The Phi Phi Islands (pronounced “Pee-Pee”), a group of six islands, are situated in the Andaman Sea of Southern Thailand. I had the pleasure of exploring these islands during my Thailand adventure and was left feeling like I had discovered a slice of paradise – in places.
The two main islands are Ko Phi Phi Don and Ko Phi Phi Leh, with Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited island. Ko Phi Phi was largely destroyed in 2004 during the tsunami but has since been rebuilt and recovered.
The islands offer a tropical paradise with white sandy beaches and bright turquoise water, as well as a diverse culture. You’ll find characteristic limestone rock formations and an abundance of marine wildlife. It’s a postcard-perfect destination – or at least it would be if it weren’t for all the tourists.
It's important to note that Phi Phi Don is very over-developed and has become a party hotspot. This may not be for everyone, but there are some more luxury resorts to be found as well. In this guide, I will share my personal favourites.
The Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands in Southern Thailand. They are situated in the Andaman Sea, 45km southeast of Phuket and 40km southwest of Krabi. The Phi Phi Islands are part of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park.
There are two main ways to get to the Phi Phi Islands: by speedboat or by ferry from Phuket or Krabi. I travelled from Krabi.
Ferry journeys to the Phi Phi Islands take approximately two hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi or Koh Lanta.
All-inclusive tours are another excellent option, providing travel coverage from Phuket to Phi Phi. A personalized Phi Phi Islands tour is an ideal way to experience the destination at your own pace and how I explored the area.
Phi Phi is a year-round destination, with the best time to visit depending on your weather and budget preferences.
The peak season lasts from November to April when prices are at their highest and crowds can be significant. I would suggest visiting in October or May, which lies just outside the peak season. Not only will there be fewer tourists, but you'll also save money during this period (between May and October).
The off-peak season coincides with the monsoon season; May, September, and October are typically the wettest months. However, as shown in my photos taken during my May visit, we enjoyed lovely weather! Temperatures remain warm and you'll still experience ample sunshine. Be cautious of sudden and heavy rain showers – they tend to be brief when they occur.
March to mid-May are the hottest months in Phi Phi Islands with very high humidity. These months might not be ideal for those who dislike intense humidity. However, if you enjoy hot weather, then this period offers beautiful weather conditions.
November to February are the cooler months with pleasant temperatures, still warm enough for sunbathing. The weather and temperatures during these months make them more favorable, which also means they are the more expensive periods to visit.
Known for its vibrant nightlife, Phi Phi Don is home to big beach parties and various entertainment options. Keep in mind that partying here can be expensive. Thailand's drinks are known to be strong, and this is especially true in Ko Phi Phi. The infamous 2 for 1 buckets of alcohol should be approached with caution due to their potency. Remember to pay close attention to your drink at all times.
It goes without saying that it's essential to avoid any illegal substances in Thailand, as the country has strict drug laws.
As the largest inhabited island, Ko Phi Phi Don offers various accommodation options and is where you can experience the nightlife. While it's a beautiful destination, it's essential to acknowledge that it has become overdeveloped due to the high tourist traffic.
Despite the overdevelopment, Phi Phi Don is a popular destination, particularly among young backpackers. The beaches are beautiful and the nightlife is lively. Be warned, however, that you will be greeted with a constant scent of sewage – hence, the apt name "Koh Pee Pee"!
Recommendations:
1. Phi Phi Don: Find hotels or book a Phi Phi Islands day trip by catamaran departing from Phuket.
For stunning views across the azure waters, lush green vegetation, and towering cliffs, head to Koh Phi Phi viewpoint. The trek is a leisurely 30-minute stroll or a quick 20-minute power walk.
Enjoy cold drinks and snacks at the top, then find a seat on a rock or hammock to take in the breathtaking view. I recommend visiting in the morning.
Recommended Tours:
Phi Phi Leh, located 1.5km south of Phi Phi Don, is an uninhabited island with stunning bays and caves.
It's a breathtaking place to explore with excellent snorkeling opportunities where you can discover exotic fish and colorful coral. Some of my favorite spots include Maya Bay, Sama Bay, Pi Leh Bay, Palong Bay, and Viking Cave.
Sama Bay and Pi Leh Bay are great for swimming and snorkeling. Palong Bay is a popular dive site where you can spot black-tip reef sharks.
The Viking Cave is recognized for its bird nests. Swifts build their nests using saliva, which are later harvested by locals. These nests are sold at an extremely high price to create bird's nest soup – a Chinese delicacy.
Part of Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay is a stunning bay surrounded by 100-metre high cliffs on three sides. Known as the film location for "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio, it is a globally recognized destination. The bay comprises several small beaches and its crystal clear water enables visitors to observe the underlying reef with clarity. This makes it a popular spot for snorkelling.
There are limited provisions at Maya Bay, so it's advisable to bring your own supplies. You will find a small stall selling drinks and snacks, as well as some toilets – however, these are best avoided if possible!
Despite its beauty, Maya Bay has faced challenges. Overcrowding resulted in damage caused by tourists, leading to its closure in June 2018. It reopened following a tourist break due to the pandemic.
Located around five kilometres northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Pai island – or Bamboo Island – is a must-visit destination.
This island, shaped like a heart, is a tranquil tropical paradise located near Phi Phi Don and Maya Bay. Its peaceful atmosphere, clear waters, and lush greenery make it a preferred destination for those seeking relaxation. Known for its bamboo trees, the heart-shaped island provides breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling.
To reach Bamboo Island, one can hire a long-tail boat. Spending a few hours exploring the island's natural beauty is usually sufficient.
Located approximately 700m from Tonsai Bay, Monkey Beach is a stretch of soft white sand and clear emerald waters, backed by a tall limestone cliff. The lush vegetation on this beach makes it a habitat for monkeys, giving it its name.
Monkey Beach should not be confused with Monkey Bay, which is situated on another part of Phi Phi Don Island. Accessible only by long-tail boat or kayak, Monkey Beach is a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
It's important to keep a safe distance from the monkeys and avoid feeding them to prevent any potential incidents.
The Phi Phi Islands offer numerous opportunities for snorkeling and diving, showcasing a diverse marine life. Top tours to book include:
The Phi Phi Islands offer breathtaking snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. The clarity of the water is impressive. Here are some tours for snorkeling in the Phi Phi Islands:
It's essential to go with a guide when snorkeling as some areas have strong currents. Diving is also popular in the Phi Phi Islands, and tour companies can help you find the best spots. For beginners, there are many entry-level diving sites, while more advanced divers will find challenging dive sites further out.
Some of the best dive sites include Bida Nok / Bida Nai, Malong May, Kled Gaeow Wreck, Hin Dot and Hin Daeng / Muang.
Phi Phi Don is famous for rock climbing in Thailand. It features world-class climbing sites with challenging walls and experienced instructors. Here are some noteworthy rock climbing walls:
Renting a kayak is another excellent way to explore the islands and reach secluded coves and caves not accessible on foot.
For an exciting adventure, consider trying a paddle boat or water-skiing tour.
After all the adventure, you might be yearning for some relaxation? If sunbathing on a beach all day isn't your idea of relaxation, then there are a number of spas on Phi Phi Don. Relax and unwind with a spa day or wellness experience. Enjoy some luxurious spa treatments and soak up the paradise surrounding you.
Offering an air of romance and located on the tranquil white-sand Laem Tong Beach, Zeavola Resort is the perfect place to unplug from the world and reconnect with yourself and nature. Generously sized villas are filled with luxurious touches, from charming dressing rooms to exotic outdoor rainfall showers. Indulge in deliciously fresh Thai cuisine and specialty dishes from around the world. The Tacada restaurant offers contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, while Baxil restaurant offers authentic local dishes full of flavor. Here, you’ll find a luxurious spa with tree top views. Discover authentic treatments for ultimate wellbeing, using Thai, Chinese, European and Polynesian therapeutic techniques.
Address: 11 Moo 8 Laem Tong, Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Set in the privacy of Loh Ba Gao Bay on Phi Phi Island's peaceful northeast coast, SAii Phi Phi Island Village boasts 189 traditional Thai-style bungalows and 12 exclusive Hillside Pool Villas. Decorated with a natural minimalist style, these accommodations offer a tranquil escape surrounded by tropical beauty.
There are several dining options available, each serving up a mix of authentic Thai cuisine and world flavors.
The luxurious spa awaits, featuring sprawling panoramic vistas for balancing chakras, indulging in soothing massages or getting refreshing facials.
Address: 49 Moo 8, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Best for: Stunning Andaman Sea views
Located near Ton Sai Pier, Phi Phi CoCo Beach Resort provides a relaxing stay surrounded by nature. The resort offers various accommodation options with luxurious touches. The beachside pool keeps guests cool while the pool bar ensures they remain hydrated.
Address: 299 Moo7 Phi Phi Island, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81210, Thailand
Best for: Beach proximity
The Phi Phi Islands generate mixed opinions from visitors, but their inherent beauty is undeniable. However, they have lost some appeal due to the overcrowding of tourists.
My recommendation is not to stay on the Phi Phi Islands but instead in Phuket or Krabi and do a full-day tour of the islands. This way you can experience the best they have to offer without the downsides of staying on Phi Phi Don.
The nightlife in Phi Phi Islands breathes life into this laidback island every night. Situated in southern Thailand, Phi Phi offers beachside parties and open-air events, Thai kickboxing matches, f
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