Phi Phi islands review
As seen on many postcards, Phi Phi islands are one of the most famous destinations in Thailand, the real Thai island superstars. Phi Phi islands welcome with exotic views from any angle, towering limestone cliffs, amazingly pretty lagoons, and the wow Beach that was home to Leonardo Di Caprio once.
Koh Phi Phi archipelago consists of six islands. The bigger four islands are Koh Phi Phi Don, Koh Phi Phi Leh, Koh Yung (also called Mosquito Island) and Koh Pai (also known as Bamboo Island). Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest of Phi Phi islands. Despite being the only island with accommodation options, it is almost without roads. At Koh Phi Phi Don, there is a spectacular viewpoint from where you can overlook the headland with the two bays. You can also practice climbing Tonsai Tower, or do longer trekking by crossing the island from one coast to another. With a cozy and lively town filled with street cats, Koh Phi Phi Don will not disappoint you.
Nearby, Koh Phi Phi Leh is “The Beach” famous and entirely free of humans. The National Park is protecting it alongside Koh Yung island, where no visitors are allowed either. Koh Phi Phi Leh’s curvy, bleached beaches, incredible lagoons (Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon), and stunning jungle interiors are the Andaman Coast darlings. Surrounded by crystal clear waters with abundant marine life, Phi Phi islands have become a prime destination for snorkelers and divers in the Andaman Sea. Being a top-rated destination with tourists, expect to see good numbers of other people around Phi Phi islands. Still, it’s such a beautiful place that many tend to not really care or take notice.
- AIRPORT Krabi & Phuket
- BEST TIME TO VISIT Nov - May
Beaches
See all (7)Snorkeling
See all (9)Must Visit
See all (4)Boat Tour
See all (6)Holiday
Why visit Koh Phi Phi
How to reach Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi islands are tucked away in the Andaman Sea between Krabi and Phuket provinces, both of which have its international airport. For many, Phi Phi islands are the only reason to touch down in Phuket or Krabi. Koh Phi Phi is easily accessible by boat not only from Phuket and Krabi, but also from Koh Lanta, Koh Yao Noi, and Koh Yao Yai. You can only stay overnight on the island of Koh Phi Phi Don, which serves as the primary hub for exploring other islands within the Phi Phi archipelago. Although it is possible to experience Phi Phi islands on a day trip from Phuket, Krabi or Koh Lanta, we recommend a couple of nights on Phi Phi Don to really soak in. You can rent a private boat with Islander from any location and explore all of Phi Phi islands and beaches at your own pace.
Best time in Koh Phi Phi
The best time to visit Phi Phi islands is from November to May when the most hours of sun and pleasant humidity occur. The best weather conditions are in January through April. The sea is fantastic, while boat tour options are abundant. You will notice that water visibility is at its best during January-April, with most snorkeling spots across Koh Phi Phi islands that are vivid with marine life. April and May are your best months to encounter whale sharks near Koh Phi Phi and snorkel with turtles regularly. With stable tropical temperatures, Phi Phi islands are a perfect holiday destination throughout the year. The peak season is still in December and January when the main Koh Phi Phi Don island is packed with tourists, and the nightlife doesn’t stop.
Rainy season in Koh Phi Phi
Rainy season in Koh Phi Phi begins in May and ends in October. The probability of rain increases drastically while the sea becomes rough, significantly hindering island hopping and snorkeling experiences. There is no golden rule, however. While the temperature drops by a few degrees during the low season, Koh Phi Phi still enjoys a tropical summer climate.
Koh Phi Phi or Krabi
Krabi is a sleepy town located a few kilometers from the coast. It is not the best comparison to Koh Phi Phi, which is best compared to Ao Nang beach and Railay Beach in Krabi. Both these beaches feature equally remarkable scenery to Koh Phi Phi with thick jungle, hidden waterfalls, and sweet hiking spots. But if you’re looking for more action, iconic diving and snorkeling spots, head over to Koh Phi Phi Don.
Koh Phi Phi or Phuket
Koh Phi Phi is an ideal island if you’re looking to explore world-class beaches, diving spots and spend time in the breathtaking scenery. On the other hand, Phuket is the most developed island offering never-ending nightlife, authentic local experience, beautiful temples, and a variety of things to do among its over 30 beaches. Phuket is easily accessible via direct flights to its international airport. At the same time, you need to take a boat to Koh Phi Phi islands. You can still experience Phi Phi islands on a boat day trip while staying in Phuket for your holiday.
Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a bit more developed and upscale island offering a variety of activities and accommodation options. For instance, exploring Koh Lipe on a motorbike is easy to do as the island has pretty roads, compared to the lack of these on Koh Phi Phi. Both islands feature the most beautiful diving and snorkeling spots in Thailand across its many nearby islands. Therefore, if your main reason to visit is sea adventures, it’s challenging to choose between the two.