Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands

If you’re dreaming of sun-drenched beaches, colorful coral reefs, and the thrill of discovering unspoiled islands, the “Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands” tour might be just what you need. Offered by Trip Store Krabi, this roughly five-and-a-half-hour outing promises a taste of some of Thailand’s most scenic spots, all within the protected waters of Tarutao National Park.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the affordable price of just over $24 per person offers excellent value for a full morning of snorkeling, island hopping, and beach lounging. Second, the knowledgeable English-speaking guides aim to make every stop informative and safe, which is crucial when exploring coral reefs and remote beaches.

That said, one potential downside is the mixed reviews about the overall experience, especially regarding the guide’s attitude at times and the lunch options.

Still, for travelers who love adventure, authentic scenery, and a chance to see multiple islands in one go, this tour is a compelling choice.

Who should consider this tour? If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group seeking a well-organized, budget-friendly way to explore Koh Lipe’s nearby islands, this could be a perfect fit. Just keep in mind that it’s a group experience capped at 10 travelers, which helps keep things intimate but also means booking well in advance is wise.

Key Points

• Great value for money with snorkeling gear, lunch, and basic insurance included.
• Multiple island stops offer diverse scenery—coral reefs, beaches, and volcanic stones.
• Knowledgeable guides lead the way, ensuring safety and providing insights.
• Limited time at each stop, which may mean rushing or missing some parts.
• Mixed reviews highlight variability in guide attitude and overall experience.
• Book in advance to secure your spot for this popular tour.

An In-Depth Look at the Koh Lipe Islands Snorkeling Tour

Meeting Point and Departure Details

We loved the ease of meeting at the Star Travel office on Koh Lipe’s walking street, near Pattaya Beach. The process begins around 30 minutes before departure, giving you time to meet the crew, get your gear, and listen to safety instructions from your English-speaking guide. The small group size—max 10 travelers—keeps things personal and manageable, especially when navigating the busy, scenic waters around Koh Lipe.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Koh Lipe and the Surroundings

The tour kicks off with a quick briefing and a short boat ride to the snorkeling spots around Koh Lipe itself. This initial stop sets the tone—bright, colorful reefs and the chance to see local marine life just off the shores of the island. Several reviews mention the first stop was a bit underwhelming for some, with one traveler noting it was difficult to see anything initially. Still, this warm-up gives you a feel for the vibrant underwater world.

Stop 2: Koh Jabang – A Coral Wonderland

Next, you visit Jabang Island, where the reef is surrounded by soft pink, lavender, and red corals, creating a stunning canvas beneath the water. Expect to see porifera (sponges), sea whip, anemones, feather stars, and a variety of colorful fish. The coral here is lively, and the diversity of marine life makes for excellent snorkeling. The guide’s knowledge can enhance this experience, explaining the different corals and fish species—a highlight for many.

Stop 3: Koh Hin Ngam – The Black Pebble Beach

This tiny island is famous for its volcanic stones that glisten black under the sun, a striking contrast to the typical white beaches in the region. The story goes that stacking 12 rocks and making a wish at this unique beach might bring good luck. While you may not spend hours here, the visual impact of the black stones and the peaceful atmosphere make it a memorable photo stop. One reviewer describes it as a place where good luck might be in the air, adding a touch of local folklore to your trip.

Stop 4: Koh Yang – Soft Corals and Big Boulders

Back in the water, you’ll snorkel over coral reefs at Koh Yang, where you’ll find hard corals in shallow waters and large boulders overgrown with soft corals. Expect a vibrant mix of marine life—an excellent spot for spotting colorful fish and coral formations. The time here is limited but enough to appreciate the underwater beauty.

Stop 5: Koh Rawi – White Sand Beach and Lunch

This stop offers a well-deserved break on Koh Rawi’s pristine beaches. Known for its soft white sands, it’s a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch, which is included in your tour. The meal is a simple packed lunch—likely a rice and chicken dish—ideal for refueling after snorkeling. Several guests appreciate the value of having a meal included, especially when compared to the cost of dining on the island itself.

Stop 6: Koh Adang – Final Swim and Snorkel

The last stop takes you back toward Koh Adang, where you can enjoy one final snorkel in waters filled with colorful fish. This offers a last chance to see marine life in their natural habitat before returning to Koh Lipe. The short stop allows for a quick swim but may leave some wishing for more time or a longer experience.

What’s Included and What Costs Extra?

The tour’s price of $24.20 covers snorkel masks, fins, life jackets, drinking water, seasonal fruit, a basic accident insurance policy, and a packed lunch. This makes it quite good value compared to land-based excursions, especially considering the multiple stops and the presence of a professional guide.

However, entrance fees to the national park are not included—a common point of confusion. You’ll need to budget for these separately if you want to access certain islands or park areas, which could add a little extra to your overall cost. Plus, there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, so arranging your transportation to the meeting point is on your own.

The Guides and the Experience

The guides are generally knowledgeable, offering helpful snorkeling instructions and safety tips. However, reviews indicate variability; some travelers appreciated their professionalism, while others felt the guide’s attitude could be improved. It’s worth keeping in mind that at around 4.3 out of 5, the overall guide quality is solid but not perfect.

Timing and Pacing

The tour departs at 9:30 am and returns in the early afternoon, making it a manageable half-day adventure. Each stop is approximately 30 minutes to an hour, which allows for snorkeling and relaxing but might feel rushed, especially at the longer stops like Koh Hin Ngam and Koh Rawi. If you’re an avid snorkeler or beach lover, you might wish for more time at certain spots.

Authentic Experiences and Traveler Feedback

One traveler described the excursion as “incroyable,” praising Koh Lipe’s waters and beaches, which kept them highly recommending the tour. Conversely, a reviewer called it “not worth the money,” citing a stressful experience with the guide and dissatisfaction with the lunch. It’s clear that while many find the trip beautiful and worthwhile, expectations around guide professionalism and comfort can vary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This excursion is best suited for travelers seeking a budget-friendly, straightforward way to explore multiple islands around Koh Lipe. If you love snorkeling, exploring beaches, and seeing diverse marine life, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Those expecting a highly personalized or luxury experience might be disappointed, but if you’re after authentic scenery and a manageable group setting, this tour delivers.

It’s also ideal for travelers who prioritize value—everything from gear to lunch is included, making it easier to budget. Just be aware that some reviews suggest the experience can be hit or miss, so maintaining flexible expectations is wise.

Final Thoughts

The “Experience the Koh Lipe Backyard including 5 Mysterious Islands” tour offers a compelling way to see some of the region’s most striking sights in one half-day adventure. Its biggest strengths lie in the diversity of stops, the affordability, and the knowledgeable guides who can enhance your understanding of the marine environment.

While it might not suit those craving a relaxed, unhurried experience or top-tier luxury, it fits well for travelers eager to snorkel, explore remote beaches, and get close to Thailand’s natural beauty without breaking the bank.

If your goal is a quick, authentic taste of Koh Lipe’s underwater and island scenery, this trip is hard to beat—just remember to book early, stay flexible, and bring your sense of adventure.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You will meet at the Star Travel office in Koh Lipe’s walking street.

What gear is provided?
Snorkel masks, fins, and life jackets are provided for free, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you prefer.

How long is the total tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:30 am and returning early afternoon.

Are entrance fees to the islands included?
No, the national park entrance fees are not included in the tour price and must be paid separately if you want access to certain areas.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best to consider the age and swimming ability of children, as the tour involves snorkeling and boat travel.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

In all, this snorkeling tour around Koh Lipe’s islands offers an affordable, lively, and scenic way to explore Thailand’s underwater treasures—perfect for those eager to see a variety of sights in a manageable day trip.