Wondering where to stay in Koh Lipe?
This island can measure itself with the most beautiful islands in the country and although it’s a bit of a hassle to reach Koh Lipe, it’s absolutely worth the ride in return, you will witness unforgettable sunrises, sunsets, beaches, and crystal clear waters.
Often called the “Maldives of Thailand,” Koh Lipe is a tiny island paradise in the Andaman Sea, famous for its waters, white sand beaches, and marine life.
Despite its small size, choosing where to stay can make a big difference in your experience. Whether you’re looking for a lively beachfront with bars and restaurants, a secluded hideaway for ultimate relaxation, or a budget-friendly stay with easy access to the island’s best spots, Koh Lipe has something for every traveler.
From the bustling energy of Pattaya Beach to the laid-back charm of Sunrise Beach and the peaceful retreat of Sunset Beach, each area has its own vibe.
But with still a lot to offer, choosing the right area to stay in can be tricky.
Each part of the island has its own vibe, advantages, and drawbacks, which we’ll break down in the next section.
To make things even easier, we’ve included a detailed map at the end of this article highlighting our recommended areas and must-see attractions.
Let’s kick things off with a quick overview to help you find the perfect spot for your stay.
Ready? Let’s dive in!
The best areas to stay in Koh Lipe are Sunrise Beach, Sunset Beach, Pattaya Beach, Walking Street and North Point Beach.
While most visitors tend to stay at Pattaya Beach, as it has such incredibly white sand beaches and it has a good nightlife scene, nature lovers should actually opt for either Sunrise Beach or Sunset Beach, simply because of the stunning nature and spectacular sunrises and sunsets.
Those on a stricter budget should stay around Walking Street.
Below, we’ll dive into each of these recommended areas in more detail to help you decide which one is best for you.
⚠️ Tip: Tap the area name to jump straight to that section of the article for more information!
Sunrise Beach – One of the most popular areas, Sunrise Beach offers breathtaking morning views, soft white sand, and a peaceful yet lively atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of relaxation and convenience, with beachfront resorts, snorkeling spots, and easy access to the island’s main areas.
Sunset Beach – For those seeking a quieter and more secluded retreat, Sunset Beach is a great option with laid-back vibes, fewer crowds, and stunning sunset views. This area is ideal for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, nature-filled stay with small resorts and a rustic island feel.
Pattaya Beach – The island’s main arrival point, Pattaya Beach is the busiest and most vibrant area, known for its crystal-clear waters, lively beach bars, and plenty of dining options. It’s the best choice for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action with a buzzing nightlife and easy access to everything on the island.
Walking Street & North Point Beach – Walking Street is the hub of Koh Lipe, packed with restaurants, shops, and street food stalls, making it great for travelers who want to be close to all the essentials. Just north of it, North Point Beach is a small but beautiful stretch of sand, perfect for those looking for a quiet beachfront stay while still being near the island’s main attractions.
If you’re heading to Koh Lipe and want the perfect balance between tranquility and convenience, Sunrise Beach is hands down the best place to stay.
Waking up to breathtaking sunrises over the turquoise Andaman Sea is something you won’t get tired of, and the long stretch of soft white sand makes it one of the most stunning beaches on the island.
Unlike the busier Pattaya Beach, Sunrise Beach offers a more relaxed, scenic vibe while still keeping you close to the island’s best restaurants, bars, and activities.
One of the biggest reasons to stay here is the unmatched natural beauty.
The beach itself is less crowded, and the water is incredibly clear, making it perfect for snorkeling straight from the shore.
Just offshore, you’ll find vibrant coral reefs where you can spot colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
If you’re into diving, many of the island’s best dive sites are easily accessible from here. Unlike Pattaya Beach, where the boat traffic can be overwhelming, Sunrise Beach stays peaceful and pristine, making it perfect for swimming, kayaking, or just lounging on the sand.
Accommodation options here are fantastic and diverse, ranging from high-end beachfront resorts to charming mid-range bungalows and budget-friendly stays.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious private villa or a cozy beachfront hut, there’s something for every budget. The beach itself is long and spacious, so you never feel cramped, even during peak season.
Plus, there are plenty of beachfront restaurants and bars, so you can enjoy fresh seafood or sip a cocktail while taking in the ocean views.
Another huge advantage of staying at Sunrise Beach is its strategic location.
You’re just a short walk from Walking Street, the island’s main hub, where you’ll find local eateries, convenience stores, and lively nightlife.
At the same time, you’re far enough away to avoid the noise and crowds, making it an ideal retreat after a day of island adventures.
Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, a solo traveler craving some peace, or a family needing a kid-friendly environment, Sunrise Beach checks all the boxes.
If you’re visiting Koh Lipe and want to experience the island at its best, this is where you should stay.
For who: luxury traveller, traveller with a larger budget
Advantages: great variety of hotels, resorts with all the comforts available, great for scuba diving.
Disadvantages: pricier compared to other parts of the island
If you’re looking for a quieter, more laid-back stay on Koh Lipe but still want to be close enough to everything, Sunset Beach is a fantastic choice.
While Sunrise Beach often steals the spotlight, Sunset Beach has its own charm, offering a peaceful retreat, stunning ocean views, and, of course, some of the best sunsets on the island.
Tucked away on the west side of Koh Lipe, this area feels more secluded, making it perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxed, nature-filled atmosphere.
The biggest highlight of staying at Sunset Beach is, without a doubt, the breathtaking sunsets.
As the sky turns shades of orange, pink, and purple, the whole beach takes on a magical glow, making it one of the most scenic spots on the island.
Compared to the livelier Pattaya Beach or even Sunrise Beach, this area is far less developed, which means fewer people, less boat traffic, and a much more serene, untouched vibe.
The water here is calm and clear, ideal for swimming, kayaking, or just floating in the shallows while soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Accommodations at Sunset Beach tend to be more rustic and eco-friendly, with cozy beachfront bungalows and small, locally-run resorts blending into the natural landscape.
While you won’t find big luxury hotels, the charm here lies in the simple, back-to-nature feel.
There are a few beachfront restaurants and bars, perfect for enjoying a sunset cocktail or fresh seafood dinner, but overall, the nightlife is minimal, which is exactly why many people love it.
Another plus is that while it feels secluded, Sunset Beach is still only a 10- to 15-minute walk from Walking Street, meaning you’re never too far from the action if you want to grab a meal, shop for souvenirs, or explore the rest of the island.
It’s also a great base for day trips to nearby islands, as many longtail boats operate from this side of Koh Lipe.
If you’re a nature lover, a couple looking for a romantic escape, or simply someone who prefers a more peaceful stay, Sunset Beach is the perfect alternative to the busier parts of the island.
For who: nature-lovers
Advantages: perfect place if you want to enjoy Koh Lipe for its beauty.
Disadvantages: not many restaurants, bars, and facilities nearby.
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, Pattaya Beach is a great place to stay in Koh Lipe.
This is the island’s main arrival point, so everything is within easy reach—restaurants, bars, shops, and boat tours are all just steps away.
The beach itself is a stunning stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear water, making it ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Unlike the quieter Sunset Beach or the more relaxed Sunrise Beach, Pattaya Beach has the liveliest atmosphere on the island, perfect for those who enjoy a social and vibrant beach experience.
One of the best things about staying at Pattaya Beach is the wide range of accommodations available.
Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront resort, a mid-range boutique hotel, or a budget-friendly guesthouse, you’ll find plenty of options.
Many accommodations are just steps from the sand, so you can wake up and walk straight into the ocean.
Plus, since this is the island’s main hub, you have easy access to Walking Street, Koh Lipe’s central area for food, nightlife, and shopping.
The nightlife here is another reason to stay.
If you enjoy beach bars, live music, and a fun, social scene, Pattaya Beach is the best spot on the island for it.
While it’s busier than other parts of Koh Lipe, it’s still not overwhelming—there’s always a quiet corner to relax.
However, if you’re looking for a secluded, peaceful getaway, this might not be your best choice.
But if you love convenience, energy, and having everything at your fingertips, Pattaya Beach is a fantastic place to stay in Koh Lipe.
For who: party-minded traveller
Advantages: most popular area with nightlife, beaches, bars and clubs, beautiful beach.
Disadvantages: loudest area of the island.
If you want to be right in the center of everything, staying near Walking Street is a great choice.
This lively pedestrian street runs through the heart of Koh Lipe, connecting Pattaya Beach to Sunrise Beach, and is packed with restaurants, bars, shops, and tour agencies.
While you won’t be directly on the beach, you’re never more than a 5- to 10-minute walk from the sand, making it a super convenient base.
If you love having plenty of dining options, nightlife, and easy access to all parts of the island, Walking Street is perfect.
One of the best things about staying near Walking Street is the variety of accommodations.
You’ll find everything from budget guesthouses and hostels to mid-range hotels and boutique resorts.
This makes it one of the best areas for backpackers, couples, and families alike, as there’s something for every budget.
Plus, since Walking Street is where most tours depart from, you’ll have easy access to boat trips, snorkeling excursions, and diving tours without needing to travel far.
Walking Street is also the best place for food lovers.
You can indulge in fresh seafood, Thai street food, international cuisine, and delicious desserts, all within a short stroll from your accommodation.
At night, the area comes alive with bars, live music, and night markets, making it a great place to experience Koh Lipe’s social scene.
While it’s busier and noisier than staying directly on the beaches, it’s a fantastic option for those who love convenience, variety, and being in the middle of the action.
For who: budget-minded traveller
Advantages: affordable accommodations, access to street food, popular, vibrant area.
Disadvantages: not direct access to the beaches, often fully booked during high season.
If you’re looking for a secluded paradise away from the crowds, North Point Beach is one of the best places to stay in Koh Lipe.
Located at the northern tip of the island, this beach boasts powdery white sand, crystal-clear water, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels almost untouched. It’s the perfect place for travelers who want to relax in nature, enjoy breathtaking sunsets, and experience a quieter side of Koh Lipe.
Unlike the bustling Pattaya Beach or Walking Street, North Point Beach offers a sense of exclusivity and tranquility, making it an excellent choice for couples or anyone looking for a laid-back escape.
Accommodation options here are more limited but tend to be high quality, with a focus on eco-resorts and upscale beachfront bungalows that blend into the natural surroundings.
Since it’s more remote, expect fewer crowds and a more intimate, peaceful experience. The beach itself is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling, with stunning coral reefs just offshore.
While nightlife and restaurants aren’t as abundant as in other parts of Koh Lipe, Walking Street is just a short ride or boat trip away, so you can still enjoy the island’s lively scene when you feel like it.
North Point Beach is an ideal spot for those who want to wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy stunning ocean views, and immerse themselves in Koh Lipe’s natural beauty.
It may not have the same level of convenience as Pattaya Beach, but that’s exactly what makes it special. If you’re after serenity, luxury, and a true island escape, North Point Beach is one of the best areas to stay on Koh Lipe.
For who: those seeking a beach of their own.
Advantages: you won’t find many hotels here so you have the beach a bit for yourself.
Disadvantages: for facilities, bars and restaurants, you have to visit the other beaches or Walking Street.
