The Phi Phi Islands are a postcard come to life—limestone karsts rising from glassy turquoise water, powdery beaches, and neon-blue lagoons. Once a sleepy fishing community and sea-gypsy anchor, Phi Phi became world-famous after Maya Bay starred in “The Beach.” Today, it’s a protected national park with strict visitor rules to keep the reefs and scenery thriving.

History left a mark here. The 2004 tsunami devastated Tonsai, but the community rebuilt with heart, adding better evacuation routes and environmental protections. You’ll still find that barefoot, bohemian soul: no cars, alleys lined with fruit smoothies and dive shops, and longtail boats as taxis between coves.

Expect sun-soaked days and warm nights. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, bring cash for park fees (about 400 THB per adult for Mu Ko Phi Phi), and prepare for stairs on the viewpoint hike. Peak dry season runs November–April; May–October brings monsoon swells and occasional ferry cancellations—plan buffers if traveling then.

Phi Phi Islands

Phi Phi Don is the lived-in island—you’ll sleep, eat, and wander here—while its little sister Phi Phi Leh holds protected stunners like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. By day, glide by longtail boat over coral gardens and into emerald lagoons; by night, sip a cold Chang under the fire shows of Loh Dalum Beach.

Top sights & experiences: Maya Bay (regulated access), Pileh Lagoon’s jade swimming bowl, the hike to Viewpoint 2 and 3, Bamboo Island’s powder sand, Long Beach for shark-spot snorkeling, and dive sites like Bida Nok and Palong Wall with blacktip reef sharks and turtles.

Where to stay (Hotels.com picks):

• Zeavola Resort (Laem Tong): barefoot elegance, teak villas in jungle gardens, away from the bustle; ideal for honeymooners and snorkel-at-your-door fans.
• Holiday Inn Resort Phi Phi Island (Laem Tong): family-friendly, long beach frontage, house reef; reliable facilities and easy boat access to Bamboo Island.
• Phi Phi Cozy Seafront Resort (near Tonsai): budget-friendly, sea-view rooms, walkable to cafes and pier.

Browse more stays: Hotels in Phi Phi Islands or villas on VRBO Phi Phi Islands.

Getting there: Fly into Phuket (HKT) or Krabi (KBV), then ferry/speedboat to Tonsai Pier.

• Flights: Compare fares on Trip.com flights or Kiwi.com. From Bangkok, nonstop to HKT/KBV runs ~1.5 hours; regional hubs (Singapore, KL) ~1–2 hours.
• Ferries: Phuket Rassada Pier to Phi Phi ~2–2.5 hours by ferry (~500–700 THB) or ~1 hour by speedboat (~900–1,400 THB). From Krabi (Klong Jilad or Ao Nang) ~1.5–2 hours by ferry. Book morning crossings in monsoon season for calmer seas; keep a buffer before flights.

Day 1: Arrival, Viewpoints, and a Beachfront Sunset

Afternoon: Arrive at Tonsai Pier and walk to your hotel (island is pedestrian-only). For a caffeine and snack reset, hit Aroy Kaffeine for proper espresso, mango smoothies, and eggs on sourdough; or Papaya Restaurant for heaping plates of pad kaprao and their famous crispy garlic chicken. Stroll the lanes between Tonsai and Loh Dalum to get your bearings—pick up reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for tomorrow’s boat day.

Evening: Time your hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint 2 for golden hour. It’s a 20–40 minute stair-and-trail climb from the village; bring water and small cash for the entry (~30–50 THB). Continue to Viewpoint 3 if you want a wider panorama of the isthmus. Descend by dusk and dine at Anna’s (beloved for mellow curry spice and fresh seafood) or Efe Mediterranean Cuisine (mezze, lamb shish, and charred veg for a change-up).

Night: For a laid-back beach bar, choose Sunflower Beach Bar on the sand—lanterns, reggae, and star views. If you prefer the classic island party, Slinky Beach Bar on Loh Dalum brings fire shows and DJs. Night owls can swing by the Reggae Bar for its quirky Muay Thai ring (spectate or tap gloves—at your own risk!).

Day 2: Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Snorkel Highlights

Morning: Beat the crowds with a private longtail at first light (ask your hotel or a boat captain at Tonsai; typical 4–6 hours from ~1,800–3,500 THB per boat). Land at the back of Maya Bay via Loh Samah—rangers limit visits to protect the bay, and swimming is usually restricted; follow posted rules. Then slip into Pileh Lagoon, a fjord of jade water hemmed by cliffs—perfect for a calm swim and photos.

Afternoon: Snorkel the reefs around Viking Cave (no landing, swift currents at times) and Monkey Beach (keep distance; do not feed monkeys). Ask your captain to include Hin Klang or Loh Lana for clearer water. Back on Phi Phi Don, refuel with beachside plates at Ciao Bella (hand-tossed pizzas, calamari, seaside tables) or try Only Noodles—a tiny joint doing exactly what the name promises, fast and delicious.

Evening: Sunset toes-in-sand happy hour on Loh Dalum. For dinner, P.P. Wang Ta Fu is a local favorite for sushi rolls, salmon bowls, and Thai sides under fairy lights. Craving dessert? Banana roti carts dot the alleys; order it crispy with condensed milk and a dash of cinnamon.

Day 3: Bamboo-White Sands and Departure

Morning: If seas are calm, take a speedboat or longtail to Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)—a dazzling ring of white sand and shallow snorkeling over sea-grass and coral bits. Alternatively, walk or boat-taxi to Long Beach and snorkel the Shark Point area for blacktip reef sharks at sunrise when they’re most active (harmless if you keep a respectful distance). Expect boat taxis ~150–200 THB per person each way.

Afternoon: Brunch at Phi Phi Bakery (buttery croissants, passionfruit cheesecake, strong Thai iced coffee) before a soothing hour at a reputable massage hut—look for clean linens and posted prices (~300–500 THB for Thai massage). Check out and walk to the pier for your ferry connection back to Phuket or Krabi. Aim for an early sailing in stormy months to keep your flight connection stress-free.

Evening: If you’re overnighting on the mainland, use Trip.com or Kiwi.com to lock in a morning flight out, then celebrate your last Thai dinner with a coconut curry and fresh pineapple shakes.

Where to Eat & Drink (curated picks)

• Coffee & breakfast: Aroy Kaffeine (espresso, smoothie bowls); Phi Phi Bakery (fresh bakes, iced lattes); Taidang Coffee (Thai-style sweet coffee and roti).
• Lunch: Papaya Restaurant (big-plate Thai classics), Only Noodles (fast wok noodles), Garlic 1992 (green curry and grilled fish, casual).
• Dinner: Anna’s (balance of spice and comfort), Efe Mediterranean (grilled meats, dips), P.P. Wang Ta Fu (sushi/Thai fusion, garden vibe), Ciao Bella (Italian on the beach).
• Sunset & late: Sunflower Beach Bar (chill), Slinky Beach Bar (party/fire shows), Reggae Bar (Muay Thai ring spectacle).

Practical Tips

• Cash & fees: Carry cash for national park fees (~400 THB adult), boat taxis, and small eateries. ATMs are in Tonsai but charge foreign withdrawal fees.
• Boats & safety: Wear a life vest when snorkeling from boats; bring a rash guard for sun. In monsoon months, ask captains about conditions and skip exposed sites on rough days.
• Environment: No touching coral or feeding wildlife; use reef-safe sunscreen. Maya Bay access rules can change seasonally—rangers’ instructions come first.

Optional Bonus (Future Trip Idea): Phillip Island Penguins at Sunset

If you route a different trip through Australia, consider a sunset penguin experience on Phillip Island near Melbourne—an unforgettable wildlife moment.

Phillip Island: Golden Hour Penguin Express Tour w/ Island Pickup — Watch little penguins waddle ashore at dusk with expert commentary and great viewing platforms.

That’s your Phi Phi Islands quick escape: lagoon swims, barefoot dinners, and starry beach nights. With this 3-day plan, you’ll hit Maya Bay, viewpoints, and hidden snorkel spots without rushing. Consider returning in another season for a different sea mood—and more island time.