Phi Phi Leh is a small but incredibly picturesque island in the Andaman Sea, renowned for its stunning landscapes: turquoise lagoons, towering cliffs, and hidden coves. Unlike the more bustling Phi Phi Don, this island is uninhabited and retains the atmosphere of an untouched tropical paradise.
Maya Bay and its famous beach are undoubtedly the main attraction of Phi Phi Leh. However, it was closed to visitors in 2018. Only in 2022 were tourist boats allowed to enter the bay briefly so visitors could admire its beauty from the boat.
Yet, on the eastern shore of Phi Phi Leh, there are three other fascinating spots for tourists:
1. Pileh Lagoon
2. Loh Samah Bay
3. Viking Cave
Pileh Lagoon – An Emerald Pool Amidst the Cliffs
The crown jewel of Phi Phi Leh is Pileh Lagoon, surrounded by 100-meter limestone cliffs. The water here is crystal clear, with a vibrant turquoise-emerald hue, and thanks to natural protection from waves, the lagoon is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Size: 200 meters long and 80 meters wide.
• Depth: From shallow (waist-deep) to 5–6 meters in the center.
• Marine life: Despite damaged reefs, you can spot tropical fish, including clownfish, parrotfish, and even small reef sharks.
Best time to visit: Morning (8:00–11:00), when there are fewer tourists and the water is calm. In the afternoon (12:00–15:00), tour boats arrive, so it`s better to come early.
Viking Cave – The Mystery of Phi Phi Leh
Near the lagoon lies Viking Cave, a place shrouded in mystery. Its walls bear ancient boat paintings resembling Viking ships (though their origin remains unknown).
• Swallow nests: The cave ceiling is covered with swiftlet nests, harvested for the famous bird`s nest soup—a delicacy in Asian cuisine.
• Visiting: Tourists can only peek inside from the boat—landing is prohibited to protect the fragile ecosystem.
Loh Samah Bay – A Coral Paradise
Located on the southwestern side of Phi Phi Leh, Loh Samah Bay is one of the island`s most scenic spots. It`s a small but cozy cove, surrounded by vertical cliffs up to 80 meters high, creating a sense of seclusion. The bay is shielded from the open sea by a massive rock formation that protects it from strong waves.
Features of Loh Samah Bay:
• Size: Approximately 150 meters long and 50–70 meters wide—compact yet breathtaking.
• Depth: In the center—4–7 meters, closer to shore—shallows (1–2 meters).
• Coral seabed: The bay floor is covered in colorful corals, making it an excellent snorkeling spot.
Excursions to Phi Phi Leh from Phuket or Krabi typically include:
✔ A brief visit to Maya Bay (15 minutes) for viewing only—no swimming allowed.
✔ Swimming in Pileh Lagoon (30–45 minutes).
✔ A snorkeling stop at Loh Samah Bay.
✔ A short viewing of Viking Cave from the boat.
✔ Afterward, boats usually stop at the inhabited island of Phi Phi Don.
While Maya Bay remains inaccessible, Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay are the best alternative. It’s an untouched paradise where you can swim amid stunning landscapes. Combined with the enigmatic Viking Cave, it makes a trip to Phi Phi truly unforgettable.
