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Koh Phi Phi, ประเทศไทย - Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi

Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi, ประเทศไทย - Complete Travel Guide

Koh Phi Phi is a stunning archipelago in Thailand's Andaman Sea, consisting of six islands with Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited one. This tropical paradise gained international fame after being featured in the movie 'The Beach' and has since become one of Thailand's most sought-after destinations. The islands are renowned for their crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs that make it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Despite its small size, Koh Phi Phi offers an incredible diversity of experiences, from lively beach parties and bustling markets on Phi Phi Don to secluded coves and untouched natural beauty on the surrounding islands. The car-free environment adds to its charm, with longtail boats serving as the primary means of transportation between beaches and islands. Whether you're seeking adventure through rock climbing and diving, relaxation on world-class beaches, or unforgettable sunsets from viewpoints overlooking the Andaman Sea, Koh Phi Phi delivers an authentic Thai island experience that captures the essence of tropical paradise.

Top Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi

Island Hopping to Phi Phi Leh and Maya Bay

Explore the uninhabited Phi Phi Leh island, home to the famous Maya Bay where 'The Beach' was filmed. Visit stunning locations like Pileh Lagoon with its emerald waters surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, and Loh Samah Bay for excellent snorkeling opportunities among colorful coral reefs.

Booking Tip: Book tours through reputable operators for 800-1,500 THB per person. Early morning tours (8 AM) offer fewer crowds and better photo opportunities. Look for operators that include snorkeling equipment and lunch, and check if Maya Bay is open as it periodically closes for environmental restoration.

Snorkeling and Diving Adventures

Discover the underwater world around Phi Phi's coral reefs, home to tropical fish, reef sharks, and sea turtles. Popular dive sites include Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and the King Cruiser Wreck, offering experiences for both beginners and advanced divers.

Booking Tip: PADI courses start from 12,000 THB while fun dives cost 2,500-3,500 THB per dive. Choose PADI-certified dive shops with good safety records and small group sizes. Book snorkeling trips for 600-1,000 THB including equipment and boat transfer.

Phi Phi Viewpoint Hike

Trek up to the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the twin bays, Tonsai and Loh Dalum, connected by a narrow strip of land. The 20-30 minute hike through tropical vegetation rewards visitors with one of Thailand's most photographed vistas, especially spectacular at sunset.

Booking Tip: The hike is free and self-guided, but bring water and wear good shoes as the trail can be steep and slippery. Start early morning or late afternoon to avoid midday heat. Entry fee is 30 THB, and consider hiring a local guide for 200-300 THB for the best photo spots.

Long Beach and Bamboo Island Day Trip

Visit the pristine white sand beaches of Long Beach (Laem Tong) on Phi Phi Don's northern tip and nearby Bamboo Island. These locations offer crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, sunbathing on powdery sand, and snorkeling in shallow coral gardens away from the main tourist crowds.

Booking Tip: Join organized boat trips for 1,000-1,500 THB including transfers and lunch, or hire a private longtail boat for 2,500-3,500 THB for flexibility. Best visited during high season (November-April) when seas are calmer. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and snorkeling gear.

Fire Shows and Nightlife at Tonsai Village

Experience Koh Phi Phi's legendary nightlife scene centered around Tonsai Village, featuring beach bars with fire shows, cocktail buckets, and parties that last until dawn. Popular spots include Slinky Beach Bar, Ibiza Pool Party, and Apache Beach Bar, each offering unique atmospheres from chill beachfront lounging to high-energy dancing.

Booking Tip: Most bars have no cover charge, with drinks ranging from 150-300 THB. Fire shows typically start around 9 PM and are free to watch. Book accommodation nearby to avoid long walks, and always drink responsibly. Some venues offer party packages including drinks for 800-1,200 THB.

Getting There

Koh Phi Phi is accessible only by boat, with ferries departing from Phuket (1.5-2 hours, 400-600 THB), explore Krabi (1.5 hours, 350-450 THB), and Koh Lanta (1 hour, 350-400 THB). The main operators include Andaman Wave Master, Phi Phi Cruiser, and Chaokoh Ferry, with multiple daily departures during high season. From Bangkok, fly to Phuket or travel to Krabi airports, then take a taxi or bus to the pier. During monsoon season (May-October), services may be reduced and seas rougher, so check weather conditions before traveling.

Getting Around

Koh Phi Phi is completely car-free, making walking the primary mode of transportation around Tonsai Village and nearby beaches. Longtail boats serve as water taxis between different beaches and islands, typically costing 100-300 THB per person for shared rides or 1,500-2,500 THB for private boat hire. Motorbike taxis are available for short distances within the village for 50-100 THB. The island is small enough to walk across in 20 minutes, with well-marked paths connecting major areas, though some trails can be steep and challenging in flip-flops.

Where to Stay

Tonsai Village Center
Loh Dalum Beach
Long Beach (Laem Tong)
Loh Bagao Bay
Laem Hin
Rantee Bay

Food & Dining

Koh Phi Phi offers diverse dining options from street food stalls to upscale beachfront restaurants, with fresh seafood being the highlight. Tonsai Village is packed with affordable Thai restaurants serving pad thai, green curry, and grilled fish for 80-200 THB per dish, while beachfront establishments offer international cuisine and cocktails with stunning ocean views for 300-800 THB per meal. Don't miss trying the local specialties like massaman curry with fresh catch, mango sticky rice, and tropical fruit smoothies. For budget travelers, food courts and local eateries provide authentic Thai meals for under 100 THB, while higher-end resorts feature fine dining experiences with fusion cuisine and extensive wine lists.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Thailand

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Khao-Sō-i Soi Convent Silom

4.8 /5
(3862 reviews)

Moom Muum Park Soi 11

4.8 /5
(2415 reviews)

The Family

4.8 /5
(2317 reviews) 1

Try Me Thai & Vegetarian Restaurant

4.8 /5
(2081 reviews) 1

Suda - Thai & Vegetarian Restaurant

4.9 /5
(1416 reviews)

THE SIXTH 6th

4.7 /5
(1356 reviews) 2

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is during the dry season from November to April, when you'll enjoy sunny skies, calm seas, and minimal rainfall perfect for island hopping and water activities. December to February offers the most pleasant weather with temperatures around 24-30°C and cool breezes, though this is also peak season with higher prices and larger crowds. March and April can be quite hot and humid but still offer excellent conditions for diving and snorkeling. The monsoon season from May to October brings heavy rains, rough seas, and some businesses may close, but also offers lower prices and a more authentic local experience for adventurous travelers who don't mind occasional downpours.

Insider Tips

Book accommodation well in advance during peak season (December-February) as the island has limited rooms and prices skyrocket during holidays
Bring cash as ATMs are limited and charge high fees, with most businesses preferring cash payments over cards
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral reefs to help preserve the marine ecosystem that's still recovering from tourism impacts

Explore Activities in Koh Phi Phi