What to do in Phi Phi: the Ultimate Guide

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Updated: July 18, 2025

The Phi Phi Islands are a dream destination for many travelers, and for good reason: they boast unique natural beauty. Beaches of fine white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for disconnecting from the world. You won't want to leave!

In this guide, I'll tell you what to do in Phi Phi so you don't miss a thing. I've also included everything you need to know about how to get there, where to stay, where to eat, and lots of tips. And at the end, I've included a map with all the places marked.

What to do in Phi Phi Don

Phi Phi Don is the largest island in the archipelago and the only one with infrastructure to accommodate tourists. Although mass tourism arrived after the DiCaprio movie boom, it still maintains its natural charm.

The island is full of limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and two large, heavenly beaches that will leave you speechless.

1. Tonsai Town

This is the main village on Phi Phi Don, where most of the bars, restaurants, shops, and accommodations are located. When you arrive by boat, Tonsai is just on your right. Just walk about 100 meters along the promenade and you're right in the middle of it all.

It's small, but it has everything: souvenir shops, tour agencies, cafes for a relaxing breakfast, and bars for a drink at night.

The nightlife has calmed down quite a bit in recent years. It used to be more of a party scene, but now it's more focused on quiet, family-oriented tourism. Still, at night it's lively enough to make sure you have a good time.

2. Tonsai Beach

It's the first beach you'll see upon arrival, as it's right next to the port. It shares the same name as the town and has a beautiful cliff backdrop.

Tonsai Beach is a lively beach, ideal for water activities during the day and enjoying fire shows and music at night.

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3. Loh Dalum Beach

From Tonsai, you can walk across to the other side of the island to reach this other great beach. Although it sounds far, it's less than a five-minute walk.

Loh Dalum, along with Tonsai, are the most important beaches on Phi Phi Don. In fact, the shape of both beaches hugging the center of the island is what gives Phi Phi its distinctive silhouette.

This beach has white sand, crystal-clear water, and beautiful cliffs in the background. It's perfect for relaxing and taking a dip.

4. Excursion to the other Phi Phi islands

If you're in Phi Phi Don, you can't miss a trip to the other islands in the archipelago. Especially Koh Phi Phi Leh, the jewel in the crown and probably the real reason you ended up planning this trip.

Phi Phi Leh is a protected island within the Hat Noppharat Thara – Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. To visit, you'll have to pay the park fee of 400 baht (about €10.40), but I can tell you it's worth every penny.

One of the advantages of staying on Phi Phi Don is being able to take this excursion at sunrise and arrive before the rest of the tourists who come for the day from Krabi or Phuket.

Although, if getting up early isn't your thing, there are also other great options, such as spending the night on a boat, very affordable private tours, and more. In this other guide with the best excursions in Phi Phi.

🔷 These are the most typical stops:

• Maya Bay: Probably the most beautiful beach in the world, made famous by the movie The Beach with DiCaprio. The filming was a disaster for the ecosystem, so it was closed for 4 years. Now you can only walk on the sand, but not swim. However, you can swim at the entrance to the bay and see fish and even harmless reef sharks.
• Monkey BayA quiet bay for snorkeling. On the beach, you'll be greeted by macaques who don't hold back. If you don't see them, look up at the top of the rock face, where you're sure to see them descending. Be careful, they bite. And yes, they also swim and even dive.
• Phi Leh Bay: another beautiful bay, with water so turquoise it seems unreal.
• Viking CaveThe boat stops for a moment for a photo, but nothing more. Apparently, there are paintings of ships there (which look like Viking ones) and they collect swallow's nests for aphrodisiac soups.

In August and September 2025, Maya Beach will be closed. They already did this in 2024 to help restore the seabed, and it worked quite well. They're repeating the measure this year, and they're likely to continue doing so in the future.

⭐ In this other article I tell you about other places in Bangkok and Phuket, where scenes from The Beach and others were filmed Movies Shot in Thailand.

5. Most Beautiful Beaches

In addition to the two main beaches, the island has many other coves and beaches, each more beautiful than the last. These are, at least for me, three of the best beaches on Phi Phi Don:

🔷 Long Beach

It's one of the best known, and for good reason: it has spectacular views, turquoise water, and is usually quieter than the central beaches. It's also one of the best areas to stay in Phi Phi if you want to enjoy a few days of relaxation.

You can get there on foot from Tonsai (there is a rocky section, so wear comfortable shoes) or by longtail boat.

🔷 Loh Moo Dee Beach

This beach is wonderful. It's more secluded, which means fewer people and more peace. Plus, let me tell you a secret: it's perfect for taking a nap without anyone bothering you. 😊 You can walk from Long Beach or get there by boat.

🔷 Nui Beach

This is my favorite spot for snorkeling. The water is crystal-clear, the scenery picture-perfect, and if you're feeling brave, you can get there by kayak from Loh Dalum, or by boat.

6. Phi Phi Don Viewpoints

One of the most spectacular spots on the island is its viewpoint. From there, you'll have a picture-postcard view of the town, the two main beaches, and the surrounding green cliffs.

There are actually three viewpoints. The trail starts from Tonsai, and the easiest route is the one that passes by the Amena café. The first stretch is up a long staircase, and it's tropically humid, so be warned. It's not complicated, but it's tiring due to the oppressive heat.

After about 10 minutes, you'll reach Viewpoint 1, but the one that's really worthwhile is Viewpoint 2, which you reach after another 15 minutes of walking along a gentler path. Admission costs 50 baht* (about €1.30) and gives you access to the first two.

If you're still hungry, you can continue to Lookout Point 3, although I'm warning you: it's not well signposted, so you'll have to walk another 10 minutes and pay another 20 baht. For me, it's not worth it because the views aren't any better.

*Price updated in May 2025.

✔️ Tips:

• Go early in the morning to avoid the sweltering heat and crowds of the evening.
• Bring water, although there's a café at viewing platform 2 if you need a juice and an excuse to sit down.
• Wear comfortable shoes; flip-flops aren't a good option. I wore hiking sandals like the ones in the link, which are great for these hikes.
• Essentials: sunscreen and repellent.
• If you're going up at dusk, bring a fully charged phone so you can use the flashlight on the way down. You'll thank me later. 😉

7. Sunset

Sunsets on Phi Phi leave you gaping at the horizon, a true spectacle of nature not to be missed.

My favorite place to watch the sunset on Phi Phi Don is Long Beach, with a coconut or cocktail in hand. There are beachfront bars, a relaxed atmosphere, and unbeatable views.

To get there, you can walk from Tonsai or take a longtail boat. At this time, longtail boats tend to raise their prices a bit (you know, the "sunset" fare), but it's still reasonable and a convenient way to get there without having to walk through rocks.

🔷 Other good places to watch the sunset:

• Nui Beach: It is more hidden, so there are usually fewer people.
• Viewpoint 2: The views are spectacular, I won't deny it, but be prepared to share them with a lot of people.

8. Nightlife

If you're spending the night on Phi Phi Don, take the opportunity to go for a stroll. Although it's not the craze it was a few years ago, there's still a great atmosphere at night. You can watch fire shows on the beach, listen to live music, or just have a quiet drink.

🔷 These are some of my favorite sites:

• Slinky Bar: One of the classics. Good vibes, a fire show, games to get people going, and then music to dance to. A really fun place! The drinks are a bit pricey, but the atmosphere makes up for it.
• Carlito's barIt's on the other side, near the port. It's perfect for watching the firework display. They also often have live music and the cocktails are delicious. 🍹😋
• Kong SiamPerfect if you're looking for something more relaxed. Good drinks and even better live music, without shouting or fireworks.

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9. Diving and snorkeling

The Phi Phi Islands are a paradise for viewing marine life, both for snorkeling and diving.

One of the best places to snorkel is at the entrance to Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh. Since swimming isn't allowed at the beach, boats usually stop a little early so you can take a dip surrounded by fish and even spot a reef shark.

If you prefer diving in Phi Phi, I have some good news: Phi Phi Leh has some amazing spots, and you can also obtain an Open Water diving certification there.

It'll take you between two and three days to complete. I recommend this course in Spanish , which is already included in your insurance. If you prefer something more specific, one option is this scuba diving introduction . You'll have plenty of options to enjoy it to the fullest.

Map

Where are the Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands are located in the Andaman Sea, in Krabi Province, southern Thailand. They're roughly halfway between Phuket Island and the coast of Krabi, so they're easily accessible by boat from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket.

✔️ The Phi Phi archipelago is made up of 4 main islands:

1. Phi Phi Don: It's the largest and the only inhabited island. Boats dock here, accommodations are located here, and island life is concentrated here.
2. Phi Phi Leh: famous for Maya Beach, made famous by the film The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. (Spoiler: it's now more controlled to preserve the environment.)
3. Koh Mai Phai: Known as Bamboo Island, for the bamboo that grows there, it's a beautiful little island perfect for snorkeling.
4. Koh YungMosquito Island: also known as Mosquito Island. Although the name isn't very encouraging, it's just as beautiful as the others. And no, there aren't more mosquitoes than on other islands... or at least you can't really notice them.

How to get there

The only way to reach Phi Phi is by sea, using public transport (ferry or speedboat) or on an excursion. The main departures are from Krabi (Ao Nang or Railay) and Phuket. During peak season, ferries also often operate from Koh Lanta.

✔️ Boat (public transportation)

If you want to explore Phi Phi Don properly, relax, and explore the rest of the archipelago without the hassle of mass tours, your best bet is to take a ferry or speedboat and stay a couple of nights. It's worth it: the experience is nothing like just taking the tour. I've tried both experiences, one shortly after moving to Phuket and the other when some relatives visited me.

• Trip duration: Between 45 minutes and 2 hours, depending on the type of boat and the port of departure. Add to that the travel time by land.
• Ground transportation: I recommend booking combined boat + bus or minibus tickets, it saves you money and hassle.
• Prices, schedules and reservations: You can check all the information and book your ticket to Phi Phi from Krabi at this link , and from Phuket at this other one .
• Advice: Book in advance if you are traveling during peak season (December to March).

⭐ Related article: How to get from Krabi to Phi Phi: all the alternatives

✔️ Phi Phi Day Trip

If you don't have much time or don't feel like sleeping on the island, the most practical option is a full-day tour. They take you to the archipelago's most beautiful spots, with stops for swimming, snorkeling equipment, and even lunch included.

From Krabi I recommend this budget-friendly excursion , or This other one from Phuket with a visit to Bamboo Island and a finger-licking international buffet lunch.

✔️ Rent a boat

If you're traveling in a group and want total freedom, you can charter a private boat. For that, I recommend Phuket, which has a large number of marinas with a good selection of sailboats and catamarans of all sizes.

In the off-season, I've found boats for less than €200 a day. If you travel with more people, it'll be cheaper than an organized tour.

To rent a boat in Thailand, I recommend this search engine : it works with reputable companies and the boats are in very good condition.

⭐ Related article: Guide to Renting a Boat in Thailand

How to get around the islands

Phi Phi Don is a small island, and you can explore the main area on foot. There are no vehicles (thankfully), and although there are some hills, the distances are short. Prepare to walk among beaches, alleyways, and sandy walkways. It's wonderful!

To reach more remote beaches (Long Beach, Loh Moo Dee, Nui, etc.) or some coves with access only by sea, you have two options:

• Long tail boat: Negotiate the price per trip or per hour. Many beaches have signs with approximate rates.
• Kayak: Perfect for short distances if the sea is calm. Plus, you can stop anywhere you want to snorkel.

To visit Phi Phi Leh (Maya Bay, Phi Leh Bay, Viking Cave, etc.), you absolutely need a boat. You can negotiate with a boatman on Phi Phi Don or sign up for a tour.

The great advantage of sleeping on Phi Phi is that you can set off at sunrise and arrive before the hundreds of tourists who come on day tours. I recommend this comprehensive and well-priced tour .

There are also other interesting options: private tours for very little, seeing bioluminescent plankton, or even sleeping on a boat. In this guide, I'll tell you all the details about the best excursions in Phi Phi.

When to visit Phi Phi

The Phi Phi Islands can be visited all year round, but the weather varies considerably depending on the season:

• Dry seasonIn that area of Thailand, it runs from December to April, and it's the best time to visit. It's sunny almost every day, and the sea is like a swimming pool.
• wet seasonMay to November. It may rain for a while, or for a few hours, and then you can enjoy the rest of the day. However, September and October tend to be the worst months, and there may be some boat cancellations.

How many days to dedicate & Itineraries

Here comes the million-dollar question: How many days do you need on Phi Phi? Well, it depends on what you want to do.

If you only want to see the most famous spots, including Maya Bay, one day is enough. But if you prefer to explore Phi Phi Don at a leisurely pace, it's ideal to stay at least two nights, or three full days.

Here are two quick itineraries depending on your time:

✔️ Phi Phi in 1 day

If you only have one day, go on an excursion, because public transport makes it impossible, let alone seeing the other islands.

Here you can book the tour to Phi Phi from Krabi , which includes a visit to the most beautiful places and is cheap, or if not, this other one from Phuket .

✔️ What to do in Phi Phi in 3 days

If you're spending three days on the Phi Phi Islands, prepare for a great mix of adventure, relaxation, and spectacular scenery. Here's a suggested itinerary to make the most of your time, but without rushing like the world is ending.

🔷 Day 1: Arrival and first explorations

• You'll arrive at Phi Phi mid-morning. Drop your backpacks at your accommodation, put on your flip-flops, and head out to explore.
• Walk to Loh Dalum and take a dip in its crystal-clear waters, which will feel wonderful after the journey. Take advantage of the opportunity to have lunch in the village, which is right next door.
• At sunset, climb to viewpoint 2. It takes some effort, but the views are worth it.
• At night, have dinner in town, and if you have any energy left, head to the beach for a fire show and a cocktail. There's everything from juggling to flying flames, and lots of atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.

🔷 Day 2: Sunrise Tour

• Today we have to get up early, but it's worth it. You'll thank me later! Sign up for this sunrise tour of the Phi Phi Islands to visit Maya Bay, Phi Leh Bay, and other picture-perfect spots before the crowds arrive.
• In the afternoon, visit Loh Moo Dee Beach and take the opportunity to relax or even take a nice nap.
• End the day watching the sunset in Long Beach and dinner at one of the oceanfront restaurants.

🔷 Day 3: Quiet beaches and kayaking

• In the morning, rent a kayak in Loh Dalum and explore some quieter coves. You can paddle to Nui Beach or even to the adjacent Loh Lana Bay.
• Have lunch in the village, take advantage of the opportunity to take a last dip and bid farewell to Phi Phi the way it deserves: with salt on your skin and a happy face.

Where to stay

There are plenty of accommodation options on Koh Phi Phi Don, from simple hostels to beachfront resorts. The most important thing is to choose the area carefully based on what you're looking for.

For me, the best area to stay on Phi Phi is Long Beach, a beautiful, quiet beach not far from town. Plus, you'll enjoy spectacular sunsets without even leaving your spot. I recommend the Beach Resort , which has magnificent ocean views.

Another perfect area is Loh Dalum Beach, also beautiful, very close to the town, yet still quite quiet if you choose your accommodation wisely. The Princess Resort is one of the most popular options: it's very well located and has direct access to the beach.

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Where to eat

In Tonsai, you have plenty of dining options, both Thai and international. Here are some of my favorite restaurants, tried with a hungry stomach and a curious palate:

• Pirate HouseThe menu combines Thai food with Indian dishes. The green curry is delicious, although I warn you that the portions aren't very generous for the price, but the flavor makes up for it.
• Garlic 1992A typical Thai restaurant with plastic chairs, home-style cooking, and affordable prices. They have a varied Thai menu, some international dishes, and good breakfasts. It's one of those places you can't go wrong with.
• Aqua RestaurantIf you're craving a special dinner, this place has a beautifully curated decor and eye-catching dishes. 😋 Of course, during peak hours it's hard to find a table and the prices are a bit higher... but it's worth it to treat yourself.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide to Phi Phi helps you explore this uniquely beautiful natural environment that will surely stay with you forever. Whether you're visiting the islands on a day trip or staying for several nights, there's something for everyone.

In this guide to Thailand you can keep reading the main articles I’ve written about this beautiful country.

If you have any questions, leave me a comment below and I'll help you as much as I can. If you found the article useful, share it with other travelers. Have a good trip! 😘

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