Monkey Beach Koh Phi Phi Thailand
A stunning cove on Koh Phi Phi Don, famous for its playful wild monkeys and crystal-clear turquoise waters, best reached by boat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Monkey Beach Koh Phi Phi Thailand
Best Time
Fewer crowds, calmer seas
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning cove on Koh Phi Phi Don, famous for its playful wild monkeys and crystal-clear turquoise waters, best reached by boat.
"The monkeys are the main attraction, but be careful, they will steal your valuables!"
🐒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys love plastic! Keep all bags, especially those with food or drinks, tightly closed and away from curious hands.
🚤 Boat Trip Essential
Arrange a boat trip for easy access. Negotiate prices beforehand for round trips.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playful Macaques
Observe and interact with the resident wild monkeys in their natural habitat. Keep your distance and secure your belongings!
Crystal-Clear Waters
Swim, snorkel, or simply relax by the stunning turquoise waters that make this cove a paradise.
Secluded Cove Ambiance
Enjoy the feeling of a hidden gem, a peaceful escape accessible by boat or kayak.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respect the Locals (Monkeys!)
Boat Access is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys love plastic! Keep all bags, especially those with food or drinks, tightly closed and away from curious hands.
🚤 Boat Trip Essential
Arrange a boat trip for easy access. Negotiate prices beforehand for round trips.
🥾 Trail Caution
If hiking, be prepared for uneven terrain and roots. The trail can be challenging.
💧 Avoid Swimming
Some visitors report the sea looking dirty and advise against swimming.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐒 Secure Your Belongings
Monkeys love plastic! Keep all bags, especially those with food or drinks, tightly closed and away from curious hands.
🚤 Boat Trip Essential
Arrange a boat trip for easy access. Negotiate prices beforehand for round trips.
🥾 Trail Caution
If hiking, be prepared for uneven terrain and roots. The trail can be challenging.
💧 Avoid Swimming
Some visitors report the sea looking dirty and advise against swimming.
🥥 Snack Shack Bites
Basic food and drinks are available at the beach's snack shacks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Monkey Beach offers a unique experience with its playful monkeys and scenic cove, accessible primarily by boat. While the clear waters and natural beauty are highlights, some visitors note issues with litter and advise caution regarding swimming. The presence of wild macaques is a major draw, but requires visitors to be mindful and respectful of the animals' space and belongings.
"Quiet beach, only accessible by boat at the moment as part of the trail is closed. Arrange a boat near the park entrance. It cost us 90 ringgit for the boat (round trip) and 50 ringgit each to enter the park. There are basic food and drinks at Monkey Beach and of course, monkeys. We opted to walk the first part of the trail, then met the boat at Teluk Ailing jetty. Nice jungle walk with a bit of up and down - for confident walkers only as there are lots of roots and uneven steps."
David Smith
"DO NOT HAND CARRY ANY PLASTIC BECAUSE THE MONKEYS WILL FOLLOW YOU AND SNATCH YOUR PLASTIC.
Took me around 1hr40mins from entrance to monkey beach, the trail is not difficult"
7sss
"A hidden away beach to chillout and enjoy the beach away from busy penang.
You can take a boat from the main entry of the national park. The easiest way to get here.
You can also trekk from the the beach to a lighthouse."
Ananth Radhakrishnan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common and recommended way to reach Monkey Beach is by boat. You can arrange a longtail boat or speedboat tour from Tonsai Bay or other piers on Koh Phi Phi Don. Some tours include it as part of a larger island-hopping itinerary.
Yes, there is a trail from the national park entrance, but it can be challenging with uneven steps and roots. Parts of the trail may also be closed, making boat access more reliable.
While Monkey Beach is known for its clear waters, some visitors have noted the sea looking dirty and have avoided swimming. Boat access is generally recommended for reaching the beach itself.
Monkey Beach is located on Koh Phi Phi Don. You'll first need to take a ferry or speedboat from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Don, and then arrange local boat transport to Monkey Beach.
The boat trip to Monkey Beach from Tonsai Bay is typically short, often around 15-20 minutes, depending on the type of boat and sea conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While Monkey Beach itself is a natural attraction, access often involves boat fees. If you are hiking through a national park area, there might be an associated park entrance fee.
Booking a tour is a popular and convenient way to visit Monkey Beach, as it often includes transportation and visits to other nearby attractions. However, you can also arrange private boat hire.
Monkey Beach is a natural beach and does not have official opening hours. However, it is best visited during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Boat services typically operate during daylight.
Yes, you can visit independently by hiring a private longtail boat or kayak. This gives you more flexibility with your time.
The main restriction is to respect the wildlife. Do not feed the monkeys and keep your belongings secure. Be mindful of the environment and avoid littering.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Monkey Beach is primarily known for its playful monkeys, beautiful turquoise waters, and soft white sand. You can relax, take photos, and observe the wildlife. Some visitors enjoy kayaking.
There are basic food and beverage huts available. Restroom facilities might be limited or basic, so it's advisable to use facilities before heading to the beach if possible.
While the water appears clear, some reviews suggest avoiding swimming due to potential pollution or the sea looking dirty. It's best to assess the conditions upon arrival.
Light, comfortable clothing suitable for a beach environment is recommended. Bring swimwear if you plan to swim, and wear sturdy footwear if you intend to hike any part of the trail.
Crowds can vary. Visiting early in the morning is recommended for fewer people. Boat tours can bring groups, especially during peak season.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the turquoise waters, white sand, and the playful monkeys in their natural environment. The cove itself offers picturesque views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scenic cove. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the monkeys from a safe distance. Protect your gear from sand and water.
The beach itself provides beautiful perspectives. If you hike part of the trail, you might find elevated spots offering panoramic views of the cove and surrounding islands.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but still good for capturing the vibrant colors of the water.
Be patient and observe their behavior. Maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens. Avoid direct eye contact, which can be perceived as a challenge. Never feed them, as this can lead to aggressive behavior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Boat access is generally easier for families than attempting the hike. Consider booking a family-friendly boat tour that includes Monkey Beach, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey. While the beach offers beautiful scenery, the mixed reviews on water cleanliness mean it might not be the best spot for extensive swimming with young children.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there are snack shacks, bringing your own water and snacks can help save money. If you're looking for a free activity, simply observing the monkeys and enjoying the scenery from the boat can be rewarding. Be aware of potential park entrance fees if hiking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens, perhaps a zoom, to capture both the expansive scenery and the details of the monkeys from a safe distance. Be mindful of the monkeys' unpredictable nature and protect your equipment from sand and sea spray.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Monkey Beach: Access and Trails
+2While a hiking trail exists, it's important to note that it can be challenging. The path involves uneven steps and exposed roots, making it suitable only for confident walkers. Furthermore, parts of the trail may be closed, rendering boat access the primary option. If you do choose to hike, be prepared for a moderate level of exertion and potential slippery conditions.
For those seeking a more independent experience, hiring a private boat provides flexibility in timing and allows you to spend more time at the beach. Kayaking is also an option for the more adventurous, offering a unique perspective of the coastline as you paddle towards the cove.
Wildlife Encounters: The Monkeys of Monkey Beach
Observing the monkeys from a safe distance is a highlight for many visitors. They can often be seen grooming each other, playing on the sand, or scampering up trees. Remember that this is their natural habitat, and respecting their space is paramount for both your safety and their well-being.
While the monkeys are a unique draw, it's also worth noting that some visitors have expressed concerns about the beach's cleanliness, with litter being an issue in some areas. This can unfortunately impact the environment for both the animals and visitors.
Beach Experience: Sand, Sea, and Snacks
+1Basic amenities are available in the form of snack shacks, where you can purchase food and drinks. This adds a layer of convenience for visitors who wish to spend a few hours relaxing on the beach. However, the quality and variety of offerings may be limited.
Regarding swimming, opinions are mixed. While the water appears inviting, some reviews mention it looking dirty, leading visitors to avoid going in for a dip. It's advisable to assess the water quality upon arrival and exercise caution.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit