Perhaps the most famous islands in Southeast Asia, the stunning Phi Phi Islands are Thailand’s superstar.
Made famous by the Hollywood hit movie The Beach, these islands represent the ultimate tropical getaway.
The two main Phi Phi Islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The larger Phi Phi Don is home to an enormous variety of accommodation, shops, restaurants and nightlife venues. The smaller, uninhabited Phi Phi Leh consists of beautifu bays and beaches.
Phi Phi Leh is home to the famous Maya Bay, which is closed some times in order to allow the marine ecosystem and coral reefs time to recover from years of overtourism.
Phi Phi offers many outdoor activities that focus on the islands’ natural beauty. There are a number of beaches to explore, including the picturesque Loh Dalum with its white sand and shallow turquoise waters. Long Beach faces south west and showcases outstanding views across the water to Phi Phi Leh. Laem Thong Beach is only accessible by boat, and is an ideal spot for a quiet holiday.
Tonsai Bay is where the action is. It’s the beating heart of Phi Phi. The main arrival port is here, as is the island’s bustling village. Take a walk from Tonsai Bay up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint. It’s a 20 minute walk which affords breathtaking views of both Tonsai and Loh Dalum bays.
Island hopping around Phi Phi makes for an enjoyable day. You can visit Bamboo Island, which is just off the northeastern coast of Phi Phi Don. It’s a tiny, round island with bamboo trees and turquoise waters. Koh Bida Nok & Nai are two giant limestone cliffs that rise out from the sea just south of Phi Phi. Both islands offer outstanding scuba diving down to approximately 35 meters. There’s plenty of tropical fish species and colorful corals to see here as well as small sharks.
There are plenty of places to stay in Phi Phi, but some recommendations include the Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort, which is located in Loh Ba Gao Bay, and Phi Phi Long Beach Resort & Villa which is tucked away on Long Beach - just a ten minute walk to Tonsai Bay. Both resorts are secluded and private, and offer all of the amenities of luxury accommodation.
Dining on Phi Phi is quite adventurous. Fresh seafood is abundant, and there are many small shops selling Thai favorites such as Pad Thai and banana pancakes. If you prefer to dine in a restaurant, check out Unni’s Restaurant. The menu features fresh salads, burgers, hearty breakfasts as well as thick milkshakes and sweet treats. Grand PP Arcade is also good for fresh Thai food, pastas and salads. The cakes here are also top notch!
The Phi Phi Islands are a bucket list destination. If you’re travelling to southern Thailand, you must make a point to visit them. Chartering a yacht with a group of friends or family is an excellent way to have a more bespoke experience of Phi Phi. Visit the islands at your own pace, venture off in the morning to avoid the crowds, or experience sunset from the comfort of your yacht.
