6 Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are a collection of six stunning islands located in the Krabi Province of Thailand.
Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and only inhabited island, known for its bustling nightlife and beautiful beaches.
Koh Phi Phi Lee is famous for its Maya Bay, which gained global fame after being featured in the movie “The Beach.”
Bida Nok and Bida Nai are two small adjacent rocks south of Koh Phi Phi Lee, popular among divers for their vibrant coral gardens.
Koh Yung (Mosquito Island) is another diving hotspot, filled with anemones and fish.
Lastly, Koh Phai (Bamboo Island), is a flat beautiful island with stunning white sand beaches and clear waters perfect for snorkelling.
These islands, with their crystal-clear waters, rich marine life, and vibrant nightlife, offer an unparalleled tropical experience to every visitor.
11 Best things to do in Phi Phi islands
Now that we’ve established a basic understanding of the Phi Phi Islands, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: the best things to do in these tropical paradises.
This section will guide you through a myriad of activities that encapsulate the true essence of the islands. From exploring marine life and indulging in water sports to experiencing the local culture and cuisine, you’ll see why the Phi Phi Islands are a bucket-list destination for travellers around the globe.
1. Maya Bay – The Iconic Beach
One of the top attractions in Phi Phi islands is Maya Bay, a beautiful beach surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters. Made famous by the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, this beach is a must-visit for its picturesque views and serene atmosphere.
The best time to visit Maya Beach is early in the morning before large tourist groups arrive. We took an early bird/sunrise tour, departing at 6 am. First, we stopped at Pileh Bay to witness the sunset over the ocean.
Then, we headed to Maya Bay, which opened at 7 am. We were the first people to step foot on the beach that day, allowing us to enjoy it almost entirely to ourselves for 40 minutes before more people arrived. The beach is absolutely stunning when you are there before everyone else.
We highly recommend looking for a sunrise tour or hiring a private boat to arrive before the opening hours. This way, you can enjoy the beautiful beach without the crowds. That’s why it’s better to stay for at least one night on Phi Phi island instead of taking a day tour from Krabi or Phuket.
2. Snorkelling – Dive into the Marine World
Phi Phi islands are known for their rich marine life, making them a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. The waters here are home to colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even species like black-tip reef sharks and stingrays. You can rent snorkelling gear from the beach or join a tour that will take you to some of the best spots for underwater exploration.
Many Maya Bay tours offer snorkelling as part of their package. Snorkelling at Maya Bay itself is not allowed, but they will take you to other stunning spots where you can admire beautiful corals and fish. During our trip, we were surrounded by many colourful fish that showed no fear towards us.
3. Swim at the Pileh Lagoon
Pileh Lagoon, also known as Emerald Lagoon, is a hidden gem located near Pileh Bay. This natural swimming pool is surrounded by towering cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The only way to reach it is by boat or kayak, making it a peaceful and secluded spot.
During our visit, we jumped off the boat and swam in the refreshing lagoon while taking in the stunning views. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
Most tours to Maya Bay also visit Pileh Lagoon as part of their itinerary.
4. Stop by Viking Cave
Located on the eastern side of Phi Phi Leh, Viking Cave is a unique cave with ancient paintings and drawings on its walls. It is believed that the cave was once used by sailors as a shelter during storms. Today, it is home to swiftlet birds whose nests are highly valued for their use in bird’s nest soup.
While tourists are not allowed to enter the actual cave, boats stop by the entrance for a quick photo opportunity. It’s an interesting and mysterious sight to see while exploring the island.
We made a stop here during our Maya Bay tour, and I think it’s included in many Maya Bay tours as well.
5. Join a football game with locals at the beach during sunset
One unique experience is joining in on a football game with locals and other tourists at the Loh Dalum beach during sunset. It’s a great way to interact with the friendly locals and immerse yourself in their culture.
The games usually start around 5 pm and continue until sunset. It’s a fun and casual atmosphere, with players of all ages and skill levels joining in. So bring your competitive spirit and join in on the fun!
6. Watch a fire show at the beach
As the sun sets, another popular activity on Phi Phi island is watching a fire show at the Loh Dalum beach. Local performers put on an impressive show with firesticks and other props, creating a mesmerizing display of light and movement.
You can find these shows at various locations along the beach, and they usually start around 8 pm. It’s a great way to end the day and relax after a day of exploring. Just remember to keep a safe distance from the performers and never attempt to join in on their act.
7. Explore the island by kayak
For those looking for a more adventurous way to explore Phi Phi island, renting a kayak is highly recommended. You can rent one at several locations along the beach and venture out to some of the hidden coves and lagoons around the island.
Paddle through crystal clear waters, surrounded by lush green cliffs and stunning scenery. You can stop at some of the small beaches along the way for a quick break or a refreshing swim.
8. Discover the vibrant Tonsai village market
Tonsai village is the main hub of Phi Phi Island, and its bustling market is a must-visit for any traveller. Here you can find a variety of local goods, from fresh fruits and vegetables to handicrafts and souvenirs.
The market also offers a wide range of delicious street food options, making it the perfect place to grab a quick bite or try some traditional Thai dishes. The lively atmosphere and friendly locals make it an enjoyable experience for all.
9. Visit Bamboo Islands
Bamboo Islands, also known as Koh Phai, are a group of small islands located just north of Phi Phi Don. These islands are relatively untouched and offer a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist crowds. The beaches here are pristine with crystal clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
To get to the Bamboo Islands, you can hire a longtail boat from Phi Phi Don or join a tour that includes a visit to these hidden gems. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and once you arrive, you can relax on the beach, take a dip in the sea or explore the charming island.
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit the Bamboo Islands, but it seems like an amazing place to spend a day. We’ll definitely make sure to go there next time.
10. Monkey Beach
For a unique and unforgettable experience, make sure to visit Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don island. As the name suggests, this beach is home to a large population of wild monkeys who are not afraid to interact with humans. You can feed them fruits and take photos with them, but be sure to follow the rules and guidelines to ensure the safety and well-being of both you and the monkeys.
We went past the monkey beach, but unfortunately, there were no monkeys at that time. So, seeing monkeys there is not guaranteed.
11. Hiking to the viewpoint on Phi Phi Island
One of the best ways to enjoy the stunning scenery of Phi Phi Island is by hiking up to the viewpoint.
Unfortunately, we couldn’t make it due to rain during sunset on our second day. However, we’ve heard it’s truly breathtaking and have seen some photos from the top. The hike usually takes around 20-40 minutes, depending on your fitness level.
If you have the time and the weather is good, it’s definitely worth checking out for the beautiful views.
Where to stay in Phi Phi islands?
There are various accommodation options available in Phi Phi islands, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some popular areas to stay in:
Tonsai Village
Tonsai Village is the main village on Phi Phi Don island, where most of the shops, restaurants, and bars are located. It’s a convenient spot for exploring the island and has a variety of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
If you’re only staying for one or two nights in Phi Phi Islands, we recommend staying in Tonsai Village. It has a great selection of restaurants and services, and it’s convenient for getting on the ferry and exploring the islands.
Loh Dalum Bay
Loh Dalum Bay is within walking distance of Tonsai village. It is a popular area for backpackers, with more affordable accommodation options and a vibrant nightlife. Additionally, it is in close proximity to the party beach of Phi Phi, making it an ideal location for those seeking a lively atmosphere with many beach bars.
Long Beach
For a quieter and more secluded stay, Long Beach is a great option. It’s located on the southern side of Phi Phi Don island and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea. This area has limited accommodation options but is perfect for those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Laem Tong Beach
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, then Laem Tong Beach is the place to be. It’s a private and secluded beach with only a handful of high-end resorts. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views make it the perfect spot for couples or anyone seeking some relaxation.
Keep in mind that a water taxi is required to reach the main town or the pier.
Where to eat in Phi Phi islands?
Phi Phi Islands offer a wide array of food options, from local Thai dishes to international cuisine. Tonsai Village has the most variety when it comes to dining options, with numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood and other specialities.
For a budget-friendly option, head to the night market in Tonsai Village where you can find an assortment of delicious street food at affordable prices.
When should I visit Phi Phi islands?
Phi Phi islands can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is between November and April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, perfect for enjoying water activities such as snorkelling or diving. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
If you prefer a quieter experience with lower accommodation rates, consider visiting between May and October. Although the weather may be more unpredictable with occasional rain showers, you can still enjoy beautiful sunny days in between. Plus, the island is less crowded during this time.
We visited during the rainy season in June. Overall, it was a good trip with some sunny hours. However, our plans were affected by heavy rain on the second day afternoon of our stay, which prevented us from doing everything we wanted.
How many days do you need in Phi Phi island?
The length of your stay in Phi Phi islands will depend on your travel preferences and itinerary. If you’re planning to do many activities such as hiking, water sports, and exploring different beaches, then it’s recommended to stay for at least 3-4 days.
We stayed for only 2 nights, which was great. It allowed us to explore the main island and take a Maya Bay tour that included snorkelling and visiting other spots too. However, we didn’t have enough time to explore everything we wanted, so it would have been better to have 2 or 3 extra nights.
If you want to relax and explore various tours and activities, you could easily spend 1-2 weeks there.
How to get to Phi Phi islands?
There are a few ways to get to Phi Phi islands, depending on your starting point and budget.
Phi Phi island does not have an airport. To reach Phi Phi island, you can fly to Phuket or Krabi from Bangkok or other destinations and then continue your journey from there. Another budget-friendly option is to take a bus from Bangkok to Phuket or Krabi.
By ferry from Phuket or Krabi
The most popular option is to take a ferry from either Phuket or Krabi. Both have international airports, making it convenient for travellers coming from different countries. The journey takes around 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea.
By speedboat from Phuket or Krabi
If you want to get to Phi Phi islands faster, you can also take a speedboat from Phuket or Krabi. This option is more expensive but will only take around 45 minutes to an hour.
Take a Phi Phi Island day tour from either Krabi or Phuket
You can easily take a day trip to Phi Phi islands from Krabi or Phuket.
If you’re short on time or already have accommodation booked in Krabi or Phuket, this is a good option to explore Phi Phi islands.
However, we highly recommend staying at least one night on Phi Phi island.
Are Phi Phi Islands worth visiting?
Absolutely! Phi Phi islands are a must-visit destination in Thailand. With its crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches, and stunning limestone cliffs, it’s no surprise that the islands have become so popular among tourists.
While it is a popular tourist spot, there are still places where you can escape the crowds. If you wake up early, you can even visit Maya Bay before large groups arrive and experience the breathtaking beauty of the beach.
Moreover, Phi Phi islands offer a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. You can spend your days lounging on the beach or exploring the surrounding islands through various water activities such as snorkelling, diving, and kayaking.
