Koh Lipe: 5 Island Snorkeling Trip by Longtail Boat w/ Lunch

Travelers looking to discover the vibrant underwater world around Koh Lipe will find this 5-island snorkeling tour an accessible and rewarding experience. It’s a well-priced trip that offers a taste of the best snorkeling spots Tarutao National Park has to offer, paired with a relaxed beach lunch. We’ve seen firsthand how this tour can be a highlight for anyone wanting a quick but immersive adventure in Thailand’s Andaman Sea.

What we particularly like about this tour is the variety of stops, ranging from soft coral reefs to black volcanic stones and pristine beaches. Plus, the small group size—limited to just ten participants—means you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed and more likely to get personalized attention. On the flip side, the group’s English proficiency can sometimes be inconsistent, which might make some instructions less clear. This trip works especially well for travelers eager for a straightforward, affordable day of snorkeling and scenic island hopping — ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty but don’t want to fuss over complex logistics.

Key Points

• Affordable price point of around $22 offers good value for a full half-day of snorkeling and exploring.
• Multiple snorkeling stops provide a diverse array of underwater scenery, from soft coral gardens to hard coral reefs.
• Small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personal attention and better interaction.
• Professional guides help ensure safety and provide helpful tips, though language barriers can sometimes limit explanations.
• The lunch on Koh Rawi is a highlight, with a relaxing white sand beach and turquoise waters.
• Flexible booking options include free cancellation and pay-later reservations, adding peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re planning a trip to Koh Lipe and want a taste of the underwater beauty without committing to a full-day or private charter, this snorkeling trip offers a practical introduction. It’s perfect if you’re on a budget but still want to see some of the most beautiful spots Tarutao National Park has to offer.

We like how the tour combines scenic island stops with manageable water activity, making it great for beginners or travelers who prefer a relaxed pace. The $22 price is quite reasonable considering it includes snorkeling gear, water, seasonal fruit, and a substantial lunch. That said, the trip’s success partly depends on the weather and the group’s dynamics. Some reviewers found certain stops crowded or felt the guide’s English was limited, which might make navigation or instructions less clear. Still, the overall experience tends to be positive, especially for those craving natural beauty and authentic island scenery.

This tour suits families, casual snorkelers, and curious travelers eager to see a variety of the islands’ highlights without fuss. If you’re looking for a full-on adventure or highly detailed guiding, you might prefer a private or more specialized trip, but for a balanced, fun group outing, this fits nicely.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Meet at Star Travel Office in Koh Lipe’s Walking Street

Starting your day at the Star Travel office near Pattaya Beach, you’ll check in about 30 minutes before departure. The meeting spot is central and convenient, right on Koh Lipe, so you won’t need to travel far. The guide provides safety instructions and snorkeling tips, typically in English. This initial briefing sets the tone for a relaxed, organized trip.

Transport to the Islands by Longtail Boat

The journey begins with a 30-minute boat ride across the waters surrounding Koh Lipe. The longtail boat is a classic sight in Thailand, offering an open-air feel that lets you soak up the sea breeze and enjoy scenic views. This part is short but keeps the trip flowing smoothly, setting you up for the adventure ahead.

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Snorkeling at Koh Jabang: Soft Coral Paradise

Your first snorkeling stop is at Koh Jabang, a highlight for many. The reef here is surrounded by pink and lavender soft coral, creating a vibrant underwater landscape. The reef teems with colorful fish, sea whip, sea anemone, and feather stars. We loved the way the soft coral waved gently in the current, providing a natural kaleidoscope of colors. While some reviews note that it gets crowded—many travelers tend to gather here—it’s still worth seeing.

What makes this spot special: The soft coral gardens are visually striking and accessible for snorkelers of all skill levels. It’s a camera-friendly site, perfect for underwater photos.

Hin Ngam Island: Black Stones and Good Luck

Next, the boat heads to Hin Ngam Island, a tiny volcanic island famous for its polished black stones. These stones, smoothed by waves over thousands of years, create a striking contrast against the white sands. Visitors can walk the pebble beach and even participate in the local tradition of stacking 12 rocks and making a wish—believed to bring good luck.

Why it’s worth a stop: The spectacular black stones and the chance to snap some memorable photos. The beach is calm, making it a good swimming spot if you prefer to stay dry.

Snorkeling at Koh Yang: Hard Coral and Boulders

Heading to Koh Yang, you’ll find a hard coral reef with soft overgrowth on large boulders. Snorkelers will enjoy the clear shallow waters, where the coral formations are more intricate. It’s a lively site with plenty of fish darting around the reef and overgrown boulders, perfect for exploring with fins and masks.

In some reviews: The soft and hard coral diversity at Koh Yang offers a different vibe from Jabang, showcasing Thailand’s underwater variety.

Lunch at Koh Rawi: White Sand Beach

The tour takes a break at Koh Rawi, one of the most idyllic beaches in the area. The white sands and gentle surf make it an ideal spot for relaxing, swimming, or enjoying a packed lunch. The included lunch package is a highlight, often praised for its setting and simplicity—just enough to fuel your continued exploration.

Tip: Bring your camera to capture the turquoise waters and pristine beach scenery. Many travelers mention the lunch stop as a peaceful paradise.

Snorkeling at Koh Adang: Colorful Fish and Underwater Beauty

The final snorkeling stop is at Koh Adang, part of the national park. Here, you’ll find colorful fish and coral reefs that make for a scenic underwater walk. This stop tends to be highly rated for its vibrant marine life, according to reviews, and offers a good last chance to enjoy Thailand’s underwater ecosystem.

Return Journey and Final Swim

The trip wraps up with a short boat ride back to Koh Lipe, with some stops along the way for a final swim or photos. The boat ride itself provides another chance to appreciate the scenic coastline and maybe spot a passing ray or two.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of around $22 includes everything needed for a comfortable day: longtail boat, snorkel masks and fins, life jackets, drinking water, seasonal fruit, and a lunch. The professional English-speaking guide helps with instructions and safety, although some reviews mention that language skills aren’t always perfect, which may impact the clarity of explanations.

Not included are hotel pickup or drop-off—so you’ll need to get yourself to the starting point—and any personal expenses or souvenirs you might wish to buy. The tour is designed for small groups of up to ten people, creating a friendly atmosphere and reducing crowding.

Practical Tips for Participants

Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember to carry your camera for underwater shots. For comfort during the boat ride, pack flip-flops and a change of clothes. A towel is handy after swimming, and water shoes can be useful if you’re sensitive to coral terrain.

Since drones and large luggage aren’t allowed, leave bulky bags behind. The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or anyone with back or heart problems or who isn’t a confident swimmer.

Authentic Feedback: What Travelers Say

Of the reviews we’ve seen, many travelers appreciate the professional guides and the stunning views on land and underwater. One reviewer praised Sunny and the team for being helpful and responsive, describing the trip as “excellent” despite noting that the Jabang stop was crowded. Another mentioned that the lunch on Rawi was “absolutely beautiful,” emphasizing how the scenery enhances the experience.

On the downside, some found language barriers challenging, with guides not always speaking enough English for detailed explanations. One comment noted that the return was nearly an hour early, which could impact planning if you want a perfectly timed day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want to maximize their island experience without a private charter. It suits those interested in diverse underwater scenery, scenic beaches, and small group intimacy. If you’re comfortable with basic swimming and eager to take plenty of photos, you’ll likely find this a worthwhile adventure.

However, if you prefer detailed guiding in fluent English or have specific safety concerns, you might need to prepare for some communication challenges. The tour also isn’t designed for very young children or those with mobility limitations, but otherwise, it’s a relaxing and rewarding way to see Koh Lipe’s surrounding islands.

The Sum Up

For around $22, this 5-island snorkeling trip offers real value. You’ll experience some of the most beautiful spots in Tarutao National Park, from coral reefs to volcanic stones, all while enjoying the relaxed pace of a small group tour. The included lunch and snorkeling gear make it an easy, stress-free way to enjoy Thailand’s marine environment.

Travelers who love natural beauty, photo opportunities, and a laid-back day in the sun will find this tour meets their expectations. The friendly guides and stunning scenery make it a memorable experience, even if some stops can get crowded or the guide’s English isn’t perfect.

Overall, if you’re staying on Koh Lipe and want an affordable, authentic, and scenic adventure, this tour is worth considering—just be sure to arrive with your camera ready and a relaxed attitude.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 5.5 hours, starting in the morning and ending back on Koh Lipe. Check availability for specific start times.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is about $22 per person, which includes snorkeling gear, lunch, water, and seasonal fruit.

What’s included in the tour?
You get a longtail boat, snorkel masks and fins, life jackets, drinking water, seasonal fruit, lunch, and a professional English-speaking guide. Basic accident insurance is also covered.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, groups are limited to 10 participants, making for a more intimate experience.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, all snorkeling gear is provided, but you should bring personal items like sunscreen, a camera, and appropriate swimwear.

Are there any safety concerns?
While the tour provides safety gear and instructions, some stops may have strong currents. It’s recommended that non-swimmers or those with health issues consider this.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Flexible booking options are available with pay later.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or those with health issues. Kids who can swim comfortably might enjoy it, but check individual conditions.

This detailed review aims to help you decide whether this Koh Lipe snorkeling tour fits your travel style. With its balance of affordability, scenic variety, and friendly guides, it’s an adventure many guests find well worth their time. Just remember to bring your sense of adventure and a good camera!

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby