VISITING THE PHI PHI ISLANDS IS AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE!

Many people warned us against overcrowded, touristy places like Phi Phi. But how bad can it be? Ok, let put it this way –  If you’re dreaming of serene, secluded beaches where the only sound is the pages of your book turning lazily in the breeze, then Phi Phi might not be your cup of tea. But if you’re all about those bustling night streets, day and night vendor markets, and dining with your toes in the sand, then welcome to your playground!

ARRIVING

Phi Phi Island is accessible only by boat from Krabi or Phuket. While we purchased our tickets on the spot, it’s often recommended to buy them in advance online for a smoother experience.We hopped off the ferry from Koh Yao Noi (coming from Phuet), suitcases and stroller in tow, ready for a quick tuk-tuk ride to our hotel. Only to find out – surprise, surprise – there are no cars or tuk-tuks on this island oasis. Luckily, each hotel sends a hero with a trolley to rescue you from dragging your luggage through bustling streets and, in our case, sandy beaches at the end.

• A 20 baht entrance fee is payable on arrival at Ko Phi Phi Don

hotels

Hotel Tip: Book your accommodation sooner rather than later here. The good hotels with reasonable prices tend to get snapped up quickly. If you enjoy being in the thick of things, where you can easily roll in and out for dinner or drinks, opt for a hotel closer to the Ton Sai pier. The further you venture, the quieter it gets. And if you book as far as Long Beach, be prepared to use a water taxi to access the main town area, costing around $3 each way per person.

During our stay, we chose Phi Phi Bayview Resort and couldn’t have been happier. It’s a pleasant stroll from the center, offering a balcony and the most breathtaking views. Not too far and not too close if you know what I mean.

If you’re traveling with kids and a stroller, dont go past Bayview Resort. The final stretch is just sand, and if you’ve ever tried pushing a stroller through a beach, you know it’s not exactly a walk in the park. Now, toss in a backpack, swim gear, and the blistering heat of a 40-degree day, and voilà – you’ve got yourself a comedy of errors waiting to happen.

WHAT TO DO

Well, as soon as you step off the pier, you’ll see a few travel guides selling boat trips. It’s a solid option if you’re unsure about your plans or need some guidance. (Who doesn’t) We opted for VisaTravelPhiPhi partly because there was a Czech girl on their team, and also because you can check out their tours online and chat with them on Facebook beforehand, giving you a sneak peek of what to expect. Typical stops on the tour usually include Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Monkey Bay, Viking Cave, Shark Point, and Loh Moo Dee Beach.

Another route, and the one we eventually took, is hiring a local with a longtail boat to whisk you around. It’s more flexible, definitely cheaper (if you are a group), but requires a bit of pre-trip research so you know exactly where you want to go.

Once the playground of Leonardo DiCaprio in “The Beach,” this idyllic haven has become a bucket-list staple for many. With its unique cliff formations, pristine white sand beach, and crystal-clear emerald waters, it’s a breathtaking scene that leaves visitors in awe. While swimming isn’t permitted in Maya Bay, you can still bask in its beauty, snap some stunning photos, and simply soak up the powerful sight it offers. Maya Bay is accessible from Phi Phi Don, Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Lanta, with frequent daily tours.The entrance fee for Maya Bay is 400 Thai baht (12 USD) for adults and 200 Thai baht for children. boats are also not permitted to stay docked at the floating pier. You’ll need to arrange a specific pickup time with your boat driver, or the pier workers can call them for you once you’re finished exploring Maya Bay, there is a restroom on MB

Maya Bay from different angle!!!

MAYA BAY IN A MOVIE 

Embark on a scenic hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint and bask in the iconic vistas of the Phi Phi Islands as the sun sets. Discover the route and essential information here: Phi Phi Viewpoints.

• Duration: Enjoy a leisurely 30-minute hike to reach the Viewpoint 2 viewing platform.
• Entry Fee: Admission costs 50 THB for Viewpoints 1 and 2, and 20 THB for Viewpoint 3, totaling 50 THB.

Rent a kayak and set out to explore the area, including Monkey Beach. Arriving later in the day, after the boats had departed, we found ourselves alone, witnessing a breathtaking sunset. As twilight descended, we departed, leaving only footprints behind. Keep an eye out for monkeys; they’re cute but can get defensive, as we found out when one swiped my son’s milk bottle until we bribed it with a banana!

The stroll from town to Long Beach was a mixed bag. Passing by once-bustling resorts like Vikings, now in disrepair and strewn with trash, left us disheartened. Yet, Long Beach itself was a tranquil oasis, with its serene hotels offering a stark contrast to the island’s hustle and bustle. A taxi boat ride back is an option. And if you’re up for it, Long Beach is right by Shark Point, ideal for snorkeling with black tip reef sharks! Just remember to swim cautiously; the currents can be strong, especially around the point.

Swim and unwind at Ao Ton Sai—it’s the perfect spot to dive into the ocean. The water is crystal clear, shallow, and surrounded by convenient shops. Plus, they serve the best coconut ice cream! Just a heads up: when the boats start pouring in from all directions, things can get a bit crowded, smelly and noisy.

NO MATTER WHAT YOU CHOOSE, YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS OUT ON THIS PLACE! IS PHI PHI WORTH VISITING? ABSOLUTELY! BUT DON’T JUST MAKE IT A DAY TRIP—STAY FOR A FEW DAYS, EXPLORE THE ISLAND, AND MAKE SOME UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES!

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