Koh Phi Phi, or the Phi Phi Islands, is one of the most beautiful Andaman Sea destinations in Thailand, located in Krabi province. It comprises six main islands, with Koh Phi Phi Don being the largest island with accommodations, restaurants, and vibrant life, while Koh Phi Phi Leh is an uninhabited island famous for Maya Bay, featured in the 2000 film The Beach. Here you'll find white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, stunning coral reefs, and towering limestone cliffs. It's a paradise for those who love the sea, diving, snorkeling, or just chilling out, but it's also bustling with nightlife and tourists from all over the world. Popular highlights and activities include:
Maya Bay: One of the world's most beautiful beaches. Open for visits but with limited daily capacity to allow nature to recover (closed during the rainy season, August-September every year).
Phi Phi Viewpoint: A not-too-steep hike up the hill, offering stunning panoramic views of the twin bays (Ton Sai Bay + Loh Dalum Bay), especially beautiful sunsets.
Monkey Beach: A beach with wild monkeys playing around. Cute, but be careful with your valuables.
Viking Cave: A cave with ancient cave paintings.
Main activities: Snorkeling/scuba diving (blacktip reef sharks are frequently seen), longtail boat trips for island hopping (Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island), kayaking, rock climbing, or enjoying the fire show party at Loh Dalum Bay in the evening.
Latest situation (early 2026):
Tourism in Phi Phi Island has recovered very well. Foreign tourists are flocking to the area. Especially during the high season (November-April), Maya Bay and the national park area still limit the number of tourists to conserve coral and the ecosystem, but it remains open to visitors as usual, generating significant revenue from park fees. However, there are some issues with marine debris from the monsoon season, but park officials continuously clean it up. Getting there from Phuket or Krabi: Take a ferry or speedboat (1-2 hours). Book through 12Go or an agency.
Day trips: Available from Phuket/Krabi/Ao Nang, prices start from 1,500-3,000 THB, including snorkeling and food.
Suitable for 2-4 day trips for a relaxing sea getaway. If you prefer tranquility, try Long Beach or Laem Tong instead of the bustling Tonsai area.