Traveling from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe typically takes about 3.5 to 6 hours, depending on your choice of land and sea transfers, the season, and daily schedules. This route involves two main segments—Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier by road, followed by a speedboat or ferry to Koh Lipe. Travelers with tight itineraries should plan for possible delays during peak or low-season conditions.
Overview of the Route
Koh Lipe does not have an airport, so all journeys from Hat Yai must connect via Pak Bara Pier in Satun Province. The trip breaks into:
- Land transfer from Hat Yai (city or airport) to Pak Bara Pier
- Sea transfer from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe
1. Land Transfer: Hat Yai → Pak Bara Pier
Duration: 2–3 hours
The road distance is approximately 75 km. Depending on your transport choice, journey times vary slightly:
- Shared minivan: 2.5–3 hours
- Private taxi: 2–2.5 hours
- Self-drive/private vehicle: Around 2 hours in normal traffic
Typical Costs
- Shared minivan: ~THB 350–450
- Private taxi: ~THB 1,800–2,500
- Private MPV/van: ~THB 2,200–3,000 (useful for groups)
Road conditions are generally good, and transfers operate throughout the year. During high season, allow extra time for traffic around the pier.
2. Sea Transfer: Pak Bara Pier → Koh Lipe
Duration: 1–2 hours
Several companies operate speedboats and ferries from Pak Bara to Koh Lipe. Travel times depend on sea conditions and vessel type:
Estimated Travel Times
- Speedboat: 1–1.5 hours
- Ferry: 1.5–2 hours
Most boats make a brief stop at Tarutao or Khai Island during high season, which can extend the journey by about 10–15 minutes.
Typical Costs
- Speedboat: ~THB 700–950 one-way
- Ferry: ~THB 600–850 one-way
- National Park fee: THB 200 (required for all arrivals)
Schedules may be reduced during the low season (June–September), and rough seas can cause delays.
Total Travel Time: Hat Yai → Koh Lipe
Overall Duration: 3 hours 20 minutes to 6 hours
| Segment | Travel Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hat Yai → Pak Bara Pier | 2–3 hours | Road transfer by taxi, minivan, or private car |
| Pak Bara Pier → Koh Lipe | 1–2 hours | Ferry or speedboat depending on operator and season |
| Combined Total | 3.5–6 hours | Includes transfers, check-in, and potential waiting time |
What Affects Total Duration?
- Rainy-season conditions: possible delays and reduced boat frequency
- Type of vessel: speedboats are generally faster
- Transfer coordination: slow connections between land and sea transfers can extend the journey
- Private transfers: typically the fastest but more expensive
For the shortest overall travel time, travelers often pair a private taxi with a speedboat, though costs are higher.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the fastest way to get from Hat Yai to Koh Lipe?
The quickest route is a private taxi from Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier (about 2 hours) followed by a speedboat (around 1 hour), totaling roughly 3–3.5 hours.
2. How early should I leave Hat Yai to catch a morning boat?
If you’re targeting a 9:30–11:00 boat, leaving Hat Yai around 6:30–8:00 is recommended to allow for traffic and check-in.
3. Do boats operate year-round?
Yes, but low season (June–September) may see fewer departures and occasional weather-related cancellations.
4. How much does the full journey typically cost?
Expect to spend THB 950–1,300 with a shared minivan and ferry combination. Private transfers increase costs significantly.
5. Is the sea route rough?
The sea can be choppy during rainy season. Travelers prone to motion sickness may prefer ferries over smaller speedboats.
6. How early should I arrive at Pak Bara Pier?
Arriving at least 30–45 minutes before departure is recommended for ticketing and boarding.
7. Are there ATMs or shops at the pier?
Yes, Pak Bara Pier has ATMs, convenience stores, and several food stalls.
8. Can I travel directly from Hat Yai Airport to Koh Lipe?
Direct transfers are not available, but many operators offer combined airport-to-pier packages that coordinate timings with boat departures.
9. Are national park fees included in boat tickets?
Usually not. Most travelers pay the THB 200 Tarutao National Park entrance fee separately at the pier.
10. How long does it take to reach my accommodation once I arrive at Koh Lipe?
Longtail boat transfers from the floating pier usually take 5–10 minutes depending on your beach (Pattaya, Sunrise, or Sunset).
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:
