Koh Phi Phi Island is one of the most popular islands to visit while traveling through Thailand. It’s personality is exactly how it looks. Confused and Bi-polar. Most people either love it or hate it. The once beautiful Maya Bay was propelled into national spotlight, for the worse, by the movie “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Koh Phi Phi has since become overdeveloped, overpopulated with tourism, and all but lost. Many people visit for the endless nights of wild parties by the beach. Anything can be found; from lounging on bean bags under the moon to participating in flaming jump roping. Nevertheless, there still exists beautiful beaches within an arm’s reach that are not yet overpopulated and polluted. I personally loved Koh Phi Phi and I’m positive I can convince you to love it too.
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
THAILAND BASIC ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Visit Thailand Travel Guide: How to Get Started to review basic essential information covering topics including visa, weather, money exchange, electrical socket types, internet & cell data, language, and more.
ATM
There are plenty of ATM Machines available around the island. Credit card is widely accepted at many modern vendors but it’s best to also carry cash as most small shops and markets are cash only.
WIFI & MOBILE DATA
Wifi and mobile data are easily accessible. Digital nomads will find no problem settling here.
TRANSPORTATION
There are no roads available for public transportation in Koh Phi Phi. Those traveling here will find no cars and only few bicycles and motorcycles. Getting around by foot is relatively easy while long-tail boats are available as water taxis for covering longer distances across the island.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
Did you remember to consider getting Travel Insurance? It is not required but highly encouraged when traveling to any foreign country. Koh Phi Phi Islands is filled with outdoor activities such as hiking through jungles and snorkeling/diving through coral reefs. One can get seriously injured if not careful. On top of that, different climate conditions, insect bites, or trying new types of food can cause one to become seriously ill. Unforeseen accidents do happen and expenses can add up and ruin your trip. The most popular insurance for all types of travelers is World Nomads. Their policies are created specifically with travelers in mind. It doesn’t hurt to Get a Free Quote and decide from there.
HOW TO GET TO KOH PHI PHI ISLANDS
KRABI OR PHUKET
Ferries and speed boats depart daily from Krabi and Phuket and will arrive at Koh Phi Phi Don, the main and largest of the islands. Schedules will vary depending on season and weather so don’t be shocked if it’s cancelled for your own safety. You can book tickets from the many vendors and hotels for as low as 300 THB from Krabi during low season. Booking online in advance will give you peace of mind but it’s not necessary due to it’s slightly higher price.
The trip is roughly two hours long. Try getting to the dock an hour in advance to grab good seats, especially if you easily get sea sick. Sit in the center of the boat, get fresh air, and stare at the horizon to minimize sickness.
Upon arrival, you will need to pay a mandatory 20 THB environmental tax fee to keep the island beautiful. Some hotels will provide men with carts to help carry your luggage to your hotel. If not, scout around for one for a small fee.
The main departure/arrival port in Krabi is Klong Jirad Pier, situated just south of Krabi Town. Online booking is available at 12.go.Asia Krabi to Phi Phi.
The main departure/arrival port in Phuket is Rassada Pier, located in Phuket Town. Online booking is available at 12.go.Asia Phuket to Phi Phi.
Ferries do make stops at smaller piers so ask around for more information if you’re staying at another island nearby.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH PHI PHI
Koh Phi Phi Don is the main island and offers a wide variety of hotels, resorts, and hostels. If you’re looking to stay near the party then settle down around Loh Dalum Bay. Ton Sai Bay is calmer while still providing great evening places to hang out. Regardless, staying at either side of town in the main island will make little difference as it’s very easy to walk everywhere. Choose your accommodation based on budget.
If you’re looking for a relaxing and secluded atmosphere away from the parties then stay at the many other bays away from town located further east.
LOH DALUM BAY
Loh Dalum Bay does not have the nicest beaches but it does have the wildest beach parties. This area is flourished with restaurants, bars, and evening entertainment. The starting point to the viewpoints is also close by.
Hotel Suggestions:
Hostel Suggestions:
- Ibiza House (Dorms are available)
- Voyagers Hostel
- Apache Beach House
TON SAI BAY
Ton Sai Bay is calmer than Loh Dalum but still contains many food and entertainment options. It is near the pier where all the boats dock so beach activity here is not recommended. It’s a quick walk to Loh Dalum so you can be close to the action but away from all the noise.
Hotel Suggestions:
Hostel Suggestions:
EAST SIDE BAY
The stretch from Long Beach to Laem Tong are perfect for those looking for a romantic and secluded getaway. The beaches are the most beautiful around the island. It still retains some of it’s hip and rugged authenticity that was lost in the touristy parts of town. Imagine aqua blue water with no pollution, little development, hammocks on trees, minimal people, lively coral reefs for snorkeling, paddle boarding, and kayaking. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking tranquility. You’ll need to hire a long-tail boat water taxi to get to/from these parts of the island, which also helps keep the areas from becoming over saturated.
Hotel Suggestions: Long Beach to Laem Tong
- Paradise Pearl Bungalow
- Phi Phi Long Beach and Resort
- Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort
- Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort
- Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi Island
Airbnb is a great option for a more private place, especially if you are going with a group of people. Use my link to get a $40 credit for new users!
BEST THINGS TO DO IN KOH PHI PHI ISLANDS
There are many fantastic things to do around Koh Phi Phi Islands. From lounging on beaches to partying the night away, here is a great list to get you started in no particular order.
1. LONG BEACH
Long Beach is one of the best and relatively easy to reach beach on Koh Phi Phi Don, without taking a long-tail boat. It’s an extremely gorgeous beach flourishing with 50 shades of crystal blue water while being surrounded by lush hills and jungles. It hasn’t been overpopulated with tourists and it only contains a few resorts with bars & restaurants attached.
It takes about 35 minutes to hike to Long Beach starting from the east side of Ton Sai Bay. It involves walking through beaches, stepping stones, and jungle trails. It’s not too difficult and you get to experience a peaceful stroll through Liam Hin and Viking Beach where you’ll find hammocks, tree carvings, and hip bungalows. If you don’t feel like hiking then you can always hire a long-tail boat water taxi.
2. SHARK POINT
Shark Point is a popular snorkeling and diving spot situated about 200m from Long Beach. Just as the name implies, you can often find black-tip reefs sharks roaming the area along with other tropical fishes. The sharks tend to be docile towards humans so don’t come here if you’re looking to just get rid of your significant other. You can charter a boat or join an organized tour to take you to Shark Point.
3. KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINT
There are three viewpoints with each taking longer to reach. Viewpoint 1 contains the “I Love Phi Phi” sign and a semi impressive view of the island. Just wait until you go higher.
Viewpoint 2 takes about 30 minutes to hike up the steep stairs. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a magnificent view of Ton Sai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay forming a dumbbell shape on the island.
Viewpoint 3 is the highest of the viewpoints and takes an additional 10 minutes to hike to.
There are multiple entrances to get to the viewpoints. From Reggae bar, keep walking towards Loh Dalum Bay until you reach the viewpoint entrance sign. There is a 30 THB entrance fee with an additional 20 THB for viewpoint 3, which includes a water bottle.
4. PAK NAM BEACH
If you’re still feeling adventurous and energetic after hiking to the viewpoints then keep walking down towards one of the three beaches. You’ll come across a sign pointing directions to Rantee Beach (25 minutes), Pak Nam Beach (45 minutes), and Ao Toh Koh (45 minutes). It requires hiking through the jungle made by the locals. Be careful for monkeys as they tend to be very territorial. We had to grab rocks to pretend to use as weapons after coming across a pack hissing at us.
These beaches are very secluded and contains great spots for snorkeling and lounging around. The locals here are very friendly and you can occasionally find a soccer game running with both locals and foreigners. One local even handed me his DJI Spark to help him improve on his flying!
5. BOAT TOURS
There are many beautiful beaches, islands, and reefs around Koh Phi Phi. Charter a boat or join an organized boat tour to take you around. Maya Bay is the most popular thanks to the famous movie “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Unfortunately, it is still closed indefinitely as of October 2018 due to the extensive environmental damage caused by millions of tourists.
Other popular destinations to consider include Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, Mosquito Island, Viking Cave, Koh Phi Phi Leh, and Hin Klan Underwater Reef.
6. EXPLORE THE NIGHTLIFE
Koh Phi Phi has an extremely vibrant nightlife that attracts travelers worldwide like flies. There are exhilarating beach parties that lasts all night with fire shows, jump roping, limbo, live music, and loads of other activities. You’ll find people lounging under the moon light or taking a late night swim!
Walk along the beach at Loh Dalum Bay and you will soon find yourself sucked into popular bars like Slinky, Stones, and Blanco. Many bars lined up here offer free shots and chances to win drink buckets if you participate in the events.
7. WATCH OR PARTICIPATE IN A MUAY THAI BOXING
Reggae Bar contains a boxing ring where drunk volunteers can participate in a 3 round 1 minute match against each other. I thought it was going to be shi*s and giggles but turns out the participants really go at it! Winners receive a free drink bucket while losers will have their egos seriously hurt. Buying a drink is your entrance fee and it’s reasonably priced.
8. OTHER POPULAR THINGS TO DO
- Go Diving or Snorkeling – There are many dive shops and schools available for all skill ranges.
- Captain Bob’s Sailing Booze Cruise – Unlimited booze while exploring all the beautiful places around the island.
- Kayaking and Paddle Boarding (SUP)
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN KOH PHI PHI ISLANDS
Most food found in Thailand’s islands are mediocre at best when compared to somewhere like Bangkok. Realistically, it is difficult to get shipments of good ingredients from mainland. On top of that, most food found at tourist destinations are catered for tourists. This means westernized tasting Thai food and less than exceptional western dishes. However, I was able to find several restaurants worthy of going back.
1. ONLY NOODLES
As the name implies, this great hole-in-the-wall only serves noodles. It’s “Very Good, Very Full, Very Cheap, Very Big, For a little money.” Noodles start at 80 THB.
2. PAPAYA RESTAURANT
Payapa Restaurant serves both Thai and Indian Cuisines. A little bit on the pricier side but ordering fresh whole fish on islands is like being in heaven. 350 THB translates to 10.50 USD so it’s really not that bad when shared. Ordering whole fish in the USA can easily cost you 20+ USD so spoil yourself now and eat all the whole fish! This place doesnt serve alcohol but they’ll let you BYOB.
3. KHUN NIYOM
Cheap, fast, and good Thai food starting at 70 THB. They have an extensive menu to satisfy all your cravings.
Give me a shout out if you spot my instagram name: max.the.explorer written on the mango!
SAMPLE ITINERARY KOH PHI PHI 4DAYS/3NIGHTS
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
- Arrive in Koh Phi Phi Don
- Hotel Check-in
- Lunch
- Hike to Long Beach
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 2: KOH PHI PHI VIEWPOINTS
- Breakfast
- Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints
- Hike down to Rantee Beach, Pak Nam Beach, or Ao Toh Koh
- Lunch
- Hike back to Viewpoint for Sunset or Hire Long-tail Boat to Get Back Into Town
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 3: ISLAND TOURS
- Breakfast
- Boat Tours
- Dinner
- Bars
- Sleep
DAY 4: DEPARTURE
- Breakfast
- Hotel Check-out
- Remember all the good times and cry as you leave Koh Phi Phi Islands
GENERAL TIPS
- Drink plenty of water and carry a bottle with you. Thailand is hot and touring the island while drinking is dehydrating.
- Thailand attracts all type of people from around the world. Always stay cautious at a foreign country and never leave your drinks unattended.
- Be cautious of scammers and pick pocketing. If you feel as if you are being cheated then walk away.
