Pak Bara Pier | Satun

Pak Bara Pier is the main gateway to the Tarutao National Marine Park and the islands of Koh Lipe, Koh Tarutao, Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, and other islands in the Andaman Sea. It is located in La-ngu District, Satun Province, in southern Thailand. This pier is the primary departure point for ferries and speedboats heading to some of Thailand’s most beautiful and unspoiled islands.

Overview of Pak Bara Pier

Pak Bara Pier is a well-organized transportation hub that serves both local and international travelers. It is less touristy compared to other piers in Thailand, such as those in Phuket or Krabi, but it remains an essential transit point for those visiting the remote islands of Tarutao National Park. The pier has undergone improvements in recent years to accommodate the increasing number of visitors heading to Koh Lipe and surrounding islands.

Destinations from Pak Bara Pier

Pak Bara Pier serves as the primary departure point for boats traveling to the following destinations:

• Koh Lipe – The most popular island in the region, known for its white sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life.
• Koh Tarutao – A former prison island, now a protected national park with dense jungle, wildlife, and untouched beaches.
• Koh Adang – A peaceful and unspoiled island, perfect for nature lovers, hiking, and snorkeling.
• Koh Rawi – A remote island known for its stunning coral reefs and excellent snorkeling spots.
• Koh Khai – A small island famous for its natural stone arch, often visited on boat tours.
• Other islands within Tarutao National Marine Park – Ideal for adventurous travelers who want to explore Thailand’s untouched nature.

Facilities at Pak Bara Pier

Pak Bara Pier is relatively small but provides essential facilities for travelers:

• Ticket Counters – Several ticket offices sell boat tickets to Koh Lipe, Koh Tarutao, and other islands. Most boats operate on a fixed schedule.
• Shops and Restaurants – Small shops and food stalls offer local Thai food, snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
• ATMs and Currency Exchange – Limited banking services are available, but it is recommended to withdraw cash in advance, especially if heading to islands with limited banking facilities.
• Parking Area – There is a parking lot near the pier where visitors can leave their vehicles before boarding boats.
• Restrooms – Public toilets are available for travelers.

Boat Services from Pak Bara Pier

There are two main types of boat services departing from Pak Bara Pier:

1. Speedboats – These are the fastest option, taking around 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Koh Lipe. They also stop at other islands along the way, such as Koh Tarutao, Koh Adang, and Koh Rawi.
2. Ferries – Slower but more comfortable, ferries take around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach Koh Lipe. This option is preferred by travelers with more luggage or those who prefer a smoother ride.

Boat Schedule and Ticket Prices

• Boats from Pak Bara Pier to Koh Lipe operate daily, with the first boats leaving in the morning (9:30 AM - 11:30 AM) and the last departures in the afternoon (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM).
• Return boats from Koh Lipe to Pak Bara Pier usually depart in the morning and early afternoon.
• Tickets can be purchased at the pier or booked in advance online.

How to Get to Pak Bara Pier

Pak Bara Pier is located in Satun Province, and travelers can reach it via several transportation options:

From Hat Yai (The Nearest Major City)

• By Minivan: The most common way to get to Pak Bara Pier from Hat Yai. Minivans depart from Hat Yai Bus Terminal and take around 2-3 hours to reach the pier.
• By Private Taxi: A more comfortable option, taking around 2-2.5 hours from Hat Yai to Pak Bara Pier.
• By Bus: Local buses operate from Hat Yai to La-ngu town, from where travelers can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to the pier.

From Bangkok

• By Flight: The fastest option is to fly from Bangkok to Hat Yai (about 1.5 hours), then take a minivan or taxi to Pak Bara Pier.
• By Train: Travelers can take a train from Bangkok to Hat Yai, then continue by minivan or taxi to the pier.
• By Bus: Direct buses from Bangkok to Satun are available, but the journey takes around 12-14 hours.

Best Time to Visit Pak Bara Pier and Nearby Islands

The best time to visit the islands via Pak Bara Pier is during the dry season, from November to April. During this time, the seas are calm, and the weather is ideal for island hopping, snorkeling, and diving.

The rainy season from May to October can bring rough seas and limited boat services, with occasional cancellations due to bad weather. However, some speedboats still operate during this time, especially for travel between Koh Lipe and Pak Bara.

Travel Tips

• Book Boat Tickets in Advance – During peak season (December to February), boat tickets can sell out quickly, so it's best to book ahead.
• Arrive Early – It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to check in and find your boat.
• Cash Only on Islands – Many of the islands have limited ATM access, so it's a good idea to withdraw cash before departing from Pak Bara.
• Prepare for the Boat Ride – If you get seasick, bring motion sickness medication, as the boat ride can sometimes be bumpy.

Conclusion

Pak Bara Pier is the main gateway to Tarutao National Marine Park and the stunning islands of the Andaman Sea. It is a crucial transportation hub for travelers heading to Koh Lipe, Koh Tarutao, Koh Adang, and other islands in the region. With its convenient location, daily boat services, and essential facilities, it provides a seamless connection for those looking to explore Thailand’s unspoiled island paradise.