If you’re heading to southern Thailand, there are three islands in the Andaman Ocean worth visiting: Ko Lipe, Ko Adang, and Ko Tarutao.
These islands are all part of the Tarutao National Marine Park area, but each offers a completely different experience.
In March 2026, I visited all three while leading an island-hopping trip for high school students. In this guide, I’ll break down what each island is like, what you can do there, and which one is actually worth your time, depending on the kind of trip you want.
Ko Lipe vs. Ko Adang vs. Ko Tarutao (Quick Comparison)
| Island | Best For | Vibe | Accommodation | Access & Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ko Lipe | Comfort, diving, convenience | Busy, developed, social | Wide range (budget → boutique) | Easiest to reach |
| Ko Adang | Views, hiking, quiet balance | Quiet, natural, spacious | Camping + basic bungalows | Short boat from Ko Lipe |
| Ko Tarutao | Remote adventure, raw nature | Wild, isolated, untouched | Very basic bungalows / camping | Hardest to reach |
While the islands are close together, the experience on each is completely different.
Key Differences at a Glance
Which island is right for you?
Ko Tarutao: Remote, Wild, and Peaceful
Ko Tarutao is the wildest and least developed of the three islands, and easily the most rewarding if you’re willing to sacrifice comfort.
Ko Tarutao has a strange history. Before WWII, it was used as a penal colony. When supply ships stopped arriving during the war, the prisoners and guards turned to piracy, attacking passing vessels, earning the island its nickname, the “pirate island.”
What is Ko Tarutao like?
- National park
- Very few people
- Minimal infrastructure
What to Do in Ko Tarutao
Mangrove Kayaking and Crocodile Cave
Rent kayaks from the national park and paddle through the mangrove forest to Crocodile Cave. The National Park rangers can accompany you and guide you through the cave.
It takes about 40 minutes to paddle upstream to the cave. If you’re too tired to paddle back, the park can send a longtail boat to pick you up and bring you back to the starting point.
Crocodile Cave is a limestone cave typical of the region’s karst topography. There are no longer any crocodiles living on the island, so no need to fear. The cave is, however, home to many harmless bats.
Mangrove kayaking is easily the most unique activity on Tarutao. The silence and narrow waterways make it feel completely removed from the outside world.
Waterfall Hike
The waterfall hike is a popular activity on Ko Tarutao. The trail is to the North of the island, away from the national park accommodation.
Visitors can request transport from the camp to the trailhead.
The trail is an out-and-back hike through the forest. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the turnaround point.
Hikers need to cross several streams, so sturdy sandals or water shoes are ideal.
In reality, the waterfall is quite a small feature, but the rock pool is great for cooling down after the walk. There’s even a low rock ledge, great for safe cliff jumping.
Birdwatching highlight
Bird watchers will love this one. I saw loads of birds in the forest, including a flock of Asian Fairy Bluebirds.
Viewpoint Hike
This is a short walk to a pavilion overlooking the national park camp. At the top is a Buddha statue, where visitors can pay respects to the spirits guarding the island.
The viewpoint hike is short but steep. It takes about 20 mins to the top for fit hikers. Worth it if you want a quick view without committing to a long hike.
Beach Time and Sunset
The beach at the national park on Ko Tarutao is genuinely stunning. The sand is so fine that it squeaks underfoot.
The sea here is calm and fairly shallow, making it a great spot for swimming and beach games.
Tip: There are often sea lice in the water. They’re harmless, but you may feel small, painless bites. There are also occasionally little biting gnats on the beach. Applying a layer of coconut oil can help prevent them from climbing on you.
Where to Stay on Ko Tarutao?
The only accommodation on Ko Tarutao is the national park’s bungalows. These are very rustic!
Some of the nicer rooms near the beach have air conditioning. The cheaper bungalows in the forest only have fans.
The electricity on Ko Tarutao runs on a generator. The national park only runs the generator from 6pm to midnight each day. Make sure to charge your devices during this time.
There is an on-site restaurant that serves a variety of delicious and affordable Thai dishes. Additionally, there is a small shop near the pier that sells drinks, ice creams, and snacks.
Who Is Ko Tarutao Right For?
Ko Tarutao is rustic but beautiful. You’re not going to find glamorous resorts or 5-star service here.
- 🌿 Nature lovers
- 🦜 Birdwatchers
- 🏝️ Travellers who value isolation over comfort
- ❌ People looking for luxury
- ❌ Anyone who needs reliable Wi-Fi or nightlife
Ko Tarutao is the least developed of the three islands, and that’s exactly the appeal. It was my personal favourite for the sense of escape and the incredible bird life.
Compared to Ko Adang and Ko Lipe, Tarutao feels completely untouched.
Ko Adang: Island Paradise Without the Crowds
If Tarutao is too remote, Ko Adang offers a more balanced experience. It’s the perfect middle ground between Ko Lipe and Ko Tarutao; quiet, rugged, and offers natural immersion with a bit more comfort.
Ko Adang offers great swimming, snorkeling, and trekking opportunities.
Ko Adang is less wild than Ko Tarutao, but still very rustic. Visitors staying on Adang can easily hop over to Ko Lipe for a meal, a massage, or a coffee.
A longtail boat from Adang to Lipe takes about 10 minutes and costs about 200 THB per person.
Unlike Ko Lipe’s busy beaches or Tarutao’s isolation, Ko Adang strikes a balance between accessibility and wilderness.
What is Ko Adang like?
- Close to Ko Lipe but with a completely different feel
- Lots of monkeys and birdlife
- On-site restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner (mostly Thai dishes)
What to Do in Ko Adang
Chado Cliff Viewpoint Hike
The Chado cliff viewpoint hike on Ko Adang offers a stunning view of Ko Lipe and the Andaman Ocean. The trail passes through three viewpoints.
It’s only about 750m to the third viewpoint at the top of the cliff, but with an elevation gain of about 202m, it’s steep!
This walk is definitely worth it for the beautiful views. It took me about 30 minutes to get to the top and another 20 minutes down.
Look out for common butterfly lizards basking on the trail or scuttling away into the undergrowth as you approach.
💡 Tip: Much of the hike is exposed to the sun, so it’s best to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it’s cooler.
Snorkelling
The best snorkeling on Ko Adang is at the beach just north of the campsite.
The reef comes right up to the beach, so look for a wider sandy channel to safely swim through to the outer reef.
Snorkelers can expect to see needlefish, clownfish, porcupinefish, barracudas, and moray eels if lucky.
Visibility is typically very good since there are fewer boats churning up the water. The reef here looks in great health, too.
There are many sea urchins in the water, and stonefish, lionfish, and stingrays may also be present. As with most reefs, it’s important to watch where you step and avoid touching anything.
Pirate Waterfall Hike
The pirate waterfall hike is a short out-and-back-again jungle trail offering an alternative to the beach.
It takes roughly 25-30 minutes to reach the waterfall. The waterfall is often just a small stream, but the jungle setting and wildlife make this a great afternoon activity.
This activity is another great one for birdwatchers. Ko Adang is a birdwatching paradise.
Some of my highlights on the island were Oriental pied hornbills, Pied imperial pigeons, Blue-tailed bee-eaters, and Jambu fruit doves.
Camping
It costs about $2.50 (~80 THB) a night to camp on Ko Adang if you have your own tent. If you’re renting a tent from the national park, it costs about $10 (~350 THB) per night.
The campsite is easily one of the most idyllic camping spots I’ve seen. It’s shady and practically right on the beach. There is a volleyball court, public bathrooms with showers, and a restaurant where campers can eat.
Beware of monkeys when camping. There are lots of them, and they will steal any food left out. Make sure your valuables are stowed safely in your tent, and that you clean up any food mess to keep the monkeys away.
Opening your tent to the white sands and turquoise waters of the Andaman Ocean is truly an unforgettable experience!
Where to Stay on Ko Adang?
The national park bungalows on Ko Adang are clean, comfortable, and all have air conditioning.
Visitors can eat at the national park restaurant, which serves a variety of tasty Thai dishes.
Make sure to keep your doors and windows closed to keep mosquitoes and other bugs out.
Alternatively, Ko Adang has a stunning campsite. See above for details.
Who is Ko Adang right for?
🌿 Nature without full isolation
⛺ Hikers, photographers, birdwatchers, and campers
👣 Travellers wanting to avoid crowds
Ko Adang is the best balance between comfort and wilderness, with plenty of wildlife, air-conditioned rooms, and Ko Lipe just 10 minutes away by boat.
Ko Lipe: Comfort, Diving, and Easy Island Life
Ko Lipe is the most developed of the three islands and easily the most accessible to travellers seeking comfort and convenience.
Unlike Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang, Lipe has a full range of accommodation options from budget hostels to beachfront resorts. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafés, and tour operators.
If Tarutao feels wild and Adang feels balanced, Ko Lipe feels like a classic tropical vacation destination.
What is Ko Lipe like?
- Most developed of the three islands
- Busy, especially during peak season
- Easy to get around and plan activities
- Plenty of restaurants, bars, cafés, and shops
What to Do in Ko Lipe
SCUBA Diving
Ko Lipe is one of the best spots for SCUBA diving in southern Thailand, with easy access to reefs inside the Tarutao National Marine Park.
There are multiple dive centres along the central walking street offering both beginner and advanced dives.
- Intro dives / Discover Scuba Diving: ~2,500–3,500 THB
- Fun dives (certified): ~1,500–2,500 THB per dive
- PADI Open Water course: ~12,000–15,000 THB
Dive sites around Ko Lipe are known for:
- Clear visibility (especially in the dry season)
- Healthy coral reefs
- Marine life, including clownfish, reef sharks, barracuda, and occasionally turtles
SCUBA divers will find Ko Lipe the best base among the three islands.
Get a Foot Massage
Walking Street has plenty of massage shops offering affordable Thai and foot massages. It’s an easy, low-effort way to relax in the evenings.
Walking Street (Food + Shopping)
Walking Street is the centre of activity on Ko Lipe.
During the day, it’s a convenient place to grab coffee, book tours, or buy souvenirs. At night, it becomes much livelier, with street food stalls, seafood restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Ko Lipe’s vibe is a stark contrast to Adang and Tarutao. This is where you come for energy, convenience, and a more social atmosphere.
Where to Stay
Ko Lipe has the widest range of accommodation in the area.
- Budget hostels and guesthouses
- Mid-range beachfront bungalows
- Boutique resorts with full amenities
Staying on Pattaya Beach or Sunrise Beach gives you the best access to restaurants and dive shops.
Who is Ko Lipe right for?
🇹🇭 First-time visitors to Thailand
🛏️ Travellers who want convenience and comfort
🤿 Divers
🍹 People looking for a social atmosphere or light nightlife
🌿 Travellers looking for solitude or untouched nature
👥 Anyone trying to avoid crowds
Ko Lipe is the easiest island to enjoy, but also the least “wild” of the three.
Compared to Ko Adang and Ko Tarutao, Ko Lipe feels more like a resort destination than a remote island, but that’s exactly why many travellers choose it.
Which Island Should You Choose?
Which island should you choose?
Ko Lipe — Comfort, nightlife, and easy access to diving
Ko Adang — A balance of nature, views, and fewer crowds
Ko Tarutao — Total isolation and a raw, off-grid experience
If you have time, the best option is to combine at least two islands. Ko Lipe and Ko Adang pair well together, while Tarutao is best for travellers looking for something more remote.
How to Get to Ko Lipe, Ko Adang, and Ko Tarutao
The easiest way to reach Ko Lipe, Ko Adang, and Ko Tarutao is by speedboat from Pak Bara Pier in Satun province.
Boats typically depart from Pak Bara at 09:30, 11:30, and 13:30 during high season (November–May).
Many boats heading to Ko Lipe stop briefly at Ko Tarutao and Ko Kai, giving passengers a chance to get off, take photos, and stretch.
For a more local (and slower) experience, longtail boats are sometimes available. They are cheaper, but significantly slower and less comfortable than speedboats.
How long does it take to reach each island?
| Pak Bara pier to | Speedboat Time | Longtail Boat Time |
|---|---|---|
| Ko Tarutao | ~30 mins | ~2 hours |
| Ko Adang | ~1.5 hours (via Ko Lipe) | 3+ hours (not recommended) |
| Ko Lipe | ~1.5–1.75 hours | 3+ hours (not recommended) |
Ko Adang does not usually have direct speedboat service from Pak Bara. Most travellers reach Adang via Ko Lipe, then take a short longtail boat transfer (10–15 minutes).
How Much Does It Cost to Reach Each Island?
- Ko Lipe: ~700–1,500 THB
- Ko Tarutao: ~500–1,000 THB (often a stop along the way)
- Ko Adang: ~850–1,700 THB total (via Ko Lipe + longtail boat transfer)
Pricing note — Prices vary depending on the season and whether you book online or at the pier, so it’s worth checking both options.
Tips for Visiting Ko Lipe, Ko Adang, and Ko Tarutao
A bit of planning goes a long way when visiting these islands. Infrastructure is limited outside of Ko Lipe, so it helps to know what to expect before you arrive.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is between November and May during the dry season. The sea is calmer, making boat transfers smoother and more reliable. Visibility is also better for snorkelling and diving.
During the monsoon season from June to October, conditions are very different. Boat schedules are reduced or cancelled, and some accommodations on Ko Tarutao and Ko Adang may close entirely. Travel during this time is possible, but much less predictable.
What to Pack
Packing properly will make your trip much more comfortable, especially on the less developed islands.
- Lightweight clothing
- Reef shoes for rocky beaches and snorkelling entry
- Insect repellent or coconut oil
- A power bank for charging devices
- A small dry bag for boat transfers
Cash and Logistics
Cash is essential when visiting these islands.
Ko Adang and Ko Tarutao have no ATMs, and you cannot pay by card on these islands. Shops on Ko Lipe might accept credit cards, but it’s still good to carry cash.
There are ATMs on Ko Lipe, but they often run out of cash. Bring enough cash from the mainland to cover accommodation, food, and activities. It is much easier to arrive prepared than to run short on a remote island.
Weather and Sea Conditions
Sea conditions can change quickly, especially outside of peak season.
Even during the dry season, the sea is usually calmer in the morning and rougher in the afternoon. If you have a choice, earlier boat departures are often more comfortable.
Rough seas can delay or cancel transfers and affect snorkelling and diving conditions.
Booking Transport
Boat transfers can fill up during peak season, especially the morning departures from Pak Bara.
It is a good idea to book your tickets at least a day in advance to secure your preferred time.
With a bit of preparation, visiting Ko Lipe, Ko Adang, and Ko Tarutao is straightforward and well worth the effort.
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