Remember the movie ‘The Beach‘ with Leonardo DiCaprio from 2000? If you’ve ever wanted to visit that stunning location yourself, you’re in luck—it’s actually Maya Bay in the Phi Phi Islands! Many travelers search online for things to do in Koh Phi Phi, but let’s get to the basics first.
Here’s everything you need to know for a first-time visit to Phi Phi Island. Located east of Phuket, it’s right in the middle of the Andaman Sea, about 42 km from Amphoe Mueang. Ready for the top ten activities and attractions you shouldn’t miss? Let’s dive in!
1. Maya Bay
Maya Bay is an amazing spot on Phi Phi Leh, just south of the main island, Phi Phi Don. It’s one of the gems of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands. Lonely Planet even named it the third best beach in the world! Tucked behind a limestone cliff in Krabi province, this hidden paradise shot to fame thanks to the movie The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio in 2000. Surrounded by breathtaking nature, Maya Bay is definitely a must-visit beach.
The movie ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio in the year 2000
The bay is famous for its clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and dramatic limestone cliffs that rise 100 meters high on three sides. After being featured in The Beach, it became a hotspot for tourists, making it one of Thailand’s most visited spots. Unfortunately, the tourism boom caused significant environmental damage, including coral reef destruction and pollution. To help the ecosystem recover, the Thai government closed the bay to tourists in 2018.
Maya Bay reopened in January 2022 with strict rules to protect its environment. Now, visitor numbers are limited, boats can’t enter the bay, and there are designated swimming areas. The bay is home to diverse marine life, making it a popular place for snorkeling and diving. There have been efforts to restore and protect the coral reefs and marine ecosystem.
You can usually get to Maya Bay by boat from Phi Phi Don, the main island in the Phi Phi archipelago, or from Phuket and Krabi. The boat ride offers stunning views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands.
2. Snorkeling at Pi Leh Lagoon
If you love snorkeling, you can’t miss Pi Leh Lagoon! This place has some of the best snorkeling around, with crystal clear water and tons of marine life. The lagoon is surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, making it look like something from another planet. The turquoise water and jagged rocks are truly stunning.
When you jump in, you’ll find the water is about 2-3 meters deep, though some parts are just a meter. Be careful though, there’s nowhere to stand, so you’ll need to float. In the sunlight, the water is so clear you can see all the colors of the coral reef on the sea bed—it’s the best part of snorkeling here.
As soon as you jump in, you’ll be greeted by tons of Sargeant Major Fish hanging out near the boats. They probably get fed, so they like to stick around snorkelers and boats. You’ll also see boulder coral, anemones with Nosestripe Anemonefish, Giant Clams, Parrotfish, Needlefish, Giant Moray Eels, Moorish Idols, and more. Watch out for Black Sea Urchins among the coral; if you’re not wearing flippers, water shoes are a good idea to avoid injuries.
Be mindful of the docked and passing boats since this spot gets pretty busy. The shallow water with sea urchins means you should respect the corals and be careful. Pi Leh Lagoon is a must-visit if you’re checking out the Phi Phi Islands, and the snorkeling is a huge plus. To beat the crowds, try to go early in the morning before the big boats from Phuket and Krabi arrive later in the day.
3. Visit Tonsai Village
When you get to Phi Phi Island by boat, you’ll arrive at the main pier of Koh Phi Phi, right in the heart of Tonsai Village. This place is the hub of all the action on the island. Tonsai Village is packed with awesome things to do, no matter your style. You’ll find shops, restaurants, cafes, medical facilities, and a market that sells everything from fruits and veggies to Thai food and accessories. There’s even a tattoo parlor and a Seven Eleven convenience store.
Tonsai Village is buzzing with life, full of hostels, bars, and shops. It’s the perfect spot to soak up the island’s vibrant atmosphere and snag some souvenirs. Plus, it has two beautiful beaches: Tonsai Beach and Loh Dalum Beach. There are loads of activities to enjoy here, like relaxing on the beach, renting a kayak, rock climbing, getting a Thai massage, or practicing some yoga.
Whether you’re looking to chill or seek adventure, Tonsai Village has something cool to keep you entertained!
4. Monkey Beach
Monkey Beach is one of the most unique spots you must see on any trip to the Phi Phi Islands. Imagine a beach in Thailand filled with playful monkeys—where else can you find that? It’s a little escape from the norm. If you’re not into monkeys, you might want to skip this beach. But if you love animals, especially monkeys, then this is a must-visit.
Monkey Beach is a bit isolated from the main town but easily reached by kayak from the main beaches on Phi Phi Island or on a boat tour from Phuket. If you’ve been wondering, “Where are the monkeys in Thailand?”—they’re right here in the Phi Phi Islands.
The beach itself is exactly what you’d expect from the Phi Phi Islands: powdery white sand, warm and clear ocean waters, and limestone cliffs. The monkeys can be seen chilling on these cliffs, lounging on the beach, or even swimming in the sea.
Here are our top tips for staying safe on Monkey Beach:
Don’t feed the monkeys. It’s illegal, and you’ll get a hefty fine if caught. Plus, it disrupts their natural behavior.
Don’t bring any food, drinks, or backpacks onto the beach. Leave them hidden in your boat or kayak. Even a water bottle isn’t safe here; the monkeys will take any food they see.
Don’t litter. If a monkey steals your snack, they’ll toss the packaging into the sea once they’re done. Monkeys don’t use bins, so don’t let them take your food or drinks.
Don’t pick up the monkeys. They might come and hang out with you, sit on your shoulders, or help check your hair for bugs. That’s fine, but remember, they’re wild animals. Trying to pick up a wild animal isn’t wise anywhere.
Remember: “Warning, beware of the monkeys. They are sometimes dangerous. If you feed the monkeys, you’ll change their behavior. They’ll stop searching for food in the wild and always wait for free food from you. And if you don’t offer it, they might attack you.”
So, enjoy Monkey Beach from a safe distance and have fun watching these wild and free creatures!
5. Bamboo Island
Bamboo Island, also known as Koh Mai Phai, is the perfect quiet retreat compared to the busier areas of Phi Phi. Known for its clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, it’s an excellent spot for snorkeling and relaxing on the beach. As part of the Phi Phi Islands, Bamboo Island stands out with its flat landscape and lack of palm trees, giving it a unique charm.
Here you’ll still see a bit of damage from the 2004 tsunami, but the island’s stunning pinkish-white sands and pristine aqua beaches more than make up for it. When you arrive, you’ll be amazed by the serenity and beauty of the place, especially if you visit outside the high season from December to March.
Bamboo Island is different from the other islands, with its washed-up coral, a small snack shack/bar, and signs warning that this tiny island, which you can walk around in just half an hour, is in a tsunami hazard zone. Despite its simplicity, the island’s natural beauty and tranquility make it a must-visit spot for anyone looking to escape the crowds and enjoy some peaceful beach time.
6. Viking Cave
Viking Cave is one of those places you just have to check out when you’re in the Phi Phi Islands. Located on Phi Phi Leh, which is a part of a group of islands of the same name, Viking Cave is famous for its ancient wall paintings and the swifts nests harvested for bird’s nest soup.
You can’t actually go inside the cave because the locals are pretty serious about protecting the Edible-nest swiftlets that live there. These little birds make nests that are turned into a super expensive soup in some Asian countries—think upwards of $100 a bowl! Their eggs can sell for tens of thousands of dollars too.
There’s also some local legend that adds to the mystery. Stories talk about “barbaric people” living in the cave who aren’t too thrilled about visitors. It just makes the whole place even more intriguing.
So, when you’re on Phi Phi Island, swing by Viking Cave. You can’t go in, but the cave’s mystique and the cool stories make it a fun and interesting spot to visit. Sometimes, the best part of an adventure is the mystery itself!
7. Scuba Diving
Although Koh Phi Phi is renowned for its lively party scene, but don’t let that fool you—it also has amazing diving spots! Sure, the beach parties, fire shows, and those cocktail-in-a-bucket kits are popular, but Phi Phi also offers stunning white beaches, clear waters, and fantastic dive sites for both beginners and experienced divers. Whether you want romance or a fun party after diving, Phi Phi has it all!
The diving here may not be as famous as some other places, but it’s still beautiful and perfect for beginners. Most dives aren’t too deep, so even Open Water divers can enjoy the colorful corals, schools of reef fish, and maybe even spot a Whale Shark or a Leopard Shark.
Here, you can dive all year round! From May to October, the South-West monsoon brings rain, but it usually falls in the afternoons or evenings, leaving lots of sunny dive time. Visibility stays good, and dive centers pick sheltered sites for pleasant dives. Plus, in low season, there are fewer crowds and more flexibility for booking dives on short notice.
High season starts in October and peaks during Christmas holidays, bringing more divers to the island. If you’re visiting then, it’s smart to book your dives in advance. Water temperatures stay around a comfortable 29-30°C all year, so a shortie and a rashguard will do.
Some top diving spots are the Bida islands, just south of Koh Phi Phi. At Bida Nok, you might see Blacktip Reef Sharks in the shallows, big schools of Yellow Fusiliers, Moray Eels, Octopus, various reef fish, and sometimes a Leopard Shark. Closer to Koh Phi Phi Ley, diving is also great, with Viking Cave and Piley Wall being standout sites. Viking Cave has large cube structures perfect for buoyancy practice, with Batfish, Leopard Sharks, and even an eagle ray.
For wreck lovers, the Kled Gaeow Wreck, a former Thai navy ship sunk to create an artificial reef, is a must-visit. Sitting at 27 meters deep, this site is best for Advanced or Deep Divers. Conditions vary, but when they’re good, they’re amazing. The wreck is often covered in tiny fish, making it fascinating but tricky to dive.
Between Koh Phi Phi and Phuket is the King Cruiser Wreck. This former car ferry sank after hitting Anemone Reef and now rests at depths of 16-32 meters. Known for stronger currents, this site is for advanced divers. Even though you can’t go inside the wreck, it’s still one of Asia’s best wreck dives. Many dive centers offer trips to the King Cruiser along with Shark Point, another lively site with Moray Eels, Trevally, Leopard Sharks, Seahorses, and Ghost Pipefish.
Whether you’re into parties or peaceful underwater adventures, Koh Phi Phi offers a perfect mix of both.
8. Hiking to Phi Phi Viewpoint
Koh Phi Phi offers three stunning viewpoints that reward those who make the effort to reach them with breathtaking vistas. These spots are famous for those iconic photos of the island’s twin bays, but getting there requires a bit of stamina and a climb up some steep stairs.
First up is Phi Phi Viewpoint 1. To get here, you’ll need to conquer 343 steps, and there’s a small entrance fee of 30 baht that covers access to both Viewpoint 1 and 2. Alcohol is a no-go here, and violators face a 1,000 Baht fine. However, you can grab drinks, burgers, and pad Thai at the top. The view from this point is already impressive, showcasing parts of the Ton Sai and Loh Dalum bays with the island’s cliffs in the backdrop. This spot also features a memorial for the 2004 tsunami, complete with before-and-after photos showing the impact and recovery.
Next, head to Viewpoint 2 for an even better view. The path here slopes gently, giving your calves a bit of a workout. At the top, you’ll find a café with a rooftop terrace and plenty of space to relax on large rocks or a jetty, all offering fantastic views. This spot is especially popular at sunset, so arrive early to snag a good spot and perhaps enjoy a drink at the rooftop café while you wait. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning when the place is less crowded.
The ultimate destination is Viewpoint 3, which many visitors miss out on. Despite signs at Viewpoint 2 suggesting it’s the highest point, there’s more to explore. The path to Viewpoint 3 is a bit rough and irregular, but it’s a short 15-minute walk from Viewpoint 2. The trek through nature is worth it, especially since this spot is less crowded. Here, you’ll find a hotel with a pool (don’t forget your swim gear!) and a restaurant with a jetty. Entry to this area costs an additional 20 baht and requires you to remove your shoes.
A handy tip: if you’re planning to watch the sunset from any of these viewpoints, bring a flashlight and mosquito repellent. The jungle mosquitoes are always hungry!
9. Beach Parties and Nightlife
Koh Phi Phi might be a small island, but it’s bursting with nightlife, making it a hotspot for party lovers. From bars and nightclubs to unforgettable parties, this tiny island packs a punch. Here’s a glimpse into what makes Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife so legendary:
First up, if you’re visiting during a full moon, you can’t miss the island’s famous Full Moon Parties. Picture this: an all-night beach bash with fire shows, live music, and dancing under the moonlit sky. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
Speaking of fire shows, they’re a staple of Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife. Skilled performers dazzle crowds with their daring fire-spinning acts, lighting up the night and adding a spark of excitement to your evening.
For live music enthusiasts, Koh Phi Phi has a vibrant scene with everything from reggae to acoustic sets. Local bands and talented musicians play at various bars and venues across the island, providing the perfect soundtrack for your night out.
Fancy a party with a twist? Hop on a boat party to explore Koh Phi Phi’s stunning coastline while enjoying the island’s nightlife from the water. Dance, drink, and socialize with fellow travelers as you cruise along the picturesque shorelines.
Now, let’s dig in into some must-visit party spots:
Slinky Beach Bar is the epitome of Koh Phi Phi nightlife. With its massive in-house sound system playing the latest hits, this place comes alive around midnight, creating a vibrant scene with soft sand, a delightful ambiance, and cheerful individuals dancing until dawn.
Reggae Bar is known for its live boxing events. There’s no admission fee, but you need to buy a drink. If you love reggae music, enjoy watching fights, and appreciate reasonably priced drinks, this is the place for you.
Sunflower Beach Bar offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking sunset views, hammocks, and a diverse menu of delicious curries, Western, and Thai cuisine. As evening turns to night, be captivated by a dazzling fire show.
Ibiza Pool Party is renowned among night owls. This sandy-floored club on Loh Dalum Beach offers stunning views of the Phi Phi sunset and lively pool parties that keep the excitement going all night long.
Hippies Bar is an eco-friendly bar right on the beach, built from recycled materials. It offers a budget-friendly menu, live sports events, and after 8 pm, the entertainment ramps up with fire shows, a live DJ, and other performances.
Moonlight Beach Bar caters to those with a discerning taste in music, offering an enticing mix of trance, underground, house, and Goa psytrance. During the day, it’s a chill beach bar that transforms into a lively party spot at night.
Lei Beach Club combines stunning ocean views with lively entertainment, exotic cocktails, and world-class DJs. It’s a must-visit for those seeking an exhilarating beachfront adventure.
Dojo Bar & Club offers a unique combination of Muay Thai fights and energetic parties. After watching the exciting matches, hit the dance floor for a night of revelry.
Carlito’s Beach Bar & Nightclub on Tonsai Beach is an excellent spot for beachside partying with fire shows, live music, and a diverse selection of cocktails.
Blanco Beach Bar & Club is a must-visit for EDM lovers, with a spacious dance floor, top-notch sound system, and regular appearances by international DJs.
Stones Bar & Nightclub in Tonsai Village offers a vibrant atmosphere with a blend of Thai and Western music, regular themed nights, and a spacious dance floor.
For a safe and enjoyable night out, stick with friends, drink responsibly, be cautious with strangers, and keep an eye on your belongings. Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife is an adventure you won’t want to miss!
10. Explore the Marine Life at Hin Klang
If you’re planning a trip to the Phi Phi Islands, there’s one spot you really shouldn’t miss—Hin Klang. This underwater marvel isn’t as talked about as the famous beaches and cliffs, but trust us, it’s worth the dive. While most tourists stick to the shore, the real magic happens beneath the waves. Hin Klang offers an underwater paradise, untouched by the busy crowds and bustling activities above.
From peope having explored these waters countless times, they can assure you that floating above Hin Klang’s vibrant coral garden feels like stepping into an aquatic wonderland. Imagine swimming through a huge, colorful aquarium—it’s amazing! Located north of Koh Phi Phi Don, between Phi Phi Don and Bamboo Island, Hin Klang is one of the best diving spots outside the Similan Islands. The reef stretches about 500 meters to Bamboo Island and is full of both soft and hard corals and thousands of fish.
Hin Klang is also a great place to get your advanced diving certification, with nearby diving schools on Koh Phi Phi Don or Phuket. Even if you’re not into diving, the snorkeling here is top-notch. Over millennia, the coral reefs and marine life have formed this incredible habitat. Plus, the area has remained pretty pristine thanks to ongoing conservation efforts.
Hin Klang isn’t just a pretty spot—it’s a sign of the health of our oceans. The thriving corals here indicate a live and healthy ecosystem, home to many species and a natural indicator of marine conditions. So, next time you’re at the Phi Phi Islands, dive into Hin Klang for an unforgettable experience!
A Week or Two.
So there you have it—there’s an endless list of things to do at Phi Phi Island! A day or two just won’t cut it; you’ll need at least a week, maybe even more, to truly soak in all the amazing experiences. From exploring the underwater worlds to climbing cliffs and enjoying the island’s vibrant nightlife, Phi Phi has something for everyone!
Wondering where to head next? Check out these top 10s for more fun ideas: 10 Best Things to Do in Phuket Town and 10 Best Things to Do at Kata Beach. Happy exploring!
