Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi

Maya Bay gets 5,000 visitors daily. That's the reality of Koh Phi Phi's fame since Leonardo DiCaprio made it a household name in "The Beach." The twin islands—Phi Phi Don where you'll sleep and Phi Phi Leh where you'll take photos—deliver exactly what the postcards promise: limestone cliffs rising from blue water. The main village is car-free. Everything happens within a few blocks of bars, restaurants, and guesthouses that can feel like an outdoor nightclub during peak season. But that's also what makes it work—you'll meet other travelers whether you want to or not.

Street food stalls serve pad thai for 150-250 baht. Beachfront restaurants with sunset views charge 400-800 baht for mains, but the southern Thai curries beat the banana pancakes every time. Skip the tourist favorites. The night market near the pier has the cheapest food. Popular restaurants don't take reservations, so expect waits during dinner rush—especially anywhere with a view of the water.

November through March brings calm seas and no rain. You'll also get peak season crowds and prices that reflect the perfect weather conditions. April and May turn hot but manageable. Monsoon season runs June through October. Afternoon storms and rough seas can cancel boat trips, but accommodation costs drop significantly and the party atmosphere calms down. Late October offers the best compromise.