Koh Rawi

Koh Rawi is the third largest island within Tarutao National Marine Park, about the size of neighbouring Koh Adang from which is separated only by a channel of one kilometre in width. Located northwest of Koh Lipe, the island has a hilly interior, mostly covered by a dense forest, surrounded by many rocks, high steep cliffs, and white sand beaches with clear crystal waters and stunning coral reefs. From Talopalian Bay and Leuk Bay depart few short jungle trails that lead to Chado Cliff, the highest hill from which you have a wonderful panoramic view. The island also have some waterfalls including Pirate’s Fall, the most beautiful and high reachable with half-hour hike from the Ranger Station in Haad Sai Khao, the Koh Rawi's main beach. The wild life on island includes several species of mammals, like Mouse Deer, Squirrel, Crab-eating Macaque, and reptiles such as Reticulated Python, Butterfly and Clouded Monitor Lizard. There is also a huge variety of birds for lovers of bird watching. Koh Rawi is almost completely uninhabited, apart a few Chao Leh sea gypsies, the only buildings are a few open-air shacks at the two National Park Ranger stations. Unlike Koh Adang, the Park's facilities on Koh Rawi are very limited and essential, a shared bathroom with a single rudimentary shower and a few squat toilets; it is not even certain that there are tents for rent available at Ranger Stations. Camping at Ao Leuk is allowed only with park permission, 30 THB per person, but tourists have to bring their tents, necessary appliances, water and food.
Getting there - On Koh Rawi there are no piers and consequently doesn't has a ferry service from mainland; the only way to reach the island is take advantage of long-tail boats from nearby Koh Lipe, around 500-700 THB one-way trip depending on your haggling skills and from where you depart. Prices for who depart from Sunset Beach or northern Sunrise Beach should be a bit cheaper than from Pattaya Beach.Read More