South Beach, Ko Libong

BEACH
The beach on the south coast of Ko Libong is very beautiful, this bay is located just south of the fishing village. It is a rugged bay and has a mix of fine and coarse, copper-colored sand. South Beach is framed by rows of palms and other trees providing shade, which creates a picturesque setting.

The sea is normally calm, and you can swim well at high tide. At low tide the sea turns into a spectacular field of rocks. Of course, this is not ideal for swimming enthusiasts, but do not worry: in front of Garden Beach Resort you can have a swim, even at low tide.

WHERE TO STAY
The budget stay Garden Beach Resort is located on the south side of the small village, and they offer simple fan bungalows or air-conditioned bungalows in better condition in a beautiful garden. All bungalows have great sea views, and you can have great food at their cozy restaurant. Libong Anda View is the only other place to stay and is not on the best part of the beach.

At South Beach there is only one restaurant, otherwise it is a 10-minute walk to the village where you will find other dining options. In the village and not directly on the beach we found Sea Breeze Hotel.

ISLAND
Ko Libong is one of the larger islands in the South Andaman region and still undiscovered. There are several beaches on the island. The main beach on the west coast is part of a national park and is the most spectacular on the island. Unfortunately, there are no accommodations on this beach.

WHAT TO DO
Ko Libong is most famous for its dugong population. You can observe dugongs by taking a longtail boat and go a little off the island. Visit the village of Ban Ba Tu Pu on the southeast side of the island. Here, the stilt houses were built over the tidal flats. The island is good for cycling because the roads are often flat, although sometimes you have to climb a hill. For the less sporty, simply grab a scooter.

Ko Libong is known for its quiet and relaxed atmosphere, friendly locals, and traditional sea gypsy culture. Visitors can experience the unique way of life of the Chao Leh people and enjoy the island’s natural surroundings.

It is a beautiful island, although there is a huge difference between the conditions during low and high tide. We arrived at high tide, with very deep water, assuming we could swim at low tide. How wrong we were! During low tide, the water seems to disappear completely, but the scenery is incredible. Please note that there is a good swimming spot at Ko Libong South Beach during low tide. There are no ATMs on the island, so make sure to bring cash.

Highly recommended for an excursion is a visit to the islands of Ko Kradan, Ko Ngai and Ko Muk by longtail boat and make a stop at the Emerald Cave, which costs about 3,000 to 3,500 baht. All islands have powdery white sand, clear water and coral reefs. TreasureBeaches would recommend to walk to the village and make a good deal with one of the fishermen. Make sure to bring your snorkeling mask!

TRANSPORT
The city of Trang is a good starting point to reach Ko Libong. Trang is a friendly provincial town to spend the night. Wander the streets and eat at the night market in Ruenrom Alley, about a 15-minute walk from the train station. We advise going to Trang Happy Trip & Tour (081 607 2411) next to the train station to arrange your transportation. You will receive professional help with a smile for fair prices.

A minibus (150 baht) or taxi (900 baht) will take you from the Trang to the pier on the mainland, a 45-minute ride. The minibus only leaves when the seats are occupied, so with some bad luck you may have to wait quite a while. At the pier you take a private longtail boat for 800 baht. If you’re lucky, you can take a shared long tail boat (100 baht). From the island’s pier, a motorcycle taxi will take you to your resort for 100 baht per person.

You can also take a longtail boat from Ko Muk for 1500 baht. A longtail boat from Ko Sukorn costs 2600 baht. There is a speedboat connection once a day from Ko Lanta to Ko Libong via Ko Ngai and Ko Kradan.

All resorts rent scooters, while at Andalay Beach Resort they have mountain bikes.