Thailand Guide
The deep south
Ko Lipe
KO LIPE makes a busy contrast to the other islands of Ko Tarutao National Marine Park. A small, flat triangle, it's covered in coconut plantations and has a chao ley sea gypsy village on the eastern side. Its outstanding attraction, however, is the gorgeous beach of Hat Pattaya, a shining crescent of squeaky-soft white sand that draws an ever growing number of tourists - and developers - to the island; there are now nearly two thousand guest rooms on Ko Lipe, with spas and swimming pools planned. But for the moment at least the relaxed, anything-goes atmosphere pertains, and the nightlife is still mellow.
Lipe's main drag is a paved path between the eastern end of Hat Pattaya and the village, lined with tattoo parlours and shops advertising guitars for rent. The majority of Lipe's bungalows are on Hat Pattaya, the prettiest but most crowded beach on the island. Porn Resort has Sunset beach on the northwest side to itself, a shady, attractive spot with good views of Ko Adang. Several resorts have set up shop on Sunrise, on the east side near the village, an exposed, largely featureless beach that gives access to some good snorkelling around Ko Gra.