PHI PHI ISLANDS
This stunning Thai archipelago is a tropical dream of towering limestone karsts, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and blinding white-sand beaches. It is a playground for divers and a paradise for backpackers and luxury seekers alike.
A postcard-perfect destination, the Phi Phi Islands blend iconic natural beauty with a vibrant social scene, especially on the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don. It offers an unforgettable mix of adventure and relaxation.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Bays, Lagoons & Viewpoints:
Maya Bay: The world-famous, pristine cove on Koh Phi Phi Leh, framed by towering cliffs (visitation is regulated for conservation).
Phi Phi Viewpoint: Offers a breathtaking, panoramic “dumbbell” view of the island’s narrow sand strip connecting Tonsai and Loh Dalum Bays.
Pi Leh Lagoon: A spectacular, narrow inlet on Koh Phi Phi Leh, known for its emerald green, glassy water perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Loh Sama Bay: A beautiful bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh, often the drop-off point for viewing Maya Bay and a popular snorkeling spot.
Tonsai Bay: The main arrival and departure hub, lined with resorts, shops, and restaurants on Koh Phi Phi Don.
Beaches & Coves:
Loh Dalum Bay: The main social and party beach on Koh Phi Phi Don, famous for its lively atmosphere and shallow, calm waters.
Long Beach: A quieter, stunning beach on Koh Phi Phi Don, popular for snorkeling near Shark Point and watching the sunset.
Monkey Beach (Ao Ling): A picturesque cove known for its resident population of playful, macaque monkeys.
Bamboo Island (Ko Mai Phai): A tiny, flat, heart-shaped island with a stunning white-sand beach and excellent offshore snorkeling.
Nui Bay: A tiny, secluded cove on Koh Phi Phi Don with clear waters, great for snorkeling and a tranquil escape.
Snorkeling, Diving & Water Activities:
Snorkeling & Diving: Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life at sites like Shark Point (Long Beach), Bida Nok, and Bida Nai islands.
King Cruiser Wreck: A popular shipwreck dive site known for its rich marine biodiversity.
Kayaking/Canoeing: Rent a kayak to explore hidden coves, such as the quiet Loh Moo Dee Bay or around Tonsai and Loh Dalum.
Viking Cave: A large limestone cave on Koh Phi Phi Leh, notable for ancient-looking paintings of boats and the harvesting of swiftlet nests.
Cliff Jumping: Various spots around the islands, most notably near Tonsai Tower, offering a thrilling activity for adventure-seekers.
Culture, Nightlife & Experiences:
Tonsai Village Market: The central hub of Koh Phi Phi Don, bustling with shops, travel agencies, and local restaurants.
Beach Fire Shows: Nightly, spectacular fire dancing performances on Loh Dalum Beach and other spots.
Muay Thai Fights (Reggae Bar): Watch professional or volunteer in amateur matches in a lively bar setting.
Thai Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Thai dishes like Pad Thai and Green Curry at local schools.
Nightlife: Enjoy the lively party scene at beach bars like Slinky Beach Bar or the town’s various pubs.
Laem Tong Beach: A remote, peaceful beach on the north of Koh Phi Phi Don, home to luxury resorts.
Activities & Experiences
Take a Longtail Boat Tour to the Coves: Hire a traditional longtail boat for a private or group tour to explore the iconic limestone karsts, visiting Pileh Lagoon and Loh Samah Bay for swimming and stunning photos.
Visit Maya Bay (from the boat/boardwalk): Experience the world-famous bay from The Beach (note: swimming and beach access is often restricted/managed for conservation; access is via the floating pier at Loh Samah Bay).
Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint: Climb to the main viewpoint on Koh Phi Phi Don for a breathtaking panoramic view of the ‘dumbbell’ island shape and its twin bays (Tonsai and Loh Dalum). Tip: Go for sunrise or sunset!
Go Snorkeling or Scuba Diving: Discover the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Popular spots include Shark Point, Bida Nok/Bida Nai, and the waters around Bamboo Island.
Attend a Thai Cooking Class: Learn to prepare authentic Southern Thai dishes like Massaman Curry, Pad Thai, or Tom Yum Goong from a local chef on Koh Phi Phi Don.
Explore Monkey Beach: Take a kayak or longtail boat to this secluded spot to observe the playful, wild macaques (keep a safe distance and secure your belongings!).
Rock Climbing on Tonsai Tower: Challenge yourself on the steep, overhanging limestone cliffs, with routes available for all skill levels in Tonsai Bay.
Kayak or Paddleboard: Rent a kayak to explore the serene waters of Loh Dalum Bay or paddle around the coast of Phi Phi Don to find hidden beaches and coves.
Experience the Viking Cave: See the large limestone cave on Koh Phi Phi Leh, known for its wall paintings resembling ancient ships and for the collection of swiftlet bird nests. (View from the boat only).
See Bioluminescent Plankton: Book a late-afternoon or sunset boat trip that extends into the evening for a magical swim with the glowing plankton (often seen in Loh Samah Bay).
Relax and Swim at Long Beach: Escape the main Tonsai Bay crowds for the clear water and white sands of Long Beach, which offers spectacular views of Koh Phi Phi Leh.
Local Tips & Transport
Island Access:
Ferries & Speedboats are the only way in: The Phi Phi Islands have no airport. You must travel by ferry (approx. 2-2.5 hours) or speedboat (approx. 1 hour) from the mainland or neighboring islands, primarily from Phuket (Rassada Pier) or Krabi (Klong Jilad Pier or Ao Nang).
Arrival Pier: All main boats arrive at the central Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don.
Getting Around the Island (Koh Phi Phi Don):
Walking is the only true option: There are no cars or public roads on Koh Phi Phi Don. The main village, Tonsai, is entirely walkable and compact. You will be walking everywhere.
Longtail Boats (Water Taxis): For all other destinations (beaches, resorts, and island hopping), you will need a traditional longtail boat. These are ubiquitous and can be hired for short taxi rides (e.g., from Tonsai to Long Beach, typically ~$3-$10 USD per person) or for private half/full-day tours (negotiable).
Cost Note: Expect a small National Park Fee (approx. $6 USD or 200 THB) upon arrival at Tonsai Pier, which helps fund conservation. Your boat tour to Maya Bay will also likely include an additional, separate park fee (approx. $11 USD or 400 THB).
The Two Sides of the Island:
Tonsai/Loh Dalum Bay: The central ‘waist’ of Koh Phi Phi Don, this is where the pier, village, markets, and vibrant nightlife are located. It is busy and loud at night.
Secluded Beaches/Resorts: Areas like Long Beach, Laem Tong, and Loh Bagao are much more laid-back and peaceful, often only accessible by longtail boat. Choose your accommodation based on the experience you want (party vs. relaxation).
Best Time to Visit: The Dry Season (November to April) offers the best weather with the calmest seas and clearest water, but is also the most crowded and expensive. The Rainy/Green Season (May to October) brings fewer crowds and better prices, but you should expect brief, heavy downpours.
Money & Haggling:
Cash is King: While some resorts and larger dive shops accept cards, most small local shops, street vendors, longtail boat drivers, and restaurants operate with cash (Thai Baht). ATMs are available but may have high fees.
Negotiation: Feel free to negotiate the price for private longtail boat tours, but expect fixed prices for set longtail taxi routes. Always agree on the price before setting off.
Respecting Nature & Wildlife:
Maya Bay’s Rules: To protect its fragile ecosystem, swimming and stepping on the sand are often strictly restricted in Maya Bay. Boats must anchor at a floating dock behind the bay. Always follow the park’s rules.
Monkeys: While cute, the monkeys at Monkey Beach are wild and can be aggressive. Do not feed them and keep your distance and belongings secure.
Cultural Respect (Wai): Thais greet each other with a “Wai” (hands pressed together like a prayer, with a slight bow) and the greeting ‘Sawasdee’ (pronounced sa-wat-dee). While not expected of tourists, returning a small Wai, especially when receiving a service, is a gesture of respect and is always appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Garlic 1992 Restaurant [$5-$10] – A classic, no-frills, old-school Thai restaurant in Tonsai Village, famous for its authentic, spicy Thai cuisine and super affordable prices. It’s a true local experience.
Papaya Restaurant [$5-$15] – Known for its very generous portions of authentic Thai and Indian dishes. A popular spot in Tonsai for filling, flavourful meals like curries and Pad Thai.
Only Noodles [$5-$10] – A small, highly-specialised shop focusing exclusively on Thai fried noodles. Perfect for a quick, delicious, and very budget-friendly lunch or snack.
Tom Yam Restaurant [$5-$15] – A classic, laid-back Thai restaurant in Tonsai known for its bold, traditional Thai flavours, particularly its namesake Tom Yum soup.
Pa-Noi Thai Food [$5-$10] – A genuine hidden gem in Tonsai, this family-run spot is praised for its authentic, home-cooked Thai food and very welcoming atmosphere.
Tonsai Seafood Restaurant [$15-$30] – Located in Tonsai Bay, this bustling, colourful restaurant is a popular choice for traditional, quality Thai seafood displayed fresh for you to choose from.
October Resto [$5-$15] – A popular, budget-friendly spot serving Thai fast food that captures the true essence of local, straightforward cuisine.
Mama Ping Phi Phi [$10-$25] – Nestled right by the water, this beachside spot is loved by locals and tourists alike for its fresh, local seafood with a signature chili-lime flavour.
Oasis Bar & Restaurant [$10-$20] – Located in Loh Bagao Village (in the north of Koh Phi Phi Don), this quaint, laid-back spot has a peculiar décor and serves good local and international food, with seafood being a highlight.
Jasmin Restaurant [$10-$20] – A laidback beachside eatery, sometimes allowing you to sit with your feet in the sand. The menu focuses on tasty Thai staples and is a good choice for seafood.
Phi Phi Sunset Restaurant [$15-$30] – Sits on a hill overlooking the Andaman Sea, offering romantic sunset views and is known for its grilled seafood and classic Thai herbs.
Unni’s Restaurant [$10-$25] – A favourite for its cool, peaceful interior and diverse menu that offers an outstanding choice of international fare, including Thai, Mexican, and Western breakfast options.
Anna’s Restaurant [$10-$20] – A long-established, family-run restaurant with a Thai contemporary style, serving a diverse menu of Thai and international specialities with a healthy twist.
Efe Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant [$10-$25] – Highly-rated for its authentic Mediterranean food, offering a refreshing change from Thai flavours with excellent kebabs, falafel, and hummus.
Basil Bistro [$10-$20] – A cozy, inviting spot perfect for a relaxed meal. It offers good quality local food along with international dishes, pasta, and salads.
Cosmic Restaurant [$10-$25] – A staple in a central location with a massive menu that caters to every craving, from Thai classics to wood-fired pizzas and juicy burgers.
ACQUA Restaurant Phi Phi [$15-$35] – A smart and stylish fusion restaurant that blends high-quality European and Thai styles, offering dishes like pan-seared steak salmon and black pasta alongside excellent Thai curries.
Pirates House Restaurant and Bar [$10-$25] – Offers an extensive menu mixing Indian, Thai, and Western dishes. Known for its live music in the evenings and solid breakfast options.
Miss Olive Oyl at SAii Phi Phi Island [$25-$50] – A sophisticated beachside eatery with Mediterranean inspiration, focusing on organic ingredients, fresh seafood, and tasty grilled dishes.
Api Restaurant & Bar at SAii Phi Phi Island [$20-$40] – Located at the resort, it offers authentic dishes from Asia and beyond, all overlooking the beautiful white sands of Loh Ba Gao Bay.
The Mango Garden [$5-$15] – A well-known local Thai dessert shop and cool coffee shop that specialises in everything mango, most famously mango with sticky rice, as well as great smoothies and juices.
Dow Restaurant [$5-$15] – Unique for having two separate kitchens, one dedicated entirely to vegetarian and vegan food and the other serving meat and fish. The menu is an eclectic mix of Thai, European, and Middle Eastern food.
The Dubliner [$10-$25] – An Irish pub that provides a fun, lively atmosphere, making it a fantastic spot to meet fellow travellers and soak up the island’s energy.
Patcharee French Bakery [$5-$15] – Excellent for breakfast or a treat, offering a wide array of delicious home-baked bread, pastries, croissants, and coffee.
Qoori Qoori Cafe [$5-$15] – A cozy, minimalistic, and chic cafe perfect for a tasty treat or coffee, sometimes with floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering views of the Andaman Sea.
Le Grand Bleu [$40-$70] – Offers an upscale dining experience with a focus on elegant French dishes with an island charm, including indulgent options like duck confit and foie gras, and a good wine list.
Ruan Thai Restaurant at SAii Phi Phi Island Village [$30-$60] – A resort dining option that provides refined Thai cuisine in a beautiful setting, often overlooking the resort’s beachfront.
Zeavola Restaurant [$40-$80] – Located at the luxury Zeavola resort on tranquil Laem Tong Beach, this restaurant offers a culinary journey of fresh, delicious Thai cuisine and specialty international dishes in a rustic, romantic setting.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sunflower Beach Bar: Located at the quieter northern end of Loh Dalum Bay, this relaxed, thatched-roof bar embodies the pure hippie-era spirit with mats and hammocks right on the beach. It’s a perfect spot for sunset cocktails or affordable Thai food.
The Only Bar: Situated at the end of Loh Dalum Bay, this spot is highly recommended for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views, making it one of the best places on Koh Phi Phi to watch the sunset while enjoying a classic cocktail.
Carlito’s Bar: Found on the eastern side of Tonsai Bay, this is one of the oldest nightlife spots on the island. It’s more relaxed in the afternoon but livens up at night, offering a cozy lounge area to watch fire shows and a dance floor.
The Dubliner Irish Pub: Located centrally in Tonsai Village, this two-story Irish pub offers a taste of home with a variety of cocktails, iced beer on tap, pool tables, and a sociable, international crowd.
Paddy Shack: A vibrant spot in Tonsai Village known for signature cocktails and a lively atmosphere, perfect for tourists looking for a mix of the familiar and the tropical.
Stones Bar: Located mid-way along Loh Dalum Bay, this bar features a more distinctive drum and bass/dubstep heavy music theme, offering a change from the trance music of its neighbors and a laid-back daytime vibe.
Dojo Bar: Found in Tonsai Village, this popular hangout for expats and divers offers a relaxed vibe, cold beers, a pool table upstairs, and screens for watching live sports away from the main beach party crowds.
Rolling Stoned Bar: Tucked away in central Tonsai, this is one of the island’s oldest and most laid-back spots, ideal for rock and indie music fans, pool, and casual conversation.
Monkey Smile: A fun and vibrant bar on Phi Phi Island, known for its tropical drinks and lively atmosphere, catering to tourists seeking relaxation and good times.
Zeus Bar: This rooftop bar, found in Tonsai Village, offers a beautiful terrace and elevated views, providing an excellent vantage point for classic sunset cocktails.
Backpacker Bar (formerly Stockholm Syndrome): Located in the center of Tonsai Village, this bar is known for its large open front, energetic atmosphere, and features like beer pong, popular with the backpacking crowd.
Deco Bar: A stylish cocktail bar often found above the main Tonsai Village area (above a diving center), known for expertly crafted cocktails and a more refined, adult atmosphere, attracting local divers and instructors.
Freedom Bar: Situated on the beachside of Koh Phi Phi Don, offering refreshing drinks and a lively party atmosphere with views of the sea.
Let’s Sea Bar: Located in a scenic spot on the Phi Phi Islands, this bar provides a vibrant atmosphere and stunning views, making it a perfect retreat for relaxation with a drink.
SunSky Bar: Positioned to offer stunning views in the Ao Nang area of Phi Phi Don, this spot serves delicious cocktails in an unforgettable atmosphere.
Slinky Beach Bar: Arguably the most famous open-air nightclub on Loh Dalum Beach, it’s the epicenter of the party scene. It draws huge crowds nightly with loud music, affordable cocktail “buckets,” face painting, a mechanical bull, and some of the island’s best fire shows.
Ibiza Beach Club: A dominant force on Loh Dalum Bay, this club (at Ibiza House Phi Phi) is famous for its beachfront dance floor, resident DJs, and hosting popular pool parties often occurring multiple times a week. It offers stunning fire shows and is open 24/7.
Apache Beach Bar: The second-largest open-air club on Loh Dalum Bay, situated towards the far end of the beach. It gets busy later in the evening and is known for its loud techno music and vibrant, late-night dancing on the sand.
Phi Phi Reggae Bar: One of the longest-established and most unique spots in Tonsai Village, famous for its live Muay Thai boxing ring. Spectators are often invited to fight (in exchange for a drink), creating a rowdy and exhilarating atmosphere alongside the drinks and loud music.
Blanco’s Bar: A smaller, yet incredibly lively party spot on Loh Dalum Beach, known as one of the most affordable party places, offering cheap drinks and discounts, popular for backpackers and also operating a party cruise.
Kongsiam Live Music Bar: A cozy gem located in the heart of Tonsai Village, providing an intimate setting for live music, with an in-house band covering rock, pop, and classics, often allowing for requests or even guest performances.
Hippie’s Bar: Situated on the beach near Tonsai Bay, this is a long-standing, laid-back bar that transforms at night, featuring DJs and live performances after 8 PM, making it great for a more mellow evening leading into a late-night party.
Relax Bar by Phi Phi Pirate: A great place to unwind with a drink and watch fire shows, this spot on the beach often features lively entertainment and a relaxed, tropical vibe.
CamelRock Bar: A visually distinct bar with unique décor, located in the Ao Nang part of Phi Phi Don. It offers refreshing cocktails and live music for a vibrant nightlife experience.
Shiran’s Mansion: A top bar on Koh Phi Phi known for its lively ambiance and vibrant atmosphere, offering a variety of refreshing drinks for an unforgettable night out.