Koh Lipe, located in Satun Province in southern Thailand, is widely known as the “Maldives of Thailand” thanks to its turquoise waters, soft white sand, and vibrant coral reefs. Travelers planning a trip to this island paradise often ask whether a visa is required—especially when traveling from other domestic destinations like Krabi.
This guide offers a clear answer and essential insights for a seamless journey.
Visa Requirement for Domestic Travel: No Additional Visa Needed
If you are already in Thailand—whether under a visa exemption, tourist visa, or other valid immigration status—you do not need a new or separate visa to travel from Krabi to Koh Lipe. Visa requirements are applicable only at the point of entry into Thailand, not for travel between domestic locations.
Once you have legally entered the country, you are permitted to move freely within Thailand for the duration of your allowed stay.
Understanding Thailand’s Visa Policy (As of July 2025)
Visa Exempt Entry
- Citizens from 93 countries are allowed to enter Thailand without a visa for up to 60 days for tourism or short-term business.
- The visa exemption can be extended by an additional 30 days at any immigration office in Thailand for ฿1,900.
Passport Requirements
- A minimum validity of six months on your passport is required from your intended departure date.
- At least two blank pages in your passport are recommended.
Proof of Funds and Onward Travel
- Immigration officers may request evidence of sufficient funds (minimum ฿20,000) and a confirmed return or onward ticket. Although not always enforced, these checks can occur at major entry points.
Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)
- Starting May 2025, all foreigners must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online prior to arrival.
- This replaces traditional arrival forms and streamlines border control processing.
Updated Financial Proof for Tourist Visas
- As of May 2025, visa applicants must present:
- Bank statements from the last 3 months showing at least ฿20,000 in available funds.
- Alternatively, a sponsorship letter with supporting documents is acceptable.
- Cash or app screenshots are not accepted.
Immigration Checkpoints: Domestic vs. International Travel
- Domestic Route (e.g., Krabi to Koh Lipe): No immigration processing is required beyond your initial Thai entry point. There is no immigration checkpoint when traveling from Krabi to Koh Lipe via Pak Bara Pier.
- International Route (e.g., Langkawi to Koh Lipe): Arrivals from Malaysia must clear Thai immigration at Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe’s designated checkpoint for international arrivals.
Travel Logistics: Krabi to Koh Lipe
Transport Overview
- Land Transfer: Travel from Krabi Town or Krabi Airport to Pak Bara Pier in Satun Province.
- Duration: 2 to 3 hours
- Options: Shared van (฿300–฿500) or private taxi (฿2,000–฿2,500)
- Sea Transfer: From Pak Bara Pier, take a speedboat or ferry to Koh Lipe.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Fare: ฿550–฿750 one-way, depending on provider and season
- Arrival: Floating pier at Pattaya Beach, Koh Lipe
Seasonal Service Variations
- High Season (November to April): Frequent daily services due to calm seas and strong tourist demand.
- Low Season (May to October): Fewer daily services, possible cancellations due to weather. Advance booking is highly recommended.
National Park Fee
- Upon arrival at Koh Lipe, all visitors must pay a Tarutao National Marine Park fee:
- ฿200 per person
- Valid for 5 days
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Advance Booking: During the high season, seats on ferries and vans sell out quickly. Booking transport in advance is strongly advised.
- Environmental Awareness: Koh Lipe is part of a protected marine park. Travelers are urged to:
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Avoid touching or stepping on coral
- Carry a refillable water bottle
- Limit single-use plastics
- Luggage Handling: Most speedboat operators allow generous luggage allowances. Crews assist with loading and tagging.
- For smoother travel, sit toward the rear-middle of the boat (avoid back row near engines to prevent spray).
- Local Transport on Koh Lipe: Motorbike taxis with sidecars are available at Pattaya Beach.
- Fare: ฿50–฿100 depending on distance.
- Alternatively, the island is walkable in 30–45 minutes end-to-end.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need a new visa to travel from Krabi to Koh Lipe? A1: No. As long as you have legally entered Thailand, no additional visa is needed for domestic travel to Koh Lipe.
Q2: Is there immigration control at Koh Lipe for domestic travelers? A2: No. Immigration control exists only for international arrivals, primarily from Langkawi, Malaysia.
Q3: How long can I stay in Thailand without a visa? A3: Citizens of 93 countries may stay up to 60 days under the visa exemption program, extendable by 30 days (฿1,900 fee).
Q4: What is the cost of traveling from Krabi to Koh Lipe? A4: Approximately ฿850–฿1,200 one-way for the combined van and boat journey, depending on provider and season.
Q5: Are speedboats operational year-round? A5: Speedboat services operate year-round, but are less frequent during the low season (May–October) and subject to weather.
Q6: Is the National Park fee included in my boat ticket? A6: No. The National Park fee of ฿200 must be paid separately upon arrival at Koh Lipe’s floating pier.
Q7: Are there ATMs or money exchange services on Koh Lipe? A7: Yes, but ATMs are limited and may charge high withdrawal fees. Bring sufficient Thai Baht (฿) in advance when possible.
Q8: Do I need to show proof of funds or onward travel when entering Thailand? A8: It is possible but not always enforced. Be prepared to show proof of onward travel and at least ฿20,000 in funds.
Q9: What is the best season to visit Koh Lipe? A9: November to April is ideal due to dry, calm weather. Peak months are December to February.
Q10: Is Koh Lipe suitable for families and elderly travelers? A10: Yes. While the island is small, it has comfortable transport options and a range of accommodation for all types of travelers.
Conclusion
Traveling from Krabi to Koh Lipe is a seamless domestic journey requiring no new visa, provided your initial entry into Thailand was legal and valid. With clear turquoise waters, vibrant reefs, and tranquil beaches, Koh Lipe is a destination worth every effort. Plan ahead, respect the island’s ecological sensitivity, and enjoy your journey to one of Thailand’s most breathtaking islands.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: