Amid the crystal-clear waters of the Andaman Sea, Phi Phi Island shines like a precious gem in southern Thailand. Visitors come to this place because of its crystal-clear blue waters and soft white sand beaches and its tranquil yet active environment which makes it perfect for both fun and exploration. The island greets you with an immediate rush of energy from its lively community and its untouched natural surroundings when you arrive. The island presents itself as a perfect vacation spot because it offers exciting party activities and adventurous experiences and peaceful natural environments for relaxation. The island holds special attractions that appeal to people who love parties and adventurous activities and peaceful natural surroundings.
In this 2026 Phi Phi Island Travel Guide, IDC Travel will help you plan the perfect getaway—from the best time to visit, top destinations, and exciting activities, to practical travel tips for a complete and memorable beach-island escape.
Where is Phi Phi Island and Why You Should Visit
The Phi Phi archipelago exists as a tropical paradise in the Andaman Sea near Thailand’s southwest coast which Southeast Asia recognizes as one of its most renowned tropical destinations. Located in Krabi Province, within the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, the archipelago consists of two main islands: Phi Phi Don — the inhabited hub with hotels and lodging, and Phi Phi Leh — an uninhabited gem famous for the stunning Maya Bay. The trip from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi becomes convenient through ferry or speedboat services which operate between 45 to 90 minutes.
The iconic twin bays of Phi Phi Island — where emerald hills meet crystal-clear seas, creating one of Thailand’s most breathtaking island views.
Backpackers who traveled independently found Phi Phi during the 1980s because it offered pristine natural surroundings and a peaceful atmosphere. The world discovered Phi Phi as a travel destination when Maya Bay became the filming location for The Beach (2000) which starred Leonardo DiCaprio. The movie presented white sandy beaches together with emerald waters and towering limestone cliffs which established Phi Phi as a global tourist destination. The area became a worldwide tourist hotspot which led to a rapid growth in international visitors who discovered Phi Phi as a resort destination yet faced difficulties with sustainable tourism management. The authorities implemented a temporary closure of Maya Bay to support coral reef restoration efforts.
Leonardo DiCaprio in the movie The Beach, filmed at Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island in 2000.
Phi Phi stands out because it presents a natural paradise that unites the elements of natural beauty with island existence and traditional local ways of life. The area offers snorkeling opportunities to explore coral reefs while kayaking through limestone walls and relaxing on Bamboo Island’s peaceful beaches. The island environment functions at a leisurely pace with people showing friendliness as they move about on wooden boats and long-tail ferries and walk through designated paths. The village Tonsai comes alive at night with its vibrant atmosphere which features waterfront bars and restaurants and captivating fire performances.
Phi Phi presents an excellent destination for people who enjoy nature and photography and those who want to escape their daily routines. This place offers unspoiled tropical beauty along with genuine Thai hospitality which makes visitors want to come back again.
Plan Your Perfect Phi Phi Escape: When, Where, and What to Do
Best Time to Visit Phi Phi Island
Ideal Travel Time: The best time to visit this place for perfect weather conditions and complete beach access occurs between November and April.
Budget-Friendly Time: Traveling between May and October allows you to stay within your budget. The costs for lodging and sightseeing tours are lower during this time and the island experiences reduced visitor numbers.
The best way to plan your trip involves learning about the climate of Phi Phi archipelago because it belongs to the tropical zone which divides its weather into two main periods: dry season and rainy season.
Visitors will experience the dry season from November through April when the weather produces clear skies and warm sunshine and peaceful ocean conditions which create perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling and boating activities. The rainy season occurs between May and October which brings brief rain showers and rougher ocean waves yet the area stays stunning and fewer visitors create a peaceful atmosphere.
Activity-Specific Timing:
– The ideal period for snorkeling and scuba diving activities occurs between November and April because the water remains clear and the sea conditions become calm during this time.
– The Phi Phi Viewpoint provides the best location to capture sunrise and sunset photographs during the early morning and late afternoon hours.
– The months from June to September bring the most peaceful holiday experience because they fall within the mid rainy season when tourists
Top Attractions on Phi Phi Island
1. Maya Bay
Located on Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay is the iconic symbol of the archipelago — featured in The Beach. The beach presents a stunning combination of white sand and green water and high cliffs. After being closed for rehabilitation, Maya Bay has reopened with visitor restrictions to protect the environment.
Stunning Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island — famous for its crystal-clear waters, limestone cliffs, and serene tropical beauty.
Visitors need access through boat transportation from Phi Phi Don and Phuket and Krabi which requires early morning arrival to avoid peak tourist numbers.
2. Phi Phi Viewpoint
The best panoramic vantage on the island. The journey from central Tonsai to the summit requires about 20 to 30 minutes of climbing.
Breathtaking view from Phi Phi Viewpoint — where the twin bays of the island meet amidst tropical greenery and sparkling blue seas.
The best time for photography is during early morning or sunset because the lighting conditions become incredible and there are fewer people around.
3. Monkey Beach
Situated on the southwest side of Phi Phi Don, Monkey Beach is home to wild monkeys.
Playful monkeys at Monkey Beach, Phi Phi Island — a unique tropical spot where wildlife meets crystal-clear waters.
You can paddle there by kayak or reach it via boat. The following guidelines will help you stay safe during monkey encounters: maintain your distance from them and avoid feeding as well as disturbing their natural habitat.
4. Viking Cave
On the northeast of Phi Phi Leh, Viking Cave is a historic cave with ancient wall paintings and valuable swift-nesting birds.
The famous Viking Cave on Phi Phi Island — known for its ancient wall paintings and bird’s nest harvesting tradition amidst stunning coastal scenery.
The protected area exists under strict boat-only access which makes it a top destination because of its cultural and natural value.
5. Loh Dalum Bay & Long Beach
Swimming enthusiasts who enjoy clear shallow waters and sandy beaches will find Loh Dalum Bay and Long Beach to be their perfect destinations.
The tranquil beauty of Loh Dalum Bay, Phi Phi Island — a perfect spot for swimming, kayaking, and soaking up the island’s tropical charm.
The two locations offer excellent diving experiences and coastal walking paths and local dining options near the water.
Top Things to Do on Phi Phi Island
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The clear water and abundant marine life at Phi Phi make it one of the most popular destinations for snorkeling and scuba diving. The dive sites Shark Point along with Hin Klang and Anemone Reef feature thriving coral ecosystems and tropical fish populations and safe-to-approach reef sharks.
Discover the underwater wonders of Phi Phi Island — a paradise for scuba diving and snorkeling with thriving coral reefs and abundant marine life.
- Island Hopping: Join boat tours to smaller islands around the archipelago — Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island, Pileh Lagoon. A fantastic way to explore multiple landscapes in one day.
From Bamboo Island to Pileh Lagoon — explore Phi Phi’s breathtaking mix of beaches, cliffs, and crystal-clear waters perfect for island hopping and snorkeling adventures.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The peaceful bays and beaches serve as ideal locations for kayaking and paddleboarding because they let you explore at your own speed.
Kayak your way around Phi Phi Island — a peaceful adventure through turquoise waters, hidden coves, and scenic limestone cliffs.
- Boat Tours: Sunset boat trips are a must—especially if you’re keen to see bioluminescent plankton (glowing plankton) out on the water at night.
Experience Phi Phi Island from the sea — join a scenic boat tour to explore hidden lagoons, iconic bays, and breathtaking coastal views.
- Nightlife: The Tonsai Village transforms into a vibrant nightlife scene after dark with beach bars and parties and fire shows that allow visitors to connect with international travelers while experiencing tropical evenings.
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Phi Phi Island — beach bars, fire shows, and tropical vibes that light up the night.
How Many Days To Spend In Phi Phi Island
Many travelers commonly inquire about the adequacy of spending a single day in Phi Phi. The answer is — if you’re only taking a day trip from Phuket or Krabi, you’ll only catch a glimpse of this breathtaking island. To truly feel its laid-back rhythm, the refreshing sea breeze, and those vibrant sunsets, spending 3 to 4 days on Phi Phi is ideal. You have enough time to visit Maya Bay and snorkel while also taking sunset cruises and finding peaceful moments at the beach.
Suggested ideal itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Koh Phi Phi & Explore Phi Phi Leh
Meet your crew at The Beach Bar near the main pier and board a Thai Sailing Catamaran. Sail to Koh Phi Phi Leh, enjoy swimming, sunset views, and a delicious onboard seafood dinner. Overnight on Catamaran.
Day 2: Koh Phi Phi – Koh Raja Noi
Have breakfast on board before cruising to the uninhabited Koh Raja Noi, famous for its quiet beaches and vibrant marine life. Enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling, and diving. Overnight stay on a secluded island.
Day 3: Koh Raja Noi – Koh Yao Yai
Sail toward Koh Yao Yai, a peaceful island known for its local charm. Optional stop at Koh Khai Nai for snorkeling and swimming. Arrive in the afternoon, check in at the hotel, and explore at your own pace.
Day 4: Koh Yao Yai – Phuket
After breakfast, sail back to Phuket around noon. Spend the rest of the day exploring Phuket’s beaches, restaurants, and nightlife, or continue your onward journey. End of tour.
>>> View full detail in Beach Relaxation on Phi Phi Island 4 Days
If you’re short on time but still want to experience the best of Phi Phi, this one-day speedboat itinerary packs in all the island’s highlights from Maya Bay’s emerald waters to Khai Island’s white sands.
Suggested 1-day itinerary
Morning (7:30 AM – 10:30 AM)
Start your adventure with a hotel pick-up in Phuket and board a speedboat — the fastest and most thrilling way to reach Phi Phi. Cruise across turquoise waters to Maya Bay, the iconic lagoon from The Beach, then stop at Pileh Lagoon for swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. Visit Viking Cave and pass by Loh Samah Bay for postcard-perfect views.
Midday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Enjoy a Thai and international lunch buffet with halal and vegetarian options on Phi Phi Don Island. Take your time to relax on the beach or explore local shops and cafés.
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 4:30 PM)
Continue to Monkey Beach to meet its playful residents, then head to Khai Island, a paradise for snorkeling, swimming, or paddleboarding (equipment included). Snack on fresh fruits and soft drinks as you unwind under the sun.
Evening (5:30 PM)
Return to the pier and transfer back to your hotel — tired but filled with memories of Phi Phi’s dazzling lagoons and beaches.
>>> If you are interested in this itinerary, contact us today for the best price.
For those seeking a refined island experience, this full-day catamaran tour blends comfort, style, and stunning scenery — a luxurious way to enjoy Phi Phi without compromising on time or tranquility.
Suggested luxury itinerary
Morning (7:30 AM – 10:30 AM)
Begin your day with a comfortable hotel pick-up from Phuket and step aboard a luxury catamaran, designed for smooth sailing and ultimate relaxation. Sip your morning refreshments as you glide across the Andaman Sea toward Maya Bay, where soft waves meet emerald cliffs. Continue to Pileh Lagoon, a calm turquoise haven perfect for snorkeling, kayaking, or paddleboarding in clear waters surrounded by limestone towers.
Midday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM)
Enjoy a gourmet Thai and international buffet lunch on board or at Phi Phi Don Island, with time to unwind on deck or stroll along the beach. The catamaran’s spacious design lets you relax under shaded lounges or soak in the tropical breeze with a chilled drink in hand.
Afternoon (2:00 PM – 5:00 PM)
Sail past Viking Cave and stop by Khai Island for another chance to snorkel or float on the inflatable mat under the sun. If you’re lucky, make a short stop at Monkey Beach to see the island’s playful monkeys from a safe distance. Refresh with seasonal fruits and soft drinks before cruising back toward Phuket.
Evening (6:00 PM)
Arrive back at the pier and transfer to your hotel — feeling recharged, sun-kissed, and utterly pampered after a day of effortless island-hopping.
>>> If you are interested in this itinerary, contact us today for the best price.
How to Get to Phi Phi Island (From Phuket, Krabi, or Bangkok)
Phi Phi archipelago does not have its own airport. The only way to reach it is by speedboat or ferry from either Phuket or Krabi, both of which serve as convenient transit hubs.
From Phuket to Phi Phi Island
From Phuket, you can choose either a speedboat or ferry departing from key piers:
- Rassada Pier (Phuket Town): The most popular departure point for boats going to Tonsai Pier (Phi Phi Don).
- Travel time: ~45–60 minutes by speedboat, approximately 90 minutes by ferry.
- Fare estimate: Ferry: ~400–600 THB one-way; Speedboat: ~900–1,200 THB one-way.
- Schedule: Boats run roughly from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM, so you’ll need an early start if you want to get to Phi Phi on the same day.
We recommend you should book your tickets online or via your hotel at least one day in advance, especially during the peak season (Nov–Apr).
From Krabi to Phi Phi Island
If you’re starting from Krabi:
- Piers: Klong Jilad (Krabi Town) or Ao Nang Pier.
- Travel time: ~90 minutes by ferry, ~45 minutes by speedboat.
- Fare estimate: Ferry: ~400–500 THB one-way; Speedboat: ~800–1,000 THB one-way.
- Schedule: Typically from ~9:00 AM to ~3:00 PM, depending on weather.
A small tip from us that if you’re staying in Ao Nang, you can often book a combo vehicle-plus-boat transfer—hotel pick-up to pier included.
From Bangkok to Phi Phi Island
There are no direct flights to Phi Phi, so you’ll combine a flight and boat journey:
- Step 1: Fly from Bangkok to Phuket or Krabi.
- Common airlines: Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, VietJet, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways.
- Flight time: ~1 hour 20 minutes.
- Typical fare: ~1,000–2,000 THB one way (when booked early).
- Common airlines: Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, VietJet, Thai Smile, Bangkok Airways.
- Step 2: Take the ferry or speedboat from the airport region to Phi Phi.
- Total travel time: ~5–7 hours depending on connection.
If you arrive in the afternoon, consider staying overnight in Phuket or Krabi—since the last boat departs around 3:00–3:30 PM.
Budget per Day
Your daily budget in Phi Phi depends on your style of travel, but typical costs are as follows:
- Accommodation: ~800–2,000 THB per night (hostel, guesthouse or 3-star hotel)
- Meals: ~300–700 THB
- Transport & tours: ~500–1,200 THB
- Activities/entries: ~200–400 THB
- Estimated daily total: ~1,800–4,000 THB (approx. 1.2–2.6 million VND) for budget to mid-range travel.
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Where to Stay and What to Eat
1. Accommodation
Phi Phi presents various lodging alternatives which include high-end beachfront resorts and peaceful nature-based accommodations. People who enjoy different types of travel will find suitable options in this destination.
- Luxury and full-amenity holiday – SAii Phi Phi Island Village surrounded by lush greenery and boasting over 6,000 positive reviews with an average rating of 4.3. The place has become a favorite destination for couples who are in love and honeymooners.
- Address: 49 Moo 8, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 75 628 900
- Email: rsvn.phiphi@saiihotels.com
- Website: SAii Phi Phi Island Village
- TripAdvisor: SAii Phi Phi Island Village
- Address: 49 Moo 8, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Quality private retreat with fewer crowds – Centara Villas Phi Phi Island offers a hillside location which provides ocean views and a big pool and multiple dining options for guests who seek a peaceful luxury retreat.
- Address: 58 Moo 8 Koh Phi Phi Don, Krabi, Ao Nang 81000 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 7 562 6900
- Email: cpi@chr.co.th
- Website: Centara Villas Phi Phi Island
- TripAdvisor: Centara Villas Phi Phi Island
- Address: 58 Moo 8 Koh Phi Phi Don, Krabi, Ao Nang 81000 Thailand
- Friendly, nature-oriented budget choice – Phi Phi Phu Chalet Resort is a well-loved “hidden gem” with its own restaurant serving Thai and international dishes at great value.
- Address: 3/2 Moo 8, Ao Nang Sub-District, Muang District, Krabi, 81210 Thailand
- Tel.: (+66) 62-198-8850, (+66) 75-817-210
- Email: phiphiphuchaletresort@gmail.com
- Website: Phi Phi Phu Chalet Resort
- TripAdvisor: Phi Phi Phu Chalet Resort
- Address: 3/2 Moo 8, Ao Nang Sub-District, Muang District, Krabi, 81210 Thailand
- Peaceful family or couple holiday at a quiet beach – Phi Phi Holiday Resort at Laem Tong beach is perfect for those seeking calm and relaxation away from the crowds. The house-restaurant “Sunset Restaurant” inside receives excellent reviews from guests who appreciate both the relaxed atmosphere and the tasty dishes.
- Address: 54 Hmu 8 Ao Nang, Laem Tong, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 75 627 300
- Email: rsvn@phiphiholidayresort.com
- Website: Phi Phi Holiday Resort
- TripAdvisor: Phi Phi Holiday Resort
- Address: 54 Hmu 8 Ao Nang, Laem Tong, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
2. Food
The dining experience on Phi Phi Island brings together traditional Thai flavors with contemporary European dishes and popular worldwide meals. The island provides the perfect dining location for people who enjoy seafood as well as those who prefer street food or gourmet meals.
- Anna’s Restaurant – Near Tonsai centre, this restaurant is beloved (thousands of positive reviews) for Thai classics like Pad Thai, Tom Yum and Green Curry served in a cozy setting with English-speaking staff and fair prices.
- Address: 111, Moo 7 Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 85 923 2596
- TripAdvisor: Anna’s Restaurant
- Address: 111, Moo 7 Koh Phi Phi, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Efe Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant – A top-rated choice (4.8 rating on Google Reviews) to break the Thai-food streak. The restaurant serves Mediterranean classics including kebab and falafel and pita through friendly hosts who engage with customers to suggest menu options which results in a lasting dining experience.
- Address: 125/22 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 95 150 4434
- TripAdvisor: Efe Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant
- Address: 125/22 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
- P.P. Wang Ta Fu – The restaurant sits close to the main pier which makes it the best choice for sushi and sashimi cravings during your island visit. Loved for fresh fish, a broad Japanese menu (including rice bowls, ramen and tempura), and a cool setting. Popular with Korean, Japanese and European visitors.
- Address: 88, 88/1 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 61 176 3953
- TripAdvisor: P.P. Wang Ta Fu
- Address: 88, 88/1 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
- ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi – The central location of this upscale dining establishment offers European fusion dishes together with premium seafood selections which create an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant serves steak and pasta dishes along with wine and cocktails to enjoy while watching the sunset. The place receives praise from numerous travelers who see it as the top fine-dining spot on the island which makes it perfect for romantic dates and special celebrations.
- Address: 125/18 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
- Tel.: +66 83 181 6915
- TripAdvisor: ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi
- Address: 125/18 Moo 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
- Only Noodles – No frills, big flavour. This small, budget-friendly noodle shop wins hearts with its authentic Thai street-food feel. The island’s top dishes include Pad Thai and stir-fried noodles. The chef demonstrates his cooking skills right in front of customers while offering dishes that cost between 80–120 THB. A must for a quick, tasty, local fix.
- Address: 155 Near PP Insula, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
- TripAdvisor: Only Noodles
- Address: 155 Near PP Insula, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81210 Thailand
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Where To Go After Phi Phi Island Getaway?
Once you’ve experienced all that Phi Phi has to offer, it’s easy to continue your southern Thailand adventure with nearby destinations that perfectly complement your trip.
- The island sits at a short two-hour ferry trip from Phuket which draws visitors through its active nightlife and its variety of shopping facilities and restaurants. The island attracts visitors through its three main attractions which include Patong Beach Big Buddha and Old Town Phuket.
Visit the iconic Big Buddha near Patong Beach — a serene symbol of peace offering panoramic views of Phuket and the Andaman Sea.
- Krabi stands as an ideal destination for tourists who seek peaceful surroundings. The ferry from Phi Phi takes you to Ao Nang or Railay Beach where you can enjoy kayaking and rock climbing and peaceful coves for relaxation.
Relax at Ao Nang Beach — soft sands, clear waters, and dramatic limestone cliffs perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
- Koh Lanta – A hidden gem for slow travelers. The island lies just a 1.5-hour boat ride from Phi Phi and provides extended beach areas with low visitor numbers which makes it perfect for people seeking to disconnect from technology.
Escape to Koh Lanta — a tranquil paradise of emerald seas and iconic long-tail boats offering the perfect tropical getaway.
- Bangkok – If you’d like to mix island relaxation with cultural discovery, fly from Krabi or Phuket to Bangkok and explore the Grand Palace, Chatuchak Market, and the city’s historic canals.
The magnificent Grand Palace in Bangkok — a historic symbol of Thailand’s royal heritage and architectural splendor.
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Phi Phi Island Travel Guide and Tips
Before you pack your bags for this island paradise, here are some insider tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip:
Weather and Essentials
- The best time to visit is from November to April, with calm seas and sunny skies — perfect for island tours and water activities.
- Rainy season (May–October) is still travelable, but check the forecast and avoid booking late-day ferry or diving tours.
- Essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, waterproof sandals, and light clothing.
Transportation
- There are no cars on the island — walking, long-tail boats, and water taxis are your main ways to get around.
- If you have heavy luggage, choose a resort that offers pier pickup service to avoid carrying bags through sandy paths.
Budget and Payments
- Cash is king on Phi Phi. Only a few resorts and restaurants accept cards, so bring enough Thai baht for a few days.
- Average daily expenses range between 1,500–3,000 THB/person, depending on your accommodation and activities.
Environmental Protection
- Bring a refillable water bottle and minimize single-use plastics.
- When snorkeling or diving, never touch or step on coral reefs — these are protected marine zones.
>>> Discover more Thai islands and find your next tropical escape in Thailand Island 6 Days Tour: Islands Hopping Itinerary.
Among the countless beautiful islands in Southeast Asia, Phi Phi Island retains its magnetism thanks to its unspoiled beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant island lifestyle. The environmental recovery efforts together with tourism development at Phi Phi will make the island shine as its best self with enhanced services and protected landscapes and sustainable tourism practices at the forefront.
The trip to Phi Phi Island offers more than vacation time because it allows visitors to connect with nature and local traditions while making unforgettable memories at every step. IDC Travel will help you achieve your goal of locating a beach paradise for your upcoming vacation. Contact us today to receive your tailored Phi Phi Island itinerary — complete, memorable and effortlessly arranged.
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