English
English
Pileh Lagoon, Phi Phi Islands – Emerald waters & how to visit
Phi Phi Island ToursPileh Lagoon
- About Phi Phi Islands
- Sunset Tours
- Sunrise Tours
- Maya Bay Tours
- Bamboo Island Tours
- Khai Island Tours
- Tours from Phi Phi Islands
- Phuket to Phi Phi Island Tours
- Maiton Island
- Long-tail Boat
- Monkey Beach
- Pileh Lagoon
- Kayaking
- Soho Pool Club
- Viking Cave
- Speedboat Tours
- Catamaran Tour
- Things to Do in Phi Phi Island
- Scuba Diving
- Snorkeling
Contents
What is Pileh Lagoon?
Pileh Lagoon is a shallow, sheltered cove carved into the western side of Phi Phi Leh. It's famous for:
- Limestone cliffs that wrap around the lagoon in a dramatic horseshoe shape.
- Crystal-clear waters, with shades that shift from green to turquoise depending on the sun.
- No beach, no buildings—just open water and vertical rock faces.
- Depths of up to 20 meters, making it swimmable at the center but shallow enough to walk through water near the entrance.
- Great snorkeling visibility, with coral outcrops and tropical marine life all around.
Swimming and snorkeling
The lagoon is tailor-made for a calm swim. With the gentle slope of the seabed, you can float comfortably or paddle up toward the cliffs.
Things you might see:
Parrotfish, clownfish, and butterflyfish
hiding among coral clusters.
Occasional sea turtles
gliding through the deeper section.
Black-tip reef sharks
(shy and safe!) are often spotted in the mornings.
Snorkeling visibility
is up to 15 meters when the water is still and boat traffic is light.
Bring your own mask or rent one on Phi Phi Don—some tours include gear, but not all.
Best time to visit Pileh Lagoon
Early mornings (8am–10am)
Soft golden light reflects off the cliffs. You’ll have calmer water and fewer boats—ideal for photos.
Late morning to early afternoon (11am–1pm)
The sun is at its peak, and the water turns vivid green. Perfect for underwater visibility, but expect more crowds.
Afternoon (2pm–4pm)
The cliffs offer more shade, which cools things down. Great for relaxing swims or longer snorkeling without the harsh sun.
Off-season tip
From May to September, seas can be choppy with unpredictable showers of rain. For the smoothest rides and clearest views, aim for November to April.
How to visit Pileh Lagoon – Tour options
You’ll need a boat to get here, and luckily, there’s a style for every traveler:
Group longtail tours
- Affordable and laid-back
- Great for solo travelers or couples
Speedboat charters
- More flexibility and space
- Perfect for small private groups
Luxury yacht experience
- Gourmet meals, sunset views, and limited guests
- Great for special occasions or group splurges
Explore Pileh Lagoon and more – Reserve your Phi Phi Islands tour now
Frequently asked questions about Pileh Lagoon
Do I need a permit to visit Pileh Lagoon?
No permit needed. Access is included in all standard marine park fees when you join a tour.
How long do tours stop at the lagoon?
Depends on the tour. Most group tours spend about 20–40 minutes here. Private tours can stretch that up to 90 minutes or more.
Are life jackets included?
Yes. All licensed operators provide life jackets for safety during swimming and snorkeling.
How crowded does it get?
Midday sees the most boats. To avoid crowds, aim to arrive before 10am or after 2pm.
Can I store my stuff safely on the boat?
Most boats provide dry bags or a secure compartment. Ask your tour operator before boarding.