If there's one day trip that defines a Thailand beach holiday, it's the Phi Phi Islands. Towering cliffs, impossibly blue water and the famous Maya Bay make it the highlight of almost every itinerary.
But Phi Phi is also popular, so a little planning goes a long way. Here's everything you need to know.
Where are the Phi Phi Islands?
The Phi Phi archipelago sits in the Andaman Sea, roughly halfway between Phuket and Krabi. There are two main islands:
- Phi Phi Don: the larger, inhabited island with hotels, restaurants and the main pier.
- Phi Phi Leh: the smaller, uninhabited island with Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon and Viking Cave. It's part of a national park.
Day trips run from both Phuket (about 45 to 60 minutes by speedboat) and Krabi (about 40 to 50 minutes).
What a typical day trip includes
Most speedboat tours follow a similar route:
- Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh, famous from the film The Beach.
- Pileh Lagoon, an emerald lagoon enclosed by cliffs, perfect for swimming.
- Viking Cave (viewed from the boat).
- Loh Samah Bay or another snorkelling stop with colourful fish.
- Monkey Beach (look, but don't feed the monkeys).
- Lunch on Phi Phi Don.
- Khai Island or Bamboo Island for a final beach stop.
Tours usually run from about 7:30 am to 4:30 pm, including hotel pickup.
Maya Bay rules
Maya Bay was closed for several years to let its coral and marine life recover, and it reopened with strict protections:
- No swimming in the bay itself. You can walk on the beach and paddle at the shoreline.
- Boats dock at a pier on the back of the island, and you walk through to the beach on a boardwalk.
- Visits are time-limited to manage crowds.
- The bay usually closes for a recovery period each year, typically around August and September. Check dates before booking.
National park entry fees apply and are often paid in cash on the day, unless included in your tour.
Choosing the right tour
Big-boat or speedboat?
- Speedboat tours are faster and cover more stops. They can be bumpy in choppy water.
- Big-boat or ferry tours are slower and steadier but spend more time travelling and visit fewer spots.
Small group or private
A small-group speedboat (under 25 people) is the sweet spot for most travellers. A private longtail or speedboat is ideal for families, honeymooners and groups, since you set the timing and avoid the busiest moments.
Early-bird tours
Some operators leave before 7 am to reach Maya Bay before the crowds. They're well worth the early alarm.
Should I stay overnight on Phi Phi?
If you can, yes. Once the day-trippers leave in the afternoon, Phi Phi becomes peaceful. Watch the sunset from the viewpoint above Tonsai Village, and take a dawn boat trip to Maya Bay. One or two nights is ideal, and it's especially popular with honeymooners.
Note that Phi Phi Don has no cars, and luggage is carried by porters from the pier. Pack light.
Snorkelling and diving around Phi Phi
The waters around Phi Phi are some of the best in Thailand for snorkelling. Expect parrotfish, clownfish, angelfish and, if you're lucky, blacktip reef sharks (harmless to people) at Shark Point and Bamboo Island.
Non-swimmers can still enjoy snorkelling with a life jacket and a guide. For certified divers, Phi Phi has excellent dive sites such as Bida Nok and Hin Daeng. First-timers can try a "discover scuba" session with an instructor, with no certification needed.
When to go
The best time is November to April, when the Andaman Sea is calmest and clearest. From May to October, trips can be cancelled in rough weather and visibility is lower. See our best time to visit Thailand guide for details.
What to pack
- Swimwear (wear it under your clothes)
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- A quick-dry towel
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Seasickness tablets (take them before boarding)
- Cash for park fees, drinks and tips
- Water shoes for rocky beaches
- A light cover-up for lunch
Tips for a better day
- Sit at the back of the speedboat for a smoother ride.
- Tell the operator about non-swimmers so they provide life jackets and guidance.
- Don't touch or stand on coral.
- Bring your own snorkel mask if you have one; tour masks can be well used.
- Ask about vegetarian lunches when booking. Most operators can arrange them.
Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi?
The trip is excellent from either. From Krabi, the boat ride is slightly shorter. From Phuket, there are more operators and tour styles. Choosing between bases? Read Phuket vs Krabi.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim at Maya Bay? No. Swimming in the bay is not allowed, but you can visit the beach and paddle at the shore.
Is the Phi Phi trip suitable for children? Yes, for most children who are comfortable on boats. Choose a calm day and a quality operator with life jackets in all sizes.
How much does a Phi Phi day trip cost? Roughly 1,800 to 3,500 baht per adult for a group speedboat tour, plus park fees. Private boats cost more. See our trip cost guide.
We'll book the right Phi Phi tour for you, whether it's an early-bird group trip or a private boat. Send an enquiry.