What are the Phi Phi Islands?
(Pronounced Pee Pee)
Koh Phi Phi or Phi Phi Islands, a set of captivating islands in Thailand, holds immense appeal for tourists and is not without justification. When journeying to Thailand, Phi Phi Island is an absolute must-visit destination, leaving an indelible impression on travelers.
The islands gained immense popularity following the breathtaking scenes filmed for the movie ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Since its Hollywood cameo, Phi Phi continues to be a favored destination in Thailand for numerous other reasons.
Phi Phi is a serene tropical island where cars and roads are non-existent. The natural beauty found here is truly awe-inspiring. Picture-perfect elements that one would expect from a tropical island paradise, such as pristine white sands, shimmering turquoise waters, and vibrant palm forests, adorn the entire Phi Phi Islands.
The size of the island is incredibly compact, allowing you to explore every corner on foot. Additionally, you can venture to the neighboring islands via kayak, long-tail boat, or speed boat.
Where are the Phi Phi Islands?
Nestled amidst the captivating tourist destinations of Phuket and Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, also known as Phi Phi Islands, is situated in the heart of the Andaman Sea, about 40km southwest of Krabi and 45km southeast of Phuket.
It forms a part of the Nopharat Thara Beach – Phi Phi Islands National Park, which encompasses two major islands – Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, along with four smaller neighboring islands – Koh Yung, Koh Mai Phai, Koh Pida Nok, and Koh Pida Nai.
Among these islands, Koh Phi Phi Leh takes the second spot in terms of size. It boasts stunning snorkeling spots, picturesque beaches, and charming lagoons. The remaining four islands within the Koh Phi Phi group, namely Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Koh Young (Mosquito Island), and Ko Mai Phai (Bamboo Island), predominantly consist of magnificent limestone cliffs, lush tropical jungles, and a handful of captivating beaches.
Why you should visit Phi Phi Islands
With its stunning beaches, picturesque bays, and vibrant party scene, Koh Phi Phi has drawn the attention of travelers worldwide, making its mark on travel websites and guidebooks. The allure of this destination has persisted throughout the years, beckoning wanderers to embark on an unforgettable journey.
Breathtaking beaches
When envisioning the quintessential Thai beach, one’s mind often conjures images reminiscent of the abundant beauty found on Koh Phi Phi. Its shores boast velvety sands and crystal-clear water.
Those seeking vibrant revelry will discover fire shows, dazzling lights, and pulsating bass lines along Ao Loh Dalam (Loh Dalam Bay). A journey to Ao Lo Moo Dee or Ao Toh Ko is recommended for a more tranquil ambiance. Whether indulging in drinks and festivities, exploring underwater marvels through snorkeling, or spotting playful dolphins, the beaches of Koh Phi Phi offer many activities and numerous beachfronts to explore.
Phi Phi Don
Phi Phi Don Island, the largest and sole inhabited landmass within the archipelago, has undergone extensive, uncontrolled development, transforming into a veritable “concrete jungle.” Nevertheless, the island still retains pockets of relatively untouched forest, primarily due to its mountainous terrain.
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While two prominent tourist zones exist separate from the national park, resorts dot the entire island, including protected areas. Remarkably, these resorts are not confined solely to the flat portions of the land; they extend onto the slopes of the mountains.
Remarkably, private automobiles are absent from the island, with only a handful of vehicles designated for emergencies. Concrete and dirt roads traverse the various bays and villages, but their use is limited to pedestrians and cyclists.
Beginners and experienced climbers can enjoy rock climbing amidst monkeys at several locations on the western end of Tonsai Beach. The primary spot is Tonsai Tower, a magnificent 150-foot limestone cliff that offers breathtaking views of the island and the sea. Additional climbing spots include Ao Link near Tonsai Tower and Hin Tak Wall. Nearby shops provide rental services for climbing gear, and visitors can also arrange for guides and climbing courses.
Phi Phi Don Viewpoint
The location offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the island and the surrounding seas. Regrettably, reaching this viewpoint involves traversing a privately-owned property, for which the owners require a fee of 20 Baht or about a little less than 1 USD from tourists. Alternatively, one can opt for a significantly longer route of approximately 3 kms to circumvent the necessity of paying the “private property fee.”
Phi Phi Leh
Renowned for its coral reefs and the iconic Maya Bay, which served as the filming location for the movie “The Beach,” this island is the second largest within the national park. Enclosed by approximately 100-meter-high limestone karsts, Maya Bay is a picturesque cove boasting crystalline waters and a stunning white beach stretching nearly 200 meters long.
Widely acknowledged as one of the world’s finest, the beach attracts substantial crowds throughout the year due to its immense popularity. Those seeking underwater exploration will delight in the bay’s shallow waters and the surrounding areas, adorned with vibrant coral formations, making it an optimal destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. However, since 1st June 2018, access to Maya Beach has been restricted to facilitate the recovery of coral reefs.
Viking Cave
Located at Phi Phi Leh’s northeastern edge lies a cave stretching 170 meters long, known by its Thai name, Tham Phaya Nak, it’s nestled at the base of a limestone cliff. This remarkable cave boasts wall paintings from the early 1900s (AD). These captivating artworks resemble Scandinavian drakkars, hence the initial name “Tham Ruea” or “Boat Cave.” However, it was later renamed Tham Phaya Nak, while its English moniker, “Viking Cave,” remains unchanged.
One must ascend a steep incline a few meters above sea level to reach the cave entrance. Inside, the primary chamber awaits, encompassing an impressive depth of 60 meters and a width of 80 meters. Sturdy bamboo ladders facilitate access to this chamber.
The cave’s ledges serve as nesting grounds for the edible-nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus). Regrettably, despite its status as a national park, these valuable nests are collected and sold at exorbitant prices within the Chinese market.
Bamboo Island
The eastern of the two smaller islands located north of Ko Phi Phi Don stands out with its scenic surroundings. Encircled by vibrant coral reefs on all sides, this island boasts a pristine white sandy beach. The island attracts many visitors during the high seasons, creating a lively and bustling atmosphere.
Koh Yung
Koh Yung, also known as Mosquito Island, is the north easternmost island within the Phi Phi group. Situated 2.5 kilometers away from the northern edge of Koh Phi Phi Don, this island takes on a distinctive shape resembling a bent nail when observed from above.
Koh Yung presents itself as a compact gem, spanning approximately 1,000 meters in length and a mere 150 meters in width. It occupies a position just west of Bamboo Island and showcases a collection of petite sandy beaches and captivating coral reefs.
Haat Nopparat Thara Beach
Known as Ao Nang Beach, this pristine coastal stretch lies on the mainland west of Krabi City, adjacent to Ao Nang Town. Renowned as one of the province’s top beaches, it attracts many visitors.
Despite being within a national park, the beachscape thrives with many hotels, shops, and other structures. Regrettably, akin to numerous neighboring beaches, the once-favored nesting site for turtles has lost its suitability for egg-laying.
Mu Koh Poda
Referred to as the four Islands or locally known as “4 Islands,” this archipelago is about 5 km off the coast from Railay Beach and 13 km from Krabi. Renowned for its exquisite white sandy beaches and captivating limestone karst islands, these islands are among the top choices for day trips from Krabi Town.
However, the abundance of names associated with these islands can be perplexing when identifying them on various maps. While the archipelago is commonly referred to as “Four Islands” in English, it encompasses several additional small rock islands.
The primary islands include Koh Poda, Koh Po Da Nok, and the twin islands of Koh Mor and Koh Thap. A delightful sand bar emerges during low tides, connecting the twin islands and adding to their picturesque allure.
Arranging transportation to the Ko Poda Islands is hassle-free, as travel agencies and most hotel receptions in Krabi and Ao Nang can easily facilitate boat trips.
Beautiful scenery
In the unlikely event that waking up to breathtaking beach vistas and the boundless sea becomes mundane, despair not, for the island proffers a multitude of alternative scenic delights. Towering limestone karsts emerge majestically from the sea, while the mountainous terrain, cloaked in lush green forests, imparts a sense of tranquility and proximity to nature seldom found elsewhere.
Just a short hike of about 30 minutes away, the Koh Phi Phi viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the island’s bays. Sun-soaked explorers will be rewarded with a beautiful sight that makes the effort worthwhile.
Pocket-friendly experiences
Koh Phi Phi serves as a testament that experiencing paradise need not be exorbitant. Although prices on the island may surpass those of other locales, they remain considerably more affordable than one would encounter back home or in other parts of the world. Savoring a generous slice of pizza will set you back a mere 80 baht (~2 USD), while buckets of cocktails can be found for less than 250 baht (~7 USD).
As for accommodations, an air-conditioned bungalow should not exceed 1500 baht (~41 USD), and dorm rooms can be secured for less than half that price—leaving you with surplus funds to devote to excursions, tours, and rejuvenating massages.
Unforgettable parties
While the island of Koh Phi Phi may not cater to every taste, its legendary parties attract many visitors. Irrespective of your preferred style of revelry, you are certain to find it here. Along Ao Loh Dalam beach (Loh Dalam Bay), numerous bars pulsate with electronic beats by the seaside, while Stockholm Syndrome provides a haven for indulging in drinking games like beer pong.
Other establishments showcase live performances, sporting events, and even impromptu Muay Thai fights (Thai Boxing) between enthusiastic participants. Additionally, free pool parties abound, allowing you to revel in the pool while the sun sets, creating an unrivaled partying experience that is hard to surpass.
When is the best time to visit Phi Phi Islands?
Phi Phi Island has a climate comparable to that of Phuket or Krabi. The peak tourist season occurs between November and April, the optimal time to explore Phi Phi. The weather is relatively cooler and pleasant during this period, occasionally accompanied by light to heavy showers.
The peak summer season on Phi Phi Island falls between January and April. To help you plan your visit, here’s a breakdown of the monthly climate conditions:
November to February
This season is the coolest in Phi Phi after the rainfall subsides. The weather is at its best, attracting a high number of tourists.
Temperatures range from around 23°C to 30°C (73°F to 86°F). December is the coolest month, while February is the driest. It’s an ideal time to relax on the exquisite beaches, engage in water sports in the calm sea, and enjoy lively nighttime festivities.
March to mid-May
These months are considered the hottest in Phi Phi, occurring just before the arrival of the monsoon.
Temperatures soar into the mid-thirties (90°+ F), and humidity levels steadily increase.
Mid-May to October
The monsoon season in Phuket extends from May to October, affecting Phi Phi Island as well.
The average temperature during the monsoon hovers around 28°C to 29°C (82°F to 84°F). While the weather is humid, this season offers the lowest prices, making it an affordable time to plan a trip.
Additionally, the island is less crowded, providing a peaceful ambiance. The wettest months are May, September, and October, but continuous days of heavy rainfall are rare in the region.
How to get to Phi Phi Islands
To reach the Phi Phi Islands, the sole means of transportation is via ferry departing from the prominent piers near Phuket, Krabi (including Ao Nang), Ko Lanta, and Phang Nga.
Rassada Pier in Phuket and Khlong Jilad Pier in Krabi are the primary embarkation points for journeys to the Phi Phi Islands.
The ferry journey from Phuket takes approximately two hours, while from Krabi or Koh Lanta, it takes around 90 minutes. The average fare for a one-way trip on a regular ferry usually ranges between 400 and 500 Baht (~11-14 USD).
Getting there from Phuket
Rassada Pier, situated east of Phuket Town, is the primary departure point for voyages between Phuket and Phi Phi Islands. The ferry journey typically lasts around two hours.
Getting there from Krabi
Khlong Jilad Pier, located just south of Krabi Town, is the primary departure point for trips between Krabi and the Phi Phi Islands. The ferry journey typically takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Getting there from Ko Lanta
Salatan Pier, situated at the northern tip of Ko Lanta, serves as the primary embarkation point for journeys connecting Ko Lanta and Phi Phi Islands. The ferry rides typically last around 1.5 hours.
Getting there from Bangkok
The most recommended way to reach Phi Phi Island from Bangkok is by taking a flight to Krabi or Phuket and then catching a ferry from Krabi or Phuket City. Alternatively, you can opt for an overnight train journey to Surat Thani and then transfer to a bus or minivan that will take you to Krabi or Phuket.
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8 Responses
Hi there
Very nice article
I can certainly see why Koh Phi Phi, or Phi Phi Islands, represents a quintessential Thai paradise that beckons travelers with its undeniable charm. Its allure, initially propelled by its cameo in ‘The Beach’ alongside Leonardo DiCaprio, extends far beyond cinematic fame.
The absence of cars and roads fosters an oasis of tranquility, inviting exploration on foot and by traditional watercraft. I have noticed that many developers are seeking to minimize or eliminate to many vehicles in their cities, but to see that these islands already demonstrate this is trend setting.
I like how you showed the compactness, coupled with its postcard-worthy features of powdery white beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush palm groves, ensures an immersive experience in natural splendor.
Nice article
Hi Troy,
Thank you so much for your kind words and thoughtful feedback! It’s wonderful to hear that you enjoyed the article.
Indeed, the absence of cars and roads on the islands creates a unique sense of serenity and allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the surroundings.
I’m glad you appreciated how the article highlighted the islands with their stunning natural features. It’s always a pleasure to share the beauty of destinations like Koh Phi Phi with fellow travelers.
Thank you again for your support and for taking the time to share your thoughts. If you have any further questions or insights, feel free to reach out anytime. Happy travels!
Benjamas
Hey a beautiful post you have here!
I love travelling, it is amazing to see the different views as well as cultures and try out new foods of the world.
I can’t believe I haven’t heard of the phi phi islands before, it looks gorgeous. I have wanted to visit Thailand for quite a while now so I guess paying a visit to this beautiful island would be one of the things to do when on a visit to this country. The scenery is definitely exceptional!
Thanks for bringing such a wonderful place to light!
Have a great day!
Hi Sariya,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m happy to hear that you enjoyed the post. The Phi Phi Islands are indeed a hidden gem in Thailand. The stunning scenery, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture make it a must-visit destination.
I’m glad I could introduce you to this beautiful destination! If you ever make it to Thailand, visiting the Phi Phi Islands should definitely be on your itinerary.
Thank you again and hope you have a great day as well!
Benjamas
The thorough coverage of the Phi Phi Islands in the article is greatly appreciated. It offers all the essential details, from the breathtaking natural scenery and attractions to transportation guidance and travel tips, making it an enticing destination. The captivating visuals and practical advice make me even more eager to consider a trip to Thailand!
I’m curious what specific aspect of the Phi Phi Islands intrigues you the most and why?
Hi Matt,
Thank you so much for your thoughtful comment! I’m happy to hear that you found my article informative and inspiring. The Phi Phi Islands truly are a gem in Thailand, offering a perfect blend of stunning natural beauty and local culture.
As for what specific aspect of the Phi Phi Islands intrigues me the most is picturesque limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons, clear crystal- turquoise waters, and the captivating marine life. Overall, it’s a unique combination of natural wonders.
I hope you have the opportunity to experience these beautiful islands for yourself soon! Thank you again.
Benjamas
I have always wanted to visit The Phi Phi Islands in Thailand.
I have heard that they are a mesmerizing escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure.
The thing that has made me want to visit the most is their amazing beaches and diverse marine life.
I always struggle to lock this beautiful place in as with any tourist hotspot there is the potential for it to be more kaos then relaxation. I do hope to visit one day!
Hi Clair,
Thank you for sharing! The Phi Phi Islands are indeed a stunning destination that offers a mesmerizing escape for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure.
While it’s true that tourist hotspots can sometimes be bustling with activity, there are ways to find moments of tranquility and relaxation amidst the excitement. Planning your visit during less crowded times, exploring quieter corners of the islands, and engaging in activities like snorkeling or scuba diving to discover the underwater wonders can help you find a balance between adventure and serenity.
I hope you do get the chance to visit the Phi Phi Islands one day! It’s an experience that’s truly worth it!
Thank you very much again!
Benjamas