Thailand · Southern Thailand Andaman Coast

Koh Phi Phi

Thailand's most famous islands — Maya Bay, party beach + snorkelling paradise

Koh Phi Phi is the iconic Thai island — Maya Bay (from The Beach), party beaches at Tonsai + Loh Dalum, and world-class snorkelling. Vehicle-free island. Overrated for some, essential for others — go outside peak season if you can.

Ferry from Phuket
1.5-2h, ~$25
Vehicle-free
Walking + longtail only
Best season
November-April
Two islands
Phi Phi Don (main) + Phi Phi Leh (Maya Bay)

Koh Phi Phi highlights

Maya Bay

The Beach movie location. Reopened 2022 with entry limits — book online in advance.

Phi Phi Viewpoint

15-min climb from Tonsai — the iconic postcard shot of the twin bays.

Loh Dalum Beach party

The nightlife hub — fire shows + buckets. Peaks 22:00-02:00.

Bamboo Island snorkelling

White sand + shallow reef — one of the best snorkelling sites in Thailand.

Monkey Beach

Longtail boat trip — hundreds of macaques on the beach.

Long Beach

Quieter alternative to Loh Dalum — 20-min walk from Tonsai or longtail.

Getting there

No airport. Ferry from Phuket (Rassada Pier, 1.5-2h, ~$25) or Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier, 1.5h, ~$20). Boats run 09:00-15:00 daily.

Getting around

Walking only (no cars). Longtail boat charter ~$25-40 for a half-day.

Best time to visit

November-April (dry, best diving visibility). May-October is monsoon — some services close.

Budget per day

$30-55 backpacker · $80-150 mid-range · $250+ luxury (Zeavola)

Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi

Frequently asked about Koh Phi Phi

How do I get to Koh Phi Phi?
Ferry from Phuket (1.5-2h, ~$25) or Krabi (1.5h, ~$20). Speedboat option ~1h, ~$40. Book online via 12Go or at hotel.
How many days do I need on Koh Phi Phi?
2-3 nights is ideal — day 1 arrive + viewpoint, day 2 Maya Bay + Bamboo Island tour, day 3 dive/snorkel + Long Beach. Longer stays get repetitive.
Is Koh Phi Phi worth it?
Yes if you love beach party + snorkelling. Skip if you want quiet — Phi Phi Don is developed + busy. Koh Lanta or Koh Lipe are quieter alternatives.
Do you need to book Maya Bay in advance?
Yes — Maya Bay reopened with strict entry limits + timed tickets. Book online at dnp.go.th or via tour operator.
When is the best time to visit Koh Phi Phi?
November-February is peak (dry + calm). March-April still good. Avoid May-October (monsoon).