Phi Phi Islands

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An iconic island group featuring turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and dramatic limestone formations. Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are world-famous for diving, snorkeling, and the stunning Maya Bay.

Things to do

• Snorkel at Maya Bay — Explore the crystalline waters and coral gardens of this famous limestone-enclosed lagoon on Phi Phi Leh, accessible only by boat.
• Dive at Bida Nai and Bida Nok — Visit twin rock formations off Phi Phi Leh renowned for colorful reef fish, rays, and occasional leopard sharks in deeper sections.
• Trek to Viewpoint on Phi Phi Don — Climb the steep jungle trail from Tonsai Village to a panoramic hilltop offering 360-degree views of both islands and the Andaman Sea.
• Visit Monkey Beach — Boat to this sheltered northern beach on Phi Phi Don to see troops of macaques in their natural habitat, though keep food secured.
• Swim at Bamboo Island — Day-trip to this pristine nearby island featuring untouched white sand, calm shallow waters, and excellent snorkeling around the perimeter.
• Kayak through mangrove channels — Paddle quietly through narrow waterways and limestone caves accessible from the east coast of Phi Phi Don, spotting birds and small wildlife.
• Night snorkeling at Monkey Beach — Experience bioluminescent plankton and nocturnal marine life with a guided evening snorkel tour departing from Tonsai Village.

Food to try

• Tom Yum Goong — Spicy shrimp soup infused with lemongrass, galangal, and lime, a signature Thai dish available at seafront restaurants throughout both islands.
• Fresh grilled fish with three-flavor sauce — Whole fish caught daily and grilled over charcoal, served with a tangy dipping sauce of lime, chili, and fish sauce.
• Pad Thai with seafood — Stir-fried rice noodles with shrimp or squid, eggs, bean sprouts, and peanuts, commonly prepared at beachside food stalls and casual eateries.
• Satay skewers — Marinated meat grilled on bamboo sticks and served with peanut dipping sauce, a popular snack from street vendors near ferry docks.
• Fresh tropical fruit smoothies — Refreshing blended drinks made from local mango, papaya, and passion fruit, served in hollowed fruit at juice stands along the beaches.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect marine sanctuaries — Many areas around Phi Phi are protected; avoid touching coral, disturbing wildlife, and use reef-safe sunscreen to preserve the fragile ecosystem.
• Modest dress in temples — When visiting Wat Phalad on Phi Phi Don, cover shoulders and knees as a sign of respect in Buddhist sacred spaces.
• Boat schedules follow the sea — Ferry and longtail boat services operate primarily in daylight and calm weather; plan accordingly rather than expecting rigid timetables.
• Support local boatmen fairly — Agree on prices with longtail operators before boarding and tip appropriately; many islanders depend on tourism income for their livelihoods.