Langkawi island in Malaysia is just a stones throw from Koh Lipe, and within easy reaching distance in the high season.
There are several ways to reach Koh Lipe from Malaysia, and it's worth knowing that you'll need to clear immigration for all of them.
If you're arriving from Langkawi, you'll be guided towards the Thai Immigration Counter at Bundhaya Resort on Koh Lipe's Pattaya Beach. Meanwhile, if you're travelling via Pak Bara you'll usually clear immigration at Satun on the Thailand/Malaysia border.
From Langkawi to Koh Lipe
The journey from Langkawi to Koh Lipe takes one hour, and there are several services throughout the day during high season. Be aware that different ferry operators on Langkawi often use different ports, so it's worth asking the question when you're on the island. The main ports on Langkawi are based at Kuah Pier and Telaga Harbour, and timetables are subject to change so check with local operators closer to the time.
From Peninsula Malaysia to Koh Lipe
If you're travelling from Kuala Lumpur (or anywhere on peninsula Malaysia) to Koh Lipe, you have two main options. You can take a bus to Hat Yai before taking an onward journey to Pak Bara to catch the ferry. Alternatively you can fly to Langkawi, and take one of their ferries for the short journey across the Andaman Sea.
The main thing to remember about travelling anywhere in Thailand, is that if it's possible to reach, the Thai's will do everything the can to get you there. They're experts in transporting people, and with over 14 millions visitors coming to Thailand every year, they've learned to develop some of the world's most efficient transport networks. Just mention the island of Koh Lipe at your hotel desk, and you'll be presented with a selection of easy travel options, to suit every budget.
