Koh Phi Phi Travel Guide: Beaches, Viewpoints & Island Experiences

Koh Phi Phi travel guide readers will quickly understand why this island group sits high on so many Thailand wish lists. Located in the heart of the Andaman Sea, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most instantly recognisable destinations. Towering limestone cliffs, turquoise water and jungle-covered hills frame soft white beaches, creating scenery that feels almost unreal. It is a place where dramatic landscapes meet island life, whether you are swimming in clear shallows, snorkelling vibrant reefs or watching longtail boats drift past at sunset.

What Makes Koh Phi Phi So Special?

Koh Phi Phi is made up of two very different but equally striking islands. Koh Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island and has a lively, energetic feel, with restaurants, shops and accommodation clustered along a narrow strip of land with beaches on both sides. Everything is walkable, boats replace roads and the ocean is never far away.

Just offshore lies Koh Phi Phi Leh, an uninhabited island protected as part of a national marine park. It is home to Maya Bay, made world-famous by the film The Beach. Surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs and emerald water, the bay remains one of Thailand’s most visually iconic locations. Together, the islands offer a rare mix of raw natural beauty, adventure and social island atmosphere.

A Brief History of Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi was originally home to small fishing communities and remained relatively quiet until tourism increased in the late twentieth century. Its global profile changed dramatically after Maya Bay appeared in The Beach in 2000, transforming the islands into an international travel icon.

In 2004, Koh Phi Phi was devastated by the Indian Ocean tsunami, which caused significant destruction, particularly on Koh Phi Phi Don. The island has since rebuilt with resilience and care, introducing environmental protections and conservation measures, especially around Koh Phi Phi Leh. Today, Koh Phi Phi is shaped by nature, recovery and global fascination, balancing tourism with efforts to protect its fragile ecosystems.

Table of Contents

• What Makes Koh Phi Phi So Special?
• A Brief History of Koh Phi Phi
• Our Experience Visiting Koh Phi Phi
• Best Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi
• Where to Stay in Koh Phi Phi
• Travel Tips for Visiting Koh Phi Phi
• How to Get to Koh Phi Phi
• 5 Interesting Facts About Koh Phi Phi
• Wrapping Up Our Time in Koh Phi Phi

👣 Our Experience in Koh Phi Phi

Arrival & First Impressions

We arrived by boat from Koh Lanta and immediately understood why Koh Phi Phi is often described as paradise. Sailing in between the islands, the water turns impossibly blue, traditional longtail boats line the shore and limestone cliffs rise dramatically around you. From the water, it is breathtaking.

That feeling of serene beauty does not last long once you step into the main township. The area is busy, loud and crowded, and the sheer number of people can feel overwhelming. While the island clearly welcomes tourism, the charm of the town centre felt diluted by how packed it was.

Finding Calm Beyond the Crowds

Thankfully, our hotel was located outside the main township and reached by longtail boat. The difference was immediate. Life slowed right down. We spent our time enjoying the laid-back rhythm of island life, with pool time, relaxed beach walks and easy meals by the water.

One of the highlights was hiking up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, which overlooks the narrow isthmus where the two sides of the island meet. The views were absolutely stunning and well worth the effort, with fantastic photo opportunities across the bays below. We stopped at a reggae bar near the top for lunch and a cold beer before making our way back down.

Small Moments & Island Highlights

Some of our favourite moments came unexpectedly. Along the trail, well away from the crowds, we found a small food vendor selling drinks. We stopped for a coconut smoothie and ended up being entertained by her son and his goat — one of those simple travel moments that stays with you.

We also joined a boat tour to Maya Bay, which was thankfully quieter on the day we visited. Swimming was restricted to protect the environment, but there were plenty of other stops where swimming was allowed, which was very welcome in the heat.

Despite the chaos of the town centre, Koh Phi Phi still delivered moments of magic, and it is easy to see why it continues to draw visitors from all over the world.

⭐ Best Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi

While the main township can feel hectic, step just a little beyond it and Koh Phi Phi opens up into something truly special. From scenic viewpoints and boat trips to calm swimming spots and vibrant reefs, there are plenty of ways to experience the island at a slower pace.

Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint

• The hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint is one of the most rewarding things to do on the island. The walk is steady and can be hot, but the payoff at the top is incredible. From the lookout, you are treated to sweeping views of turquoise bays on both sides of the island, framed by jungle-covered hills and dotted with longtail boats below. It is one of Thailand’s most iconic viewpoints and well worth the effort.

Swim at Koh Phi Phi’s Best Beaches

Despite its popularity, Koh Phi Phi still has some beautiful spots for swimming.

• Long Beach is one of the best swimming beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don, offering clear water, gentle conditions and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Loh Dalum Bay is shallow and calm during the day, making it ideal for an easy swim before it livens up in the evening.
• Laem Tong Beach, on the northern end of the island, offers a much quieter experience with soft sand and crystal-clear water.

Go Snorkelling or Diving in the Andaman Sea

• The waters around Koh Phi Phi are rich in marine life and coral reefs. Snorkelling trips often visit spots around Phi Phi Leh, Bamboo Island and nearby reefs, where colourful fish and coral gardens thrive.
• For certified divers, the area offers excellent dive sites with good visibility and varied underwater landscapes. Whether snorkelling or diving, the underwater world adds another layer of beauty to the Koh Phi Phi experience.

Take a Boat Tour to Maya Bay & Surrounding Islands

• Boat tours around Koh Phi Phi Leh remain a highlight. Most tours include stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave and several snorkelling locations.
• Maya Bay is now carefully protected, with swimming restricted to allow the ecosystem to recover. While you cannot swim there, standing on the sand and taking in the dramatic cliffs is unforgettable.

Relax at a Beach or Hillside Bar

• After a day of exploring, Koh Phi Phi has plenty of spots to slow things down. Hillside bars near the viewpoint and relaxed beach bars away from the centre are perfect for a drink, a meal and a view.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Koh Phi Phi

Where you stay on Koh Phi Phi can significantly shape your experience.

• Near the Main Township (Tonsai Area)
  • This area suits travellers who enjoy a lively atmosphere, nightlife and convenience. Expect noise, crowds and everything within walking distance.
• Long Beach & the Southern Coast
  • A great balance between access and tranquillity, offering clearer water, better swimming and a more relaxed environment.
• Northern Koh Phi Phi Don (Laem Tong Area)
  • This area feels far removed from the crowds and is ideal for those seeking peace, swimming and snorkelling.
• Beachfront & Boat-Access-Only Stays
  • Some of the most peaceful accommodation is only accessible by longtail boat, offering a true island escape.

💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Koh Phi Phi

• Book accommodation early, especially in high season
• Stay hydrated and sun-smart in the tropical heat
• Respect marine life and avoid touching coral
• Check tides for swimming and snorkelling
• Carry cash and essentials, as supplies are limited

🚤 How to Get to Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is only accessible by boat, with most travellers arriving from Phuket or Krabi.

• Ferries from Phuket depart from Rassada Pier and take around two hours. Ferries from Krabi leave from Klong Jilad Pier and take a similar amount of time. Speedboats are faster but more expensive and can be rough in choppy seas.
• Ferry terminals can feel like organised chaos. Seating is limited, signage is unclear and it is often hard to tell which dock or vessel is yours. Asking questions is usually the fastest way to avoid wandering. Ferries vary in size and smaller boats can become very crowded and hot, especially if fans are not working well.
• Come with low expectations, an open mind, plenty of water and a handheld fan, and you will be just fine.
• Once on Koh Phi Phi Don, longtail boats and water taxis are used to reach accommodation and beaches.

⭐ 5 Interesting Facts About Koh Phi Phi

• Koh Phi Phi has no cars or motorbikes.
  • There are no roads on Koh Phi Phi Don. Everything is done on foot or by longtail boat, which gives the island its distinctive laid-back feel despite the crowds.
• Maya Bay was closed for several years to recover.
  • After suffering environmental damage from overtourism, Maya Bay was closed from 2018 to 2022. It has since reopened with strict rules in place to protect coral reefs and marine life.
• The islands are part of a protected marine park.
  • Koh Phi Phi Leh is part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, which helps safeguard its limestone cliffs, coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystem.
• Koh Phi Phi was heavily impacted by the 2004 tsunami.
  • The Indian Ocean tsunami caused widespread destruction on Koh Phi Phi Don. The island’s recovery and rebuilding is often cited as one of Thailand’s most remarkable examples of resilience.
• Despite its popularity, coral reefs are still thriving in places.
  • Thanks to conservation efforts and controlled access, snorkelling and diving around Koh Phi Phi still reveal vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish and occasional reef sharks.

🌿 Wrapping Up Our Time in Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is a place of contrasts. From the water, it feels like a postcard-perfect paradise, and in the quieter corners it still delivers moments of real magic. While the main township can be overwhelming, stepping beyond it reveals stunning scenery, calm beaches and unforgettable island experiences. With the right expectations and a flexible mindset, Koh Phi Phi remains one of Thailand’s most visually striking destinations.

🔗 More Thailand Travel Guides

Want more Thailand Inspiration?

Explore all our Thailand blogs in one place – from laid-back islands and beaches to local towns and the energy of Bangkok.

👉 Read all our Thailand Destination Guides & Thailand Travel Essentials Guides Here

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.

• ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Trip.com then Kiwi.com for flexible, affordable options.
• 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond.
• 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Trip.com and TripAdvisor or Booking.com.
• 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
• 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
• 🚆12Go Asia – Compare and book trains, buses, and ferries across Asia in one place with 12Go.
• 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday.
• 🔒 Protect Your Privacy with a VPN – We recommend Surfshark VPN for secure and private browsing while travelling. It’s fast, affordable and works worldwide — perfect for public Wi-Fi at airports, cafes and hotels.
• 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
• 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
• 🎶 Events & Concerts – Book tickets worldwide through Ticketmaster.

🧭 Note: Some booking links can be a bit shy when you’re using a VPN. If one doesn’t open, try pausing your VPN or switching to a different server location or secure Wi-Fi network to get things flowing again.