
The Phi Phi islands are an archipelago of 6 islands, with the 2 main islands being Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. Just a 45-minute speedboat trip or a 90-minute ferryboat ride from either Phuket or Krabi, these picture postcard islands are excellent tropical getaways in Southeast Asia.
Phi Phi has pristine beaches, stunning rock formations, and vivid turquoise waters teeming with colorful marine life. The larger and inhabited Phi Phi Don attracts hundreds of travelers to its lovely shores, while the smaller uninhabited Phi Phi Leh has beautiful bays and beaches, including the iconic Maya Bay.
Featured stories & fun stuff
Phi Phi Islands’ best shopping opportunities are fairly limited compared to other destinations in Thailand. Most travelers come to this tropical island to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, rather than shopping for branded items. As a result, most of the interesting goods you can find here are the usual, basic vacation items. Despite this, a few stores stand out from the lot, offering...
The best bars in Phi Phi Island are spread equally over Koh Phi Phi Don’s 3 main neighborhoods: Tonsai Village (the main urban center), Tonsai East, and Loh Dalum Bay. Most bars go for 1 of 2 contrasting approaches – a laidback vibe or a pumping party atmosphere. However, some bars, as you’ll see below, succeed in wrapping both ambiences up in 1 venue. A quiet night out in Phi Phi is usually spent...
Ko Phi Phi is a pedestrian-friendly island with no cars, so walking is the main way to get around. Longtail boats are essential for traveling between beaches and nearby islands, while kayaks are great for exploring coastal areas at your own pace.
The best time to visit Ko Phi Phi is when the weather is sunny and seas are calm, making it ideal for beach visits, snorkeling, and boat trips. Clear conditions provide excellent visibility for exploring the island’s limestone cliffs and coral reefs.
Highlights include the breathtaking viewpoint hike overlooking Tonsai Bay, Maya Bay for its iconic scenery, and Viking Cave with its unique rock formations. Monkey Beach and Loh Samah Bay are also popular for their pristine natural beauty.
The best neighborhoods in Ko Phi Phi cater to different experiences. Tonsai Village is central, lively, and ideal for dining and nightlife. Loh Dalum Bay offers beach access and vibrant sunsets. For a quieter stay, Long Beach provides a more secluded atmosphere with easy access to swimming and snorkeling spots.
Ko Phi Phi offers exceptional water adventures, from snorkeling in the clear lagoons of Pileh Bay to kayaking along limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Divers can explore vibrant coral reefs around Bida Nok and Bida Nai, while swimming and paddleboarding in calm turquoise bays provide a more relaxed way to enjoy the island’s crystal-clear waters.