Phi Phi Islands, Phuket - Koh Phi Phi Don, Thailand ∤ 2022
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Phi Phi Islands

4.6
·7k reviews·, Thailand

Iconic Thai islands with dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and white-sand beaches, offering breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid the peak crowds

CrowdLow
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Phi Phi Islands, Phuket - Koh Phi Phi Don, Thailand ∤ 2022

Phi Phi Islands

Best Time

Early mornings

Avoid the peak crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Thai islands with dramatic limestone cliffs, emerald lagoons, and white-sand beaches, offering breathtaking natural beauty.

4.6
(7k reviews)

"This place is paradise, don't listen to people saying it's overcrowded, just come and see for yourself!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Stay Overnight for Peace

Don't just day trip! Staying overnight lets you explore quieter beaches and enjoy the islands after day-trippers leave.

Embrace the Longtail Boat

Iconic and essential for island hopping. Negotiate prices for private tours or join group trips for a classic Phi Phi experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maya Bay

Maya Bay

Koh Phi Phi Leh

The iconic "The Beach" filming location, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. Access may be restricted at times.

TikTok
Pileh Lagoon

Pileh Lagoon

Koh Phi Phi Leh

A breathtakingly beautiful emerald lagoon surrounded by towering limestone karsts, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

TikTok
Phi Phi Viewpoints

Phi Phi Viewpoints

Koh Phi Phi Don

Hike up for panoramic vistas of the islands' iconic twin bays and turquoise waters. Best visited at sunrise or sunset.

Reddit
Long Beach

Long Beach

Koh Phi Phi Don

A serene stretch of white sand, offering a more tranquil escape from the main town's bustle. Ideal for relaxation and sunset views.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds: Timing is Key

Phi Phi Islands can get incredibly busy. To experience its beauty without the throngs, aim for early mornings or consider staying overnight. Many travelers suggest that the main areas are packed, but quieter spots are just a short walk away. Reddit+1

Island Hopping Logistics

Getting to Phi Phi involves ferries or speedboats, often from Phuket or Krabi. For exploring the islands, longtail boats are iconic. Booking tours in advance or arranging private hires can save hassle, but compare prices. TikTok+2

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Avoid the peak crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Overnight stays
Why
Experience tranquility
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This is the most famous hidden gem in Thailand, Pileh lagoon or Pileh bay. The best and the cheapest way is to stay in phiphi islands over night and get a long tail boat in the next morning........ #...
@gowithmo_
360.5K likes • 4.8M views

Stay Overnight for Peace

Don't just day trip! Staying overnight lets you explore quieter beaches and enjoy the islands after day-trippers leave. Reddit+1

Embrace the Longtail Boat

Iconic and essential for island hopping. Negotiate prices for private tours or join group trips for a classic Phi Phi experience. TikTok

Si quieres viajar a Tailandia o lo vas a hacer próximamente, ¡este es tu vídeo!🇹🇭🐒🐠 Te explico algo que tienes que saber sí o sí en caso de que vayas a dormir en las islas Phi Phi🌴 #thailand #tailandi...
@travelwithjudith
84.2K likes • 831.4K views
Phi Phi, het allermooist tot nu toe 💙🌴 48 magische uren vol longtail vibes, snorkelen in turquoise water, poederwitte stranden met aapjes en zonsondergangen waar je stil van wordt. #phiphiisland #tha...
patriciabaudewijns
1.5K likes • 66.3K views

Walk to Quieter Spots

The main town can be crowded, but a 20-25 minute walk leads to beautiful, less-visited beaches like Viking or Long Beach. Reddit

Sunscreen is a Must!

The Thai sun is strong. Always wear high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while exploring. TikTok

Phi Phi Island Tour #travelwithmoyo #thailand #phiphiisland #mayabay
@yourboymoyo
65.8K likes • 495.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Stay Overnight for Peace

Don't just day trip! Staying overnight lets you explore quieter beaches and enjoy the islands after day-trippers leave. Reddit+1

Embrace the Longtail Boat

Iconic and essential for island hopping. Negotiate prices for private tours or join group trips for a classic Phi Phi experience. TikTok

Walk to Quieter Spots

The main town can be crowded, but a 20-25 minute walk leads to beautiful, less-visited beaches like Viking or Long Beach. Reddit

Sunscreen is a Must!

The Thai sun is strong. Always wear high SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself while exploring. TikTok

Book Accommodation Wisely

Consider areas like Long Beach or the east coast for more peaceful stays away from the main pier's hustle. Reddit

Dramamine for Seasickness

If you're prone to motion sickness, pack medication for boat rides, especially for longer island-hopping tours. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(7k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Phi Phi Islands are celebrated for their unparalleled natural beauty, with stunning lagoons, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches that truly feel like paradise. Visitors often rave about the vibrant turquoise waters and the iconic Maya Bay. However, many also note that the islands can be overwhelmingly crowded, especially during peak hours, detracting from the serene experience. Reddit+1

"Phi Phi Island in Thailand definitely deserves 5/5! The island is breathtaking with crystal clear water, white sandy beaches, and stunning cliffs. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring the vibrant marine life. The scenery is like a paradise, especially at Maya Bay and the viewpoint. The atmosphere is lively yet still offers peaceful spots to relax. People are friendly and the food is great too. An unforgettable destination — truly a must-visit in Thailand!"

Quoc Viet Tran

"Phi Phi Island is one of the most stunning places I have ever visited. The crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and towering limestone cliffs make the scenery truly unforgettable. Snorkeling is amazing, with colorful fish and corals all around. The island has a calm yet lively atmosphere, perfect for relaxing by the beach or enjoying boat trips. It’s a destination that leaves lasting memories and makes every visit worthwhile."

Mohammad Helal Hossain

"Have a quick stop here for lunch. The island is quite huge and there are a lot of restaurants, cafes, convenient stores and hotels available here. There are a lot of people staying here too. The view is nice, the beach is beautiful. It is also a stop point for those who are on the phi phi island snorkeling trip. I had a lunch here and it was superb. It was super busy during lunch time."

Hafizun Mushtafa

What People Like

Stunning natural beauty
Iconic Maya Bay
Clear turquoise waters

What People Dislike

Overwhelming crowds
Busy main town

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Phi Phi Islands from Phuket is by taking a ferry or a speedboat. Ferries are generally cheaper and take about 2 hours, while speedboats are faster but more expensive. You can book tickets in advance or at the pier. TikTok+1

Longtail boats are the quintessential way to explore the Phi Phi Islands. You can hire them for private tours to visit specific spots like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, or use them for shorter trips between beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don. TikTok+1

No, there are no direct flights to Phi Phi Islands. You'll need to fly into a nearby airport like Phuket (HKT) or Krabi (KBV) and then take a ferry or speedboat to the islands. TikTok

The ferry journey from Krabi to Phi Phi Islands typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Speedboats are quicker, usually around 45 minutes to 1 hour. TikTok

Yes, public ferries are available from Phuket and Krabi. These are the most budget-friendly options for reaching Phi Phi Islands. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Maya Bay often has an entrance fee, and access can be restricted or managed to protect the environment. It's best to check current regulations and book tours that include entry if available. TikTok

The islands themselves are accessible at all times, but specific attractions like Maya Bay may have designated visiting hours or be closed for conservation. Boat tours operate during daylight hours. TikTok

Yes, there is typically a national park fee for visiting certain areas within the Phi Phi Islands, especially for Maya Bay and other protected marine zones. TikTok

Day trip tours from Phuket or Krabi can range from $30 to $100+ USD per person, depending on the inclusions (speedboat vs. longtail, lunch, snorkeling gear). Private longtail boat hires are more expensive. TikTok+1

Yes, you can often book boat tours upon arrival in Phi Phi, Phuket, or Krabi. However, booking in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to secure your spot and potentially better prices. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Activities include swimming, snorkeling, diving, kayaking, hiking to viewpoints, relaxing on beaches like Long Beach, and exploring the vibrant main town. TikTokInstagram

Many find Phi Phi Islands stunningly beautiful, a true paradise with clear waters and dramatic cliffs. However, it can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. Staying overnight or visiting less popular spots can enhance the experience. Reddit+1

Besides Maya Bay, consider Long Beach for its tranquility, Loh Dalum Bay for its lively atmosphere, and the smaller coves accessible by longtail boat for a more secluded feel. Reddit+1

Yes, the main areas of Phi Phi Island can get extremely crowded, particularly during the day with tour groups. Early mornings and evenings offer a more peaceful experience. Reddit+1

The Reggae Bar is a popular spot on Phi Phi Don known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and Muay Thai boxing matches where tourists can participate. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You'll find a wide range of Thai cuisine, from street food stalls to beachfront restaurants. Seafood is a specialty, and international options are also available. TikTok

Yes, most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian requests, especially for classic Thai dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, and fried rice, often made with tofu or vegetables. TikTok

Dining options near Long Beach are generally more relaxed and less crowded than in the main town. You'll find beachfront restaurants and smaller eateries offering local and international dishes. Reddit

Look for local street food stalls and smaller eateries away from the main tourist strips. They often offer delicious and affordable Thai meals. TikTok

Prices can vary. Eating in the main town or at beachfront resorts will be more expensive than finding local eateries or street food stalls. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The viewpoints on Koh Phi Phi Don offer iconic panoramic shots. Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and the dramatic limestone cliffs are also incredibly photogenic. TikTokReddit+1

Early morning light provides softer illumination and fewer crowds for stunning photos. Sunset also offers beautiful colors over the bays. TikTok

Drone usage may be restricted in national parks and certain areas to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Always check local regulations before flying. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and cliffs. A waterproof camera or phone case is useful for underwater shots and boat trips. Instagram

Consider hiring a private longtail boat for unique perspectives from the water, or hike to less-visited viewpoints for a different angle. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Phi Phi Islands can be a visually stunning destination for families, with its clear waters and unique marine life. However, the crowds and the party atmosphere in the main town might be overwhelming for younger children. Reddit Consider booking accommodation on Long Beach or the quieter eastern side of Koh Phi Phi Don for a more relaxed family environment. Reddit Many boat tours offer snorkeling opportunities, which can be a hit with older kids. Ensure you pack plenty of sun protection, including hats and high SPF sunscreen, as the sun is intense. TikTok While Maya Bay is iconic, check current access rules as it can be very busy. Opting for a private longtail boat tour might offer more control over the itinerary and pace for your family. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Phi Phi Islands can be done on a budget, though it requires smart planning. Ferries are the most economical way to reach the islands from the mainland. TikTok Look for hostels and guesthouses in the main town or consider areas like Long Beach for more affordable accommodation options, especially during the off-season. Reddit+1 Eating at local street food stalls and smaller restaurants away from the main tourist strips will significantly cut down on food costs. TikTok Day tours can be pricey, so compare options carefully or consider hiring a longtail boat with a group to share costs. TikTok+1

💑 Couples

For a romantic escape, Phi Phi Islands offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for shared adventures. Consider booking a stay at a resort on Long Beach or a more secluded spot on the eastern coast for a peaceful retreat away from the main crowds. Reddit+1 A private longtail boat tour at sunset can be incredibly romantic, allowing you to explore hidden coves and enjoy the stunning coastal views together. TikTok While the main town can be lively, seeking out beachfront restaurants for dinner or enjoying cocktails with a view can create memorable moments. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Islands: Transport & Tours

Getting to and around the Phi Phi Islands is an adventure in itself. Most visitors arrive via ferry or speedboat from Phuket or Krabi, a journey that can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. TikTok Once on Koh Phi Phi Don, the main island, walking is the primary mode of transport within the main village. For exploring the surrounding islands and secluded bays like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon, longtail boats are the iconic choice. TikTok+1 You can hire these for private tours, which offer flexibility and a more intimate experience, or join group day trips. Many travelers recommend booking tours in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot and potentially get better deals. TikTokReddit

When considering tours, be aware of the different options. Day trips from Phuket or Krabi are popular but can mean a very crowded experience. Reddit Some travelers suggest that staying overnight on Phi Phi allows for a more relaxed exploration, as you can visit popular spots early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the day-trippers have left. Reddit+1 For those seeking a more exclusive experience, private longtail boat hires offer the freedom to customize your itinerary and discover hidden gems at your own pace. TikTok

The Phi Phi Experience: Crowds vs. Serenity

Phi Phi Islands are undeniably beautiful, often described as paradise with their sheer limestone cliffs, white-sand beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Instagram However, this beauty comes with a significant draw, and the islands can become extremely crowded, particularly the main areas of Koh Phi Phi Don and popular spots like Maya Bay. Reddit+1 Many visitors report feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tourists, especially during peak hours. Reddit

To truly appreciate the tranquility of Phi Phi, consider strategies to avoid the crowds. Early morning visits to popular sites like Maya Bay or the viewpoints are highly recommended. TikTok Alternatively, staying overnight on Koh Phi Phi Don can offer a more peaceful experience, allowing you to explore the islands after the day-trippers depart. Reddit+1 Travelers also suggest that simply walking a short distance from the main town can lead to quieter, more serene beaches like Long Beach or Viking Beach. Reddit By planning your visit strategically, you can find moments of serenity amidst the popular allure of Phi Phi.

Accommodation Options on Phi Phi

Finding a place to stay on Phi Phi Islands ranges from budget-friendly hostels to more upscale resorts. The main hub on Koh Phi Phi Don offers a wide selection of hotels and guesthouses, often bustling with activity. Reddit However, for a more tranquil escape, consider looking at accommodations located further from the main pier. Long Beach is frequently mentioned by travelers as a fantastic option, offering a beautiful stretch of sand and a more relaxed atmosphere. Reddit+1 Other areas on the east coast, like Relax Bay, are also noted for their peaceful ambiance. Reddit

Some unique stays include bungalows on secluded parts of the island, which can offer a cozy and private experience, sometimes even including boat transfers and breakfast. TikTok When booking, it's worth noting that some areas might be more remote, so check the accessibility and included services. For instance, some resorts offer complimentary kayaks and snorkeling gear, adding value to your stay. TikTok Researching specific locations like Saii Resort in the north has also been highlighted as providing an amazing experience for some visitors. Reddit

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