Viking Cave & Monkey Beach, Phi Phi Islands - Image 1
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Viking Cave and Monkey Beach Phi Phi Islands

4.3
·3k reviews·Ao Nang, Thailand

Explore ancient Viking Cave paintings and observe playful monkeys at Monkey Beach, surrounded by stunning turquoise waters.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early Morning Tours

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
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Viking Cave & Monkey Beach, Phi Phi Islands - Image 1

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach Phi Phi Islands

Best Time

Early Morning Tours

Beat the crowds and heat

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore ancient Viking Cave paintings and observe playful monkeys at Monkey Beach, surrounded by stunning turquoise waters.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"A must-see for history and nature lovers with a stunning view of the caves around Phi Phi Island."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚫 Don't Feed the Monkeys

Admire them from afar! Feeding can lead to aggression and disrupt their natural behavior.

🛥️ Boat Tour Essentials

Most tours include Viking Cave & Monkey Beach. Consider private boats for a better experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Viking Cave's Ancient Art

Viking Cave's Ancient Art

Phi Phi Leh

Marvel at ancient paintings resembling Viking ships adorning the cave walls. A glimpse into history from the boat.

Monkey Beach Encounters

Monkey Beach Encounters

Koh Phi Phi Don

Observe playful macaques in their natural habitat along a beautiful sandy cove. Keep a safe distance!

Crystal-Clear Waters

Crystal-Clear Waters

Surrounding Viking Cave and Monkey Beach

Swim and snorkel in the stunning turquoise waters, teeming with marine life. Perfect for a refreshing dip.

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Planning Your Visit

Respect the Wildlife and Environment

Monkey Beach is home to playful macaques. While tempting, avoid feeding them as it disrupts their natural behavior and can lead to aggression. Similarly, Viking Cave is a protected site for swiftlet nests; admire its ancient paintings from your boat without disturbing the ecosystem. TikTokInstagram

Tour Logistics and Timing

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach are typically visited as part of island-hopping tours from Phi Phi Don, Krabi, or Phuket. Many tours include Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. Consider booking a private long-tail boat for more flexibility and to avoid crowds. Instagram+2

Best Times

When
Early Morning Tours
Why
Beat the crowds and heat
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@helloshazo
95.6K likes • 1.6M views

🚫 Don't Feed the Monkeys

Admire them from afar! Feeding can lead to aggression and disrupt their natural behavior. Instagram+1

🛥️ Boat Tour Essentials

Most tours include Viking Cave & Monkey Beach. Consider private boats for a better experience. Instagram+1

Save for your next trip ! 🌴 #krabi #aonang #krabithailand
@morganeesp
31.4K likes • 837.5K views
#086/101 Crazy boat party 🤪🥳 Location :Thailand 🇹🇭 Phi phi island 📍 Blanco boat party 🎉 starting time 1pm.. They will take you to monkey beach, maya bay, viking cave, sunset point… 🏖️ Price - only 1400 bhat per person ✅ Lunch and soft drinks also included 🥤 Book directly from their website… 400 bhat deposit 💸 . . . [ thailand, party, phi phi lsland, international travel, solo travel,...
bye_kanishk
1.2K likes • 45.6K views

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The limestone cliffs and clear waters offer incredible photo opportunities. Capture the magic! TikTokInstagram

🤿 Snorkeling Nearby

Some tours offer snorkeling near Viking Cave. Expect vibrant marine life and clear waters. Reddit

Sail into paradise on a full-day adventure to the stunning Phi Phi Islands — swim in the crystal-clear waters of Maya Bay, explore the secrets of Viking Cave, snorkel vibrant coral reefs, and meet the cheeky residents of Monkey Beach. Then, indulge in a dreamy handcrafted picnic from our resort on Bamboo Island 🌊 Your journey begins here – Link in Bio 📱 LINE: @anantarakohyaoyai 📞 Tel: +66 76 619...
anantarakohyaoyai
38 likes • 2.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚫 Don't Feed the Monkeys

Admire them from afar! Feeding can lead to aggression and disrupt their natural behavior. Instagram+1

🛥️ Boat Tour Essentials

Most tours include Viking Cave & Monkey Beach. Consider private boats for a better experience. Instagram+1

📸 Photo Ops Galore

The limestone cliffs and clear waters offer incredible photo opportunities. Capture the magic! TikTokInstagram

🤿 Snorkeling Nearby

Some tours offer snorkeling near Viking Cave. Expect vibrant marine life and clear waters. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

The Thai sun is strong! Bring plenty of water, especially on boat tours. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach are highlights of Phi Phi island tours, praised for their stunning natural beauty and historical intrigue. Visitors appreciate the unique cave paintings and the chance to see playful monkeys, though access to the cave itself is restricted. The clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, making these stops memorable parts of any island-hopping adventure.

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Fascinating Cave with Stunning Views!

Viking Cave is a unique and historical spot in the Phi Phi Islands, located at the base of towering limestone cliffs. While you can’t enter the cave itself, the view from the boat is absolutely stunning! The cave is famous for its ancient wall paintings and for being a nesting site for swiftlets, whose nests are harvested for bird’s nest soup—a local delicacy.

The turquoise water surrounding the cave is incredibly clear, making it a great stop for sightseeing and photography. Some tours also include snorkeling nearby, where you can see vibrant marine life.

Things to Know Before Visiting:

✔ You can’t go inside – The cave is protected, so tours only allow you to view it from the boat.
✔ Rich history – The cave got its name from paintings that resemble Viking ships, though its main use today is for bird’s nest harvesting.
✔ Stunning scenery – The limestone cliffs and emerald waters make it a great photo stop.
✔ Part of island tours – Most Phi Phi island-hopping tours include a stop here along with Maya Bay and Pi Leh Lagoon.

While you can't explore the cave itself, it’s still a cool and fascinating place to see. If you're visiting the Phi Phi Islands, it’s definitely worth a stop!

🚤🌊 A must-see for history and nature lovers!"

Anushka Shehan

"It has a stunning view of the caves around Phi Phi Island. It has also the facility for snorkeling. You can go to touching distance of the caves in small long tail boats with extra fee on top the package price. It feel marvelous when boat rushes beside the caves. A mus see place in Phi Phi Island tour."

Md. Rashidul Hasan Rana

"This cave is a brief but interesting stop on the Maya Bay tour, where visitors can admire its beauty from the outside. Entry is not allowed, so it’s more of a quick photo opportunity rather than an exploration spot. The stop usually lasts around 5 minutes, enough to appreciate its natural charm. A nice addition to the tour itinerary!"

Abhijeet Sawant (अभिजीत सावंत)

What People Like

Stunning cave paintings
Playful monkeys
Clear turquoise waters

What People Dislike

Cannot enter Viking Cave
Monkeys can be aggressive

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

These attractions are best accessed via boat tours from Phi Phi Don, Krabi, or Phuket. Many island-hopping tours include stops at both locations, often alongside Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. You can book group tours or opt for a private long-tail boat for a more personalized experience. Instagram+2

Ferries are the primary mode of transport between the mainland and Phi Phi Don. Once on Phi Phi Don, long-tail boats are ideal for exploring nearby attractions like Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. Instagram

Yes, many day trip tours from Phuket include Viking Cave and Monkey Beach as part of their itinerary, often covering multiple Phi Phi Islands. Instagram

While you can't walk to them, you can hire a private long-tail boat from Phi Phi Don to visit these spots at your own pace. This offers more flexibility than group tours. Instagram+1

Ferry rides from Krabi to Phi Phi Islands typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Boat tours to Viking Cave and Monkey Beach will then depart from Phi Phi Don. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You cannot enter Viking Cave itself. Tours view it from the boat, so there's no separate entry ticket. The cost is part of your overall boat tour package. TikTokReddit

Typically, there isn't a separate entrance fee for Monkey Beach itself, but the cost is usually included in your island-hopping tour package. Be mindful of the monkeys and do not feed them. Instagram

Group tours can range from 1200 to 1400 Thai Baht per person, often including lunch and soft drinks. Private long-tail boat rentals will vary based on duration and negotiation. Instagram+1

Yes, visitors are not allowed to enter Viking Cave to protect the ancient paintings and the swiftlet bird nests. You can only view it from the boat. TikTokReddit

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred tour. You can also book through your hotel or local tour operators upon arrival. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Viking Cave, you can admire ancient wall paintings resembling Viking ships and observe the swiftlet bird nests from your boat. It's a brief but historically significant stop. TikTokReddit

Observe the playful monkeys from a safe distance on your boat or the shore. Avoid feeding them. You can also swim and snorkel in the clear waters nearby. Instagram+1

Yes, many tours offer snorkeling opportunities in the clear waters surrounding these areas, allowing you to see vibrant coral reefs and marine life. InstagramReddit

Stops at Viking Cave are typically brief, around 5-10 minutes for photos. Monkey Beach might allow for a short stop to observe the monkeys and swim. InstagramReddit

Wear light, quick-drying clothing, swimwear, and a hat. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof bag for your electronics. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The best photos of Viking Cave are taken from the boat, capturing the dramatic limestone cliffs, the cave entrance, and the ancient paintings. The surrounding turquoise water adds to the scenic beauty. TikTokInstagram

Maintain a safe distance and use a zoom lens if possible. Be patient, as the monkeys are active and playful. Avoid direct eye contact and sudden movements. Instagram

A waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is ideal for capturing underwater shots and boat activities. A good zoom lens is helpful for wildlife photography. TikTok

Since you can only view Viking Cave from the boat, there are no specific restrictions on photography from that vantage point. However, be mindful of other passengers. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer, more flattering light. The midday sun can be harsh, but the vibrant colors of the water are still impressive. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

For families, Monkey Beach offers an exciting chance to see wildlife up close, but with a strong emphasis on keeping a safe distance and not feeding the monkeys. Viking Cave is a fascinating visual stop, sparking curiosity about history and nature. Opt for tours that are shorter and less crowded, or consider a private long-tail boat for more control over the itinerary and to accommodate younger children's needs. Ensure your tour includes life jackets and that the boat crew is experienced with children. InstagramReddit

Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water for everyone. The boat rides can be bumpy, so keep that in mind for very young children. Many tours offer lunch, which can be a convenient option for families. The clear waters around these areas are great for a refreshing swim, but always supervise children closely. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Viking Cave and Monkey Beach offer incredible photographic opportunities. For Viking Cave, focus on capturing the dramatic limestone cliffs and the ancient paintings from the boat. A zoom lens is beneficial here. At Monkey Beach, patience is key for capturing the playful interactions of the macaques. Use a telephoto lens to maintain a safe distance while still getting great shots. TikTokInstagram

Consider a waterproof camera or action camera for capturing the vibrant turquoise waters and potential snorkeling moments. Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing the colors. A private long-tail boat allows for more time at each location, giving you the freedom to wait for the perfect shot without being rushed by a group tour. Instagram+1

💰 Budget Travelers

To experience Viking Cave and Monkey Beach on a budget, join a group island-hopping tour. These tours are significantly cheaper than private charters and often include stops at multiple popular Phi Phi Islands, sometimes even lunch and soft drinks. Compare prices from different tour operators in Ao Nang or on Phi Phi Don. Instagram+1

While you can't enter Viking Cave, the view from the boat is still impressive. For Monkey Beach, remember that the main attraction is observing the monkeys from a distance, which is free. Be wary of extra fees for activities not included in the initial tour price. Bringing your own snacks and water can also help save money. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Viking Cave: History and Significance

Viking Cave, located on Phi Phi Leh, is a fascinating natural wonder renowned for its ancient wall paintings that depict various seafaring vessels, some resembling Viking ships, hence its name. These paintings are believed to be thousands of years old and offer a unique glimpse into the history of maritime activity in the region. Beyond its historical art, the cave is also a crucial nesting site for swiftlet birds. Their saliva-based nests are a highly prized ingredient in traditional Chinese cuisine, forming the basis of the famous bird's nest soup. This makes the cave an important economic resource for local communities, with specialized harvesting practices in place. TikTokReddit

Visitors can only admire Viking Cave from the deck of their boat. Access into the cave itself is restricted to protect the delicate ecosystem and the ancient artwork. Boat tours typically slow down as they pass the cave, allowing passengers ample time to take photos and appreciate its unique features. The dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding the cave, coupled with the vibrant turquoise waters, create a breathtaking backdrop for this historical site. Reddit

While you can't step inside, the visual spectacle of Viking Cave is undeniable. It's a brief but memorable stop on most Phi Phi island-hopping itineraries, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural intrigue. The experience is enhanced by the knowledge of its historical significance and its role in local traditions. Reddit

Monkey Beach: A Primate Paradise

Monkey Beach, situated on the southern tip of Koh Phi Phi Don, is a picturesque cove famous for its resident population of long-tailed macaques. These playful primates are a major draw for visitors, offering a unique opportunity to observe them in their natural habitat. The beach itself is a beautiful stretch of sand fringed by lush vegetation and dramatic limestone karsts, making it visually stunning. Instagram

It's crucial for visitors to remember that these are wild animals. While the monkeys are accustomed to human presence, feeding them is strongly discouraged. Feeding disrupts their natural foraging behaviors, can lead to aggression, and poses health risks to both the monkeys and humans. Tourists are advised to keep a safe distance, avoid direct eye contact, and secure any food items they may have. The monkeys are often seen interacting with each other, grooming, and playing, providing entertaining viewing. Instagram+1

Beyond observing the monkeys, Monkey Beach also offers opportunities for swimming and snorkeling in its clear, shallow waters. The surrounding coral reefs can be explored, though the primary attraction remains the primate inhabitants. Many boat tours include a stop here, allowing visitors a chance to disembark briefly or view the beach and its inhabitants from the boat. Reddit