A Paradise Beyond Words
Koh Lipe, often dubbed the “Maldives of Thailand,” captivated us with its turquoise waters, soft white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. Staying on the north end of Sunrise Beach, we were greeted each morning by the gentle lull of the sea and a stunning underwater world with coral just steps from our room. Snorkeling here felt like stepping into a saltwater aquarium, teeming with life in every direction.
Under the crystal-clear waters, we encountered an incredible array of marine life. Sea urchins dotted the seabed, colorful giant clams gleamed in the sunlight, and anemones swayed gently, hosting clownfish reminiscent of “Nemo.” A crab scuttled across the sand while vibrant hard and soft corals provided shelter to countless fish species. Parrotfish, angelfish, and an assortment of others painted the underwater scene in a kaleidoscope of colors.
The Urak Lawoi: Guardians of the Sea
But Koh Lipe is more than its picturesque beauty—it is home to the Urak Lawoi, or Chao Ley, an indigenous community often referred to as “sea gypsies.” With a history intertwined with the Andaman Sea, their livelihood centers on fishing. Traditional techniques passed through generations not only sustain their families but also reflect a deep respect for marine ecosystems.
Visiting a smoothie shop named after this community, Urak Lawoi, we sipped on the most refreshing fruit smoothies like fresh coconut (Happy A’s favorite), watermelon, mango (Happy L’s favorite), and orange while soaking in the island’s charm. The café stood as a testament to their connection with the land, offering simple, nourishing delights made with care.
The Beauty and the Burden
Despite its idyllic allure, Koh Lipe faces a pressing environmental challenge. Walking along the beaches, we couldn’t help but notice the disturbing amount of trash and plastic littering the shores. It’s a stark reminder of the double-edged sword of tourism and modern consumption, where paradise can struggle under the weight of human impact. We took a day as a family and picked up trash on the beach despite sweating in the humid heat, filling a garbage bag with wrappers, bottle caps, plastic utensils, and even pieces of glass.
The Urak Lawoi themselves are not untouched by these changes. As traditional ways of life intersect with modern influences, the balance between preserving their heritage and adapting to new realities becomes increasingly delicate.
Leaving With Gratitude
Our time on Koh Lipe was unforgettable, not only because of the stunning snorkeling and delicious smoothies but also because of the stories it told. From the resilience of the Urak Lawoi to the fragile beauty of its environment, Koh Lipe is a place that both inspires and challenges us to think about our impact on the world.
