About Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands represent tropical paradise at its finest - dramatic limestone cliffs rising vertically from impossibly turquoise water, white sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear snorkeling. Located between Phuket and Krabi, these islands became world-famous after Leonardo DiCaprio's film "The Beach" showcased Maya Bay. Book tours from Patong or other beach areas.
The archipelago consists of six islands, with Phi Phi Don (the largest and only inhabited island) and Phi Phi Leh (home to Maya Bay) being the main attractions. Day trips from Phuket are extremely popular, though overnight stays on Phi Phi Don offer a different experience. Despite heavy tourism, the islands' natural beauty remains breathtaking. Visit during high season for calm seas. See other top attractions.
The Main Islands
Phi Phi Don - The Main Island
The only inhabited island with Tonsai Village - the main settlement with hotels, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Two main beaches: Tonsai Bay (busy, boats arrive here) and Loh Dalum Bay (calmer, opposite side). Connected by narrow strip of land packed with shops and restaurants. Viewpoint hike offers spectacular island views. Accommodations range budget to luxury. Can stay overnight for different experience from day-trippers.
Phi Phi Leh - Maya Bay & Caves
Uninhabited island famous for Maya Bay. The bay was closed 2018-2022 for environmental recovery after suffering from over-tourism. Now reopened with strict regulations: no swimming allowed, limited visitors per day, no boats anchor in bay. Other attractions: Pileh Lagoon (stunning emerald water), Viking Cave (bird nest collection site), Loh Samah Bay (good snorkeling). Most day trips circle entire island.
Typical Day Trip Itinerary
6:30-7:30 AM - Hotel Pickup
Minibus collects guests from hotels across Phuket. Transfer to pier (usually Rassada Pier or similar). Check-in, receive wristband, life jacket. Depart around 8:30-9:00 AM.
9:30-10:00 AM - Maya Bay
First stop usually Maya Bay. Disembark for photos. 30-45 minutes on beach. Swimming NOT allowed since reopening. Very crowded with multiple tour boats. Still stunning scenery despite crowds.
10:30 AM - Pileh Lagoon
Swim/snorkel in incredible emerald lagoon surrounded by cliffs. 30-40 minutes. Water spectacularly clear. Often crowded but worth it. Some tours allow swimming, some just photos from boat.
11:15 AM - Viking Cave
Quick photo stop from boat. Can't enter cave. See bird nest harvesting platforms. Brief explanation by guide. 10-15 minutes.
12:00 PM - Monkey Beach
Beach with wild monkeys. View from boat or quick stop. Monkeys aggressive - don't feed them. 15-20 minutes. Photo opportunity.
12:30 PM - Lunch
Usually on Phi Phi Don. Buffet lunch at designated restaurant. Basic Thai food. 45-60 minutes. Some free time to explore Tonsai Village briefly.
2:00 PM - Snorkeling Stop
Various locations (Bamboo Island, Koh Mai Phai, etc.). Best snorkeling of the day. See tropical fish and coral. 45-60 minutes in water. Equipment provided.
3:30 PM - Return Journey
Head back to Phuket. 45-60 minute speedboat ride. Often rougher on return (afternoon winds). Arrive Phuket around 4:30-5:00 PM. Minibus back to hotels by 5:30-6:00 PM.
Important Information
Maya Bay Current Rules
After reopening in 2022 following environmental recovery:
- NO swimming allowed in bay
- Limited visitors per hour
- Boats cannot anchor inside bay
- Must arrive via longtail from outside
- 45-minute maximum stay
- These rules protect the recovering ecosystem
What to Bring
- Waterproof bag for phone/camera/valuables
- Sunscreen (reef-safe recommended)
- Towel (some tours provide)
- Cash for extras, drinks, tips
- Motion sickness medicine if prone to seasickness
- Light jacket (boat ride can be windy)
- Change of clothes for return journey
Best Time to Visit
- November-April: Calm seas, perfect conditions
- December-February: Peak season, very crowded
- May-October: Monsoon season, tours often canceled
- Early morning tours less crowded at Maya Bay
- Weekdays slightly better than weekends
- Check weather forecast before booking
Booking Your Tour
Where to Book
Online in advance: Websites like Viator, GetYourGuide, Klook offer competitive prices and reviews. Book 2-3 days ahead during peak season. Guaranteed spots.
Local tour agencies: Found throughout Phuket. Can negotiate prices. Good for last-minute bookings. Compare multiple agencies. Read terms carefully.
Hotel concierge: Convenient but usually marked up 20-30%. Good if you want hassle-free booking. Hotel takes commission.
What to Check
- Exact pickup time and location
- What's included (lunch, snorkeling gear, etc.)
- Boat type (speedboat vs big boat)
- Group size limitations
- Cancellation policy
- Weather cancellation terms
- National park fees (usually 400 THB extra)
Price Expectations
Typical speedboat tour: 1,800-2,800 THB. Big boat tour: 1,200-1,800 THB. National park fee: 400 THB (usually separate). Premium tours: 3,000-5,000 THB. Be suspicious of prices significantly below market rate - likely poor quality or many hidden fees.
Setting Realistic Expectations
Phi Phi Islands are stunning but heavily touristed. Every day, dozens of boats and thousands of visitors descend on these islands. Maya Bay, while beautiful, will be crowded with other tour groups. The experience is more "seeing an iconic location" than "discovering untouched paradise."
The speedboat ride can be rough. If you're prone to motion sickness, take medication before departing. The ride is often bumpy, wet, and uncomfortable, especially if seas are choppy. Afternoon returns typically rougher due to wind.
You're on a schedule. Day tours are tightly timed. You'll get 30-45 minutes at most stops. Everything feels rushed. If you want to really experience the islands, consider staying overnight on Phi Phi Don and exploring at your own pace.
Despite the crowds and commercialization, Phi Phi's natural beauty remains extraordinary. The dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and coral reefs are legitimately spectacular. Snorkeling is excellent. Maya Bay is iconic for a reason. For most visitors, the day trip is worth the effort and money.
Alternative Islands from Phuket
Racha Islands (Raya Islands)
Much less crowded than Phi Phi. Excellent snorkeling and diving. Clearer water. Beautiful beaches. Only 12km from Phuket. Better for relaxation than Phi Phi. Lacks dramatic cliffs. Tours: 1,500-2,500 THB.
Coral Island (Koh Hae)
Closest island to Phuket (15 minutes). Good for short trip. Decent snorkeling. Very commercialized. Beach activities galore. Good for families. Not as spectacular as Phi Phi. Budget friendly: 800-1,500 THB.
Similan Islands
World-class diving and snorkeling. Protected national park. Pristine environment. Strict visitor limits. Further away (1.5-2 hours). More expensive: 4,000-6,000 THB. Only open November-April. Better than Phi Phi for nature lovers.
Should You Visit Phi Phi Islands?
For first-time Thailand visitors, Phi Phi is worth the trip despite the crowds. The islands are genuinely spectacular, and seeing Maya Bay in person is memorable. The limestone cliffs rising from turquoise water create scenes you'll remember forever. The snorkeling is excellent, and the full-day tour provides good value.
Book a speedboat tour if possible - the extra cost is worth it for more time at the islands and less time traveling. Choose a smaller group tour if available. Go during high season (November-April) for calm seas and better weather.
Skip Phi Phi if: You hate crowds and tourist scenes, you get seasick easily (the boat ride is rough), you've seen similar islands elsewhere in Southeast Asia, you prefer completely authentic experiences, you have limited budget (there are cheaper island options nearby).
For most Phuket visitors, Phi Phi represents a highlight of their trip. Yes, it's crowded and commercialized, but the natural beauty transcends the tourism. Book your tour, manage your expectations about crowds, and prepare to be impressed by some of Thailand's most photogenic scenery.