Phi Phi Island is a most visited island in Thailand containing a group of stunning islands located in the Andaman Sea, in the province of Krabi, Thailand. Well known for its crystal-clear blue waters, unique activities, stunning sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life. Phi is a popular destination for travelers seeking paradise-like landscapes, mountains and surroundings.
There are numerous islands included in Phi Phi Island under which Phi Don and Phi Leh are famous. These are later famous for Maya Bay, featured in the movie “The Beach.” There are numerous activities which can give more entertainment to visitors like snorkelling, diving, hiking to viewpoints, and relaxing on the beaches are popular. With its breath-taking natural beauty, Phi Island is truly a tropical paradise worth exploring one.
History of Phi Phi Island
Phi Phi Island, located in the southern tip of the Andaman Sea off the coast of Thailand. Nestled between Phuket and Krabi is a small and uninhabited island. Phi Phi island has a very rich history dating back hundreds of years. The name “Phi Phi” which originally is derived from the Malay word called “Pulau Api-Api,” which means “Fiery Isle,” because of the presence of numerous fiery trees on the island.
As per historical data, initially Phi Island was a major hub of the lot of fishermen, traders, and sea gipsies who sought refuge on its shores. Most of the local people nearby are used and maintained more. But once the island got a prominent trading post between India, China, the Arabian Peninsula, and Southeast Asia it drastically shifted from local trading area to International trading spot. Therefore over the centuries, Phi Island has been influenced by various cultures and civilizations, contributing to its diverse heritage.
Another major role of Phi Phi Island served as a strategic military outpost for Japanese forces During World War II. The island was later abandoned after the world war and it was rediscovered by some of the travelers and tourists in the latter half of the 20th century. After the massive growth of tourism, Phi Island has evolved into a renowned vacation destination known for its natural beauty, unique islands, vibrant marine life, and picturesque landscapes.
Today, this Island continues its legacy to attract visitors from around the world, from its core travel attractions. Even today many travel backpackers seek a tropical paradise to relax, explore, and experience the unique charm from this historic island.
Top 10 Things to do in Phi Phi Island
1. Visit Maya Bay
Visiting Maya Beach could be a life changing experience here in Phi Phi Island. Every backpacker’s ideal choice of Maya Bay just to climb above 100 meters high cliff on three sides. Well known for its stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters, this beach became famous after filming a famous movie named “The Beach Starring Leonardo DiCaprio”. Due to several small beaches and surrounding beautiful landscapes or mountains making it one of the perfect destinations for snorkelling and Kayaking.
2. Snorkeling and Diving
Undoubtedly Phi Phi Island is one of the ideal destination to the Snorkeling. Hin Phae is one of the popular spots where you can enjoy underwater sights of coral life’s and meet the harmless black tip reef sharks.
Scuba diving is another thing which is more water enthusiastic activity, which explores underwater life and seascapes. Scuba diving is an activity where you can closely touch with marine creatures like fishes and sea turtles. Moreover coral reefs, caves, milestones and sea creatures are easily watchable by these activities. Both Snorkeling and Diving are amazing underwater activities in Phi Island with vibrant coral reefs and exotic marine life.
3. Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint
Koh Phi Phi Island has H shaped landscapes located in the height of 186 m with little villages built on the 100m strip of sand nestled between Dalum Bay and Tonsai Bay. One of the beautiful places to hike in just 20 or 30 minutes. One of the moderate hiking trails exhibits viewpoints of the Phi Phi Leh, Tonsai village and Loh Dalum bays. Its dumbbell shape always offers panoramic views of the island and its uniqueness.
4. Visit Bamboo Island
You will see some strange and rare breeds of bamboos here. Name says that it is an island where you will see bamboo and Thai Spruces. Place full of green appearance and the shape of a heart will offer jaw dropping scenery to every nature lover. Perfect place to calm your mind and body along with offering many water activities like sailin, speed boating and snorkelling. If you really want to witness the beauty of bamboo then definitely it should be on your bucket list. Never miss to enjoy turquoise water, sparkling white sands and numerous unique sorts of Bamboos.
5. Take a Sunrise Tour
It is more fun to watch the sunrise in the morning, especially here on Phi Phi Island. Sunrise here is the best speedboat tour at sunrise from Phuket. Your early Sunrise Tour will explore nearby Bamboo Island, and scenic places like sparkling limestone of island. It is more meaningful for your sunrise tour if you are also coupled with activities like snorkelling and speed boating. However your sunrise tour will be more interesting when you visit Maya Bay and Vikas Cave along with making breakfast in the Lounge of Royal Phuket Maria.
6. Monkey Beach
Sounds strange you know, yes Phi Phi Island has a monkey beach, famous for furry inhabitants. Just because a beach has numerous monkeys naturally is called Monkey beach. Apart from Monkey, this beach is well known for various other activities like snorkelling, swimming and boating through water taxis and speedboats. Never miss to take a precaution before playing with monkeys and these adorable monkeys at Monkey Beach are reachable by boat or kayaking.
7. Attend a Muay Thai Boxing
Muay Thai Boxing or Thai boxing is a type of martial art which has a specialty in Thailand. Most of the backpackers would prefer to come to watch Thai boxing, which is more amusing than what they expected. Normally boxing is held every night of the week in a Reggae bar and a place called Asawindum boxing stadium where travelers can get training and skill of fighting. It is very important to watch or participate in a traditional Muay Thai boxing match for an authentic Thai experience.
8. Boating nearby in the Viking Caves
Another interesting place in Phi Phi island is Viking Caves also known as “Swallow Caves”. These Viking caves contain many stories about its birth, existence and its related stories. Undoubtedly a unique tourist attraction place includes rock climbing areas for adventure seekers and relaxed areas for climbers. However these caves are home to many edible bird’s nests, which are considered as the most expensive products in the world. Remember entry to the Viking caves is prohibited you may visit so closer look through boat or kayaking.
9. Travel in Speedboat
Most common choice for every travel enthusiast here in Phi Phi island. Speed boating includes sightseeing, snorkelling, swimming at Pileh cave, Viking cave and Monkey Bay. A speedboat helps you to spend less time reaching places nearby in the islands and enjoy fun activities at Phi Phi Don. The speedboat starts from Phuket to Phi Phi Island in order to offer a panoramic view of the Andaman Sea. Never miss to reach Khai Nok Island where you can do activities like feeding the fish and swimming.
10. Rock Climbing
If you are really a daring travel enthusiast and wish to take on any challenging activities like Rock climbing then Phi Phi offers some vigour meaning to your trip. Due to its limestone cliffs and scenic view from the top, Island is one of the must visit destinations. There are rock climbing sites like Hin Tak, Hua Ling wall, and Tonsai tower available. Under these Tonsai towers is the most popular rock climbing spot. It is always up to you which one you choose depending on the varying level of difficulty in climbing.
How to Get to Phi Phi Island
Probably getting into the Phi Phi Island could be easy and more convenient if you use either Speed boats or Ferry. Both are popular modes of transportation to reach the island in ideal times, with less than 2 hours from Phuket and 90 minutes from Krabi.
1. Ferry
Ferry offers a very comfortable journey with the top deck that doubles as a sundeck for those who want to top up their tan. The lower desk of the ferry has air conditioned rooms with drinks as well as snacks on the board. Ferry offers more comfortable air conditioned space for those who buy VIP green tickets. Sometimes the ferry gets a little rush, especially during peak seasons, like ideal weather conditions for activities. Keep in mind that if you are travelling in the afternoon then the Ferry offers free afternoon watermelon juice to every passenger.
2. Speed Boat
Just another thrilling transportation to Phi Phi Island is a speedboat. Usually these are privately owned and arrival and departure points are a little more complex and flexible. Speed boat will help you to reach different islands and beaches where you want to land. Usually speedboats run through the year and travel very smoothly. It is better to skip your boat travel during monsoon season (from September to November) because of the heavy rain effects and shelter problems. Even if it is costlier than a ferry, it is always worth one if you traveled with a group or family.
Phi Phi Island Weather
Weather is always pleasant throughout the year and probably November and April are ideal times to explore this island. December is the coolest and February is the driest month here in Phi Phi Island. Usually 23℃ to 30℃ temperatures are ideally suitable for enjoying tourist activities.
Normally some travelers even visit during the end of the monsoon season like October. This time offers a peaceful atmosphere and you can save a little more money. It is very important to study and make some research of present weather conditions before stepping onto the island.
Krabi to Phi Phi Island
Krabi to Phi Phi Island is around 163 km of distance which is most accessible by the one way Ferry service. It is very important to book a Ferry well in advance to avoid the risk of rush and get a Ferry according to your time. Make a ticket at the Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Don, 90 minutes journey to Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi.
What Included in Krabi to Phi Phi Island
- One way shared Ferry service.
- Ton Sai Pier Koh Phi Phi Ao Nang, Krab is a Meeting and Pick up point and Klong Jilad Ferry Pier Tha -Ruea, Klong Jilad road, Tambon Sai Thai is the ending point.
- Total 90 minutes journey.
- Transfer Service from Phi Phi Island to Krabi is operated year round.
- No wheelchair service available.
- Ferry operating 4 times daily from Krabi to Phi Phi Island year round in both low and peak season.
- Ferry Tickets can vary according to season, usually between $26 and $226.
Phi Phi Island Map
Phi Phi Island is a place full of travel activities, adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences that make Island must-visit destination for travelers. If you are a person who really wants to enjoy places in Thailand as like Pattaya and Phuket, then Phi Phi Island is another one. Never miss to enjoy the things we explained above while you are on the Island.
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