Traveling from Koh Lipe (เกาะหลีเป๊ะ) to Koh Phangan (เกาะพะงัน) requires a combination of ferry, van or bus, and possibly a flight. There is no direct route between these two islands, but several efficient and budget-friendly options are available. This 2025 guide outlines all the major transportation methods, schedules, estimated costs, and essential tips for a seamless journey.
1. Most Efficient Route: Speedboat + Minivan + Ferry (Direct Combination Ticket)
This is the most reliable and convenient route, offered by reputable operators such as Smart En Plus and Kamolrat Travel. All segments are typically bundled into one ticket, making transfers smooth.
Itinerary Overview:
- Step 1: Koh Lipe → Pak Bara Pier (ปากบารา)
- Mode: Speedboat
- Departure: 09:30 AM from Pattaya Beach
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Step 2: Pak Bara Pier → Donsak Pier (ท่าเรือดอนสัก)
- Mode: Minivan
- Departure: Around 11:30 AM
- Duration: Approx. 5 hours (may include a stopover in Trang)
- Step 3: Donsak Pier → Koh Phangan (Thong Sala Pier)
- Mode: Ferry
- Departure: Between 5:00–6:00 PM (varies by operator)
- Duration: 2.5–4 hours
- Operators: Raja Ferry, Seatran Ferry
Summary
- Total Travel Time: 10–11 hours
- Typical Cost: THB 3,120–THB 3,960
- Availability: Daily departures, mainly starting at 09:30 AM
- Recommendation: Book at least 1 day in advance, especially in high season (November–April)
2. Budget Option: Local Bus + Ferry (Separate Segments)
For those prioritizing cost savings, a mix of public bus and ferry travel is possible, though it may involve multiple transfers and longer wait times.
Itinerary Overview:
- Step 1: Speedboat from Koh Lipe to Pak Bara Pier (09:30 AM)
- Step 2: Local bus or minivan from Pak Bara or Hat Yai to Donsak Pier
- Step 3: Ferry from Donsak Pier to Koh Phangan
Summary
- Total Travel Time: 12–14 hours
- Typical Cost: THB 1,300–THB 2,100
- Note: Less comfortable and slower than the combined ticket option. Ideal for travelers with flexible schedules.
3. Fastest Option: Flight + Ferry via Koh Samui
While neither Koh Lipe nor Koh Phangan has an airport, this route minimizes time on the road and sea by incorporating air travel.
Itinerary Overview:
- Step 1: Speedboat from Koh Lipe to Pak Bara Pier (1.5–2 hours)
- Step 2: Van or taxi to Hat Yai Airport (2–3 hours)
- Step 3: Domestic flight to Koh Samui Airport (USM)
- Airlines: Bangkok Airways, occasionally Thai Airways
- Flight Duration: 50–55 minutes
- Step 4: Ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Phangan
- Duration: Approx. 30 minutes
- Operators: Lomprayah, Raja Ferry
Summary
- Total Travel Time: 7–9 hours (excluding transfers)
- Flight Cost: THB 3,000–THB 8,500
- Additional Ferry Cost: THB 400–THB 600
- Recommendation: Check flight schedules and ferry connection times carefully. Useful during monsoon season when mainland roads are affected.
Route Comparison Table
| Option | Total Time | Estimated Cost (THB) | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry + Minivan + Ferry | 10–11 hrs | 3,120–3,960 | Most convenient; one-ticket solution |
| Bus + Ferry Combo | 12–14 hrs | 1,300–2,100 | Budget-friendly; more transfers |
| Flight + Ferry via USM | 7–9 hrs | 5,000–12,000 | Fastest; requires flight coordination |
Important Travel Tips
- Advance Booking: Essential during the high season (Nov–April) and Thai holidays.
- Weather Conditions: Ferry routes are subject to change during the monsoon season (May–Oct). Always check local advisories.
- Transfers: Allow buffer time between transport legs, especially when transferring from speedboats to vans or flights.
- No Direct Route: All journeys from Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan require at least one change on the mainland or another island.
- Comfort Levels: The direct combination ticket offers the best comfort and logistical ease.
Booking Information
- Recommended Providers:
- Smart En Plus
- Kamolrat Travel & Transport
- Raja Ferry
- Seatran Ferry
- Booking Options:
- Through local travel agents on Koh Lipe
- Directly via operators’ official websites
- At hotel front desks or on-site ferry offices
Combined tickets simplify your journey by bundling all segments and ensuring timely transfers.
FAQs: Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan Travel
1. Is there a direct ferry from Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan?
No, all routes require at least one mainland transfer. The most efficient option includes speedboat, minivan, and ferry connections.
2. What is the fastest way to get from Koh Lipe to Koh Phangan?
Flying from Hat Yai to Koh Samui, then taking a ferry to Koh Phangan is the fastest, typically around 7–9 hours in total.
3. How much does a combined ticket cost for the most efficient route?
Prices range between THB 3,120–THB 3,960, depending on the operator and season.
4. How early should I book my trip?
At least 1–2 days in advance. During peak seasons, book 1 week in advance if possible.
5. Are ferry services safe and reliable?
Generally yes, but services may be delayed or cancelled during monsoon season due to rough seas.
6. Can I fly directly to Koh Phangan?
No. Koh Phangan has no airport. The closest airport is on Koh Samui, followed by a short ferry ride.
7. What time do the speedboats leave from Koh Lipe?
Most combined services depart at 09:30 AM from Pattaya Beach on Koh Lipe.
8. How long is the ferry from Donsak to Koh Phangan?
It takes approximately 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on the ferry operator and sea conditions.
9. What is the cheapest way to travel between the islands?
Using local buses from Hat Yai or Pak Bara to Donsak Pier, then taking a standard ferry is the most affordable, costing around THB 1,300–THB 2,100.
10. Is the journey suitable for families or elderly travelers?
Yes, particularly the direct combined ticket option, which minimizes the number of transfers and provides more structured support.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide: