The Phi Phi Islands are located in Thailand, between Phuket and the mainland’s west coast near the Strait of Malacca. The islands are part of Krabi province. The largest island, Ko Phi Phi Don, is the most populated, while Ko Phi Phi Lee, the second-largest, is popular for its beaches. Other smaller islands like Bida Nok, Bida Noi, and Bamboo Island are mostly just limestone rocks. The islands can be reached by speedboats or long-tail boats from Krabi Town or Phuket. Phi Phi Don was first settled by Muslim fishermen in the 1940s and later became a coconut plantation. The islands gained global fame when Ko Phi Phi Leh was featured in the 2000 film The Beach.
Best Places to visit in Phi Phi Islands
Ko Phi Phi Le
Ko Phi Phi Le is part of the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand’s Krabi Province. The island features steep limestone hills and two shallow bays, Maya Bay and Loh Samah. It is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. The island is famous for its dramatic scenery and crystal-clear waters. It is only accessible by boat, adding to its remote charm.
Viking Cave
Viking Cave is a limestone cave located on Ko Phi Phi Le. The cave is known for its ancient wall paintings, which are thought to depict Viking ships. It is also famous for being a harvesting site for bird nests, which are used in traditional Chinese bird’s nest soup. The cave can be accessed by boat, offering a glimpse into the island’s unique history. It remains a popular tourist spot due to its intriguing features.
Ao Tonsai Pier
Ao Tonsai Pier is the main transport hub of Phi Phi Island. It is a lively area with white sandy beaches and clear turquoise waters. Ferries and boats frequently arrive and depart from this pier, making it a busy spot for visitors. The pier is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, adding to its charm. It’s a great place to begin exploring the island.
Maya Bay
Maya Bay is a stunning bay on Ko Phi Phi Leh, known for its turquoise water and white sandy beach. The bay is surrounded by tall limestone cliffs, making it one of the most picturesque locations in Thailand. It can only be reached by boat, which adds to its exclusivity. The bay gained global fame after being featured in the movie The Beach. It remains a must-visit for tourists visiting the Phi Phi Islands.
Nui Beach
Nui Beach is a small, hidden cove on Phi Phi Island. It is surrounded by black karst rock formations and offers a peaceful atmosphere. The shallow bay is perfect for snorkeling and swimming, making it ideal for relaxation. Nui Beach is less crowded than other beaches on the island, offering a more tranquil experience. It’s a great spot for those looking to enjoy nature in a quiet setting.
Phak Nam Bay
Phak Nam Bay is a quiet beach on Phi Phi Island, known for its clear waters. It’s an excellent spot for snorkeling, where visitors can observe vibrant marine life. The beach is complemented by an adjacent hotel restaurant, making it convenient for visitors. The calm waters and serene environment make it a peaceful retreat. Phak Nam Bay offers a relaxing atmosphere for those looking to unwind.
Pileh Lagoon
Pileh Lagoon is a stunning swimming spot located on Phi Phi Leh. The lagoon is famous for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone cliffs surrounding it. It is a popular destination for snorkeling, with rich marine life in its waters. The lagoon’s secluded nature makes it a peaceful escape for visitors. It is one of the most scenic spots in the Phi Phi Islands, often visited by boat tours.
Best Time to visit Phi Phi Islands
The best time to visit the Phi Phi Islands is between November and March when the weather is dry and humidity is low.
