Koh Phi Phi, a jewel in the crown of Thailand’s Andaman Sea islands, may be diminutive in size compared to its larger siblings, but its fame resonates globally. The mere mention of its name conjures images of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant island life. As ferries approach from Phuket or Koh Lanta, a collective gasp of anticipation often ripples through the passengers, a testament to the island’s allure. However, this initial wonder can sometimes be tempered upon arrival at Ton Sai, the island’s main hub, where a bustling, occasionally overwhelming, scene of tourism unfolds. Yet, this initial impression is far from representative of the entire island. Beyond the vibrant heart of Ton Sai lie secluded beaches and tranquil bays that embody the quintessential paradise travelers dream of. Conversely, some areas throb with the incessant rhythm of DJs, a constant reminder of the island’s vibrant party scene.
When travelers speak of "Koh Phi Phi," they are almost invariably referring to Koh Phi Phi Don, the larger of the two prominent islands nestled within the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Koh Phi Phi Leh, its smaller, uninhabited counterpart to the south, is a popular destination for day trips and tours. The island’s stunning natural beauty gained international recognition after being featured in the 2000 film, "The Beach." The Koh Phi Phi archipelago has become a haven for diverse travelers. Backpackers see it as a social hub, a place to connect and unwind between exhilarating Full Moon Parties, where beer pong tournaments kick off early and beach bucket cocktails flow freely into the night. Vacationers are drawn to the island’s stunning scenery, the affordability of diving excursions, and the abundance of captivating marine life that thrives in the surrounding waters.
Koh Phi Phi Don, adorned with the striking limestone cliffs characteristic of the Krabi province, possesses a unique, almost skeletal form. A narrow isthmus of sand, a mere sliver of land, connects the island’s two asymmetrical landmasses, serving as its bustling epicenter. Along the main walking paths, the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea are visible on either side, a constant reminder of the island’s stunning location. This slender connection, while visually captivating, is a crucial detail to remember: it was precisely this thin strip of land that rendered Koh Phi Phi so vulnerable during the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami.
Before embarking on your own adventure to this celebrated slice of Thai paradise, this guide offers essential information to help you plan your trip. Discover how to reach the island (spoiler: Koh Phi Phi is too small for an airport), learn about the best time to visit, and gain valuable insights into where to eat, stay, and explore on Koh Phi Phi.
Planning Your Trip
Planning a trip to Koh Phi Phi requires considering several factors, including transportation, time of year, and desired level of activity. The island offers a diverse range of experiences, from secluded relaxation to vibrant nightlife, so understanding your priorities is key to creating the perfect itinerary.
Things to Do
Beyond the island’s notorious party scene, a major draw for many visitors, Koh Phi Phi offers a wide array of activities to suit diverse interests. Scuba diving is incredibly popular, with numerous dive shops offering excursions and PADI certification courses. The crystal-clear turquoise waters surrounding the island are ideal for snorkeling, allowing visitors to admire the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Many simply enjoy basking in the sun on Ton Sai Beach, soaking up the tropical ambiance.
For the adventurous, rock climbing is a popular activity, taking advantage of the dramatic limestone cliffs. And, of course, no trip to Thailand is complete without indulging in the delicious and readily available local Thai cuisine. Renting a traditional long-tail boat for a day or joining a guided tour provides an excellent way to explore the surrounding islands, with popular stops including Monkey Beach and the picturesque Pihel Lagoon, a serene haven of turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs.
What to Eat and Drink
While Koh Phi Phi may not be renowned as a culinary epicenter, finding delicious and affordable Thai food is remarkably easy. Papaya Restaurant is a favorite among budget-conscious travelers, offering a wide range of flavorful dishes at reasonable prices. Nearby, Knock Out Bar and Restaurant, a bamboo-lined establishment run by Mr. Chet, provides a lively atmosphere and tasty meals. The possibilities for seafood dishes are seemingly endless, with an abundance of fresh fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster prepared in various ways. These delicacies are typically served with rice, noodles (Pad Thai is a national staple), in a soup, or alongside a refreshing salad.
For a sweet treat, be sure to try the mango sticky rice, a classic Thai dessert that is sure to satisfy your cravings. Keep in mind that serving sizes can vary considerably; some dishes are intended for a single person, while others are "family size" and designed for sharing. Menu items listed as "on rice" generally indicate a single serving. If rice is charged extra and the dish seems more expensive than expected, it is likely intended to be shared.
Freshly squeezed fruit juices and smoothies are readily available throughout the island, offering a refreshing way to stay hydrated in the tropical heat. Local Thai beers, such as Singha and Chang, are also widely available and relatively inexpensive. Wine, on the other hand, tends to be expensive and is primarily found in higher-end hotels. Beer and party cocktails are the mainstays of the island’s numerous beach bars, contributing to the lively nightlife atmosphere.
Where to Stay
The reconstruction following the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami brought about significant changes to Koh Phi Phi’s accommodation landscape. Opportunists took advantage of the situation, leading to the displacement of many budget bungalow operations and resulting in an eclectic mix of upscale resorts, rudimentary party hostels, and mid-range guesthouses. Loh Dalum Beach is the epicenter of the island’s party scene; if fire shows and late-night revelry are not your primary interests, it’s best to stay as far away from this area as possible.
Backpackers seeking hostels should head east upon disembarking from the ferry; the further you venture from the beach and the higher uphill you go, the cheaper the accommodation options tend to become. Laem Tong Beach, situated on the northeastern extremity of the island, offers a tranquil and secluded escape, although it is quite far from the action in Ton Sai Bay, and hotels in this area can be relatively expensive. Long Beach is a popular stretch of powdery sand, but reaching it requires a bit of scrambling or a short boat ride.
Getting There
Koh Phi Phi’s diminutive size precludes the existence of an airport. Instead, travelers typically fly into Krabi Town, a small city on the west coast of Thailand that serves as a major transportation hub for those heading to nearby Ao Nang, Railay, Koh Lanta, or other islands in the Andaman Sea, or Phuket, another popular arrival point. From either Krabi or Phuket, you can then take a ferry to the island.
Ferries operate daily from Krabi Town, Phuket, Koh Lanta, Railay, and Ao Nang. However, schedules are subject to change depending on the time of year. During the low season, which typically falls between June and October, fewer boats venture out due to rougher seas and potentially stormy weather. It is advisable to inquire about ferry schedules and options at a local travel agency or booking office.
Culture and Customs
As with any travel destination, it’s essential to be mindful of local culture and customs. Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country, and it is important to dress respectfully when visiting temples or religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing, and remove your shoes before entering temples. The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone’s head, and the feet are considered the lowest, so avoid pointing your feet at anyone or anything sacred.
The Thai people are generally very friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to be polite and respectful in your interactions. Avoid raising your voice or displaying anger, as this is considered rude. Bargaining is common in markets and with some vendors, but do so respectfully and with a smile. Learning a few basic Thai phrases, such as "Sawasdee" (hello) and "Khop Khun" (thank you), can go a long way in showing respect and appreciation for the local culture.
Money Saving Tips
Traveling to Koh Phi Phi can be done on a variety of budgets. Here are some tips to help you save money during your trip:
- Travel during the shoulder season: The shoulder season, which falls between the high and low seasons, offers a good balance of pleasant weather and lower prices.
- Eat at local restaurants: Local Thai restaurants offer delicious and affordable food. Avoid eating at tourist-oriented restaurants, which tend to be more expensive.
- Stay in a guesthouse or hostel: Guesthouses and hostels are generally much cheaper than hotels.
- Take public transportation: Ferries and songthaews (shared taxis) are the most affordable ways to get around the island.
- Bargain respectfully: Bargaining is common in markets and with some vendors.
- Drink local beer: Local Thai beer is much cheaper than imported beer or wine.
- Take advantage of free activities: There are many free activities to enjoy on Koh Phi Phi, such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a memorable and affordable trip to Koh Phi Phi.
