“Organized ferry check-in system by company, air-conditioned passenger terminal, gateway to UNESCO-level marine destinations, comprehensive boat schedules, and seaside atmosphere with fresh local seafood nearby.”
Pakbara Pier is the most important maritime transport hub in Satun Province and serves as the main gateway to Koh Lipe, Tarutao National Park, the Adang–Rawi Islands, and nearby archipelagos. It is designed with modern management systems to efficiently support both Thai and international travelers.
Complete Convenience Facilities
Inside the passenger terminal, there is a well-organized check-in system separated by boat operators, helping reduce congestion during the high season. The pier offers air-conditioned waiting areas, clean restrooms, luggage drop points, and multiple ticket counters for both speedboats and ferries.
The surrounding area is a full-service travel hub, featuring halal restaurants, fresh seafood eateries, cafés, convenience stores, tour agencies, and accommodations in various price ranges.
Gateway to the Lower Andaman Sea
From Pakbara Pier, travelers can reach:
- Koh Lipe (approx. 1.5–2 hours)
- Tarutao Island (historical and natural heritage site)
- Koh Khai and the Adang–Rawi Islands
This makes it the central hub of Southern Andaman marine tourism.
Traveler Insights
Koh Khai Legend
The 11:15 AM boat schedule often stops at Koh Khai, known for its natural stone arch. Locals believe it is a “love arch,” and couples who walk through it will have a lasting relationship.
Tarutao Stopover
Some boat routes stop at Tarutao Island, where visitors can see an old wooden pier and experience one of the most untouched natural environments in the Andaman Sea.
Boarding Sticker System
Passengers receive a boat company sticker to wear on their chest. It is used for grouping and boarding verification before departure.
Halal Food Zone
Around the pier, there are many halal food options such as Hat Yai fried chicken, roti, and local dishes, ideal for eating before departure since prices on the islands are higher.
Boat Schedule
Outbound: Pakbara → Koh Lipe
- 11:15 AM Speedboat → Tarutao 11:45 → Koh Khai 12:10 → Koh Lipe 12:45
- 12:15 PM Ferry → Koh Lipe 13:45
- 15:00 PM Speedboat → Koh Lipe 16:30
Return: Koh Lipe → Pakbara
- 09:00 AM Speedboat → Tarutao 10:00 → Pakbara 10:30
- 09:30 AM Ferry → Pakbara 11:15
- 13:30 PM Speedboat → Pakbara 15:00
Open daily. Schedules may change depending on weather and seasonal conditions.
How to Get There
- From Hat Yai: Take a minivan from Hat Yai Airport or the main bus terminal (Kaset Market). Travel time is approximately 1.5–2 hours.
- By private car: Take Highway 416 (La-ngu) and then turn onto Highway 4052 heading toward the sea until reaching the pier.
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 1–2 hours before departure
- Peak congestion time is 09:30–11:30 AM
- Prepare 20 THB pier fee + 40 THB national park fee in cash
- Keep your national park ticket throughout the trip
- Book tickets in advance during high season
- Accommodation is available near the pier for early departures
- Check weather conditions between May–October
- The boat company sticker system is essential for boarding
Admission Fee:
- Pier fee approximately 20 THB per person
- Parking fee around 100 THB per night (private parking areas)
Opening Hours:
- Open daily 24 hours
- Ticket counters and main services operate 08:00–17:00