WHAT TO DO IN KOH PHI PHI?
Updated: Oct 1
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
How to Get to Koh Phi Phi?
Before discovering what to do in Koh Phi Phi, it is important to know how to get to the island. Unlike other popular destinations in Thailand, Koh Phi Phi does not have an airport, which means that access is exclusively by sea. If you are planning to visit this paradise, there are two main ways to get there: by ferry or by speedboat. Both depart from Phuket or Krabi.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Option 1: Ferry
The ferry is a comfortable and affordable option. The journey takes approximately 2 hours. Because it is a larger vessel, it offers greater stability on rough seas, as well as covered areas and air conditioning.
Advantages of the ferry: lower price, greater stability in rough seas, air-conditioned areas, and greater comfort during the crossing.
Option 2: Speedboat
The speedboat is a fast boat that takes approximately 1 hour, making it the ideal option for those who want to save time. Because it is smaller and faster, it is more affected by the movement of the sea. On days with large waves, the journey can be more intense, with more impact compared to the ferry. On the other hand, you reach your destination much faster.
Advantages of the speedboat: shorter travel time, greater convenience for those with a tight itinerary, and faster arrival on the island.
Which Option Is Better?
In fact, there is no single best option for everyone. Both the ferry and the speedboat are excellent ways to get to Koh Phi Phi. The choice depends on each traveler's preferences and travel style. If you are looking for greater comfort, stability, and a more affordable option, the ferry is usually the better alternative. If you prefer to save time and don't mind the movement of the sea as much, the speedboat may be the ideal choice.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Pay Attention to the Schedules
One very important thing to keep in mind is that both ferries and speedboats operate at specific times throughout the day. There are no departures at any time, so it is essential to plan your trip in advance. This applies both when traveling to Koh Phi Phi and when returning to Phuket or Krabi. You can check the schedules through Phi Phi Brazuca.
In addition to checking boat schedules, it is also important to consider the time needed to reach the departure pier and arrange transportation back to your hotel at your final destination. Planning these transfers in advance helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother journey.
Both Phuket and Krabi offer daily ferry and speedboat services.
Since the distance to Koh Phi Phi is practically the same, the choice of departure point usually depends on your location, travel itinerary, and the schedules available for each boat. Regardless of which option you choose, the journey to Koh Phi Phi is already part of the incredible experience that awaits you. It is the beginning of a visit to one of Thailand's most paradisiacal destinations.
Gold Day Tour Around the Phi Phi Islands by Speedboat
For your first day, we recommend taking a speedboat tour to discover the main attractions of Phi Phi quickly and comfortably. I recommend booking with Phi Phi Brazuca, an agency that provides English-speaking guides and strategically organizes the itinerary, visiting attractions during the least crowded times. The tour starts at 10:20 a.m. and ends at around 7:00 p.m., including lunch and several stops for swimming and snorkeling.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
One of the highlights of the itinerary is Maya Bay, one of Thailand's most famous beaches, known worldwide for being the filming location of The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. Currently, swimming is not permitted at Maya Bay because the area is part of an environmental conservation zone within a National Park. This measure was introduced to protect and restore the local ecosystem, especially coral reefs and marine life.Despite this restriction at Maya Bay, don't worry: the tour includes several other stops where you can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the crystal-clear waters. These include the beautiful Pileh Lagoon, surrounded by limestone cliffs, as well as the paradisiacal Bamboo Island, famous for its white sand and turquoise waters.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Throughout the day, there are several opportunities to observe tropical fish and the region's rich marine life. To end the experience, the tour makes a special stop after sunset to observe bioluminescent plankton, a natural phenomenon that illuminates the water with tiny glowing points, making the end of the day even more magical. The tour costs 1,900 baht per person (as of September 2026), including the National Park fee, guide, snorkeling masks, swimming vests, swim noodles, lunch, snacks, fruit, a cooler with water, Coca-Cola, and ice.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Alternative Option: The Pirate Boat Tour
Another fun way to explore the Phi Phi Islands is through the famous Pirate Boat Tour. Unlike the speedboat tour, this is a more relaxed and social experience, ideal for those who enjoy meeting people from different parts of the world. The itinerary includes some of the region's main attractions, including Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach, making it similar to the speedboat tour in some respects. However, because it is a larger and slower vessel, the tour visits fewer locations throughout the day, allowing you to enjoy each stop at a more relaxed pace.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
One of the advantages is that the tour includes activities such as kayaking, as well as time to swim, snorkel, and relax on board. The crowd is highly international, bringing together travelers from different nationalities, which makes the experience even more interesting for those who enjoy socializing and cultural exchange. The tour usually starts a little later than speedboat tours and ends at night with a lively party on board, creating a unique atmosphere that is different from traditional tours. The tour costs approximately 1,700 baht per person, including lunch and the National Park fee, making it an excellent option with great value for money.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Although it is a different experience from a speedboat tour, the Pirate Boat is an excellent choice for those who want to explore Phi Phi in a more social way, enjoy the scenery without rushing, meet travelers from all over the world, and spend a fun day in a relaxed atmosphere.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Diving and Island Experiences
For your second day, our main recommendation is to go scuba diving and experience the incredible marine biodiversity of the Phi Phi Islands up close. The crystal-clear waters of the region are home to coral reefs and a wide variety of marine life.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Abbie
Diving is available both for people who have never dived before and for certified divers. For beginners, there is the option of a discover scuba dive, accompanied by a professional instructor throughout the activity, with no prior certification required. The experience lasts approximately 3 hours: a short theory lesson followed by an open-water dive to a depth of up to 12 meters. For certified divers, there are specific trips for different experience levels, as well as more advanced dive sites. Phi Phi has several diving schools and instructors from different nationalities, making it easier to receive assistance in different languages. In addition, many operators offer underwater photography and video services, allowing you to capture this special moment.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Abbie
Morning is usually the best time for diving, as sea conditions tend to be more favorable and visibility is often better. The price varies depending on the type of dive, with different rates for discover dives and certified divers.
Practical Tips: Book in advance during high season (November–April); You do not need to know how to swim; Avoid flying for 24 hours after diving; Average price: THB 3,000–4,500 per person.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Abbie
After diving, an excellent option for the late afternoon is to go kayaking and enjoy the sunset at sea while exploring quieter areas of the island. During the trip, you can visit Monkey Beach 2, located on the opposite side from the areas visited by traditional speedboat and pirate boat tours. Kayak rental costs approximately 300 baht.
Location: Koh Phi Phi, Monkey Beach 2 | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Another must-do experience is hiking up to the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint, the island's most well-known viewpoint. From there, you can enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the two bays that form Phi Phi Don, especially at sunset, when the scenery becomes even more beautiful. Entrance to the Viewpoint costs 50 baht per person. Visiting the viewpoint is ideal for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy one of the most panoramic views in Phi Phi.
Location: Koh Phi Phi, Viewpoint 2 | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Longtail Boat Tour with Phi Phi Zum
This is an experience that simply cannot be left out of your itinerary. The longtail boat is unique to Thailand. In Koh Phi Phi, it offers an authentic experience that connects you with the essence of Thailand. Traditionally used by local fishermen for decades, these famous longtail boats have become one of the country's greatest symbols and today offer one of the most beautiful ways to explore the region's paradisiacal islands.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
With their elongated engines, which gave them the name "longtail," these boats can easily navigate shallow waters, hidden beaches, caves, and small islands surrounded by crystal-clear waters. Explore the most beautiful islands and beaches of Koh Phi Phi aboard a traditional longtail boat with the Phi Phi Zum team.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Professional Photography Packages
Phiphizum offers the option of purchasing professional photography packages during the tour. A photographer accompanies you throughout the journey and captures the best moments using professional cameras and drones. You take home a unique souvenir, with edited, high-resolution images. Although a photographer accompanies you during the tour, there are stops where you can enjoy the experience with complete privacy.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Why Choose Phi Phi Zum?
An exclusive and fully personalized experience. You can customize your boat tour according to your preferences, including champagne, a picnic on board, a beach picnic, visits to lesser-known locations, and much more. Everything is designed to make your vacation even more memorable and unique. With a team that knows the entire island, you will be taken to exclusive places at the best times of day, allowing you to make the most of every moment.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
A PhiPhiZum offers several boat options to suit your travel style. Check availability and don't leave this unforgettable experience out of your itinerary!
A Day at Long Beach
Long Beach is considered one of the most beautiful and peaceful beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don. With fine sand, crystal-clear water, and a direct view of Phi Phi Leh, it is the perfect place for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the island's center.
Camera Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
How to Get There? You can walk along the trail, always following the signs and staying close to the coastline toward the pier. Do not follow GPS, as it may direct you to a longer trail. Another option is to take a longtail boat from the pier for THB 100–150. The trail is beautiful and takes approximately 15 minutes.
What to Do There? Snorkel directly from the beach, with coral reefs just a few meters from the shore; Have lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants; Go stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking; Relax on the beach and enjoy the view of Phi Phi Leh.
Drone Photography | Location: Koh Phi Phi | Photographer: Camila Gomes
Nightlife in Koh Phi Phi: What to Do?
Koh Phi Phi offers a lively nightlife scene, with options for all tastes. You can start your evening by enjoying one of the island's many restaurants. They serve not only traditional Thai cuisine but also international dishes. Some of the best-known local restaurants include Garlic 1992, known for its history of being the only restaurant to remain standing after the 2004 tsunami; Fada, which serves excellent traditional food; and my personal favorite, Panoi, a local favorite known for its comforting, home-style food. There are also many restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, including Mediterranean, Italian, Indian, and other international specialties.
After dinner, a classic experience is visiting Reggae Bar, one of the island's most traditional nightlife spots. In addition to watching Muay Thai fights, visitors can voluntarily participate and step into the ring for a fun and unforgettable experience. For those who enjoy dancing and a relaxed atmosphere, Relax Bar is a great option. The venue is well known for its lively atmosphere and musical programming, particularly Latin music, which attracts travelers from different nationalities.
If you're looking for a taste of Brazil, Boteco Brazuca Steakhouse & Bar is a great choice.
In addition to serving Brazilian food and ice-cold beer, the bar offers a pleasant view of the sea, making the experience even more special. To get into the party mood, you can try the famous bucket (the "baldinho da misericórdia"), a bucket filled with different alcoholic drink mixes that is extremely popular among tourists visiting the island. To end the night, head to Loh Dalum Beach, where famous fire shows take place along the beachfront. In addition to the performances, you can often find interactive attractions such as the mechanical bull and the traditional flaming jump-rope challenge, one of the best-known activities in Koh Phi Phi's nightlife. If you're looking for fun, music, great food, and typical island experiences, a night in Koh Phi Phi certainly offers plenty of options to make your trip even more memorable.
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