Explore the amazing Phi Phi Islands, a group of six stunning islands, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh as the main ones. The islands are stunning, and known for having some of the world's most amazing beaches and super clear waters. When you're in the Phi Phi Islands, it feels like you're in a perfect paradise. There are soft white sandy beaches and big rocks made of limestone sticking out of the bright blue water. It looks just like the movie 'The Beach' with Leonardo DiCaprio. It's no wonder these islands have gained such popularity.
When planning a visit to the Phi Phi Islands, you have two main choices. You can opt for a day tour from nearby larger towns like Phuket or Krabi, or you can take a ferry to the islands and spend a few days there. Having experienced both options, I can say it ultimately depends on personal preference and the amount of time you have available. We will discover various options for visiting the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket or Krabi, whether for a day trip or a couple of nights.
Experience the beauty of Phi Phi's islands, with their stunning beaches, clear blue waters, and fascinating marine life. Whether relaxing on the beach or snorkeling in the colorful coral reefs, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Book your trip today and let the adventure begin!
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To reach the Phi Phi Islands, you have two main options: taking a speedboat or a ferry from Phuket or Krabi. Ferries from Phuket take about two hours, while those from Krabi or Koh Lanta take around 90 minutes.
Public ferries are a good choice if you're on a budget, but it's smart to buy tickets ahead of time for the best prices. There are many ferry companies, but some are better than others, so check before you go. Try to arrive about an hour early to get good seats.
Speedboats are faster and more fun. It's best to book a few days ahead to make sure you get a spot. For bigger groups, a private speedboat charter is a great idea for flexibility. If you want everything taken care of, look into all-inclusive tours. They cover your travel from Phuket to Phi Phi.
1. From Bangkok or Chiang Mai
If you are traveling to Koh Phi Phi from Chiang Mai or Bangkok, the quickest and simplest option is by plane. However, if that option is too expensive, you can choose to take a night train to Surat Thani instead. From there, you can continue your journey by bus or minivan to Krabi. Upon arrival in Krabi, you can catch a boat to Phi Phi. Feeling overwhelmed and considering flying instead? Then take a flight to Krabi airport. While Phuket Airport is also an option, it might take a bit longer to get there.
2. From Krabi Airport
Upon arrival at Krabi Airport, make your way to the Klong Jirad (or Jilad) Pier. From there, you can catch a ferry or speedboat to Koh Phi Phi. If you're flying in early from Bangkok or Chiang Mai, you could easily reach your hotel in Phi Phi on the same day.
You can reach the Klong Jirad Pier from Krabi Airport by (shared) minivan or taxi. The journey from Krabi Airport to the Klong Jirad Pier, where boats to Koh Phi Phi depart, takes about half an hour, provided the road isn't too busy or there aren't too many stops along the way.
3. From Krabi Town
If you're in Krabi Town, you will need to first make your way to the Klong Jirad Pier. Depending on your location in Krabi Town, the ride to the pier should take no longer than 15 minutes and cost no more than €7. To give you an idea, from Krabi Town, you could even walk to the Klong Jirad Pier. It's about a 45-minute walk from the famous Crab Monument.
4. Travel by ferry from Krabi's Klong Jirad Pier to the Ton Sai Pier
Take a ferry from Krabi's Klong Jirad Pier to the Ton Sai Pier on Phi Phi. The journey from the Klong Jirad Pier to the Phi Phi Pier usually takes around an hour and a half to two hours. A ferry ticket typically costs no more than € 15 per person. Multiple ferries are departing from the Klong Jirad Pier in Krabi to Koh Phi Phi every day. The first ferry sets off at 9 AM, and the last one departs at 4 PM (at 4 PM on Fridays).
5. From Ao Nang
From Ao Nang, there is also a ferry to Koh Phi Phi. The ferry departs from the Noppharat Thara Pier just outside the center of Ao Nang. It is best to take a taxi or see if there is a songthaew near where you are staying. A songthaew is a kind of taxi bus where you pay € 1.50 to get to the pier. A taxi will not care that much about the costs, assume double the amount per person. With a taxi, you are about fifteen minutes from the center of Ao Nang on the Noppharat Thara Pier. The ferry departs daily at 09:30 AM and takes two hours. For a one-way ticket, you pay €12,- per person.
6. From Phuket
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Koh Phi Phi Leh, the second-largest island in the Phi Phi archipelago, is mostly uninhabited except for park rangers stationed there. It boasts just one beach, located in Maya Bay. Maya Bay is famous for its clear waters, white sand, and lush tropical greenery. During the high season (November to April), tourists from around the world flock here to enjoy its beauty. Another interesting spot on Koh Phi Phi Leh is the Viking Cave, where you can see ancient rock paintings resembling Viking ships.
Phuket and Phi Phi Island Ferry by Phi Phi Cruiser
9.2/10
AU$26
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Phi Phi Viewpoint, situated at around 186 meters above sea level, offers stunning panoramic views of Phi Phi Don. It takes about 20 minutes of brisk walking or 30 minutes of leisurely strolling to reach the top. The path to the viewpoint is well-marked and mostly paved, making the journey relatively easy. Starting from the Reggae Bar, follow the signs towards Loh Dalum Bay to find the path. Once at the top, you can purchase refreshments and enjoy the breathtaking views of Phi Phi Leh, Tonsai Village, and Loh Dalum bays.
Bamboo Island, also known as Koh Phai, is one of the six islands in the Phi Phi archipelago. Located about 5 km northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don, it offers a picturesque tropical paradise. With its white sandy beaches and clear waters, Bamboo Island is perfect for snorkeling, especially along its western side where you can find coral reefs. Day trips and overnight stays in tents are available from Koh Phi Phi Don, or you can visit as part of a day trip from Phuket by speedboat.
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Viking Cave, located on the northeastern side of Koh Phi Phi Leh, is a notable attraction known for its ancient rock paintings. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the cave by long-tail boat from Tonsai Bay, the main pier in Phi Phi Islands. The cave's name comes from the paintings found inside, which depict various types of boats, including what appear to be Viking ships.
Phi Phi is a popular destination for diving enthusiasts, with numerous dive centers offering courses and day trips to explore the area's underwater treasures. Some of the best dive sites include Shark Point, Anemone Reef, and the King Cruiser Wreck. These sites are home to diverse marine life and stunning coral reefs, making them ideal for diving adventures.
Phi Phi Island, Khai Island, Maya Bay, and Pileh Lagoon Tour from Phuket
9.5/10
AU$159
AU$103
Shark-watching tours are a popular activity on Koh Phi Phi Don, allowing visitors to observe black-tip and leopard sharks in their natural habitat. These tours usually depart early in the morning and include snorkeling equipment and guidance from professional guides. The most famous shark-watching site is located near Long Beach, offering an exciting and educational experience for tourists.
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Moo Dee Bay, situated on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, offers a tranquil escape from the crowds. With its white sandy beach and clear waters, it's an excellent spot for snorkeling. Accessible by long-tail boat from Tonsai Pier, Moo Dee Bay provides a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.
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Phi Phi Don, although located 42 km off the Krabi coast, offers excellent rock climbing opportunities similar to those found on the mainland. Tonsai Tower, located at the western end of Tonsai Bay, is a popular rock-climbing destination with routes suitable for climbers of all levels.
Captain Bob's Sailing Booze Cruise offers a fun-filled day of exploring the Phi Phi islands aboard a sailing boat. Departing from Tonsai Bay, the cruise stops at various scenic spots including Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Loh Samah. Activities such as snorkeling, fishing, and kayaking are available, along with unlimited beer and snacks.
Pum's Thai Cooking School, located in central Tonsai Village, offers a range of cooking classes where participants can learn the secrets of Thai cuisine. From quick 30-minute lessons to more comprehensive 3-hour sessions, there's something for everyone. Educational and entertaining, a cooking class at Pum's is a memorable experience to share with friends and family.
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