The island of Ko Lipe is on the western coast of Thailand. It is the most often visited part of the Tarutao national park. A good stepping point for Ko Lipe is the town of  Hat Yai. First there is a three hour ride by a minibus to Bak Bara and then you take the ferry for about two hours. The ferry stops in front of Ko Lipe and the long tail boats take the passengers to the shore, where you have to wade the last meters. You are well advised to wear a pair of old tennis shoes or sandals because of the sharp stones and the sea-urchins.

The inhabitants of Ko Lipe are Chao Leh sea gypsies. They probably left China hundreds of years ago to move south in their boats, and in 1909 the governor of Satun province gave them Ko Lipe and Ko Adang to live on.

Even by Thai standards the Chao Lehs are exceptionally relaxed, happy and friendly people. The men's most common dress is a special type of skirt. Also earrings and wild-looking hair is part of the style. The islanders make their living from fishing, agriculture, batik work and these days from tourism of course. You can also make batik yourself guided by local artists. The circumstances on Ko Lipe for swimming, snorkelling and diving are really exceptional when the tide is high.

In the cottage villages there is usually no hot water and it is possible to use electricity only at night. The food is, however, good, the beer cold and the atmosphere really relaxing. Also the internet and cell phone connections work, most of the time.

A must-visit place on Ko Lipe is Pooh’s bar and restaurant. The host, Mr. Pooh is an excellent source of information and has a real talent making everyone feel instantly at ease. Nowadays Pooh also has cottages for rent and even his own dive centre.

Finally, a couple of Andy's so-so dive pics from waters around Ko Lipe.