Destinations

Phi Phi Islands are one of Thailand's most famous and picturesque island groups, located in the Andaman Sea, about 45 minutes to an hour by boat from the coastal town of Krabi or Phuket. The islands are known for their dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning beaches, making them a top destination for both relaxation and adventure.

The Phi Phi Islands:

The Phi Phi Islands are part of the Phi Phi Islands National Park and consist of six main islands. The two largest and most popular islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh.

1. Phi Phi Don:

   • Phi Phi Don is the largest island and the only one that is inhabited. It is known for its lively atmosphere, with a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. The island also has restaurants, bars, shops, and an active nightlife scene, particularly around Ton Sai Bay.
   • The island is surrounded by stunning beaches, clear waters, and cliffs, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. It is also the main hub for tours to other nearby islands, including Phi Phi Leh and Bamboo Island.
   • Viking Cave, located on the eastern coast of Phi Phi Leh, is another key attraction on Phi Phi Don. This cave is famous for its ancient wall paintings and bird's nest harvesting, which is a traditional practice in the region.

2. Phi Phi Leh:

   • Phi Phi Leh is the smaller, uninhabited island and is famous for its stunning natural beauty. It is home to the world-famous Maya Bay, which gained international fame as the filming location for the movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Maya Bay is known for its pristine white sand, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs that rise steeply from the sea.
   • While Maya Bay was temporarily closed to tourists to allow for environmental recovery, it is scheduled to open again with stricter regulations to help preserve the fragile ecosystem.
   • Other popular spots on Phi Phi Leh include Pileh Lagoon, a turquoise lagoon surrounded by towering cliffs, and Loh Samah Bay, which is ideal for snorkeling and kayaking.

3. Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai):

   • Bamboo Island is a small island located about 5 kilometers from Phi Phi Don. It’s a serene and beautiful spot, famous for its white sandy beaches and clear waters. The island is ideal for relaxing, swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.
   • The shallow waters around Bamboo Island are great for snorkeling, where visitors can explore the coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and colorful corals.

4. Monkey Beach:

   • Located on Phi Phi Don, Monkey Beach is a popular destination for visitors who want to interact with the local macaque monkeys that inhabit the beach. The monkeys are accustomed to human presence, but visitors should exercise caution and avoid feeding them.
   • The beach itself is a beautiful spot, with clear water, making it a good place to swim and relax while enjoying the scenic views.

5. Pileh Lagoon:

   • Pileh Lagoon is one of the most stunning locations in Phi Phi Leh, offering calm, crystal-clear water surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. The lagoon is accessible by boat, and visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or simply taking in the breathtaking views.
   • It’s a peaceful and serene place, far removed from the crowds that can sometimes gather on other parts of the islands.

6. Loh Samah Bay:

   • Another gem in Phi Phi Leh, Loh Samah Bay is a quiet cove with clear waters and a coral reef. The bay is perfect for kayaking and snorkeling, and it is often included in boat tours around the Phi Phi Islands.

7. Hin Klang:

   • Hin Klang is a popular dive site between Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The underwater environment is teeming with marine life, including schools of tropical fish, reef sharks, and vibrant coral gardens. It’s a must-visit for diving enthusiasts.

Activities on Phi Phi Islands:

1. Snorkeling and Diving:

   • The Phi Phi Islands are renowned for their vibrant coral reefs and clear waters, making them ideal for both snorkeling and scuba diving. There are many dive shops on Phi Phi Don that offer guided tours and equipment rental. Popular dive sites around the islands include Hin Klang, Shark Point, and Koh Bida Nok, where divers can spot an array of marine life, including reef sharks, turtles, and colorful fish.

2. Kayaking:

   • Kayaking is a great way to explore the islands, especially in places like Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay, where you can paddle through crystal-clear waters and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Some tours also offer kayaking trips through caves and lagoons.

3. Boat Tours:

   • A boat tour around the Phi Phi Islands is one of the best ways to see the highlights, including Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Pileh Lagoon. There are numerous tour options available, from long-tail boats to speedboats, and many include activities like snorkeling and beach visits.

4. Hiking and Viewpoints:

   • Phi Phi Don has several excellent viewpoints that offer panoramic views of the islands. The most popular viewpoint is located near the center of the island, offering a stunning view of Ton Sai Bay and the surrounding islands. The hike to the viewpoint is a bit strenuous, but the views are well worth it.
   • A shorter and easier hike takes you to Loh Dalum Bay, where you can relax by the beach after a day of sightseeing.

5. Nightlife:

   • While Phi Phi is known for its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, it also offers a lively nightlife scene, particularly on Ton Sai Bay in Phi Phi Don. Visitors can enjoy beach parties, fire shows, and live music at the various bars and restaurants along the bay.

Best Time to Visit:

• The best time to visit the Phi Phi Islands is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is sunny and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, swimming, and boat tours.
• May to October is the monsoon season, and while it’s less crowded and accommodation prices are lower, there can be occasional rain and rough seas, making it less ideal for water-based activities.

Getting to the Phi Phi Islands:

• By Ferry: The most common way to reach Phi Phi Islands is by ferry, which departs from Krabi (approximately 1.5 hours) or Phuket (about 2 hours). Ferries are frequent and affordable.
• By Speedboat: For a quicker and more private option, speedboat tours are available from both Krabi and Phuket. Speedboats can reach Phi Phi in under an hour and often offer guided tours that include stops for snorkeling and sightseeing.

Tips for Visiting Phi Phi Islands:

• Pack Light: Since Phi Phi Islands are quite small, it’s best to pack light. There are no cars on the islands, so getting around is usually done on foot or by boat.
• Respect the Environment: The Phi Phi Islands are a protected area, and it’s important to respect the natural environment. Avoid touching or stepping on coral, and refrain from disturbing wildlife, including the monkeys on Monkey Beach.
• Avoid Peak Season Crowds: While the Phi Phi Islands are always beautiful, they can get very crowded during peak tourist season, particularly from December to January. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (November and February).

Phi Phi Islands Summary:

The Phi Phi Islands are a tropical paradise, offering stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable landscapes. Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore underwater ecosystems, enjoy water sports, or soak in the local nightlife, Phi Phi has something for everyone. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience one of Thailand’s most beautiful island groups.