Hike through the hinterland of Ko Lipe Island
A trip to two secret beaches
Ko Lipe Island is a very visited island in Southern Thailand. In addition, compared to the other islands in the Tarutao National Park, it is „flat“ and small, so you won't find many trekking options. People also go here mainly for the beautiful beaches, not for tourism. Even so, you will find one path here that will show you the original forest and lead you right to two small hidden beaches. It is actually a ridge that will bring you to the western, undeveloped part of the island.
Ridge road
The easiest way to get to this route is from Pattaya Beach (its western end) or from Sunset Beach. At the beginning, you will encounter a few more options for refreshments and local houses, then the road leads through the local jungle. Those who are lazy can have them brought here by tuk-tuk.
Flora on Ko Lipe
During the dry season, it looks a bit like autumn here – the leaves are falling and the jungle is really dry. There are photogenic rocks here and there in the surrounding forest.
Views on the hike
Don't expect great views on this hike. Mostly they are just sporadic glimpses between tree branches – nothing to photograph.
The end of the asphalt road
The asphalt road ends a short distance behind the last houses, and then only an unpaved footpath awaits you – although still very wide.
The tallest tree on the island
You will also pass a distinctive tree that significantly exceeds all others. If you are observant, you will also see it during various boat trips or from the opposite island of Ko Adang.
Footpath to the first secret beach
It's a good idea to have some kind of offline map app for this trip, because otherwise you might just cross this footpath going down to the first secret beach. It is less than 200 meters from here to the sea and you will drop approximately 30 meters in height.
Above the first beach
It is only less than one kilometer by water to the beach, so you can also meet people on kayaks. Otherwise it's quiet here. The only flaw in the beauty is the discarded plastic, which is almost everywhere throughout the national park – an entrance fee is charged, but the park rangers would run in with bags and clean it up a bit.
Pantai Galah Beach
The secret beach even has a name – Pantai Galah – and it's nice to swim in.
Pantai Galah Beach from the other side
Thanks to its southern location, there is sunshine almost all day
The way to the second beach
From Pantai Galah Beach we walk back to the ridge path. From there it's a short distance to the second turn. This footpath is no longer even listed on the map base. This route is significantly longer and with a greater elevation gain.
Lipe Secret Beach
We finally made it through the jungle to the sea again. This beach is really called Secret Beach on Lipa and it is relatively small.
The road to the end of the road
From the secret beach, we climb up the hill again and continue along the summit. The path basically ends at the highest point of the island, but don't expect any attractions or views here. The journey just suddenly ends and nothing more. Anyway, it's a nice walk with a trip to two beaches and getting to know the hinterland of Ko Lipe.
