Phi Phi Island Tour : Explore Day Trips with Beach Activities

When you think of Phi Phi Island, what pops into your head?

Is it the crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches or lush green landscapes?

Fun fact: “The Beach” movie was filmed on this island.

So, what makes Phi Phi Island a hotspot for experiencing the best water activities in Thailand?

In this article, I will explain…

• Why should you add a Phi Phi Islands tour to your itinerary?
• What to experience
• The best time to visit
• Types of tours you can expect
• And more!

Let’s dive right in and discover all the magic Phi Phi Island offers.

How to Reach Phi Phi Island from Phuket

To take the Phi Phi Island tour from Phuket, you must first get a cab or taxi from the hotel to the pier. Then, head to Rassada Pier in Phuket Town, where ferries and speed boats depart regularly.

The ferry ride, which takes about two hours, offers a relaxed pace and allows passengers to enjoy the scenic views of the Andaman Sea.

Speedboats are available for a shorter excursion, taking around 45 minutes. Other options to reach the island are speed catamarans and long-tail boats.

Travel Options to Experience Phi Phi Island Tour

Phi Phi Island Tour by Speedboat

The speedboat will carry up to 30 people and has outdoor seating at the front. It will take 45 to 50 minutes to reach Phi Phi Island. Traveling by speedboat is an added adventure to your Phi Phi Island tour.

Phi Phi Island Tour by Big Boat

Traveling in a big boat can also allow you to move around and take pictures of the views on the way to Phi Phi Leh. Remember, a big boat takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Phi Phi Don Island from the Phuket Pier. Take a big boat tour if you are traveling with kids and elders or if you want a comfortable trip.

Phi Phi Island Tour by Speed Catamaran

If you are someone who loves luxury and doesn’t mind spending a little more, then take a Phi Phi Island tour on a speed catamaran. It’s an upgrade from the big boat and provides a comfortable ride to experience the views of Phi Phi Island. It’s ideal for larger groups (10 to 15 members). Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Phi Phi Island Tour by Long Tail Boat

If you are a couple or a small group of friends who want to explore Phi Phi Island on a budget-friendly private tour, then long-tail boat transfers can be the best option. You can rent a long-tail boat for a day and enjoy snorkeling in multiple spots along the way. If you love a bit of adventure and are a photophile, then you should not think twice about experiencing a Phi Phi Island tour on a long-tail boat.

Pro Tip: Select your travel options based on your budget and the people you are traveling with.

Can I Take Phi Phi Island Tour From Krabi

You can also take a Phi Phi Island tour from Krabi. You must take a cab or taxi to head to the Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi Town, which is the main hub for ferries to the island. You can also depart from Ao Nang or East Railay.

Once at the pier, the journey takes around 2 hours and offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea. Different travel options are available, so choose one that fits your budget and schedule.

What To Carry for Phi Phi Island Tour – Travel Tips

When preparing for the Phi Phi Island tour, packing the right items can make your tour smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s the list of things you should carry:

• Swimwear
• Towel
• Sunscreen
• Spare clothes
• Camera
• Essential medications
• Footwear

Pro Tip: You can rent or buy essential items on the Island, but they might be pricey and require cash payment. It’s better to bring them yourself. Boat companies will provide you with snorkeling gear, life jackets and some soda or snacks.

What to Expect on Phi Phi Island Tour

Phi Phi Island offers something for everyone: stunning sights, adventurous water activities and relaxation spots. It is the perfect tour to create memories of a lifetime.

Here is a list of the top attractions you should know before going on a Phi Phi Island tour:

Phi Phi Viewpoint

Hiking to the Phi Phi viewpoint is a must if you have added a Phi Phi Island tour to your itinerary. It’s easily accessible from the city center, and reaching the top takes around 30 minutes. There are three viewpoints, with Viewpoint 3 being the highest.

From the top, you can see Koh Phi Phi Leh, Tonsai Village, and Loh Dalum Bay. Every drop of sweat is worth it!

Maya Bay

It is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Maya Bay attracted more crowds after it was featured in the movie “The Beach.” It is a perfect spot for photography.

Monkey Beach

It is near the entrance of Dalum Bay. You have to take either a paddle boat or a longtail boat to get there and experience the best of Monkey Beach.

It is a popular place for snorkeling. Be extremely careful around the monkeys on the beach; they may take your things or climb on you.

Bamboo Island

It is known as Koh Pai and lies at the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi Don. It has stunning white sandy beaches and clean waters. The island’s colorful marine life makes it an ideal snorkeling destination.

Pro Tip: If you love to swim, don’t leave without taking a swim, and don’t forget to enjoy some of the Thai cuisine from the restaurants on the island.

Pileh Lagoon

It’s one of those must-visit places you simply can’t miss if you’re heading on a Phi Phi Island tour. To get to Pileh Lagoon, you’ll need to take a speedboat or longtail boat, thanks to its narrow entrance that feels like a secret passage to paradise.

Once there, you can dive for snorkeling or enjoy a safe swim in the crystal-clear waters that go as deep as 20 meters.

Pro Tip:Don’t forget your camera; every corner offers scenic views for your Instagram. And if you want to enjoy the most of Pileh Lagoon, aim to arrive as early as possible to beat the crowds.

Viking Cave 

It is known for its ancient rock paintings. You are not allowed to go inside the cave; however, you can snorkel nearby the cave.

You might witness the long-finned batfish, lionfish, leopard sharks, and baby blacktip reef sharks. It’s one of the short stops if you opt for a Phi Phi Island tour.

Khai Island

Known as “Egg Island,” Khai Island comprises three individual islands: Khai Nai, Khai Nau, and Khai Nok. Each of these islands offers something different for you to experience. You can experience jet skiing and snorkeling in the Khai Islands.

Pro Tip: Khai Islands are perfect for those visiting Phi Phi with young families. If you don’t want to go too far on a boat tour in Phi Phi, you can choose the Khai Island tour, which takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach.

[Note: The sightseeings and activities on your Phi Phi Island tour can vary depending on the package you choose].

Activities and Things to Do in Phi Phi Island Tour

Phi Phi Island is a must-visit destination for those who are looking for a mix of relaxation, water activities, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a beach bum, an adrenaline junkie, or someone who simply loves to explore new places, Phi Phi has something for everyone.

Here is a list of things to do on a Phi Phi Island tour,

• Snorkeling
• Kayaking
• Scuba Diving
• Cliff jumping
• Parasailing
• Jet ski
• Paddleboarding
• Rock climbing

Best Times to Visit Phi Phi Island

When you are getting ready for a Phi Phi island tour, timing can make all the difference in your experience.

• November to April (Recommended Time)

The best time to visit Phi Phi island is when the weather is dry and sunny. This makes it perfect for watersports activities like snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, diving, and more.

• May to October (Low Season)

This is the wet season, which makes the island less crowded. However, be prepared for high winds and waves, which might affect outdoor activities and boat trips.

So, choose the timing that suits your preferences to create memories.

Phi Phi Island Day Tour Packages – You Should Know

Planning a Phi Phi Island tour on your own can be a time-consuming process. If you are planning a short trip to Phuket and are on a tight schedule, then it’s better to book the Phi Phi Island tour with a travel agent.

Don’t Worry about which tour packages to choose and which travel agent to book. Dimaak Tours are direct tour operators to Thailand. So far, we have planned and executed 10,000+ Tours to Thailand. Here is the list of handpicked Phi Phi island day tours from Phuket.

Recommended Day Trips by Speed Boat

• Phi Phi Island, Maiton Private Island & Khai Island
• Maya Bay, Pileh Cove & Bamboo Island
• Khai Island, Phi Phi, Maya Bay & Pileh Lagoon

Recommended Day Trips by Big Boat

• Pileh Lagoon, Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay & Loh Samah Bay

Recommended Day Trips by Longtail Boat

• Bamboo Island, Pileh Lagoon & Loh Samah Bay
• Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon & Phi Phi Islands (Private Tour)

Recommended Day Trips by Speed Catamaran

• Bamboo Island, Ko Phi Phi Don, Pileh Lagoon & Maiton Private Island

Important Notes about the Day Tours

• All tours come with hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• Lunch will be provided during the day trips.
• Snorkeling gear and life jackets will be provided by the boat companies.
• Tickets for boats, activities, and national park fees are all included in the package.
• The places you visit on each tour will differ based on the day tour you choose.

Pro Tip

• Confirm the pick-up points after booking the tour.
• Speed boat trips are not recommended if you are traveling with elders and kids. You can take big boat tours or a speed catamaran.
• If you are a small group of friends or a couple, it’s recommended to enjoy the Phi Phi Island tour on a longtail boat.
• It’s not recommended to take these tours if you have any health issues or are physically challenged.

Places to Snorkel in Phi Phi Island

Want to enjoy the finest snorkeling? Phi Phi Island is where you should go.

Surrounded by colorful, lively marine life, Phi Phi Island offers a thrilling adventure under the waves for both experienced snorkelers and beginners.

Here is a list of the best snorkeling destinations on the Phi Phi Island tour:

Pileh Lagoon

At Pileh Lagoon, you’ll see yellow coral reefs and boulder coral. Look out for anemonefish, giant clams, parrotfish, moorish idols, and more as you dive deeper. The seabed is covered with boulder coral and brain coral, and you’ll also find beautiful black sea urchins.

Loh Lana Bay

Loh Lana Bay, located north of Koh Phi Phi Don on the way to Bamboo Island, boasts a sea packed with diverse coral and reefs. As you swim to the middle of the bay, you’ll see red fan coral and damselfish.

Deeper into the bay, you’ll encounter incredible table coral with blue-green chromis fish and leopard sharks, along with honeycomb coral, mushroom coral, and soft pink coral.

Nui Bay

Nui Bay is a small snorkeling spot brimming with colorful coral. You’ll find two massive boulder corals in the middle of the bay. Venturing into the deep ocean, you’ll spot Java rabbitfish, black-spot snapper, featherstar clingfish, lettuce coral, and more.

Viking Cave

Viking Cave is a fantastic snorkeling location. You’ll see angelfish and starfish, and as you jump into the water, you’ll witness orange coral, mazed brain coral, and boulder star coral. Pufferfish, powder-blue surgeonfish, and variegated lizardfish are also common sights.

Loh Samah Bay

Snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay reveals breathtaking marine life views. You’ll find patches of boulder coral, lettuce coral, juvenile blacktip reef sharks, and threadfin butterflyfish.

Maya Bay

Maya Bay is the most popular snorkeling destination for spotting stunning blacktip reef sharks. Diving deep, you’ll see small patches of coral, orange spine unicornfish, singular bannerfish, acropora, and moorish idols.

Bamboo Island

Bamboo Island is one of the top snorkeling spots around Phi Phi Island. Jump into the ocean to explore the rocks and coral below the surface.

You’ll see table coral, red fan coral, and elephant ear coral. At a depth of 3 meters, you’ll find coral boulders and witness giant moray, keeltail needlefish, black and white banded sea snakes, parrotfish, and butterflyfish.

Diving Tours and Schools in Phi Phi Island

Are you interested in scuba diving? Do you want a better diving experience?

Don’t look further; Phi Phi Island is the place for you to experience scuba diving.

Diving schools are available for beginners and experts. Let’s dive into the clear turquoise waters to experience a new world beneath the surface.

Here is a list of the best diving places to experience on the Phi Phi Island tour:

Garang Heng

Take a 30-minute boat ride from Koh Phi Phi Don to Garang Heng, located in the middle of the ocean. Garang Heng is also known as Hin Klai. As you go deeper into the waters, you will find many corals, anemones, tiny glassfish, and colorful snappers. Head into the deep sea, and you will witness leopard and whale sharks.

King Cruiser Wreck

King Cruiser is an 85-meter-long, four-decked, submerged catamaran-hull passenger ship that sank in May 1999. Its interior is easy to access. You will witness many lionfish and scorpionfish. At the bottom of the wreck, you might encounter bamboo and leopard sharks.

Koh Bida Nok & Koh Bida Nai

Koh Bida Nok and Koh Bida Nai are top diving destinations, with Koh Bida Nok providing the most extensive diving opportunities.

You will find giant boulders, and sometimes you will see turtles on the reef. In Koh Bida Nai, you will witness beautiful tiny baitfish on the shallow coral. As you go deeper, you will see small pinnacles, stick pipefish, and Kuhl’s stingray on the sand. You may even find an octopus.

Loh Samah Bay

On the eastern side of Koh Phi Phi Le, you will find Loh Samah Bay.

Dive deep into the waters, and you will see many anemones. You can witness soft corals, sea whips, and fan corals.

Diving Schools Recommendations

There are many diving schools on Phi Phi Island. They offer the best-certified guides and many diving facilities. Here is a list of the best diving schools you need to know:

• PKT Diving – Scuba Diving
• The Adventure Club
• Blue View Divers
• Phi Phi Barakuda Scuba Dive Center
• Phi Phi Sea Frog Diving Center

All these diving schools offer PADI 5-star diving, flexible online booking options, separate boats for experienced and non-experienced divers, videographers, and more.

Kayaking in Phi Phi Island

Kayaking on the Phi Phi Island tour offers an incredible experience. Paddle along the coastline surrounded by high limestone cliffs and breathtaking scenery on both sides.

You can rent a kayak from Loh Dalum Beach and paddle to either Nui Bay or Monkey Beach.

Another option is to rent a kayak from Koh Phi Phi Le and paddle through Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and Maya Bay.

Nightlife Experience in Phi Phi Island

Koh Phi Phi is known for its nightlife. As the sun sets, the island transforms into a lively party hub. Beach bars light up, and music fills the air. The island also offers lively night markets and street food to experience.

Popular Bars and Clubs

Loh Dalum Bay, Tonsai Bay, and Long Beach are the best places to discover beach parties. Here is a list of popular bars and clubs on Phi Phi Island:

• Blanco Beach Bar & Hostel
• Slinky Bar
• Kongsiam Live Music Bar
• Reggae Bar
• Dojo Bar
• Lei Beach Club

Night Markets and Street Food

The best shopping places to visit on Phi Phi Island are Phi Phi Market and Tonsai East Shopping Alley.

Here are some local restaurants where you can try the best Thai dishes on Phi Phi Island: Only Noodles, Dow Restaurant, The Mango Garden, Efe Mediterranean Cuisine Restaurant, and Garlic 1992.

Conclusion

Trip to Phi Phi Island is a journey into remarkable natural beauty and water adventures. All moments in this tour, from colorful marine life in clean, clear waters to huge limestone cliffs and peaceful beaches, will be filled with excitement. Be it your undersea activities in turquoise waters, the discovery of small and large hidden coves, or just relaxing on the white sandy beaches, Phi Phi Island promises an experience that remains etched forever.

Phi Phi Island has just the right amount of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experience that most travelers look for.

All set for your dream holiday? Book your Phuket tour package, and begin your journey to paradise!

FAQ’S

1 . What is the cost of a Phi Phi Island tour?

The approximate cost of the Phi Phi island tour starts from Rs. 8000/-. The price may vary based on travel options, sightseeing, and activities.

2 . Can the Phi Phi Island tour take place in a day?

Indeed, it is possible to complete the tour within a single day. It also depends on the places you want to visit on Phi Phi island. Tour companies offer full day trips which start from morning 8am to 5.30 PM or half day tours.

3 . Is there nightlife on Phi Phi Island?

Yes, this island comes alive at night, which is filled with live music, fire shows, DJs, parties and more. There are lots of pool bars, rooftop bars, and beach parties.

4 . Which is better, Phi Phi Island or 4 island tour?

Both tours are amazing and give a different perspective, fun, and entertainment. Phi Phi Island is the best. The beaches on Phi Phi Island are more crowded, but they are fully developed with bars and restaurants. It is the best spot for activities like snorkeling, diving and island hopping