The Phi Phi Islands are on almost every traveller’s Thailand bucket list — and for good reason. Crystal turquoise water, dramatic white limestone cliffs, world-famous Maya Bay, vibrant coral reefs, and a legendary island energy that you won’t find anywhere else on earth. Here’s your complete guide to making the most of Phi Phi.
The Phi Phi Islands — What You Need to Know
Phi Phi is actually a group of six islands. The two main ones are:
- Phi Phi Don — the only inhabited island, with resorts, restaurants, nightlife, and the famous Viewpoint
- Phi Phi Leh — uninhabited, home to Maya Bay and the Viking Cave. Day-trip only (no overnight stays)
Phi Phi has no cars or roads on the island — all transport is by boat or on foot. This makes it feel wonderfully remote despite being one of Thailand’s most visited spots.
How to Reach Phi Phi Islands
From Phuket
- Ferry: 1.5–2 hours. Departs from Rassada Pier, Phuket. Cost: ₹500–₹900 per person one way. Multiple daily departures (8 AM, 11 AM, 2 PM typical schedule)
- Speedboat: 45 minutes. Cost: ₹1,500–₹2,500 per person one way. Used mainly for day trips and private charters
From Krabi
- Ferry: 1.5 hours from Krabi Town pier. Cost: ₹400–₹700 per person. 3–4 departures daily
- Speedboat: 45 minutes. Popular for day trips from Ao Nang
Booking Tips
Book ferry tickets in advance during peak season (December–February). You can book through your hotel, at the pier on the day, or through your SSH package. Always check the return schedule before booking one-way.
Maya Bay — The Famous Beach from “The Beach”
Maya Bay is located on Phi Phi Leh and is only accessible by boat. It became world-famous after Leonardo DiCaprio’s film “The Beach” was filmed here in 1999. The bay was closed for rehabilitation from 2018–2022 and has since reopened with strict visitor limits.
Current rules for visiting Maya Bay (2025):
- Daily visitor limit enforced — arrive early (boats depart from 8 AM)
- Swimming inside the bay is restricted to protect coral recovery
- Snorkeling allowed in designated areas outside the bay
- Boats must anchor at designated spots — no direct beach landing by speedboat
- Entry fee: 400 THB (approx ₹950) per person
Best Snorkeling Spots Around Phi Phi
- Shark Point (Hin Bida): Leopard sharks, rays, turtles — one of Thailand’s best snorkel sites
- Loh Samah Bay: Calm bay with excellent visibility, clownfish, parrotfish, stunning coral
- Pileh Lagoon: Enclosed emerald lagoon surrounded by limestone cliffs — stunning for photos
- Bamboo Island (Koh Phai): White sand beach, crystal clear water, great for snorkeling
- Monkey Beach: Wild monkeys on the beach + good snorkeling in the surrounding water
Day Trip vs Overnight — Which is Better?
| Day Trip | Overnight Stay | |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8 AM – 5 PM (9 hours) | 1–3 nights |
| Cost | ₹3,500–₹5,500/person (inc. snorkeling, lunch) | ₹4,000–₹20,000/night (resort) |
| Best For | Those based in Phuket or Krabi | Those who want the sunset & sunrise |
| Sunrise Viewpoint | ❌ Not possible | ✅ Most iconic sunrise in Thailand |
| Nightlife | ❌ Back before sunset | ✅ Fire shows, beach bars, reggae bars |
Our recommendation: If you’re based in Phuket for 5+ nights, a day trip to Phi Phi is perfectly satisfying. If you’re on a honeymoon or want the full Phi Phi experience (sunrise viewpoint, night beach), stay 1–2 nights on Phi Phi Don.
Phi Phi Viewpoint — How to Climb It
The Phi Phi Viewpoint is one of the most iconic images in Thailand — looking down at both bays of Phi Phi Don simultaneously. The hike takes 15–20 minutes on a steep concrete path. Go at sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM) for empty trails and golden light, or sunset for dramatic colours. Entry: 30 THB (₹70). Wear comfortable shoes.
Best Time to Visit Phi Phi Islands
- November to April: Perfect — calm seas, crystal visibility, sunny days. This is peak season
- May to October: Monsoon — choppy seas, some boat services reduced. Not recommended for Phi Phi
- Best months: December, January, February for calm water and best snorkeling visibility
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Phi Phi Islands worth visiting?
Yes — Phi Phi is one of the most beautiful places on earth. The limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and underwater life are genuinely extraordinary. Despite the tourist numbers, it still feels magical, especially if you go early in the morning or stay overnight.
How much does a Phi Phi day trip cost from Phuket?
A standard Phi Phi day trip from Phuket costs ₹3,500–₹5,500 per person, including speedboat or ferry transport, guided snorkeling at 3–4 locations, lunch, and return to Phuket. Private charter boats cost ₹20,000–₹40,000 for the whole boat (6–10 people).
Can non-swimmers visit Phi Phi Islands?
Yes — most of Phi Phi’s beauty is visible from a boat. Life jackets are always provided on tours. You can enjoy Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and the Viewpoint without swimming. Snorkeling vests are available for those who want to float on the surface without swimming.
Visiting Phi Phi as part of your Thailand trip? We include the best Phi Phi experiences in our Phuket and Krabi packages — private charters, Maya Bay visits, and overnight stays arranged seamlessly. View Phi Phi Packages →