1-Day Local's Guide to Relaxing and Sightseeing in Phi Phi Islands
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
1 days
About Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Experience the tropical paradise of Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. Renowned for their stunning beauty, these islands offer crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush greenery, and vibrant marine life. Explore the iconic Maya Bay, made famous by the movie 'The Beach', or dive into the underwater world with snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Visit Monkey Beach, home to a colony of friendly primates, or hike up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Tonsai Village, or simply relax on the pristine beaches. With a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, Phi Phi Islands promise an unforgettable travel experience.
1-Day Itinerary
Attractions in Itinerary (4)
1Maya Bay
Made famous by the movie 'The Beach', Maya Bay is a stunningly beautiful bay that's sheltered by 100-meter high cliffs on three sides.
2Viking Cave
Known for its wall paintings, Viking Cave is a place of mystery and beauty. It's also a place where locals collect swift bird nests for the famous bird's nest soup.
3Phi Phi Leh
The second largest of the Phi Phi Islands. Uninhabited and known for its beautiful beaches and clear waters.
4Local Night Market
A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, drinks, and goods. A great place to experience the local culture and cuisine.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Pad Thai
A popular Thai dish, Pad Thai is a stir-fried noodle dish often served with shrimp or chicken. It's a must-try for any visitor to the Phi Phi Islands.
Tom Yum Goong
This is a classic Thai soup known for its distinct hot and sour flavors, fragrant spices and herbs. It's a common dish in the Phi Phi Islands.
Som Tam
A spicy green papaya salad that originates from the northeastern part of Thailand. It's a common street food in the Phi Phi Islands.
Massaman Curry
A rich and relatively mild Thai curry that is an interpretation of a Persian dish. It's a popular choice for tourists in the Phi Phi Islands.
Green Curry
Made from green chillies, this curry is more spicy and sweet compared to other Thai curries. It's a common dish in the Phi Phi Islands.
Khao Pad
A Thai fried rice dish. Ingredients may include shrimp, chicken, or crab. It's a staple food in the Phi Phi Islands.
Mango Sticky Rice
A traditional Thai dessert made with glutinous rice, fresh mango and coconut milk, often eaten in the peak mango season, the hot months of April and May in Phi Phi Islands.
Chang Beer
A popular beer in Thailand, Chang Beer is a pale lager that's a common choice for tourists in the Phi Phi Islands.
Thai Iced Tea
A popular chilled beverage in Thailand, made from strongly brewed tea, often spiced with ingredients such as star anise and crushed tamarind seed. It's a refreshing choice in the tropical climate of the Phi Phi Islands.
Singha Beer
A well-known beer in Thailand, Singha is a pale lager that's a common choice for tourists in the Phi Phi Islands.
Roti Pancake
A sweet or savory pancake, often filled with banana or egg, and drizzled with condensed milk. It's a popular street food in the Phi Phi Islands.
Khao Soi
A creamy, slightly spicy yellow curry noodle soup, topped with crispy noodles. It's a popular dish in Northern Thailand and can be found in the Phi Phi Islands.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands, Thailand is from November to April. This period is considered the dry season with less rainfall and more sunny days, making it ideal for beach activities and boat tours. The sea is also calmer during these months, which is perfect for snorkeling and diving. However, please note that this is also the peak tourist season, so the islands can be quite crowded.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
February 24 | Sat | Makha Bucha |
February 26 | Mon | Day off for Makha Bucha |
April 6 | Sat | Chakri Day |
April 8 | Mon | Chakri Day observed |
April 13 | Sat | Songkran |
April 14 | Sun | Songkran |
April 15 | Mon | Songkran |
April 16 | Tue | Songkran Observed |
May 1 | Wed | Labor Day |
May 4 | Sat | Coronation Day |
May 6 | Mon | Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day |
May 6 | Mon | Coronation Day observed |
June 3 | Mon | Queen Suthida's Birthday |
July 20 | Sat | Buddhist Lent Day |
July 22 | Mon | Day off for Buddhist Lent Day |
July 28 | Sun | King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday |
July 29 | Mon | King Vajiralongkorn's Birthday observed |
August 12 | Mon | The Queen's Birthday |
October 13 | Sun | Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol |
October 14 | Mon | Anniversary of the Death of King Bhumibol observed |
October 23 | Wed | Chulalongkorn Day |
December 5 | Thu | King Bhumibol's Birthday/Father's Day |
December 10 | Tue | Constitution Day |
December 31 | Tue | New Year's Eve |
How to get around
Longtail Boat
Longtail boats are the most common way to get around the Phi Phi Islands. They can take you to various beaches and other islands nearby. You can hire a boat for a day or for a specific trip.
Ferry
Ferries are used to travel to and from the Phi Phi Islands from other parts of Thailand such as Phuket, Krabi, and Ao Nang. Once on the island, you can walk or use a longtail boat to get around.
Walking
The main village on Phi Phi Don (the largest of the Phi Phi Islands) is small enough to get around on foot. There are no cars or motorbikes on the island, making walking a peaceful and enjoyable way to explore.
Speedboat
Speedboats are a faster, albeit more expensive, alternative to longtail boats. They are especially useful if you're planning to visit multiple islands in a single day.
Kayak
Renting a kayak can be a fun and active way to explore the Phi Phi Islands. You can paddle to nearby beaches, go snorkeling, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
While not a transport method per se, scuba diving and snorkeling are popular activities in the Phi Phi Islands. The clear waters and abundant marine life make for excellent diving and snorkeling conditions.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services are not applicable in the Phi Phi Islands due to the lack of cars and roads.
Important information
Currency฿ THB
Time zoneUTC+7
Driving sideLeft
Emergency phoneAmbulance: 191; Fire: 199; Police: 191
Drinking waterOpt for bottled water
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Phi Phi Islands, Thailand as a first time visitor
1
Phi Phi Islands are located in the Andaman Sea and are part of Krabi Province, Thailand.
2
The islands are accessible by boat from Phuket and Krabi, with the journey taking approximately 1.5-2 hours.
3
The best time to visit the Phi Phi Islands is between November and April when the weather is less rainy. The average temperature during this time is around 75-89°F (24-32°C).
4
The Phi Phi Islands are a popular destination for snorkeling and diving due to the clear waters and abundant marine life.
5
There are no cars or motorbikes on the islands, so walking is the primary mode of transportation.
6
The local currency is the Thai Baht. Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's a good idea to carry some cash for small vendors and tips.
7
Thai is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
8
The islands are known for their nightlife, with beach parties and fire shows being common attractions.
9
The Phi Phi Islands are a protected marine reserve, so there are rules against littering and damaging the coral reefs.
10
There are several ATMs on the islands, but they charge a high fee for withdrawals. It's advisable to withdraw cash before you arrive.
11
The islands can get quite crowded, especially during peak season. It's recommended to book accommodation and tours in advance.
12
Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially in the evenings. Bring insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and pants.
13
Tap water is not safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water.
14
The sun can be intense, so don't forget to pack sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat.
15
There are no hospitals on the Phi Phi Islands, only small clinics. For serious medical issues, you would need to travel to Phuket or Krabi.
16
The islands are generally safe, but it's always a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings and avoid isolated areas at night.
17
There's a 20 Baht (approximately $0.60) fee to clean and maintain the islands, which is usually included in the price of your boat ticket.
18
The islands are home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys. While they can be fun to watch, it's important not to feed them as they can become aggressive.
19
There's a significant amount of boat traffic around the islands. Always be cautious when swimming or snorkeling near boat lanes.
20
The Phi Phi Islands are known for their stunning sunrises and sunsets. Make sure to catch at least one during your visit.
Basic Thai to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | สวัสดี | Sawasdee | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | ลาก่อน | Laa gòn | Saying goodbye |
Thank you | ขอบคุณ | Khob khun | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | ใช่ | Châi | Agreeing or confirming |
No | ไม่ | Mâi | Disagreeing or denying |
Please | โปรด | Proht | Making a polite request |
Excuse me | ขอโทษ | Kǒr thôht | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | ฉันขอโทษ | Chan kǒr thôht | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | คุณพูดภาษาอังกฤษได้ไหม | Khun pôot paa-sǎa ang-grìt dâi mǎi | Asking about language proficiency |
I don't understand | ฉันไม่เข้าใจ | Chan mâi khâo jai | Expressing difficulty in understanding |
How much is this? | นี่ราคาเท่าไหร่ | Nee raa-khaa thâo-rài | Asking about price |
Where is the bathroom? | ห้องน้ำอยู่ที่ไหน | Hông náam yùu thîi nǎi | Asking for directions |
Help! | ช่วยด้วย! | Chûay dûay! | In an emergency |
I am lost | ฉันหลงทาง | Chan lông thaang | When you are lost |
Can I have the menu, please? | ขอเมนูหน่อย | Khǒr menu nòi | At a restaurant |
Water | น้ำ | Náam | When you want to order water |
Beer | เบียร์ | Bia | When you want to order beer |
Delicious | อร่อย | A-ròi | Complimenting food |
Taxi | แท็กซี่ | Tæksi | When you need a taxi |
Hotel | โรงแรม | Rong raem | When you need to find a hotel |
Packing List
Clothing
Lightweight clothing
Swimwear
Beach cover-up
Flip flops
Sunglasses
Hat
Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Sunscreen
After-sun lotion
Insect repellent
Travel-size toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash)
Deodorant
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hand sanitizer
Travel documents and essentials
Passport
Driver's license or other ID
Health insurance card
Credit and debit cards
Cash (Thai Baht)
Hotel and/or tour confirmation emails
Emergency contacts and important addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone
Charger
Power bank
Waterproof phone case
Camera
Memory card
Headphones
Miscellaneous items
Beach bag
Beach towel
Reusable water bottle
Snacks
Travel pillow
Earplugs
Eye mask
First-aid kit
Travel guidebook or map
Phrasebook or language app
Travel-size laundry detergent packets
Ziplock bags for wet clothes
Weather Conditions
Visiting the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand can be a truly magical experience, but it's important to plan your trip according to the weather conditions to make the most of your stay. The islands have a tropical climate, meaning they experience high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Average temperatures typically range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C). Remember to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day. The year is generally divided into two seasons: the dry season from November to April, and the rainy season from May to October. The dry season is the most popular time to visit due to the lower chance of rain and clearer skies. However, even during the rainy season, showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine, so don't let this deter you from visiting during this time. If you're planning to engage in water activities such as snorkeling or diving, the best time to visit is during the dry season when the sea is calm and visibility is at its best. However, always check the local weather forecast before heading out to sea, as conditions can change rapidly. Remember, weather can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack a lightweight rain jacket, regardless of when you plan to visit. Also, don't forget your sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong even on cloudy days. Finally, keep in mind that the Phi Phi Islands can get quite busy during the peak tourist season, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the shoulder months of the dry season (November and April) when the weather is still pleasant but the crowds are smaller.
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 32° / 22° | January is a great time to visit Phi Phi Islands, as it is the coolest month with less rainfall. |
February | 33° / 23° | February is a popular month for tourists due to the warm weather and clear skies. |
March | 34° / 24° | March sees a slight increase in temperature, making it perfect for beach activities. |
April | 35° / 25° | April is the hottest month in Phi Phi Islands, ideal for sunbathing and water sports. |
May | 34° / 24° | May marks the beginning of the rainy season, but the showers are usually brief and followed by sunshine. |
June | 34° / 24° | June experiences occasional rainfall, but it's still a good time to visit for water activities. |
July | 34° / 24° | July is a mix of sun and rain, with the weather mostly remaining warm and humid. |
August | 34° / 24° | August is similar to July with a mix of sun and rain, making it a good time for indoor activities. |
September | 33° / 24° | September is the wettest month, but the rain usually doesn't last all day. |
October | 33° / 24° | October sees the end of the rainy season, with the weather starting to cool down. |
November | 32° / 23° | November is a great time to visit as the weather is cooler and the skies are clearer. |
December | 32° / 22° | December is a popular month for tourists due to the cool weather and less rainfall. |
Did you know?
Places near by Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Phuket
Known for its beaches, vibrant nightlife, and water sports activities. It is also home to the Big Buddha and Wat Chalong temple.
Krabi
Famous for its scenic view, the town is very close to the river that leads to the nearby Andaman Sea. Krabi Town is also the gateway to the region's many islands.
Koh Lanta
A less crowded island with beautiful beaches, clear water, and a national park.
Phang Nga Bay
Known for its limestone cliffs and rock formations, as well as its emerald-green waters.
Koh Yao Yai
A quiet and beautiful island with a few tourist facilities. It's a great place to get away from the crowds.
Koh Jum
A small and tranquil island, perfect for those seeking peace and solitude.
Railay Beach
Accessible only by boat due to high limestone cliffs cutting off mainland access. These cliffs attract rock climbers from all over the world, but the area is also popular due to its beautiful beaches and quiet relaxing atmosphere.
