❌ Cons:
- Most expensive option
- Multiple transfers required
- Less scenic than speedboat route
Tip: Choose early morning flights to ensure you catch the afternoon ferry without delays.
Koh Lipe to Phuket: The Return Journey
Wondering how to return from Koh Lipe to Phuket? You can take the exact same routes in reverse:- Speedboat to Phuket
- Ferry + Bus combo
- Ferry to Pak Bara > Bus to Hat Yai > Flight to Phuket
Where to Stay
Despite its small size, the island offers diverse accommodation options ranging from cozy beach bungalows to luxurious resorts. Two standout choices are:
- Idyllic Concept Resort (Sunrise Beach): Offers upscale comfort with stunning sea views, infinity pools, and modern rooms.
- Irene Resort (Sunrise Beach): Boutique luxury with personalized service, perfect for romantic getaways or a quiet stay.
So, what’s the best way to get from Phuket to Koh Lipe?
- Choose the speedboat if you want a scenic, direct ride and are comfortable with sea travel.
- Opt for the bus + ferry combo if you're on a budget and don’t mind the longer journey.
- Fly + transfer + ferry if time and comfort are your priorities, and you don’t mind spending a bit more.
Whichever option you choose, traveling from Phuket to Koh Lipe is well worth it. You’ll be rewarded with one of Thailand’s most beautiful island escapes—peaceful beaches, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life that makes every moment in the island feel like paradise.
