Imagine standing barefoot on powdery white sand, the sea stretching out in impossible shades of turquoise and jade. Around you, limestone cliffs rise like sentinels guarding secret lagoons, and the air smells faintly of salt and adventure.
Welcome to the Phi Phi Islands, a cluster of six islands in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, where reality outshines every postcard you’ve seen. It’s not just about checking Maya Bay off a list, it’s about floating through hidden lagoons, swimming with shoals of rainbow fish, and watching sunsets paint the cliffs gold.
This guide takes you through everything you need to know: where to go, how to plan, what to expect, and how to make the most of this paradise.
Why Phi Phi Islands Are Magical
The Phi Phi archipelago lies between Phuket and Krabi, consisting of six islands:
- Phi Phi Don (the only inhabited island): Resorts, cafes, nightlife, and base for exploration
- Phi Phi Leh: Home to Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon
- Bamboo Island & Mosquito Island: Untouched sands and quiet snorkel spots
- Two tiny rocky islets: beloved by divers
Made world-famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s movie “The Beach”, Phi Phi is now a bucket-list destination for travelers across the globe — yet pockets of it still feel wild and unspoiled.
How to Get to Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi is accessible only by boat:
- From Phuket
- Ferry: 2 hours, scenic ride
- Speedboat: 45–60 mins
- From Krabi
- Ferry: 90 mins
- Speedboat: 40 mins
World Tours Tip: We include priority speedboat transfers in our packages so you can skip the queues and make the most of your day.
Best Time to Visit Phi Phi Islands
- November to March – Calm seas, blue skies, perfect for snorkeling and boat trips. (Peak season — book early!)
- April to June – Hot but manageable; fewer crowds, great photography light.
- July to October – Monsoon season; lush landscapes but some tours may be weather-dependent.
Top Experiences in Phi Phi Islands
1. Maya Bay — The Beach That Made Phi Phi Famous
Stepping into Maya Bay feels surreal — the cliffs curve around a crescent-shaped lagoon, the sand is soft as silk, and the water shimmers a dozen shades of blue.
- Best time to visit: Early morning (before 10 AM) for fewer crowds
- Swimming rules: To preserve coral reefs, swimming inside Maya Bay is currently restricted — but you can wade along the shoreline and take in the view
- Photo tip: Walk to the left-hand viewpoint where the bay curves for the most iconic angle
2. Pileh Lagoon — A Hidden Jade Bowl
The speedboat slows, the water deepens into glowing jade, and suddenly you’re surrounded by limestone cliffs towering like ancient guardians.
- Slip off the boat and float in warm, crystalline water
- Perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding
- One of the most photographed spots in Phi Phi — but it feels even better than it looks
3. Monkey Beach — Where Mischief Meets Beauty
Tucked away near Phi Phi Don, this tiny beach is home to playful macaques who often greet arriving boats.
- Do not feed them — it harms their health and upsets their natural behavior
- Keep your belongings secure — they’re adorable, but cheeky thieves
4. Snorkeling and Diving Spots
Beneath the surface, Phi Phi is just as stunning:
- Shark Point: Harmless blacktip reef sharks glide through shallow waters
- Bida Nok & Bida Nai: Vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life
- Hin Klang Reef: A snorkeling dream — shallow, colorful, and beginner-friendly
5. Bamboo Island — Phi Phi’s Quiet Escape
Want to escape the rush? Bamboo Island is your spot. Soft white sand, clear shallow water, and hardly any crowds make this a perfect lazy-day paradise.
Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a picnic — this is where time stands still.
6. Viking Cave — Where Swallows Nest and Legends Linger
Viking Cave is famous for its bird’s nest harvesting and ancient wall paintings that resemble Viking ships (hence the name). You can’t enter, but boats pause nearby for photos and guides narrate its history.
Types of Phi Phi Island Tours
Choosing the right tour makes all the difference:
- Day Trips from Phuket / Krabi(most popular)
- Speedboat tours covering Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, Viking Cave
- Duration: ~8 hours
- Cost: ~₹4,000–₹6,500 per person (includes lunch, snorkeling gear, guide)
- Speedboat tours covering Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, Viking Cave
- Overnight Stay on Phi Phi Don(for slow travelers)
- Stay at a beachfront resort
- Sunset cocktails, quiet mornings, and fewer crowds
- Stay at a beachfront resort
- Private Charter Boats(luxury experience)
- Tailored itineraries, exclusive snorkeling spots, personalized service
- Great for honeymoons or groups
- Tailored itineraries, exclusive snorkeling spots, personalized service
Sample Day Trip Itinerary from Phuket
- 7:30 AM — Hotel pick-up
- 8:30 AM — Depart on speedboat
- 9:30 AM — Swim at Pileh Lagoon
- 10:30 AM — Explore Maya Bay
- 12:00 PM — Lunch at a seaside restaurant on Phi Phi Don
- 1:30 PM — Snorkel near Shark Point
- 3:00 PM — Relax at Bamboo Island
- 4:30 PM — Return to Phuket/ Krabi
World Tours Advantage: We handpick operators who limit boat capacity, so you avoid crowded decks and enjoy a smoother, more private experience.
Travel Tips for Phi Phi Islands
- Start early to beat the crowds at Maya Bay
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen — protect yourself and the coral
- Waterproof bags are a lifesaver for phones and cameras
- Respect marine life — no touching coral or feeding fish
- For overnight stays, book 2–3 months in advance in peak season
Why Book Your Phi Phi Experience with World Tours
We make your Phi Phi adventure effortless:
- Private speedboat options for couples & groups
- Curated day trips with licensed guides
- Transparent pricing — no hidden fees
- Easy integration with your Phuket or Krabi itinerary
Book your Phi Phi Island tour with World Tours today.
The hush of Pileh Lagoon, the curve of Maya Bay, the taste of salt on sun-warmed skin — these are memories that stay. Take your time. Float a little longer. Let the islands remind you what slowing down feels like.