The Phi Phi Islands, in Thailand, are one of the main tourist destinations for those looking for beaches, turquoise waters and sun. These Thai islands are located on the coast of the Andaman Sea, in the province of Krabi.
These islands became much more popular following the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo Di Caprio.
The Phi Phi Islands archipelago is made up of 4 main islands: Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Koh Pai or as it is popularly known Bamboo Island and Koh Tung.
The most popular and touristy is Koh Phi Phi Don, where the vast majority of hotels and tourist infrastructure are located. It is here that ferries arrive daily from Phuket, Krabi or Koh Lanta. This area is full of shops, diving schools, bars, resorts and restaurants.
It is very popular among younger tourists who come to the island not only to enjoy the beaches and the natural environment, but at night you can enjoy parties.
Phi Phi is divided into 2 areas, which are the Tonsai Beach area and Loh Dalum Bay, which is the quieter part.
Koh Pho Phi Leh beach has Maya Bay, which is one of the most touristic sites because the movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo Di Caprio was filmed there, because of the number of tourists it received annually and the popularity of the Instead, the Thai authorities have provisionally closed Maya Bay, which will remain closed until 2021 to ensure its conservation.
In this post you will find a complete guide to Phi Phi Island; How to get here, tour options, ferries, accommodations on the island... What to see and do on Phi Phi island and some travel tips.
COMPLETE GUIDE TO PHI PHI ISLAND
HOW TO VISIT PHI PHI ISLANDS
There are several tours that leave from nearby areas, such as Krabi, Phuket,... They are full-day tours in which you won't have to worry about anything and they include everything.
It is also possible to get to Koh Phi Phi Don by ferry and stay on the Island. This way you can enjoy this environment more and get to know the less popular, or less touristy, places.
To get to know these islands better, I recommend taking some tours. Whether they are day trips coming from other areas, or if you are staying in Phi Phi. With the tours you will be able to see the beaches of Phi Phi, its caves, the limestone mountains, the small coves and lagoons where you can snorkel or dive, or do other activities such as kayaking, traditional boat rides...
Full day tour
Daily ferries
Day tour, for those staying on Phi Phi Island
WHAT BEACHES TO VISIT ON PHI PHI ISLAND
On these islands you will find some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Thailand. With a turquoise sea, perfect seabed for lovers of snorkeling and diving, white sand beaches and lush and exotic vegetation.
Ton Sai Bay
This beach has the vast majority of hotels on the island. It is located in the main port, where the ferries arrive from Krabi, Phuket… This beach is surrounded by vegetation and even though it is the most crowded place on the island, it does not lose its appeal.
Maya Bay
It is the most visited and popular beach because the movie "The Beach" starring none other than Leonardo di Caprio was filmed. This beach was closed for 2 years, to preserve and protect it. From the end of 2022 it can be accessed again through excursions and tours.
The first time I visited Maya Bay we had torrential storms all day, and even with rough seas and not being able to enjoy the place as we would have liked, we still enjoyed it. A couple of years later we came back and were able to enjoy this place practically alone. It was low season and despite being the rainy season we got an incredible sunny day (You have the photo of Maya Bay with sun at the beginning of the post). Later I will tell you when to visit the island, what time of year is best to enjoy the good weather and the sun.
Rantee Beach
This beach is in one of the most peaceful and idyllic areas of Phi Phi island. Here you can swim in peace, without crowds. As we traveled in low season, there was no tour as such that stopped in this place, and we had read that it was totally paradisiacal here. Asking at the hotel, they found us a fisherman who would take us and pick us up for little money. If you have time, I recommend you dedicate a day to this place, to rest, sunbathe in this paradise and recharge your batteries.
Lo Bakao Beach
This beach is located on the east coast of the island, and is often called the calm beach. It is sheltered by the winds from May to November, the mountains that surround it protect it, so this beach maintains an apparent calm. It is ideal for those who travel in the rainy season.
Monkey Island
This beach, as its name begins, has its greatest attraction in the monkeys that you will find on it, stalking tourists in search of food.
This beach is also good for diving, it has an incredible seabed and from Phi Phi you can hire different excursions to go diving. It is one of the places where tourist boats stop, so that they can observe the natural beauty and enjoy a bath. It is advisable not to get too close to the monkeys because they are wild and can bite. With what you make sure you go to the hospital and get vaccinated against rabies, if you don't have the updated vaccine. Do not throw food at them either, but they will not stop chasing you in search of more. They are usually thieves who, apart from food, take glasses, cameras, mobile phones, gels, creams... so keep your belongings safe.
Mosquito Island
This island is ideal to enjoy its beaches, calm crystal blue waters, snorkel and spend a relaxing day in a beautiful setting.
WHAT ELSE TO DO ON PHI PHI ISLAND
Phi Phi Island is the perfect place to relax in its natural environment, walk and get ahead on the paths full of lush vegetation, reach the viewpoints and take the opportunity to enjoy the sunsets.
You can kayak and go into the limestone caves. And if you are a lover of colorful fish, you can snorkel and dive.
WHERE TO STAY ON PHI PHI ISLAND
Staying in Phi Phi is not exactly cheap, especially if we compare it with other areas of Thailand. Although you can find accommodation for all budgets, I give you my recommendations:
Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, 5 estrellas.
PLAN YOUR TRIP STEP BY STEP
I hope you enjoy your trip to Thailand very much and that this article has been useful to you. You can continue reading many more related articles on the blog.
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A hug and see you soon!