Koh Rawi | Satun

Koh Rawi – A Hidden Paradise in the Andaman Sea

Koh Rawi is one of the most pristine and untouched islands in Tarutao National Marine Park, located in Satun Province, southern Thailand. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush tropical forests, Koh Rawi is a paradise for nature lovers, snorkelers, and adventure seekers looking for a peaceful retreat away from tourist crowds.

Overview of Koh Rawi

• Location: Tarutao National Marine Park, Satun Province, Thailand
• Size: Approximately 28 square kilometers
• Accessibility: Only reachable by boat from Koh Lipe, Pak Bara Pier, or other nearby islands
• Main Activities: Snorkeling, hiking, camping, wildlife spotting, and relaxing on unspoiled beaches
• Accommodation: No hotels or resorts; only camping is allowed with permission from park authorities

Koh Rawi is part of Tarutao National Park, a protected marine park that ensures the island remains undeveloped and untouched. Unlike its neighbor, Koh Lipe, which has become a tourist hotspot, Koh Rawi remains a secluded paradise where visitors can enjoy nature in its purest form.

How to Get to Koh Rawi

Koh Rawi can only be accessed by boat. The most common routes include:

From Koh Lipe

• Longtail Boat: Private or group tours from Sunrise Beach or Pattaya Beach on Koh Lipe.
• Speedboat Tours: Offered as part of island-hopping trips around Tarutao National Park.

From Pak Bara Pier (Mainland Satun)

• First, take a speedboat to Koh Lipe (1.5-2 hours).
• From Koh Lipe, hire a longtail boat or join a snorkeling tour that includes Koh Rawi.

From Koh Tarutao or Koh Adang

• Private boat services can be arranged from neighboring islands within Tarutao National Park.

Since Koh Rawi is part of a protected marine park, visitors must pay an entrance fee at Pak Bara Pier or Koh Lipe before entering the park.

• Entrance Fee for Tarutao National Park:
  • Foreigners: 200 THB (adults), 100 THB (children)
  • Thai Citizens: 40 THB (adults), 20 THB (children)

Things to Do on Koh Rawi

1. Snorkeling and Diving

Koh Rawi is surrounded by some of the best coral reefs in Tarutao National Park. The waters around the island are home to colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. Some of the best snorkeling spots include:

• Hin Ngam Reef – A site with black volcanic stones and abundant marine life.
• Ao Rawi Bay – Clear, shallow waters perfect for spotting parrotfish, clownfish, and sea anemones.
• Nearby Koh Yang – Often included in snorkeling tours from Koh Lipe.

2. Swimming and Relaxing on the Beach

The island has several white sandy beaches, with Ao Rawi Beach being the most famous. Unlike Koh Lipe, which has crowded beaches, Koh Rawi’s shores are peaceful and untouched, making it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy nature.

3. Hiking and Jungle Trekking

Koh Rawi is covered in dense tropical rainforest, home to exotic birds, monkeys, and wild boars. Visitors can take nature trails leading to viewpoints and waterfalls, though these hikes require guidance from park rangers as the trails are not well-marked.

4. Camping Under the Stars

Since there are no hotels, bungalows, or restaurants on the island, the only way to stay overnight is by camping. The National Park Office allows visitors to set up tents on Ao Rawi Beach with permission. This is a great way to experience the island’s tranquility and enjoy a star-filled night sky far from city lights.

5. Wildlife Spotting

Koh Rawi is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species, including:

• Sea eagles and hornbills
• Monitor lizards and wild boars
• Tropical fish and marine creatures in shallow waters

The island's lack of development makes it a perfect place for nature photography and birdwatching.

Best Time to Visit Koh Rawi

The best time to visit Koh Rawi is during the dry season from November to April, when the sea is calm and ideal for snorkeling and beach activities.

• Best Months: December to March
• Avoid Rainy Season (May - October): Heavy rainfall and rough seas make travel difficult, and Tarutao National Park closes for conservation.

Important Travel Tips

• Bring enough food and water – There are no restaurants or shops on the island.
• Respect the environment – As part of a national park, visitors must take all trash back with them.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen – To protect the coral reefs.
• Rent snorkeling gear in Koh Lipe – Since Koh Rawi has no rental shops.
• Follow park regulations – No fishing, no feeding wildlife, and no taking coral or shells.

Nearby Islands to Visit

Since Koh Rawi is part of Tarutao National Park, many island-hopping tours include stops at:

• Koh Adang – A larger island with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning viewpoints.
• Koh Hin Ngam – Famous for its unique black stones that are said to be cursed.
• Koh Yang – A small island with excellent coral reefs.
• Koh Lipe – The most developed island in the area, with resorts and restaurants.

Why Visit Koh Rawi?

• One of the last untouched islands in Thailand.
• No crowds, no hotels, no noise – Just pure nature.
• Perfect for snorkeling, camping, and relaxing on empty beaches.
• Part of Tarutao National Park, ensuring its beauty remains protected.

If you’re looking for an authentic island escape, away from the commercialization of Koh Lipe, Koh Rawi is one of Thailand’s best-kept secrets.