Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi is Thailand's island-superstar. It's been in the movies. It's the topic of conversation for travelers all over Thailand. For some, it's the only reason to touchdown in Phuket. Even with all the hype, it doesn't disappoint.

Phi Phi's beauty is a large chunk of the allure. The islands, when approached by boat, rise from the sea like a fortress. Sheer cliffs tower overhead, then give way to beach-fronted jungle. It's love at first sight.

The second part of the why-we-love-this-place story is attitude: few places on the planet are this laid-back. Of the two islands, one is completely free of human inhabitants (Phi Phi Lei), and the other is without roads (Phi Phi Don). There's no schedule, no hustle-and-bustle, no reason to be in a hurry.

As an added bonus, Phi Phi is affordable. Destinations this beautiful are often reserved for those that can pay dearly. That's not the case here; Phi Phi has something for every budget. You might be surprised – that perfect beachfront room costs less than you expect.

Where to stay on Phi Phi Island

Bungalows are the accommodation of choice on Phi Phi; in fact, there aren't many other options. The place is very kind to budget-minded backpackers – rooms at the one-star (or less) end of the rating scale far outnumber upmarket resorts – but there are a few havens of luxury for those who wish to experience paradise in style.

For those who aren't carrying all their worldly possessions on their back, the quiet northern tip of Phi Phi Don offers excellent accommodation. Away from the noise and basking in glorious tropical surrounds, the all-under-one-roof resorts cater to your every need.

See our new accommodation guide to Phi Phi with personalized advices from our e-concierge, or see the list of Hotels on Phi Phi Island.

Phi Phi - What to Do

Phi Phi's islands may not be big, but they're a monster-sized playground. Diving and snorkelling top the list of exciting ways to spend a day (or three), and the clear waters around Phi Phi are perfect for checking out the rich marine life.

Hire a longtail boat – the beach-to-beach water taxi of choice – and let a local show you the area's many remote beaches and private coves. Cliff diving, sunbathing, reading, exercising, hiking, rock climbing – the possibilities are plentiful. (See also "Diving in Phi Phi Islands")

Getting to Phi Phi

Travelling to Phi Phi is easy. Ferry services make return trips twice daily departing from Phuket and Krabi, with prices for one-way trips starting at 250 baht. A regular ferry service from Koh Lanta direct to Phi Phi also operates in the high season. Tickets can be booked at any travel agency or at the piers. See Transfers and Ferries to Phi Phi.

For a treat, why not charter a yacht, a perfect way to travel. For speedboat trips and overnight stays, click here.

Once you've arrived, relax and enjoy. There are no roads on Phi Phi Don, only footpaths between certain beaches, but there are plenty of local longtail boats to cruise from one perfect beach to the next. If you've booked your hotel in advance, porters will be waiting at the pier to collect your bags.

More Hotels on Phi Phi Island