Your Ultimate Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island tours | Visitor information at a glance

When do Phi Phi Island tours start?
Most of the Phi Island tours start between 7 and 7:30am, while some may even extend to 9am or 10:30am, . In case you have chosen a sunrise tour, get ready to set out early on your journey.
Where are the Phi Phi Islands located?
The Phi Phi Islands are an island group in Thailand, located between the large island of Phuket and the Straits of Malacca coast of Thailand.
What are the ways I can get to Phi Phi Island?
Phi Phi Island is only accessible by boat from Phuket or Krabi. Speedboats take about 45 minutes from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi. Ferries are also available but they take longer.
How many number visitors do the Phi Phi Islands see per year?
In 2022, almost 491 thousand tourists visited Noppharatthara Beach and Phi Phi Islands National Park alone. Phi Phi Islands combined see over 14 million + visitors annually.

Phi Phi Island tour timings

Phi Phi Island tours from Phuket usually leave in the morning. Each tour includes a boat of your choice, meals and an expert local guide. You can also pick tours that include the spots of your preference. Typically, Phi Phi Island tours from Phuket take between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the type. Here are the tour timings for Phi Phi Island from Phuket:

Sunrise cruises

Timings: From 6am

Half-day or full-day Phi Phi Island cruises

Timings: From 9am/10:30am onwards.

From Phuket: Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay Tour by Speedboat

Free cancellation

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Mobile ticket

9 hr. 30 min. - 10 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

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From Phuket: Phi Phi Island & Maya Bay Tour by Catamaran

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

10 hr. - 10 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

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From Phuket: Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay & Bamboo Island Tour by Premium Speedboat

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

10 hr.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

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Check availability

From Phuket: Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay & Bamboo Island Tour by Speedboat

Free cancellation

Instant confirmation

Mobile ticket

8 hr. 30 min.

Transfers included

Hotel pickup

‌

Check availability

Best time to visit Phi Phi Islands

Couple enjoying themselves on a beach in Maya Bay - Phi phi islands

High season vs Low season

The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the dry season, starting from November to April. During these months, the weather is typically sunny with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and exploring the island's natural beauty. The peak tourist season is from December to February, coinciding with the holiday season when the island can become quite crowded and prices for accommodations and activities are higher.

Conversely, the low tourist season occurs during the rainy months of May to October, when the island experiences fewer visitors and one can find better deals on hotels and tours. However, the weather can be unpredictable, with occasional heavy rains and rough seas.

Woman on a boat exploring Phi Phi Island

Weekends vs Weekdays

When planning a visit, weekdays are generally less crowded compared to weekends. Many local and international tourists flock to the island on weekends, leading to busier beaches, restaurants, and attractions. For a more serene experience, visiting early in the morning is advisable, as popular spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island can get quite crowded by midday. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the beauty of these sites with fewer people around and better light for photography.

Where is Phi Phi Island located?

Address: Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand

Find On Maps

Phi Phi Island is an island archipelago in Thailand, between Phuket and the Straits of Malacca coast.

Closest town: Krabi Town (45.8 km approx.)

How to get to Phi Phi Island?

Seanery catamaran on the water, Thailand

From Phuket

By boat tours: For a hassle-free journey from Phuket to Phi Phi Island, consider a pre-arranged boat tour. These tours typically include hotel pick-up in Phuket and surrounding areas, transportation to the pier, and the boat ride itself. You'll have a choice between speedboats, and even luxurious catamarans. Speedboats get you there much faster, at around 45 minutes, but come at a higher cost. Catamarans offer a comfortable middle ground, with a journey time of roughly 1.5 hours and scenic views. Meals are included allowing you to relax and enjoy the beautiful Andaman Sea. All tours are guided. Talk about an end-to-end experience.

By ferry: If you're looking for a more independent option, ferries are a great alternative. Numerous ferry operators depart daily from Phuket's Rassada Pier. The journey takes about 2 hours, which is longer than speedboats but significantly cheaper. While ferries won't provide hotel transfers, guides, or meals, they offer a budget-conscious and scenic way to travel to Phi Phi Island.

From Krabi

By boat tour: Traveling from Krabi to Phi Phi Island can be easy with a pre-booked tour. These tours handle everything, from picking you up at your Krabi hotel to touring you around the islands. Speedboats are the fastest option, getting you to the island in about 60 minutes. For a more leisurely journey, you can choose a ferry or catamaran. Catamarans offer a good balance, reaching Phi Phi in roughly 2 hours with more comfortable seating and sometimes even refreshments included in the tour package.

By ferry: If you enjoy independent adventures, you can take ferries that regularly depart from Krabi's piers, such as Ao Nang or Klong Jilad, to get to Phi Phi Island. Ferries are the most affordable option but are slow, taking 2+ hours to reach the islands. Although they do not offer hotel pick-up or meals, they are a cost-effective way to reach Phi Phi Island.

Know before you go

Tour facilities - Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Transportation: Round-trip transfer by ferry, speedboat, or catamaran (depending on your chosen tour) from Phuket or Krabi to Phi Phi Island and back.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (optional): Many tours offer convenient pick-up and drop-off directly from your hotel in Phuket or Krabi (depending on your chosen tour).
Sightseeing: Explore various bays, beaches, and caves around Phi Phi Island, including Maya Bay (restrictions may apply), Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon (depending on the tour itinerary). You’ll always have your local expert guide with you to give you the best lore.
Snorkeling gear: Most tours provide snorkeling equipment like masks, fins, and life jackets for exploring the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Meals: Depending on the tour, breakfast, lunch, and other refreshments might be included, with some offering buffet-style meals on board or dining at restaurants on Phi Phi Island. Light refreshments like water and fruits might also be included in some tours.
Guide: Experienced tour guides are often included, providing information and commentary about the islands and their history throughout the day.
Insurance: Basic travel insurance are included in some tours, offering peace of mind during your island adventure.

Guided tours - Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Exploring Phi Phi Island with a guided boat tour unlocks a world of benefits. Local experts guide you through hidden coves and navigate trickier waters, ensuring a safe and informative adventure. Their knowledge breathes life into the island's history and culture, while they handle logistics like transportation and sometimes meals (depending on the tour) so you can relax. Plus, they often act as translators, bridging any language gaps and ensuring a smooth and unforgettable experience.

Rules & guidelines - Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Using drones is prohibited in Maya Bay. Be mindful of signs regarding photography restrictions in specific areas.
Look for designated bins and avoid leaving waste on beaches or natural areas.
For insurance purposes, always have a copy of your passport on you, whether digital or paper.
Pregnant women and children under 4 are not advised to take tours of Phi Phi Island.
Travelers who have physical impairments or medical issues should proceed with caution and see a physician prior to making a reservation.
For some activities, there may be age restrictions. Adults must accompany children under the age of 12.
You can’t bring pets to your Phi Phi Island tour.
Strollers and wheelchairs are not permitted on tours.
Avoid feeding wild animals; this disrupts their natural feeding patterns and can be harmful to their health.
If your tour excludes National Park fees, you will need to pay the fare in cash when you arrive (approximately 400 THB for adults and 200 THB for children).
Depending on the season and what is in stock, lunch menus can change. Halal and vegetarian options are offered.
The weather and sea conditions may cause changes to the tour itinerary.
For a perfect time, do not forget to bring your sunscreen, hats or sunglasses, beach towel, and swimsuit. When visiting temples or sacred sites on Phi Phi, opt for clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Beat the crowd: Aim for early morning or later afternoon tours, especially for Maya Bay and Phi Phi Don piers. This allows you to experience these popular spots with fewer people. Plus, you get better photographs.
Pack smart: Bring a swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a quick-drying towel for swimming and snorkeling. Purchase a dry bag to keep your camera, phone, and other important items safe from spills.
Respect the environment: Phi Phi Island is known for its natural beauty. Be mindful of your waste, avoid touching coral reefs, and try not to use plastic bags. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day to stay hydrated and help the environment.
Bring cash for emergencies: While some vendors accept cards, having cash on hand is always a good idea for smaller purchases or unexpected situations.
Explore beyond Maya Bay: Phi Phi offers more than just stunning beaches. Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint for panoramic vistas, discover Viking Cave's historical significance, or visit Monkey Beach for a playful encounter (from a safe distance!)
Dress comfortably: Prepare for the tropical weather by bringing light, airy clothing, cozy walking shoes, and a cover-up for religious sites. Carry an umbrella or a fast-drying shirt in case of rain.
Embrace island time: Relax and adjust to the slower pace of life on Phi Phi. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, unplug from technology, and savor the island's laid-back atmosphere.

Shop at Phi Phi Island - Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Tonsai Village: This is your one-stop shop for everything you might need on your Phi Phi Island trip. It's famous for its vibrant market atmosphere with a wide variety of souvenirs, clothing, handicrafts, and beach essentials. Think handcrafted jewelry, colorful Thai shirts, beach bags, and those must-have swimsuits.
Phi Phi Pier Shops: This is all about convenience. Since it's the first sight that greets you, these shops are famous for offering grab-and-go essentials like snacks, drinks, and last-minute souvenirs.
Phra Nang Beach: With its limited number of shops, Phra Nang Beach focuses on providing essentials for beach bums. This is where you can pick up a quick beach cover-up, a refreshing drink, or a postcard to remember your time here.
Ao Maya (Maya Bay): Similar to Phra Nang Beach, Ao Maya, the location of the famous Maya Bay, has a limited number of shops. These shops are famous for catering to tourists with souvenirs and drinks. Grab a quick refreshment or a Maya Bay t-shirt to commemorate your visit to this stunning location.

Traveler tip: It's important to remember that most shops on Phi Phi Island are small, independent stalls. Be sure to bring cash, as many shops may not accept credit cards.

Depending on the tour you choose, there are different meal options for each tour. Based on your tour selection, here's a general idea of what to expect:

Soft drinks, snacks, a buffet of Thai food, and seasonal fruits.
A gourmet meal at Phi Phi Resort that includes water, soft drinks, fresh fruit, and your selection of two beers or regional wine.
Savor a breakfast buffet, a lunch buffet (typically at Phi Phi Don Island), and snacks and coffee/tea throughout the day. International buffets and BBQ options might be available on some tours.

Viking Nature Resort: Nestled on a quiet cove, Viking Nature Resort offers a secluded escape away from the main pier but with stunning beachfront access. Located on Long Beach, a scenic bay about a 2.5 km drive from Phi Phi pier.
Phi Phi Phuchalet Resort: Relax in style at Phi Phi Phuchalet Resort, a beachfront haven located directly on Loh Bagao Bay, a short longtail boat ride from the pier. Nestled on a cliffside overlooking Loh Dalam Bay, a relaxing spot about a 3.5 km longtail boat ride from the pier.
P2 Wood Loft: P2 Wood Loft boasts a central location in Phi Phi Don, in the heart of Tonsai Village, just a short walk (around 300 meters) from the bustling Phi Phi pier.
Blue Flow Hostel: Enjoy a social atmosphere at Blue Flow Hostel, located conveniently approximately 500 meters away from Phi Phi pier.
Phi Phi The Beach Resort: Phi Phi The Beach Resort provides a luxurious beachfront experience on Long Beach, situated in the Graces Loh Bagao Bay, a secluded paradise about a 2 km longtail boat ride from the main pier.

Nearby - Guide to Visiting Phi Phi Island

Bamboo Island (Ko Mai Phai): This picturesque island, known for its clear waters and soft sand, is a popular stop on Phi Phi Island tours. It's known for its relaxed atmosphere and offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. While the name suggests bamboo, Casuarina trees dominate the landscape.
Maiton Island: A tiny, limestone island near Phi Phi Leh, Maiton Island is known for its dramatic cliffs and hidden coves. While not accessible for landings, it's a common stop for sightseeing and admiring the scenery during Phi Phi Island tours.
Monkey Beach: Located on the southern tip of Phi Phi Leh, Monkey Beach is a small bay with a resident troop of macaque monkeys. You can observe these playful creatures from a distance, but feeding them is not recommended.
Maya Bay & Beach: Made famous by the movie "The Beach," Maya Bay boasts stunning scenery with towering limestone cliffs framing a crescent-shaped beach with silky soft sand and clear turquoise waters. Due to environmental concerns, visitor access to Maya Bay is currently restricted, with limited time allowed for sightseeing only.

Frequently asked questions about visiting Phi Phi Islands

Where is Phi Phi Island?

Phi Phi Island is an archipelago located in the Andaman Sea, just off the coast of southern Thailand. It's about 50 kilometers southeast of Phuket and accessible by boat from Phuket, Krabi, and other mainland points. Find on Maps.

Can I visit Phi Phi Island?

Absolutely, yes! Phi Phi Island has now reopened and is back on the map as a popular tourist destination that welcomes visitors from across the globe year-round.

Why should I tour Phi Phi Island?

Phi Phi Island offers stunning natural beauty, with turquoise waters, white sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and vibrant coral reefs. You can relax on pristine beaches, explore hidden coves, snorkel among colorful fish, and soak up the island vibes. If you’re a curious mind, tours also take care of that by providing a dedicated guide on board to give you all the information about top landmarks and bridge the gap with locals.

How long does a Phi Phi Island tour last?

Half and full-day tours are the most common option, ranging between 8 to 12 hours. This gives you enough flexibility to plan your itinerary based on how much time you want to commit.

How much does it cost to visit Phi Phi Island?

The cost of the tour may differ depending on the length of the tour (half-day or full-day), the kind of vessel (speedboat or catamaran), and the service level (standard or deluxe). Tours with lower costs could begin at about ฿1,500, while high-end catamaran tours might be closer to ฿4,900.

What is the best time to visit Phi Phi Island?

The ideal time is between November and April, during Thailand's dry season. You'll experience sunny skies and calm seas. However, this is also peak season with larger crowds. Shoulder seasons (May and October) offer a good balance between decent weather and fewer visitors.

What are the Phi Phi Island tour timings?

The majority of tours start between 7 and 7:30 am, however, some start at 9 or 10:30 am. If you have chosen a sunrise tour, you’ll be heading out around 6am.

Can I visit Phi Phi Island in a group?

Yes, group tours are a popular option for visiting Phi Phi Island. They offer a fun and social experience, often at a more affordable price, and allow you to connect with fellow adventurers.

Can I visit Phi Phi Island with kids?

If your child is over 4 years of age, they shouldn’t be missing out on this gem of an experience. However, children under 4 are not advised to take tours of Phi Phi Island. Some activities like snorkeling or rough boat rides might not be ideal for very young children.

Is Phi Phi Island wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, Phi Phi Island isn't very wheelchair friendly due to uneven terrain, stairs, and limited accessibility on beaches and jetties.

Are there food and drinks served on Phi Phi Island Tours?

Meals are included in all tours. Most tours provide a Thai lunch buffet, as well as soft drinks, snacks, and seasonal fruits. Deluxe tours may offer a lunch buffet at Phi Phi Resort and may include additional choices such as beer or local wine. Full-day tours might also feature breakfast.

How long does it take to visit Phi Phi Island?

Travel time to Phi Phi Island depends on your departure point. From Phuket, it can 45 minutes by speedboat. From Krabi, speedboats take up to 1 hour. Once on the island, most popular spots are accessible by boat trips or short walks. Day tours typically include enough time to visit key locations and enjoy some activities. Tours last anywhere from 8 to 12 hours.