Blessed enough to be exploring the Phi Phi Islands? Lucky you!
Known by its residents as Mu Koh Phi Phi, this small archipelago is made up of 6 iconic islands: Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Leh, Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Koh Phai, and Koh Young.
They are worshipped for their attractive beaches, luscious cliffs, and the bluest of seas. We guarantee you will want to explore every. Single. Inch. Of. Koh Phi Phi.
Based in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi, the islands leave a lasting impression on everyone who is fortunate enough to visit. Each island boasts world-class sites that you must add to your list.
From boat tours making stops at all the right spots to diving trips satisfying every level of experience. And of course the phenomenal party scene. The Phi Phis were made for trips that will never be forgotten…
Maya Bay
Leonardo Dicaprio’s iconic blockbuster ‘The Beach’ broke Maya Bay following the pivotally high tourist response. But after being tragically forced to close its doors to visitors, in January 2022 you can once again feel the powder-soft sand between your toes like the movie star once did.
Allow the luscious limestone cliffs to cloak you in solitude. This idyllic islet is completely uninhabited, giving lucky guests an utterly exclusive experience.
Take advantage of photo opportunities on the only beach in Koh Phi Phi Leh.
Sadly there is no paddling allowed since the reopening as the waters are back to being a nursery for threatened Blacktip Reef Sharks; you can still admire the crystal clear depths from a distance.
If you do choose to visit this remarkable bay, please do so respectfully so the embankment can be admired for years to come.
Viking Cave (Tham Phaya Nak)
Next on the list of hotspots that you need to visit is the curious Tham Phaya Nak (Viking Cave), which sits at the mouth of Phang Nga Bay. The cave dates back to the 1500s and attracts sightseers from near and far.
The main attraction is its stone walls, which are adorned with ancient paintings resembling Viking ships. The art is thought to be left by sailors who took shelter there from a storm, many years ago. It’s an incredibly fascinating trip for history fanatics and explorers alike.
You can view these historic caves by catching a scenic long-tail boat trip from Tonsai Bay. Unfortunately, it isn’t possible to enter the cave, although it is still worth the half-hour journey to see the rugged cliffs close up.
Another reason to visit is to see where locals pursue their business, harvesting swiftlet nests. These nests are considered a delicacy in Chinese culture and are eaten to encourage good health.
Out of all of Koh Phi Phi Leh’s attractions, this is sure to be one of the most extraordinary.
Phi Phi Viewpoint
There is no place better than Phi Phi Don’s Viewpoint to feast your eyes on the spectacular Phi Phi Islands.
Delightfully positioned on the horizontal strip of sand that is the main town of Phi Phi Don, the site overlooks the island’s main village, both Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay, as well as the magnificent ‘dumbbell-shaped Phi Phi Leh.
All in all, it takes around 25 minutes to reach the peak, depending on how steady you want to take the climb. On arrival, you’ll be relieved to be greeted by swinging hammocks, cold drinks, and ice cream to replenish whilst taking in the notorious scenery.
For anyone wanting to take photos, it’s definitely best to visit before noon as after that the sun will be shining against the viewpoint.
It’s a no-brainer to have this destination on your list.
Shark Watching Tour
Thrill-seekers assemble! Don’t worry, these sharks aren’t any danger to people. In fact, no known deaths have ever been recorded to have been caused by the majestic Blacktip Leopard Sharks.
Taking a tour to swim with these gentle creatures is one of the most popular things to do for guests of Phi Phi Don.
For the ultimate experience, tag along with a reputable tour company like The Adventure Club which has been rated #1 on multiple trusted review sites. Full diving equipment is provided with this diving group and for those who want an extra daring tour, they offer a Night Dive package.
We suggest checking out Shark Point, which is 800 meters off Long Beach, for the best shark encounters.
Rock Climbing
If there is one place better to get a view of the islands than Phi Phi Viewpoint, it will be off the beaten track, or off the track completely! If you are looking for the motivation to try your foot at rock climbing, let this be the prompt you need!
In the leading destination for tropical climbing, achieve exclusive angles of the islands, encounter monkeys, flying fish, and more.
Whether it’s your first time or your hundredth, the iconic rocks make great practice for climbers. Choose from one of the countless pocketed faces for a fresh climbing experience.
Often being forced to set off from ivory beaches or even straight out of the ocean, there are worse things to complain about on your travels. We are positive this will be one of the most memorable climbing trips you have ever taken.
If you’re looking for a wall that suits the entire family, the idolized Tonsai Tower in Phi Phi Don is your match, with 48 different routes suiting all levels of difficulty. Like many of the famed walls, Tonsai is surrounded by shops with all the climbing equipment needed.
Though if you are after a challenge, the jungle just north of Tonsai Tower boasts the Drinking Wall which is fit for a pro, recognized by its smooth face.
Don’t be put off by the fact you’re new to things. Plenty of the visitors that attempt these walls are in your shoes and are just after an exclusive glimpse of the islands.
Facing these tropical walls is every climber’s dream.
Snorkeling
Unsurprisingly, on your visit to Koh Phi Phi it is almost imperative you get out your snorkeling equipment.
There are so many magical places to explore, with considerable types of coral and marine life to see.
We advise taking a day-long snorkeling excursion, which sets off at various times from Koh Phi Phi Don. The tours make pit stops at top locations. You will likely end up investigating Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Bamboo Island.
Trips typically include lunch and refreshments and add at roughly 1500 Baht per person they are worth every bit.
Paddle off the shores of dreamy sands; swim alongside huge schools of clownfish and be the envy of your friends with unbeatable underwater photos.
Our tip-top snorkeling spots include the quiet Koh Yung (Mosquito Island), which is fringed all the way across by a reef, and best for an undisturbed snorkel away from crowds. The island is best before sunset (peep the name) and is hailed for its aquatic diversity.
Meanwhile, Koh Mai Phai (Bamboo Island) is almost entirely surrounded by a coral reef. Snorkeling here is a must, with extensive marine life leaving the impression of swimming through an aquarium.
Second to none, however, is Pileh Bay’s sublime lagoon. The emerald bay practically cuts Koh Phi Phi Leh in two like an aquamarine canyon and is pleasantly in the shade for most of the day. It is almost always included in boat tours and is even in close proximity to the Viking Cave.
If you’re just visiting for a day, Pileh Bay should be top of your list.
Scuba Diving
Of course, one of the best ways to experience Koh Phi Phi is underwater. Though heading out to sea provides access to several exclusive species of coral and plenty of strange fish you’ll be sure to encounter.
Take an excursion with one of the many trusted diving centers on the islands. Explore a whole new world where curious breeds weave through fantastical coral reefs.
Experience the treasures of Thailand’s Andaman sea where tropical life can be found by the dozen. Be fascinated by underwater shipwrecks, giant coral pillars, and hoards of exotic fish.
Koh Bida Nok offers something for everyone with its shallow northern side and the deeper southern coast. It’s certainly worth exploring both ends to see the whole range of species.
Visit the lobsters and moray eels in the inviting shallows of Hin Pae, off Long Beach. Head to Hin Dot (Chimney Rocks) for enormous coral towers standing 30 meters high in the water and a flurry of pufferfish, nurse sharks, and flounders.
Each spot is unique with its own species of flora and flounder; wherever you choose to explore, one thing you are sure to be short of is a disappointment.
Planning your visit between November and May means the waves are fewer and the views will be the clearest.
