The Phi Phi Islands are a tropical paradise of white sandy beaches and bright turquoise water. Located between Phuket and Krabi in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, they have quickly become a must-visit destination for anyone traveling in Southeast Asia.
There are plenty of things to see and to do on Phi Phi Don island, as well as nearby islands. But, to help you plan your next trip to the island, here are some of our favourite activities!
Koh Bida Nok & Koh Bida Nai
Koh Bida Nok & Koh Bida Nai are the twin islands at the south end of Phi Phi Island, which rise dramatically out of the sea. These limestone rock formations are home to a variety of marine life and offer some of the best diving in the whole area.
Divers will find plenty of nudibranchs, ornate ghost pipefish and white-eyed moray eels in the cracks and boulders on the western side of this dive site. It also has some steep walls, swim-throughs and canyons.
The more adventurous will enjoy the Fantasy Reef which has a vertical wall to about 25m and is covered with Gorgonian fans, sea whips and soft corals. Ornate ghost pipefish, nudibranchs and sea horses are also common here.
Black tip reef sharks and leopard sharks can often be spotted here, making this one of the best places to see these graceful creatures in Thailand. Occasionally you will even spot a whale shark, which cruises around in this area.
Moo Dee Bay
Moo Dee Bay, also known as Loh Moo Dee Beach, is an incredible stretch of white sand and crystal-clear waters located on the eastern coast of Koh Phi Phi. It’s a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and a must-see if you’re staying on the island.
It’s a great place to spend the day, especially if you’re looking for somewhere secluded from the crowds. It’s a short walk from Tonsai Village and can be reached by long-tail boat, making it a great option if you want to experience the pristine beaches on Phi Phi in a more private setting.
A visit to Moo Dee Bay is also a great way to enjoy the spectacular views over the entire island. A short hike takes you to three lookout points, and the views are simply stunning!
Tonsai Village
Tonsai Village is the main hub of cultural and commercial activity in Koh Phi Phi. Its maze of tiny streets is lined with shops selling a wide variety of souvenirs and goods.
The village is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafes, along with many tatto parlors and artists working on their projects. Visiting the village is a great way to get a feel for the local culture and learn a little about life on the island.
There are a number of activities to try out in the area, including snorkeling, diving and exploring the caves and beaches around the bay. Most long-tail boats can take you to these locations, but it's a good idea to book one in advance.
Ao Lo Dalam
One of the most popular and visited islands in Thailand, Phi Phi Island is famous for its beaches and marine life. This beautiful and pristine paradise is a must-see for any traveller in Asia.
Ao Lo Dalam is one of the most stunning bays in the islands, with a lovely curve of white sand skimming clear blue waters. The beach is flanked by majestic limestone cliffs that look like a scene from a postcard.
The bay is also popular with snorkelers thanks to its abundant harmless species of fish sheltered in the surrounding coral reefs. Snorkeling tours are available to this area and you can spot black-tip reef sharks in particular, a sight that is sure to delight.
There are also rock climbs on the cliffs in Ao Lo Dalam, which are a popular pastime for locals. The climb takes about 20-40 minutes and offers a rewarding view of the surrounding bays and Ton Sai Village.