Koh Phi Phi travel guide: What to know before you go

Dreaming of turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs and a vibrant island vibe? Look no further than our Koh Phi Phi travel guide—your gateway to discovering one of Thailand’s most wonderful destinations. Koh Phi Phi is not just a tropical escape; it's a paradise where adventure meets serenity, where every sunset feels like a private show and each beach tells a new story.

In this guide, you'll uncover the essentials: how to navigate the islands, where to stay for the best views, what to eat to experience local flavors and the top activities that make Koh Phi Phi unforgettable. 

Let Hanoi Voyages help you plan a seamless, unforgettable journey. Start exploring now!

Ideal season to visit Koh Phi Phi

The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is from November to April, when the weather is sunny, dry and ideal for outdoor adventures. During these months, temperatures range from 25°C to 32°C, perfect for beach activities, snorkeling and boat tours.

This Koh Phi Phi travel guide recommends traveling in this season to enjoy calm seas, clear skies and vibrant island life. Avoid the rainy season (May to October), when heavy showers and rough waves may affect your plans.

How to get to and get around Koh Phi Phi

If you’re planning a trip, knowing how to get to Koh Phi Phi and how to get around the island efficiently will make your journey much smoother. This Koh Phi Phi travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about transportation to and on the island.

Getting to Koh Phi Phi

Fly to Phuket or Krabi

Koh Phi Phi doesn’t have its own airport, so the first step is to fly into the nearest airports — Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV). Both airports serve a variety of domestic and international flights, making them convenient entry points.

Take a ferry or boat from Phuket or Krabi

From either Phuket or Krabi, you’ll need to take a ferry or boat to Koh Phi Phi.

• Ferry from Phuket: Ferries typically depart from Rassada Pier (Phuket Town) or Bang Rong Pier. The trip usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Tickets can be bought online in advance or at the pier.

• Ferry from Krabi: Ferries depart from Ao Nang Pier or Klong Jilad Pier, taking roughly 1.5 hours. This option is often a bit cheaper but with fewer daily departures.

Speedboat option

For faster travel, speedboats from Phuket or Krabi are available, cutting the trip down to about 45 minutes to 1 hour. Speedboats are more expensive but ideal if you want to save time.

Getting around Koh Phi Phi

Walking is the main way

Koh Phi Phi Don, the main island, is quite small and walkable. Many popular beaches, restaurants and shops are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to soak in the island’s relaxed atmosphere.

Rent a bicycle or motorbike

If you want to explore beyond the main tourist areas, renting a bicycle or motorbike is a good idea. Bicycles are suitable for a leisurely ride, while motorbikes provide more speed and flexibility. Daily rental prices for motorbikes typically range from 200 to 300 THB.

Boat tours and private boat rentals

To discover secluded beaches, hidden coves, or nearby islands like Koh Phi Phi Leh (home of the famous Maya Bay), consider booking a boat tour or renting a private longtail boat. Tours vary from half-day to full-day trips and cater to different budgets.

Top things to do in Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi may be a small island, but it's packed with unforgettable experiences. There’s an incredible mix of activities to enjoy. In this section of the Koh Phi Phi travel guide, we’ll explore in depth the top things to do in Koh Phi Phi to help you plan your ideal itinerary.

Explore the iconic Maya Bay

No trip to Koh Phi Phi is complete without visiting Maya Bay. Nestled on Koh Phi Phi Leh, this bay is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and features turquoise water with soft white sand. Although it was temporarily closed for ecological restoration, it has now reopened with sustainable tourism practices in place.

Today, visitors are allowed to admire the beach from designated areas and swimming is limited to protect marine life. Getting there usually requires a boat tour and it's best to visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Maya Bay is easily the crown jewel of any Koh Phi Phi travel guide.

Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint

If you're looking for one of the most rewarding things to do in Koh Phi Phi, hiking up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint should be high on your list. The trail begins near Tonsai Village and takes about 20–30 minutes to reach the first viewpoint. The climb is short but steep, so bring water and wear comfortable shoes.

Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of the twin bays of Koh Phi Phi Don — Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay, which almost make the island look like an hourglass from above. For the best experience, hike early for sunrise or late in the day for sunset. It's one of the best places to capture iconic photos for your travel album.

Discover the underwater world: Snorkeling & Diving

For ocean lovers, snorkeling and scuba diving are essential things to do in Koh Phi Phi. The waters around the islands are teeming with marine life, including vibrant corals, reef sharks, sea turtles and countless species of tropical fish.

Popular dive sites include Bida Nok, Shark Point and Hin Klang. If you’re new to diving, many dive centers offer beginner courses and Discover Scuba Diving experiences. Snorkeling tours are also widely available and often include stops at multiple coral reefs. The warm, clear water makes it a fantastic destination for underwater adventures.

Take a long-tail boat island tour

One of the most iconic and relaxing ways to explore the area is by hiring a traditional longtail boat. These wooden boats offer a classic Thai experience and can take you on a custom trip around Koh Phi Phi’s smaller islands and hidden coves.

Typical stops include Monkey Beach, Pileh Lagoon, Bamboo Island and Maya Bay. You can choose to go with a group tour or rent a private boat for a more flexible itinerary. Swimming, snorkeling, cliff-jumping and sunset watching are often part of the tour. This is an essential item in any Koh Phi Phi travel guide if you want to truly appreciate the island’s natural beauty.

Escape to quiet beaches: Long Beach & Loh Moo Dee

While Tonsai Bay is lively and central, there are several quieter beaches that offer a peaceful escape. Long Beach, located about a 30-minute walk or short boat ride from Tonsai, features calm, clear water ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also a fantastic spot to view the sunset.

Another serene option is Loh Moo Dee Beach, a hidden gem with fewer visitors and crystal-clear waters. It’s great for those seeking solitude or a romantic escape. Spending a day lounging on these peaceful shores is one of the most relaxing things to do in Koh Phi Phi.

Experience the vibrant nightlife

Despite its laid-back atmosphere during the day, Koh Phi Phi transforms into a party island once the sun goes down. The nightlife is centered around Loh Dalum Bay, where beachfront bars and open-air clubs host nightly fire shows, beach parties and DJ sets.

Popular spots like Slinky Beach Bar and Ibiza Beach Club offer a high-energy atmosphere, but you can also find more relaxed bars for cocktails by the sea. The nightlife in Koh Phi Phi is one of the most talked-about in Thailand and definitely worth experiencing if you enjoy socializing and dancing under the stars.

Beyond these experiences, Koh Phi Phi has even more to offer. To make the most of your adventure, let Hanoi Voyages craft a seamless and unforgettable journey for you. With our carefully curated tours, you can explore the best of Koh Phi Phi and its surroundings.

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Recommend accommodations in Koh Phi Phi for a relaxing trip

Look no further than this Koh Phi Phi travel guide, where we’ve selected three of the best accommodations for those who value comfort, nature and a tranquil atmosphere. These handpicked hotels offer something for every type of traveler seeking the best Koh Phi Phi travel experience.

SAii Phi Phi Island Village

• Address: 49 Moo 8, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi Don 81000 Thailand
• Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nestled along an 800-meter stretch of private beach, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is a luxurious tropical resort surrounded by palm trees, lush hills and the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Guests can stay in spacious beachfront bungalows or hillside villas, each offering a mix of Thai-inspired design and modern comfort. The resort features a stunning infinity pool, several beachfront restaurants and a full-service spa to rejuvenate your body and mind.

What sets this resort apart is its commitment to sustainability, including an on-site Marine Discovery Centre that educates visitors on raising baby sharks and clownfish. This makes it an excellent choice for eco-conscious travelers. With its secluded location and romantic setting, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is ideal for honeymooners or couples looking for privacy and luxury wrapped in nature.

Phi Phi Holiday Resort

• Address: Laem Tong Beach, Ko Phi Phi, Krabi 81000, Thailand
• Star rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Located on the peaceful Laem Tong Beach, Phi Phi Holiday Resort offers a serene escape. Guests can enjoy spacious beachfront villas or hillside bungalows with panoramic views while lounging under palm trees or soaking in the beachfront infinity pool. The resort also offers gym, snorkeling trips and Thai cooking classes, making it a great destination for those seeking a wellness-focused vacation.

In addition to its natural beauty, the resort is known for warm hospitality and beautifully crafted spaces featuring traditional Thai elements. Phi Phi Holiday Resort strikes a balance between relaxation and cultural immersion. It’s a top pick in any Koh Phi Phi travel guide for families and couples alike.

Phi Phi The Beach Resort

• Address: 177 Moo 7, Long Beach, Ao Nang, Ko Phi Phi Don 81210, Thailand
• Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Tucked into the hillside of Long Beach with panoramic views of the crystal-clear Andaman Sea, Phi Phi The Beach Resort is a perfect blend of nature and relaxation. The resort offers charming wooden bungalows, each with a private balcony overlooking the ocean or garden. Guests can take a short walk down to the white sandy beach, relax by the pool, or explore the nearby coral reefs just a few meters offshore—perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts.

What makes this resort a standout in any Koh Phi Phi travel guide is its unique location—secluded enough to escape the crowds, yet only a 10-minute boat ride from the island’s lively Tonsai Bay. It’s the best of both worlds: peaceful, private and still accessible. With a laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunrise views and friendly staff, Phi Phi The Beach Resort is ideal for couples, solo travelers, or anyone wanting a classic Koh Phi Phi travel experience with a natural touch.

Must-try dishes in Koh Phi Phi

No Koh Phi Phi travel guide is complete without a deep dive into the island's delicious food scene. Here are some must-try dishes to make your Koh Phi Phi travel experience even more flavorful.

Tom Yum Goong (Spicy Shrimp Soup)

This iconic Thai soup is a perfect balance of sour, spicy and savory flavors. Made with fresh prawns, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, chili and galangal, it’s both fragrant and fiery. You’ll find Tom Yum served at most beachside restaurants in Koh Phi Phi, especially in the evening when the sea breeze makes hot soup extra comforting.

Grilled Seafood Platter

With the Andaman Sea at its doorstep, Koh Phi Phi is a paradise for seafood lovers. Grilled squid, prawns, snapper and even lobster are freshly caught and cooked simply over charcoal. Many beach restaurants offer mixed seafood platters served with spicy seafood sauce—an essential local experience for your Koh Phi Phi travel itinerary.

Pad Thai (Thai Stir-Fried Noodles)

A crowd favorite, Pad Thai is a must-try no matter where you are in Thailand and Koh Phi Phi is no exception. Stir-fried rice noodles with tofu, shrimp, egg and peanuts in a tamarind-based sauce make for a sweet-savory delight. Many local vendors serve it right by the beach or near Tonsai Village’s walking streets.

Som Tum (Green Papaya Salad)

If you're looking for something light yet flavorful, try Som Tum. This spicy green papaya salad is a staple in Thai cuisine and is known for its refreshing crunch, sour lime juice and chili heat. It’s often served with sticky rice or grilled chicken and makes a perfect lunch on a hot island afternoon.

Thai Coconut Ice Cream

End your meal on a sweet note with traditional coconut ice cream, often served in a real coconut shell with roasted peanuts, sticky rice, or condensed milk. It’s refreshing, not too sweet and ideal after a day in the sun.

Koh Phi Phi travel tips for a perfect trip

To make the most of your island adventure, it's important to be prepared. This section of your Koh Phi Phi travel guide shares useful travel tips to help you enjoy your trip with fewer surprises and more unforgettable moments.

• Book your boat transfers in advance: Ferries and speedboats from Phuket or Krabi to Koh Phi Phi can get fully booked, especially during high season (November–April). Secure your tickets early to avoid delays.

• Bring cash: Although some places accept cards, most local shops, restaurants and boat operators prefer cash. There are ATMs on the island, but they sometimes run out or charge high fees.

• Wear reef-safe sunscreen: Help protect Koh Phi Phi’s marine life by using eco-friendly, reef-safe sunscreen—especially if you plan to snorkel or swim in the lagoons.

• Respect local wildlife and nature: Avoid touching coral or feeding wild animals like monkeys. Maya Bay, Pi Leh Lagoon and other natural sites are protected, so follow local rules and preserve their beauty.

• Wear proper footwear for hiking: If you're planning to hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, wear sneakers or sturdy sandals—the path can be steep and slippery.

• Watch out for sun exposure: The island sun is strong. Bring a hat, sunglasses and lightweight clothing to protect yourself during boat tours or beach lounging.

From serene beaches to rich cultural charm, this Koh Phi Phi travel guide has everything you need to start planning a memorable island adventure. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Koh Phi Phi offers the perfect mix of relaxation, discovery and natural beauty. 

For a smooth and thoughtfully curated experience, let Hanoi Voyages create a tailor-made itinerary just for you — designed with care, expertise and local insight.