Koh Phi Phi
เกาะพีพี · Krabi Province
Population
3K
Budget / Month
$694
Internet
25 Mbps
Best Season
November to April (dry season, calm seas)
About Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is arguably Thailand's most iconic island destination. The archipelago consists of six islands, with Koh Phi Phi Don being the only inhabited one and Koh Phi Phi Leh housing the world-famous Maya Bay. The view from the Phi Phi Viewpoint — looking down at the narrow isthmus connecting two bays flanked by soaring limestone cliffs — is one of the most photographed scenes in Southeast Asia.
Tonsai Village on the narrow isthmus is a dense maze of hotels, bars, restaurants, and dive shops. There are no cars or motorbikes in the village — everything is on foot. Beach bars pump music late into the night and fire shows are a nightly ritual. This is firmly a party destination for the 18-30 crowd.
But Phi Phi is more than its party scene. The limestone cliffs are genuinely spectacular, the water ranges from emerald to turquoise, and diving is excellent. Long Beach and Laem Tong offer quieter alternatives. Maya Bay has reopened with visitor caps and no swimming, and remains breathtaking.
Historical Note
Koh Phi Phi was devastated by the 2004 tsunami and completely rebuilt. Maya Bay gained worldwide fame from the 2000 film 'The Beach' and was closed 2018-2022 for environmental recovery. The island is now one of Thailand's most visited destinations.
Best time to visit: November to April (dry season, calm seas)
At a Glance
Thai Name
เกาะพีพี
Province
Krabi
Region
Southern
Population
3,000
Area
12.25 km²
Elevation
186 m
Postal Code
81000
Airport
KBV
Local Language
Thai
Cost of Living
budget
/month25,000 THB
~$694 USD
comfortable
/month57,500 THB
~$1,597 USD
luxury
/month105,000 THB
~$2,917 USD
food
| Item | Low (THB) | High (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Street food meal | 80 | 150 |
| Restaurant meal | 150 | 300 |
| Western restaurant meal | 250 | 500 |
| Coffee (cafe) | 40 | 120 |
| Beer (bar) | 100 | 180 |
| Cocktail bucket | 200 | 400 |
| Water bottle (1.5L) | 20 | 30 |
accommodation
| Item | Low (THB) | High (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Hostel dorm bed | 300 | 600 |
| Basic hotel | 600 | 1,500 |
| Beachfront resort | 4,000 | 10,000 |
transport
| Item | Low (THB) | High (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Longtail boat (private, half day) | 1,500 | 3,000 |
entertainment
| Item | Low (THB) | High (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Maya Bay tour (half day) | 800 | 1,500 |
| Dive trip (2 dives) | 2,500 | 3,500 |
| PADI Open Water course | 12,000 | 15,000 |
| National park fee | 400 | 400 |
Internet & Connectivity
Speed Test Averages
vs Bangkok Average (200 Mbps)
13% of Bangkok speed
Providers
Coworking Spaces
0
Weather & Climate
November to April for dry season and calm seas. December to February is peak and very crowded. November and March-April are better sweet spots. May to October brings monsoon rains.
| Month | High °C | Low °C | Rain (mm) | Humidity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 32 | 23 | 25 | 72% |
| Feb | 33 | 23 | 15 | 70% |
| Mar | 34 | 24 | 40 | 72% |
| Apr | 34 | 25 | 120 | 76% |
| May | 33 | 25 | 310 | 84% |
| Jun | 32 | 25 | 280 | 82% |
| Jul | 31 | 25 | 290 | 82% |
| Aug | 31 | 25 | 280 | 82% |
| Sep | 31 | 24 | 350 | 85% |
| Oct | 31 | 24 | 330 | 85% |
| Nov | 31 | 24 | 170 | 78% |
| Dec | 31 | 23 | 60 | 74% |
Things to Do
Maya Bay
อ่าวมาหยา
The famous beach from 'The Beach' movie on Koh Phi Phi Leh. Towering limestone cliffs enclose perfect turquoise water. No swimming allowed.
Phi Phi Viewpoint
Climb steep stairs for 20-30 minutes to the viewpoint overlooking both bays and the narrow isthmus. One of Thailand's most photographed views.
Pileh Lagoon
Enclosed turquoise lagoon on Koh Phi Phi Leh with crystal-clear water. Swim and snorkel surrounded by sheer cliffs.
Scuba Diving
Excellent dive sites including Shark Point with leopard sharks, plus world-class advanced diving at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang.
Beach Fire Shows
Nightly fire dancing, skipping ropes, and limbo contests on Loh Dalum Beach. A free Phi Phi institution.
Long Beach
หาดยาว
A quieter beach south of Tonsai with better snorkeling and fewer crowds. The peaceful alternative to the party scene.
Food & Dining
-
Seafood BBQ on the Beach
Grilled fish, prawns, and squid displayed on ice at beachfront restaurants. Touristy but atmospheric with the sound of waves.
200-500
Beachfront restaurants on Tonsai and Long Beach
โรตี
Roti Pancakes
Sweet roti with banana, egg, and condensed milk from stalls in the Tonsai market area.
30-60
Tonsai market area stalls
-
Smoothie Bowls
Acai and tropical fruit smoothie bowls catering to the wellness and backpacker crowd. Several cafes specialize in these.
120-200
Health cafes in Tonsai Village
ผัดไทย
Pad Thai
Available everywhere at varying quality. Marked up from mainland prices but still a reliable option.
80-150
Food stalls near Tonsai pier
Night Markets
- Tonsai Village market area
Accommodation
Hostel Dorm
300 - 600
THB / night
Budget Hotel
600 - 1,500
THB / night
Mid-Range
1,500 - 4,000
THB / night
Luxury
10,000 - 25,000
THB / night
Studio /mo
15,000 - 30,000
THB / night
1BR /mo
20,000 - 40,000
THB / night
Best Areas for Tourists
Best Areas for Long Stay
Booking Tip
Tonsai Village is loud until 2-3 AM. Stay at Long Beach or Laem Tong if you want to sleep. Prices spike at Christmas/New Year — book months ahead.
Getting There from Bangkok
Krabi Airport
Airport Code: KBV
Flight to Krabi + ferry
1.5 hours flight + 1.5-2 hours ferry
3,000-5,500 THB
Flight to Phuket + ferry
1.5 hours flight + 1.5-2 hours ferry
3,500-6,000 THB
Ferry from Koh Lanta
1-1.5 hours
400-500 THB
Getting Around
Walking
WidespreadNo vehicles in Tonsai Village. Everything is walkable on sandy paths.
Free
Longtail boat
WidespreadWater taxi to Long Beach, Laem Tong, and other beaches.
100-300
Neighborhoods
Tonsai Village
High-energy beach party mazeThe main hub on the narrow isthmus. Dense and bustling with shops, bars, dive shops, and budget accommodation. Very loud at night.
Best for: Backpackers and party-goers
Long Beach (Hat Yao)
Relaxed beach retreatSouth of Tonsai, a short longtail ride or hike away. Better snorkeling, nicer sand, quieter atmosphere with mid-range to upscale resorts.
Best for: Those wanting beauty without noise
Festivals & Events
New Year's Eve Beach Party
Massive beach countdown party on Loh Dalum. The island is packed beyond capacity with fireworks and celebrations.
Nightly Fire Shows
Not a festival but a nightly tradition on Loh Dalum Beach with fire dancing and audience participation.
Practical Info
Hospital
Small clinic in Tonsai; serious cases evacuated to Krabi or Phuket hospitals
Best SIM Provider
AIS
ATM Availability
Common
Language Tip
Good English in tourist businesses. Phi Phi is one of the more English-friendly islands in Thailand.
Drinking Water
Do not drink tap water. Bottled water available everywhere.
Tipping Culture
Not expected but common at bars
7-Eleven Density
Common
Emergency Numbers
Tourist police 1155, Emergency 191
Day Trips
Maya Bay / Koh Phi Phi Leh
The iconic bay with Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and the famous beach. Half-day or full-day tours by longtail or speedboat.
Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)
Flat coral island with white sand and excellent snorkeling in shallow, clear water.
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maya Bay worth it?
Yes, despite crowds. The bay is genuinely spectacular with towering limestone cliffs and turquoise water. Go early on the first boat. Swimming is no longer allowed.
Is Phi Phi just a party island?
Tonsai Village is. But Long Beach, Laem Tong, and the surrounding waters offer beautiful natural experiences. Stay outside Tonsai for peace.
Is it too crowded?
December to February can feel overwhelming. November, March, and April are better. Island hopping tours are always busy.
Is it safe?
Generally safe from crime. Alcohol-related accidents are the biggest risk. Drink moderately, do not swim at night, watch belongings. Get travel insurance.
How long should I stay?
Two to three nights is typical. One day for Maya Bay, one for diving or beach time, one evening for the party if interested.
Is it suitable for families?
Not in Tonsai Village. Long Beach or Laem Tong resorts are family-friendly with calm water and quieter atmospheres.