Holiday
Why visit Koh Phi Phi
Blissful island scenery with exotic beaches and astonishing vertical cliffs capped with green foliage
Discover the world’s famous Maya Bay – even though it can only be witnessed from a boat today
Swim and snorkel in Pileh Lagoon – a hidden, natural lagoon paradise, surrounded by limestone mountains where waters throw more green than blue
Snorkel at Loh Samah with thousands of colorful fishes in waters as crystal clear as the bottle of Bombay Gin
Play with cheeky long-tailed macaque troops inhabiting Monkey Beach
Visit Bamboo Island promising a strip of powder-soft white sand among the bamboo and pine trees
Enjoy breathtaking panorama from atop the viewpoint on Phi Phi Don. The island is scalloped into the much-photographed symmetrical double bays of Ao Tonsai and Ao Loh Dalum
Discover a tiny cove with soft white sand on Nui Beach, framed by tall karsts that promise excellent rock climbing
Swim through the rocks of Nui Bay to spot seahorses and turtles
The reefs between Phi Phi Don and Mosquito Island are arguably among the best diving outside the Similan Islands
Hin Musang, locally known as Shark Point, is home to harmless leopard sharks, which rest on the seafloor
Anemone Reef is a beautiful dive spot, named after countless sea anemones located at the pinnacle
The King Cruiser is a must for adventurous scuba divers. The wreck of the 85-meter King Cruiser ferry – which sunk in 1997 after clipping Anemone Reef – has become home to a myriad of intriguing sea creatures, including moray eels and leopard sharks
Travel back in time to explore Viking Cave, where swifts make delicate nests beside ancient wall painting resembling fearsome Viking ships
Try your hand at rock climbing Tonsai Wall. With panoramic views of the area, the rock climbs are advanced but worth the effort.
How to reach Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi islands are tucked away in the Andaman Sea between Krabi and Phuket provinces, both of which have its international airport. For many, Phi Phi islands are the only reason to touch down in Phuket or Krabi. Koh Phi Phi is easily accessible by boat not only from Phuket and Krabi, but also from Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Noi, and Koh Yao Yai. You can only stay overnight on the island of Koh Phi Phi Don, which serves as the primary hub for exploring other islands within the Phi Phi archipelago. Although it is possible to experience Phi Phi islands on a day trip from Phuket, Krabi or Koh Lanta, we recommend a couple of nights on Phi Phi Don to really soak in. You can rent a private boat with Islander from any location and explore all of Phi Phi islands and beaches at your own pace.
Best time in Koh Phi Phi
The best time to visit Phi Phi islands is from November to May when the most hours of sun and pleasant humidity occur. The best weather conditions are in January through April. The sea is fantastic, while boat tour options are abundant. You will notice that water visibility is at its best during January-April, with most snorkeling spots across Koh Phi Phi islands that are vivid with marine life. April and May are your best months to encounter whale sharks near Koh Phi Phi and snorkel with turtles regularly. With stable tropical temperatures, Phi Phi islands are a perfect holiday destination throughout the year. The peak season is still in December and January when the main Koh Phi Phi Don island is packed with tourists, and the nightlife doesn’t stop.
Rainy season in Koh Phi Phi
Rainy season in Koh Phi Phi begins in May and ends in October. The probability of rain increases drastically while the sea becomes rough, significantly hindering island hopping and snorkeling experiences. There is no golden rule, however. While the temperature drops by a few degrees during the low season, Koh Phi Phi still enjoys a tropical summer climate.
Koh Phi Phi or Krabi
Krabi is a sleepy town located a few kilometers from the coast. It is not the best comparison to Koh Phi Phi, which is best compared to Ao Nang beach and Railay Beach in Krabi. Both these beaches feature equally remarkable scenery to Koh Phi Phi with thick jungle, hidden waterfalls, and sweet hiking spots. But if you’re looking for more action, iconic diving and snorkeling spots, head over to Koh Phi Phi Don.
Koh Phi Phi or Phuket
Koh Phi Phi is an ideal island if you’re looking to explore world-class beaches, diving spots and spend time in the breathtaking scenery. On the other hand, Phuket is the most developed island offering never-ending nightlife, authentic local experience, beautiful temples, and a variety of things to do among its over 30 beaches. Phuket is easily accessible via direct flights to its international airport. At the same time, you need to take a boat to Koh Phi Phi islands. You can still experience Phi Phi islands on a boat day trip while staying in Phuket for your holiday.
Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a bit more developed and upscale island offering a variety of activities and accommodation options. For instance, exploring Koh Lipe on a motorbike is easy to do as the island has pretty roads, compared to the lack of these on Koh Phi Phi. Both islands feature the most beautiful diving and snorkeling spots in Thailand across its many nearby islands. Therefore, if your main reason to visit is sea adventures, it’s challenging to choose between the two.