Ultimate Travel Guide to Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Koh Phi Phi Island Overview

Koh Phi Phi is a picturesque destination in Thailand, characterized by its limestone hills, clear turquoise lagoons, and the iconic beach at Maya Bay.

The islands consist of two primary locations: Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don, both offering breathtaking scenery. Phi Phi Leh is completely uninhabited, while Phi Phi Don features hotels, restaurants, and various amenities.

Visiting the Phi Phi islands can be a convenient day trip (via boat) from nearby areas such as Phuket, Krabi, Khao Lak, or Koh Lanta. This provides sufficient time to explore Maya Bay along with other significant attractions, or opt for a longer stay on Phi Phi Don to delve deeper into the islands.

This travel guide outlines how to access Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi (and other locations), key attractions and activities, recommended tour packages, accommodation options on Phi Phi island, and essential information to enhance your visit!

Day Tours for Phi Phi Island

For those with time constraints or wishing to avoid the complexities of arranging a personal visit to Phi Phi island, GetYourGuide offers organized day trips to Phi Phi from Phuket, as well as similar options from Krabi and Khao Lak, which include hotel transfers, boat tickets, island tours, lunch, and same-day return.

These tours cover the prime attractions within the Koh Phi Phi islands, including Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Bay. Options for private tours or semi-private tours are available for those who prefer a more exclusive experience, although these may have a higher cost unless shared with companions.

Where Is Phi Phi Island?

The Phi Phi islands (pronounced ‘Pee-Pee’) are situated in the Andaman Sea of Thailand, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) southeast of Phuket and similarly distant from Krabi.

The archipelago comprises six islands, with the two main ones being Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don, both classified under the Krabi province.

Phi Phi Don is the sole inhabited island, offering a variety of accommodations, dining options, and necessary services for visitors.

How To Get To Phi Phi Island In Thailand

Access to the Phi Phi islands is exclusively by boat from Phuket or Krabi, utilizing either a ferry or a speedboat.

There is no airport on Koh Phi Phi; the nearest airports are the international airports in Phuket (HKT) and Krabi (KBV), both offering economical flights from Bangkok. You can search for flights to Thailand on Skyscanner.

Numerous boat companies operate daily services to Phi Phi from either Phuket or Krabi, generally providing hotel pickup and drop-off. Additionally, day trips can be arranged from Koh Lanta or as far as Khao Lak Thailand.

The slow ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi Don takes about 2 hours, while the fast ferry (speedboat) requires only half that time. For those departing from Krabi, the travel duration to Phi Phi is approximately 30 minutes less.

These journeys deliver you directly to Phi Phi Don. Upon arrival, if you wish to explore Phi Phi Leh and other surrounding islands, it is advisable to arrange a longtail boat ride. This can typically be organized at Ton Sai Beach on Phi Phi Don with relative simplicity.

Alternatively, you may choose to join a day tour to Phi Phi via speedboat through a tour company based in Phuket or Krabi. Both shared and private tours are available, visiting most significant attractions within a single day. This option is suitable for those on limited time or preferring to bypass potential complications.

Visiting Phi Phi Island – Tourist Fees

Upon arrival at the Phi Phi islands, two tourist fees must be acknowledged.

On Phi Phi Don, a cash fee of 20 baht per individual is collected upon landing at the harbor. This one-time fee supports daily waste management across the islands.

In national park areas, a fee of 200 baht per person (~$6 USD) is required when disembarking at either Maya Bay or Bamboo Island (Koh Phai). This fee is assessed each time one visits these locations.

Some Phi Phi tours may encapsulate these fees within their overall pricing, yet typically, they are paid separately in cash upon exiting the vessel.

Transport: How To Get Around The Phi Phi Islands

Within the Phi Phi islands, vehicles and motorbike rentals are nonexistent, making them unnecessary; Phi Phi Don is small enough that walking is entirely feasible. Bicycles can also be rented.

Longtail boats can be hired in Phi Phi Don for transport to nearby islands such as Phi Phi Leh and Bamboo Island. These arrangements can be scheduled online or organized in person at Tonsai harbor upon arrival.

Though longtail boats are compact, they accommodate up to 8 passengers, allowing for cost-sharing with friends or fellow travelers.

Another alternative is kayaking around Ko Phi Phi Don. This is more budget-friendly than renting a boat and facilitates access to secluded beaches such as Nui Bay and Monkey Beach.

Phi Phi Island Hotels

Best Things To Do In Phi Phi Island

• Maya Bay

The pristine white sand beach at Maya Bay stands as one of Thailand’s most renowned and picturesque locations, essentially kick-starting tourism within the Koh Phi Phi islands. Today, it remains one of the world’s most acclaimed beaches!

The beach is encircled by towering limestone cliffs, boasting crystal-clear turquoise waters where young sharks can be spotted, along with brilliantly white sand. Every element connotes a picture-perfect paradise!

However, the allure of Maya Bay has drawn large numbers of tourists, akin to any globally celebrated site. Nevertheless, with careful planning, it’s still possible to appreciate the beach with fewer crowds.

Located on Phi Phi Leh island, access requires docking a boat at Loh Samay Bay (the island’s rear), followed by a brief, straightforward walk through the jungle to reach the beach. The path is flat and lasts about 5 minutes.

Previously, boats were able to dock directly on the beach; however, such practices have ceased. The Thai government has invested extensive time and resources into conservation initiatives, meaning visitors now walk from the rear of the island to access the beach.

This modification is beneficial, maintaining a clear bay absent of vessels, despite the nostalgia for those immaculate postcard captures of Thai longtail boats on Maya Bay’s shore.

It’s also significant to note that Maya Bay frequently closes for conservation periods, usually at least two months each year during the rainy season.

Specifically, in 2022, 2023, and 2024, Maya Bay was closed to visitors for two months (August and September) during the off-peak season, re-opening on October 1, 2024.

Visitors to Maya Bay will find a small shop offering snacks and beverages, along with restrooms situated near the path leading to the beach.

Measuring about 250 meters in length, the main beach also features a shallow cave at the far end, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

For those seeking solitude amid the throngs, the far end of the beach typically experiences fewer visitors.

Most tours of Koh Phi Phi provide approximately 1 hour at Maya Bay, allowing ample time to explore the beach, capture pictures, and wade in the water (swimming is currently prohibited at Maya Bay).

It is worth noting that the beach remains remarkably clean, with little to no trash in sight, despite occasional daily visitor numbers reaching as high as 5,000! Park rangers are diligent in their maintenance efforts.

Ultimately, Maya Bay offers an extraordinary experience, ranking among our favorite beaches worldwide!

• Pileh Lagoon

This stunning turquoise lagoon, surrounded by monumental rock walls, represents one of the most remarkable sights on Phi Phi island in Thailand.

Accessible exclusively via boat, the lagoon is typically included in most Koh Phi Phi tour itineraries, with smaller vessels able to enter and navigate the lagoon, providing close-up views of the astonishing limestone formations.

The lagoon’s beauty is as captivating as it appears in photographs, and we may have found this location even more appealing than Maya Bay!

Upon reaching the lagoon’s depth, boat operators often cut their engines, granting guests a serene experience within this natural marvel.

It serves as a favored swimming and snorkeling destination on Koh Phi Phi Leh due to the exceptionally clear and shallow waters, where a variety of fish species can occasionally be spotted, despite the absence of coral.

Arriving at Pileh early can result in a more peaceful experience, devoid of excessive crowds. It tends to become busier during late morning and early afternoon; nonetheless, the lighting conditions for photography improve during this period as shadows become less predominant.

This location is a must-visit during your time in Phi Phi island!

• Phi Phi Viewpoint

The Phi Phi viewpoint offers a brief hike on Phi Phi Don island, showcasing spectacular views of the town and much of the island, with Phi Phi Leh discernible in the background.

Three distinct viewpoints exist at varying heights along the hill, although viewpoints #2 and #3 are the most noteworthy due to their elevated perspectives, unobstructed by any trees.

Viewpoint #2 boasts expansive panoramic vistas of the island and the entire town, featuring a charming wooden platform and flat rocks suitable for photography. It was arguably our preferred vista.

Meanwhile, Viewpoint #3 offers even higher perspectives since it’s located at the peak of the hill, resembling a tree house with picnic tables and a hammock.

This tranquil environment would undoubtedly make an ideal sunset-watching spot.

Reaching Viewpoint #2 involves around 20 minutes of uphill walking (predominantly on stairs), commencing from the central area of Phi Phi Don island, followed by an additional 10-15 minutes to arrive at Viewpoint #3.

There is a minor entrance fee for viewpoints #1 and #2, as well as an additional fee for Viewpoint #3. In total, we paid 50 baht per person (~$1.50). All viewpoints offer worthwhile experiences!

• Bamboo Island (Koh Phai)

Bamboo Island is a small, flat island located northeast of Phi Phi Don, featuring fewer visitors and a lovely sandy beach that predominates the landscape.

Many tour itineraries for Phi Phi incorporate this island; however, it rarely feels overly congested, and if you wander around the island’s edges, you might find secluded areas for yourself.

Similar to Maya Bay, Bamboo Island is part of the Koh Phi Phi national park, necessitating the payment of a park entry fee to land and stroll around the beach.

The heart of the island is adorned with trees, including bamboo shoots that lend their name to the island, providing a respite from the sun when not enjoying the water.

All in all, Bamboo Island is a superb choice for swimming and sunbathing without the bustling crowds typically found at Maya Bay!

• Monkey Bay

Monkey Bay, situated on Phi Phi Don island, is a delightful beach ideal for viewing wild monkeys. The area is populated by numerous long-tailed macaques, often showcasing baby monkeys.

While the monkeys can be amusing for photographs, they may display aggressive behavior if provoked; hence, caution is advised, particularly concerning food items. Additionally, they have been known to pilfer small belongings, such as glasses, so vigilance is necessary!

Visiting the beach during low tide enables better visibility of monkeys as many gather on the shore. During high tide, the beach becomes submerged, prompting monkeys to retreat to the rocks.

• Monkey Beach

Not to be confused with Monkey Bay, Monkey Beach is located on the opposite side of Phi Phi Don island. It features occasional monkeys, but is a larger beach offering ample space for exploration.

The primary allure of Monkey Beach lies in its exquisite scenery, showcasing soft sands set against a backdrop of lush, limestone peaks.

This represents one of the most breathtaking locations in Koh Phi Phi Thailand, reachable by boat or kayak from Loh Dalum Beach. Just be sure to stay alert regarding the monkeys, as they possess a knack for being mischievous.

• Nui Bay

Nui Bay is a concealed gem on Phi Phi Don island, featuring a tranquil beach contrasted by impressive limestone cliffs.

Access to Nui Bay can be achieved by land or sea. Typically, visitors rent a kayak or boat from Loh Dalum Beach, a common means of arriving. Kayaking usually takes roughly 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.

Alternatively, it is feasible to reach Nui Bay via a hike starting from the Phi Phi viewpoint. This hike takes about 1 hour, so it’s advisable to bring sufficient water and mosquito repellent.

For an optimal experience, arriving at Nui Bay early in the morning (around 8 AM) often means you can enjoy an uninterrupted visit until tour boats start arriving later in the morning!

Map Of Phi Phi Island

Below is a map of Phi Phi island, which serves as a useful tool for planning your journey. Clicking on the markers provides additional details about each point of interest; however, bear in mind that some locations on the map may be estimated.

For detailed insights concerning specific locations on this map, feel free to consult individual travel guides pertinent to each area.

Best Beaches In Phi Phi Island

There is no shortage of beaches within the Phi Phi islands, yet Maya Bay unquestionably stands out as the top contender for breathtaking views.

Other remarkable beaches known for excellent swimming include those at Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Nui Bay. For sunset watching, consider Long Beach.

If tranquility is your preference, excellent beach options equipped with nearby hotels on Phi Phi Don include Long Beach, Loh Moo Dee Beach, and Loh Ba Kao Bay. Each provides pristine white sands with hotels conveniently nearby, with Long Beach being particularly favored for sunset views.

What To Bring

Here are several recommendations for items to take for your trip to Koh Phi Phi.

Most of the items listed below can be sourced on Phi Phi Don if required; however, the quality of streetside purchases cannot be guaranteed (personally, utilizing a subpar bag from a street vendor to safeguard my expensive camera equipment is not advisable).

It is recommended to procure reliable products online!

• Waterproof Bag: Essential for securing your electronics while boating around Phi Phi island. I used a 30-liter bag to accommodate my drone, tablet, camera, phone, and various other items. Everything remained dry, even after swimming with the bag!
• Waterproof Phone Pouch: Designed specifically for your phone. Excellent for those with fewer electronics who seek to protect their phone alone.
• Snorkeling Gear: Ideal for exploring the crystal-clear waters around Koh Phi Phi. While snorkels and masks can be borrowed or rented from boat companies, someone planning to spend an extended period on the island or engaging in multiple tours may find bringing personal gear more advantageous.
• Water Shoes: Useful if you need to traverse rocks while snorkeling.
• Sunscreen: Adequate shading exists on speedboats and longtail boats, although one can still get sunburnt during swimming or beach outings. Bring a hat and sunscreen for your boat excursions.
• Snacks & Drinks: It’s advisable to pack some snacks and beverages for the boat when touring the islands. They can be carried from Phuket or Krabi, or you’ll discover numerous economical snack and beverage stalls in Ko Phi Phi Don near the harbor.

Can You Fly A Drone At The Phi Phi Islands?

The regulations on drone usage are somewhat relaxed in Thailand; thus, flying drones is generally permissible in the majority of the islands, but it’s prohibited within national parks.

This includes Ko Phi Phi Leh and Bamboo Island, which are closely monitored by park rangers who may impose fines if drones are flown. The enforcement is particularly rigorous at Maya Bay, with rangers constantly supervising all areas of the beach.

Nonetheless, if one is discreet, launching from other sites remains a feasible option. For instance, parking your boat at Pileh Lagoon or Viking Cave offers opportunities for drone takeoff without disturbance unless a ranger boat happens to pass by.

No restrictions apply regarding drone usage over Phi Phi Don island; you can freely operate drones on Phi Phi Don provided you remain considerate and avoid disturbing others.

Other Tips For Phi Phi Island

• Credit Cards: While some venues accept cards, many do not. The majority of restaurants prefer cash transactions, although some higher-end establishments do accept cards. Utilize cards for larger expenditures such as hotels and tours, reserving cash for smaller purchases, especially local street food.
• ATM: Multiple ATMs are prevalent throughout Phi Phi Don island. We utilized Krungsri ATMs across various locations without issues. The withdrawal fee hovered around 220 baht, with robust cash withdrawal limits.
• Cell Service: Strong phone reception is available on Phi Phi Don; however, signal may diminish while navigating Phi Phi Leh island (including Maya Bay) due to the steep mountainous terrain.
• WiFi: Internet connectivity is on the rise, with numerous hotels and restaurants in Phi Phi Don now providing satisfactory WiFi. While internet quality may not rival that of Phuket, it typically suffices for emails, browsing, and streaming.
• Electricity: Power supply is mostly reliable. During the rainy season, we did experience a few instances of power outages post-storm, but these were resolved promptly.

• Convenience Stores: Numerous small mini-marts on Phi Phi Don sell affordable snacks, drinks, toiletries, sunscreen, and other essentials. However, their selection will be considerably less than what’s available in larger shopping areas such as Phuket.
• Hygiene: We indulged in countless inexpensive Thai street food options without experiencing stomach issues. Remember, do not consume tap water; only rely on bottled water for drinking and oral hygiene.
• Language: English comprehension among locals in Koh Phi Phi is limited, akin to Phuket. Communication surrounding hotels, eateries, and tours is still manageable.
• Religion: The majority of residents in Phi Phi Don identify as Muslim (over 80 percent). This cultural dynamic has led to a significant presence of cats rather than dogs on the island. Visitors will encounter only one mosque, which remains quiet at night.
• Mosquitoes: Our visit to the Koh Phi Phi islands yielded only a few mosquitoes around Monkey Bay. Although Dengue Fever cases have been reported, it shouldn’t be a primary concern. Bug repellent is procurable in Phuket, Krabi, or Phi Phi Don if necessary. Malaria is not present in the region.

Best Restaurants In Phi Phi Don

Despite its small size, Phi Phi Don offers an array of exceptional dining options, representing various culinary styles such as Thai, European, and Asian cuisines.

Below are several of our top restaurant recommendations:

• ACQUA: Likely the finest restaurant on Phi Phi Don, albeit it leans towards the pricier side. A diverse menu encompasses Thai and European cuisine, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Mango Garden: This air-conditioned cafe was among the first dining venues we experienced. The menu is dedicated to mango sticky rice, offering a delightful option for breakfast or a snack while awaiting the ferry. Free WiFi and ample power outlets are additional perks.
• JaJa Cafe & Spice: Known for outstanding pancakes and acai smoothie bowls!
• Anna’s Restaurant: This establishment serves a combination of European and Thai dishes, featuring a good selection and reasonable prices. Pineapple fried rice is worth trying.
• 23° Roasters Cafe: A relatively new cafe offering delicious cakes and pastries. Comfortable indoor seating and rapid WiFi enhance the experience.
• Papaya Restaurant: Offers Indian and Thai cuisine located outside the main street in PP island.
• Garlic 1992: Sells delightful Thai food in a humble setting, celebrating continuous operation since 1992.

Phi Phi island boasts numerous fantastic restaurant options (© ACQUA)

It’s essential to note that this is not a comprehensive representation of all quality dining establishments within Phi Phi Don. A little exploration will undoubtedly lead to the discovery of other culinary treasures.

Moreover, don’t overlook the charming Thai street food vendors and small family-run eateries, such as Only Noodles. These offer inexpensive yet exemplary meals, and we found ourselves dining at these spots nearly every day during our visit to Phi Phi island!

Additionally, for those craving Western food, there are even McDonald’s and Burger King locations near the harbor entrance at Ton Sai beach.

Is Koh Phi Phi Safe?

Yes, Phi Phi island is regarded as a generally secure destination in Thailand.

We thoroughly enjoyed our extended stay in Phi Phi Don, navigating the entire town without ever feeling unsafe. By exercising standard precautions, one should encounter no issues concerning crime.

Interestingly, we found the locals to be more welcoming in Phi Phi compared to our experiences in Phuket or Krabi.

Best Time To Visit

The optimal time to explore the Phi Phi islands is contingent upon your preferences.

From November to April, the Andaman Sea (including the Phi Phi region) typically experiences pleasant weather, marked by dryer conditions, abundant sunshine, and suitable sea conditions for boating adventures. However, this timeframe coincides with peak tourist season, leading to larger crowds and higher chances of full bookings at hotels in Phi Phi Don.

In contrast, the period between May and October is characterized by more rainy days and frequent evening storms. That said, tourist numbers diminish during these months, and visitors can still have an enjoyable experience, provided their schedules are adaptable.

If planning to visit during the rainy season, it is wise to allocate a few extra days in case unfavorable weather results in canceled boat trips for a day or two.

Ferry operations are seldom canceled, even during the rainy season, although smaller longtail boats may be temporarily sidelined during severe weather, so it’s an important consideration.

You may check wave size forecasts on Wisuki and current weather updates on the website of the Thai Meteorological Department.

We did encounter substantial storms during the rainy season, though they primarily occurred during the evening hours when we were back at our accommodations, so it wasn’t problematic. Most images within this Phi Phi travel guide were captured in July amidst the rainy season.

Experiences from both the dry and rainy seasons were equally enjoyable; our time spent in Koh Phi Phi was exceptional, with weeks of mostly excellent weather!

Are The Phi Phi Islands Worth It?

Without a doubt, the Phi Phi islands are well worth the journey! The stunning scenery and reasonable pricing make it an appealing destination.

I would argue it’s the best place to visit in Thailand and ranks among the finest locations in Southeast Asia. Although the crowds can be bothersome, the attractions such as Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon are among the world’s finest.

Phi Phi Or James Bond Island: Which Is Better?

A pertinent question emerges: which destination is superior, Phi Phi or James Bond Island?

Both locales offer distinct experiences, yet Phi Phi island surpasses the latter in terms of scenic beauty. While James Bond island is exceptional, Phi Phi boasts outstanding scenery, both above and below the water, as well as clarity that invites a diverse array of marine life for snorkeling or diving.

Overall, Phi Phi provides a broader range of attractions and activities. Even without the desire to snorkel, it’s challenging to contend with the allure of Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and other breathtaking sites across the Phi Phi islands — these treasures are genuinely unparalleled.

Don’t misinterpret my sentiments; Phang Nga Bay remains spectacular, and if you have the opportunity, visit James Bond island! Ideally, aim to experience both Phi Phi and James Bond, although given their opposing geographical positions relative to Phuket (south versus north), it’s impractical to explore both in a single day. However, adequately spaced itineraries can make witnessing both feasible in two days!

Read More: James Bond Island

How Long To Stay

One can experience the prominent highlights of the Koh Phi Phi islands within a full-day tour, incorporating visits to Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Bamboo Island, and more. This is true for travelers initiating their journey from either Phuket or Krabi, as opposed to staying overnight on Phi Phi Don.

Nevertheless, committing to a few days on the Phi Phi islands allows ample time for appreciation of the scenery and exploring additional attractions, such as the Phi Phi viewpoint and the numerous secluded beaches found on Phi Phi Don. This extended duration additionally offers contingency in case of inclement weather conditions.

Our time on Koh Phi Phi was immensely enjoyable. If feasible, I recommend prolonging your stay beyond a simple one-day excursion from Phuket or Krabi.

Where To Stay In Phi Phi Island

P2 Wood Loft

Zeavola Resort

SAii Island Village

Phi Phi Natural Resort

Phuket Hotels

3-Day Sample Itinerary

Below is an outline of a potential 3-day itinerary for the Phi Phi islands, presuming you are staying on Phi Phi Don and exploring the entirety of the islands:

• Day 1: Phi Phi Don. Arrive in the Phi Phi islands from Phuket or Krabi. Check in to your accommodation and settle in. Embark on a hike to the Phi Phi viewpoint to relish the views for a while, then proceed to Loh Dalum Beach, where options exist for a boat or kayak trip to Nui Bay and Monkey Beach.
• Day 2: Phi Phi Leh. Arrange a longtail boat excursion to Phi Phi Leh island. Spend time at the famous Maya Bay beach, followed by a visit to Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave. If time permits, consider stopping at Monkey Bay before returning to town.
• Day 3: Miscellaneous. Head out to Bamboo Island for a few hours of swimming and sunbathing. Afterward, return to Phi Phi Don to explore the town and various beaches before departing back to Phuket or Krabi.

I hope this itinerary provides you with inspiration for your trip to Phi Phi island! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.

More Thailand Travel Guides

Thank you for reading! I trust you found this travel guide for Koh Phi Phi island beneficial.

Make sure to examine my comprehensive Thailand travel guide for further insights regarding Phuket, Krabi, Koh Tao, and the other remarkable Thai islands.

Wishing you happy travels!