Chao La Beach is one of just two substantial beaches on Koh Lipe, one of Thailand's most remote islands. Being far out in the Andaman Sea, everything here is continuously cleansed by crystal waters from the deep. But Chao Le Beach is somewhat sullied by its recent history, and the handling of the local 'chao le' people, or sea gypsies. But the Chao Le story is for a different time and space.
Pattaya Beach, Lipe's 'main' beach with the most beachfront accommodations, suffers from too many boats, people and buildings right up against the sand. Chao Le Beach (sometimes called Sunrise beach by tourists) remains much more natural with fewer resorts and people on the sand. However, it is the exceptional hair-curl of sand at the northern tip that propels this to the top of the beauty rankings. This exceptional sandy protrusion, surrounded by clear turquoise water, is a friendly tropical playground ideal for both adults seeking relaxation and children in need of a safe spot to swim and snorkel.
This top part of the beach is just minutes walk for visitors in all resorts along Chao Le Beach, though the one with commanding view over it is the simple but comfortable Mountain Resort . A group of more comfortable beach bungalows and resorts is clustered near the bottom of the beach, with Castaway Beach Resort offering some rather creative rooms and a relaxing, elevated beachfront restaurant. The most comfortable resort on the beach, and the only one with a swimming pool, is Idyllic Concept Resort at the far end.
by John Everingham