The Phi Phi Islands (Phi Phi Islands) are one of the most picturesque archipelagos in Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi. Their crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, towering cliffs, and lush tropical vegetation have made them a true symbol of paradise-like relaxation.
The islands gained worldwide fame after the release of the movie "The Beach" (2000) starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which was filmed on Phi Phi Leh (Phi Phi Ley). Since then, hundreds of thousands of tourists visit every year, dreaming of seeing the legendary Maya Bay, hidden among the cliffs.
Why Visit Phi Phi?
• Incredible natural beauty – emerald lagoons, limestone cliffs, caves, and coral reefs.
• Best diving and snorkeling – rich marine life with turtles, reef sharks, and exotic fish.
• Paradise-like atmosphere – cozy bungalows, beach bars, and romantic sunsets.
• Active adventures – kayaking, rock climbing, boat tours.
Two Main Islands: Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh
1. Phi Phi Don – The Only Inhabited Island. This island is the heart of the archipelago, where all tourist infrastructure is concentrated: hotels, restaurants, bars, and shops.
Main Attractions on Phi Phi Don:
• Loh Dalum Beach – A lively beach with bars and parties, especially popular at night.
• Tonsai Bay – The main pier, surrounded by hotels and cafes.
• Phi Phi Viewpoint – A scenic viewpoint offering breathtaking views of the entire island (20-30 min hike).
• Loh Bagao Beach – A quieter, less crowded beach with soft sand.
• Shark Point – A diving spot where you can swim with blacktip reef sharks.
2. Phi Phi Leh – Uninhabited but Legendary. This island is completely uninhabited and part of a national park. It can only be visited on guided boat tours.
Main Attractions on Phi Phi Leh:
• Maya Bay – The famous beach from "The Beach". After temporary closure (2018-2022) for ecosystem recovery, the bay has reopened, but swimming is prohibited—only viewing from boats is allowed.
• Pileh Lagoon – An emerald-green lagoon surrounded by cliffs, perfect for swimming.
• Viking Cave – Known for ancient cave paintings and swiftlet nests (used for bird`s nest soup).
• Snorkeling at Bamboo Island – Crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs.
How to Get to Phi Phi?
1. From Phuket
• Speedboat: 1.5–2 hours (from Rassada or Chalong Pier).
• Ferry: 2–2.5 hours (cheaper but slower).
2. From Krabi (Ao Nang, Krabi Town, Railay Beach)
• Speedboat: 1–1.5 hours.
• Ferry: 2 hours.
What’s Included in a Standard Tour?
✔ Visit Maya Bay (view from the boat)
✔ Swimming in Pileh Lagoon
✔ Snorkeling at Bamboo Island
✔ Exploring Viking Cave
✔ Beachside lunch (usually included)
Where to Stay on Phi Phi Don?
The island has no roads or cars—only walking paths and boats. Accommodation options:
• Budget: Guesthouses in Tonsai Village (from 800–1,500 THB).
• Mid-range: Beachfront bungalows on Long Beach (from 2,000–4,000 THB).
• Premium: Private beach resorts (from 5,000 THB, e.g., Zeavola Resort or Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort).
Travel Tips:
• Best time to visit – November to April (monsoon season may bring storms).
• No hotels on Phi Phi Leh – only day trips allowed.
• Limited ATMs in remote areas of Phi Phi Don – withdraw cash in advance.
