The Phi Phi Islands are in Thailand’s Andaman Sea. Phi Phi Don is the main base for accommodation, meals and departures, while boat trips take you to surrounding beaches, bays and islands. Plan around where you want to stay, how you will arrive and which days you want to spend in the water.
You can combine diving and snorkelling with viewpoints, beaches, Thai food and evenings out. The useful distinction is between activities you can do from your base and excursions that depend on boats, weather and access rules.
Seasons and weather in Phi Phi
November–April is the dry-season reference, with temperatures around 25–32°C. November and December are generally less hot, January and February are usually drier, and March and April can feel hotter and more humid. December and January are particularly busy for accommodation and visits.
May–October brings the southwest monsoon and more frequent rain. You may find fewer visitors, but some excursions or facilities can change their operation or close. Check the conditions for the specific boat trip or dive, rather than treating the season as a guarantee.
Arriving from Phuket or Krabi
From Phuket, ferries leave from Rassada Pier; allow around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on the service. Speedboats are described as around an hour. Compare the actual boat, luggage conditions and the transfer to the pier in the Phuket to Phi Phi guide.
From Krabi and the Ao Nang area, you can compare ferries and speedboats, with around 1.5–2 hours for the ferry. Check the precise departure pier and your arrival point on Phi Phi before arranging accommodation transport. See how to get from Krabi to Phi Phi.
Confirm the timetable for your travel date and leave room for weather-related changes. A ferry arrival, check-in at your accommodation and an activity departure need to fit together.
Where to stay on Phi Phi Don
Tonsai Village is convenient for ferry arrivals, shops, restaurants and the livelier evening scene. Accommodation ranges from hostels and bungalows to hotels and resorts. Nearby Loh Dalum also combines places to stay with restaurants and nightlife.
Long Beach offers a quieter beach base with bungalows and resorts. Check the walking route or boat transfer from Tonsai instead of assuming both take the same time. Laem Tong, at the northern end of Phi Phi Don, suits a more secluded stay, with resort accommodation.
Choose the area as carefully as the room: a quiet beach can mean extra boat travel when you want to visit Tonsai or meet a dive group. Confirm transfers with the accommodation before booking.
Beaches, Maya Bay and boat excursions
Tonsai and Loh Dalum have more activity, while Long Beach is another option for time by the sea. You can also explore Nui Bay and Bamboo Island on a boat excursion. Use the Phi Phi beach guide to compare them.
Maya Bay, on Phi Phi Leh, is associated with the film The Beach. Its access has been managed for conservation, so check the current rules and any closure before booking a visit. Do not assume a boat tour includes landing or swimming there.
Viking Cave is another stop mentioned on routes around Phi Phi Leh, known for its paintings and bird nests. Monkey Beach has resident monkeys: keep your distance and follow wildlife guidance. Boat trips may combine these sights with lagoons, snorkelling or sunset, but their actual route depends on conditions and permissions.
Diving and snorkelling
Dives offer opportunities to observe coral reefs, tropical fish and the possibility of seeing reef sharks. Bida Nok, Shark Point and the King Cruiser wreck are among the named sites; they should not be treated as interchangeable dives for every level.
If you are new to diving, ask about an introductory experience or an Open Water course. If you are certified, share your level and recent experience so the team can discuss appropriate sites. The Phi Phi dive-site guide gives more detail.
Snorkelling is a separate option, including organised boat trips. Ask about the entry points, conditions and supervision, especially if considering night snorkelling. Clear-looking water does not replace a briefing.
Viewpoints, walking, kayaking and other activities
The viewpoint on Phi Phi Don gives a panoramic view of the surrounding bays. Walking routes and hillside paths let you explore beyond the beach; take suitable footwear and water, and plan the return as well as the climb.
Climbing, kayaking and paddleboarding are other activities to consider. Arrange technical activities with an appropriate provider and check the conditions for a kayak or board before heading towards coves or caves.
Thai cooking classes and visits to local markets offer a land-based alternative. You can combine a short walk, a meal and a beach afternoon without booking a full-day tour.
Food and evening plans
In Tonsai, markets and street stalls serve dishes such as pad thai, chicken skewers, curries and seafood. Coastal restaurants offer seafood meals, and some let you choose what will be cooked. There are also casual beach places and restaurants with views from higher ground.
Tonsai and Loh Dalum have bars, live music and beach nightlife, including fire shows. If quiet nights matter to you, consider that when choosing accommodation and ask about the immediate surroundings.
Prepare your stay and your diving
Pack manageable luggage, swimwear, sun protection, walking shoes, cash and a refillable water bottle. Book accommodation and activities ahead in busy periods, respect local customs and take your rubbish away.
Our SSI diving school in Koh Phi Phi is in Tonsai Bay. Tell us your dates and experience when asking about courses or dives. If you are comparing islands for a longer trip, the Thailand diving hub helps you place Phi Phi alongside other destinations.
Frequently asked questions
Where should you stay for easy access to the port?
Tonsai Village is the main arrival and service area. Check the exact accommodation location and whether you will need a boat transfer.
Can beginners dive in Phi Phi?
Introductory experiences and beginner courses are available. The school chooses the programme and sites according to training and conditions; not every listed dive site suits a first dive.
Is Maya Bay always accessible?
Access is subject to conservation rules and closures. Check the current arrangements with the park or your operator before booking.
What can you do without a boat excursion?
From your base on Phi Phi Don you can explore local beaches, walk to viewpoints, visit markets or try a cooking class, depending on the location and current availability.
