The Andaman Islands | The most beautiful islands in Thailand

When thinking about the most beautiful islands in the world, one simply has to mention the Andaman Islands to the south of Thailand. Among the many islands, there is one I particular that is nigh impossible not to fall in love - the island of Koh Lipe.

Koh Lipe is a small island that is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park and is very close to the coast of Malaysia. Largely unspoilt by tourism, the island boasts crystal clear, warm sea, idyllic white sandy beaches and an extremely laid back atmosphere. The islanders themselves are extremely welcoming and the cuisine, as with much of the cuisine around Thailand, is certainly something to write home about. Expect distinctly aromatic flavours with some of the freshest ingredients on the planet.

The island has three main beaches; Sunset beach, Sunrise beach and Pattaya beach. Each beach is equally as stunning as the next and a variety of accommodation is available, ranging from simple wooden huts, to luxury bungalows that come complete with all modern conveniences.

But with Koh Lipe, it’s not all about the accommodation – the island itself does the talking!

For those who enjoy nothing more than lazing the days away on the beach and soaking up the beautiful sunshine, Sunrise beach is perhaps the best option, whereas those who prefer to fill the days with adventure Pattaya beach is better suited. Activities here include scuba diving and snorkelling, with the island boasting some of the most beautiful coral reef in Thailand. The island is rich in tropical marine life, making it the ideal spot for divers of all abilities. Beginners are more than welcomed and there are a number of diving schools dotted around the islnd where you can learn how to use diving equipment.

Pattaya beach offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars on the beach, with music and entertainment throughout the day and well into the evening.

The island is so small that you can walk the entire coastline in about an hour, so you can easily experience all that this wonderful island has to offer.

In high season (November to May) you can reach the island by boat from Pak Bara, Langkawi, Phi Phi, Ko Lanta or Trang, but in the low season (May to October) there is only one daily boat, which sets sail from Pak Bara. Travelling to Koh Lipe from neighbouring Malaysia is relatively easy; you can take a ferry from Langkawi, which is inexpensive and will get you there in a little under an hour.

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