21 EPIC Things to Do in Phi Phi Island, Thailand (2024)

Wandering what to do in Phi Phi Island? Check out the top 21 things to do in Phi Phi Island on your next trip to Thailand.

If you’re like me and crave stunning beaches and unforgettable parties, Koh Phi Phi should definitely be on your Thailand itinerary.

Sure, Koh Phi Phi is known as a bustling party island, teeming with tourists. But let me tell you, there’s a darn good reason why it’s so popular!

Having been lucky enough to visit twice, I’m thrilled to share the top 21 things to do in Phi Phi Island, from conquering the iconic Koh Phi Phi viewpoint to uncovering hidden gems on your Phi Phi island tour.

So, let’s dive right in and start ticking off Koh Phi Phi from your Thailand bucket list!

Here are the top 21 things to do in Phi Phi Island

Best Things to Do in Phi Phi Island on a Map

Before we get into all the details, here’s a super handy Koh Phi Phi map to guide you through this entire post. I really hope it helps! 

How to use this Koh Phi Phi Map: Click on the icon on the left to see all the different layers. Then, click the share button to make a copy into your own Google Account

A. Take a Phi Phi Island Tour 

Alright, let’s get started with the Phi Phi Island Tour. This boat tour is the absolute highlight of any Koh Phi Phi itinerary, and maybe the very reason you decided to visit Phi Phi Island in the first place, am I right?

Now, if you opt for a private long-tail boat (highly recommended, by the way), I’ve got a few personal favorite spots for your Phi Phi island tour. 

But hey, no stress if your tour skips any of these hidden gems. You can always explore them on your own (think private boat, kayaking, or even a short walk).

For an equally stunning but more budget-friendly experience, consider joining a sunset boat tour.

Take a cue from Charlie at The Break of Dawns who, with some impressive negotiation skills, scored a sunset boat tour for just 500 THB ($15).

Here are my favorite spots on the Phi Phi Island Tour

1. Visit Maya Bay 

Maya Bay is not only one of the most famous beaches in Thailand but perhaps one of the best places to visit in Southeast Asia in 2024.

And you can thank none other than Leonardo DiCaprio’s iconic movie, “The Beach,” for putting it on the map.

Quick heads-up: there’s a small 400 Baht ($12) entry fee to access the Maya Bay National Park, and it’s not usually included in most tours. So, stash some cash before you go!

Not Sure What To Pack To Visit Maya Bay? Check Out My Beach Bag Essentials

Why Was Maya Bay Closed? 

Maya Bay was closed for three and a half years to give coral reefs and marine life in the area the chance to recover from the impact of an overwhelming number of tourists.

Is Maya Bay Still Closed 2024? 

Good news – Maya Bay reopened on January 1, 2022! However, to prevent things from going south again, Thai authorities now close Maya Bay each year during the monsoon season. 

In 2023, Maya Bay was closed from August 1 to October 1, and it is expected to close again in 2024 around the same dates. 

Always double-check if Maya Bay is open before booking your Phi Phi Island Tour

As of January 2024, Maya Bay is open to tourists. But even if you can’t step onto the island, the view from your long-tail boat is absolutely breathtaking!

Travel Tips To Visit Maya Bay in 2024 

When you finally get the chance to visit Maya Bay, keep in mind that boats can’t dock directly in the bay. They’ll guide you to a small platform at Loh Samah Bay. 

A quick 5-minute stroll through the forest gets you to the iconic beach, so consider bringing some type of shoes!

While you cannot swim in Maya Bay to protect the coral marine life, you definitely can walk along the beach and take some stunning photos in the knee-deep water. Plus, with fewer boats around, you might even spot some black-tipped sharks right by the beach!

The boat ride from Phi Phi to Maya Bay takes around 30 minutes. 

Keep in mind that Maya Bay gets super crowded by 10:00 AM, so plan to arrive by 9:00 AM. Trust me, that early wake-up call is absolutely worth it! 

2. See the Monkeys at Monkey Beach 

Next up, another must-see on your Koh Phi Phi checklist – Monkey Beach! True to its name this incredible beach is home to a bunch of playful monkeys.

No guarantees on spotting them, but chances are high! You can find them chilling on the beach, taking a dip, or playing hide-and-seek on the cliffs. 

Cute as they may be, ALWAYS maintain a safe distance from the monkeys and keep an eye on your travel essentials!

Trust me, you don’t want your vacation stories to include a monkey bite or a stolen iPhone! And they do have a knack for unzipping backpacks in search of snacks.

Bonus tip: Monkey Beach is perfect for wildlife photography – have your camera handy!

Read More: How to Prevent your Backpack from Getting Lost or Stolen While Traveling

How To Get To Monkey Beach 

• Phi Phi Island Tour: Almost every Phi Phi boat tour includes a stop at Monkey Beach. This is clearly the easiest way to visit Monkey Beach. 
• Long-tail Boat: You can also hire a private long-tail boat from Tonsai Village or Loh Dalum Beach.
• Kayak: It takes around 30 minutes to kayak to Monkey Beach and costs around 400 THB ($12.70).
• Walking: Unfortunately, it is not possible to walk to Monkey Beach.

Quick advice for solo female travelers – I’d lean towards the longtail boat. Navigating those currents can be quite the challenge, but hey, you know your fitness level better than anyone else!  

My Personal Opinion  – Is Monkey Beach Worth It? 

I honestly have mixed feelings about Monkey Beach. I absolutely loved the playful monkeys and the chance to swim on the beach.

But truth be told, Monkey beach was way too touristy and nowhere near as clean as those Instagram photos might suggest! 

There were so many plastic bottles just lying around, and that’s genuinely harmful to both the environment and the monkeys. 

So, yes, visit Monkey Beach, but dial down those expectations and, above all, be a responsible traveler – pick up after yourself!

3. Swim at Pileh Lagoon

Pileh Lagoon is hands down one of my all-time favorite destinations in Thailand – no kidding, it’s that amazing!

For the best experience, I would suggest you aim to be picked up around 7:30 AM.

Trust me, being in the lagoon by 8:00 AM means you’ll have the entire place to yourself, and the chance to swim in some of the clearest waters I’ve ever witnessed.

Palawan in the Philippines is the only place that even comes close!

Around 8:15 AM, a few more boats may start arriving, so you can move to your next spot in your Phi Phi Island Tour – Maya Bay. 

Just a heads up – as the day rolls on, the lagoon tends to fill up, and some boats might not even have the chance to stop for a swim! 

Read Next: 10 Irresistible Reasons to Visit Thailand in 2024

4. Explore Viking Cave

Viking Cave is another must-see on any Phi Phi Island itinerary. Now, don’t let the name fool you – Viking Cave isn’t famous for its ancient warriors or ships, but rather for its swiftlet birds’ nests! 

Believe it or not, these nests, made with the bird’s saliva, are among the world’s most sought-after ingredients. They are the key element in the Chinese delicacy, bird’s-nest soup.

Although tourists can’t step into the cave where locals gather these nests, we can witness their dangerous climb from the safety of our long-tail boat.

The Phi Phi Island tour usually slows down at this point, making sure we don’t miss this incredible sight. And if you’re up for it, there might even be a chance for some snorkeling at Viking Cave!

5. Relax at Bamboo Island

Koh Pai, or Bamboo Island, is a small heart-shaped island, located just around five kilometers northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don.

There’s not much to do on Bamboo Island, but let me tell you, the snorkeling is fantastic. Yes, you can absolutely swim in its crystal-clear waters, and there’s a cute little bar on the island if you want a cold drink.

Just a heads up, Bamboo Island is a popular lunch spot for many Phi Phi Island tours, so it can get a bit crowded.

Quick tip: that 400 THB entry fee to the national park? It covers both Bamboo Island and Maya Bay. So, if you’re planning to explore both in one day, no need to pay twice. 

Related Post: How to Travel Asia with Cash – 15 Expert Money Management Tips

6. Snorkel at Mosquito Island

Mosquito Island is, without a doubt, one of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand. 

To be honest, I was not expecting much when I dived in but was pleasantly surprised with all the colorful fish darting in and out of stunning coral formations.

And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, I spotted two small sharks, each about a meter and a half long! It was truly one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life!

Now, despite its name, dealing with mosquitoes on Mosquito Island is only common after dusk. Still, having a bit of insect repellent in your bag won’t hurt, just in case.

7. Visit Long Beach

Long Beach is my go-to Koh Phi Phi beach for a relaxing morning by the sea, whether I want to soak up the sun or get lost in the pages of a good book.

 Long Beach Phi Phi is also a fantastic spot for swimming and even a bit of snorkeling!

When you’re ready for a break, Long Beach stands out as the only beach on the Phi Phi Island Tour with facilities like bathrooms, restaurants, and even sunbeds you can rent for the day. 

Trust me, Long Beach might just be the best part of Phi Phi Island to stay if you want to avoid the craziness of the Phi Phi Island nightlife.

How Do You Get to Long Beach on Koh Phi Phi?

• Option 1: The easiest way to reach Long Beach is to book a long-tail boat or a water taxi from Tonsai Village. In just a few minutes, you’ll find yourself there for around 100-200 baht per person. 
• Option 2: If you’re up for some exercise and breathtaking views, opt for the scenic 25-minute walk along the coastline. It´s well-signposted and offers plenty of spots for photos.

 Yes, there’s a bit of a steep descent at the end, but there are ropes on either side to help you – trust me, it’s a hundred percent worth it!

Travel Tip: If you plan to return after sunset, don’t forget to bring along some insect repellent.

B. Hike the Phi Phi Viewpoint

If you’re in Koh Phi Phi and craving a bit of adventure paired with a breathtaking view, you NEED to hike the Phi Phi Viewpoint. 

Trust me, it’s not only one of the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi but also one of the most Instagrammable places in Thailand.

And yes, the Phi Phi viewpoint is as stunning as it looks, though much more crowded.

How To Get To Phi Phi Island Viewpoint 

Believe it or not, there are actually three different viewpoints in Koh Phi Phi, but you can conquer them all on a single hike.

Start in Tonsai Village (by the Blue Monkey Hostel) and follow the signs for “Phi Phi Viewpoint 1” and “Tsunami Evacuation Route”. Find the exact location here

This hike only takes about 10 minutes, but be ready for some steep stairs. At the top, grab tickets for both Phi Phi Viewpoint 1 & 2.

Though the first viewpoint might seem a bit too touristy, with its colorful flowers and sculptures, don´t stop there – the higher you go, the more mind-blowing the views become! 

Visit Phi Phi Viewpoint 2 & 3

From there, another 10- minute walk takes you to Phi Phi Viewpoint 2. Here, large boulders offer the perfect spot to watch the sunset, along with a wooden viewing platform for those Instagram-worthy photos. 

Most visitors stop at these two viewpoints but hey, if you’ve got the energy, follow the signs for an extra 10 minutes to reach the rugged path of Phi Phi Viewpoint 3.

 Trust me; the panoramic view of Phi Phi Don is worth every step.

Travel Tips For Hiking The Phi Phi Viewpoint 

• Bring Cash: Admission costs 30 THB ($0.85) per person for Phi Phi Viewpoint 1 & 2, and 20 THB ($0.56) for Viewpoint 3. 
• Stay Hydrated: Carry plenty of water for the hike, as it can get quite hot. At Viewpoint 2, you’ll find a small bar and two cafes offering cold drinks and snacks. No alcohol is allowed on the viewpoints.
• Take it Easy: Climbing to the top might require a few deep breaths, but anyone can do it. It’s not that hard. If I can tackle it, so can you! 
• Essentials to Bring: your camera or smartphone, sunscreen, insect repellent and appropriate shoes (Some people do it in flip-flops, but I wouldn’t risk it) 
• Take It All In: Once you reach the viewpoints, take a moment to simply soak in the beauty around you. It’s not just about the pictures – it’s about the experience.

When to Visit Phi Phi Viewpoint

Phi Phi Viewpoint is hands down one of the best places in Koh Phi Phi to watch the sunset. However, it’s no secret, so be prepared for a large crowd.

Here’s my unpopular opinion: visit during off-peak hours. This could mean catching a breathtaking sunrise at 5 o’clock in the morning or tackling the trail in the midday heat. It’s a bit of a trade-off, but totally worth it for me. 

Always check the weather forecast before heading out; you don’t want to be caught on the mountain during a thunderstorm!

Also Read: 25 Essential Travel Apps You Can´t Travel Southeast Asia Without

How Long Does It Take to Walk the Phi Phi Viewpoint?

It takes about 30 minutes to walk from the bottom (Tonsai Village) to Phi Phi Viewpoint 3 if you go non-stop.

But let’s be honest, you’ll want to stop for pictures and soak in the views, so plan for a solid 1 to 1.5 hours.

And one last thing, don’t linger once the sun sets – you’ve still got to make your way down!

C. Water Activities in Phi Phi Island

1. Scuba Diving in Phi Phi Island 

Thinking about scuba diving in Phi Phi? I totally get it! If you’re already a certified diver, Phi Phi has got some epic diving spots waiting for you!

Madison from Madison Footsteps booked two morning dives with Princess Divers for just 2300 TBH ($70) and managed to see both Blacktip reef sharks and Hawksbill turtles. How cool is that?

Now, if you’re new to scuba diving, take the plunge with a discovery dive in Koh Phi Phi. 

But, here’s my tip: for the full PADI certification, keep it in your travel bucket list and head over to Koh Tao – the cheapest place to get scuba certified in Thailand.

That’s my plan for my upcoming Southeast Asia trip! 

2. Snorkeling in Phi Phi Island

Snorkeling is one of the best things to do in Phi Phi Island. It’s not just budget-friendly but perfect for all skill levels. 

Whether you’re hopping on a Phi Phi island tour, exploring Mosquito and Bamboo Island or renting your own snorkel gear, the experience is sure to be unforgettable. 

Don’t forget to pack your underwater camera – you’ll want to capture every moment!

Related Post: 10 Reasons to Stay Connected While Traveling

3. Kayaking in Phi Phi Island 

Ready for an adventure? Kayaking in Koh Phi Phi is your ticket to escape the crowds and discover Thailand’s hidden gems!

With several rental options on both sides of the island, I’d suggest launching from Loh Dalum Bay – it’s closer to Monkey Beach! 

You can opt for a guided tour or rent your own kayak, which costs around 150-200 THB per hour and allows you to be much more flexible. Just keep an eye on the weather and tide schedule!

Laura from Mike and Laura recommends kayaking around the northern and eastern coast of Koh Phi Phi, with pit stops at Nui Bay, Loh Lana Bay and Phak Nam Bay.

D. Things to Do in Phi Phi Island at Night

1. Watch a Fire Show at the Beach

After dinner, head over to Loh Dalum Beach to experience the famous Phi Phi fire show – an absolute blast and one of the most unique things to do in Koh Phi Phi.

There’s no entry fee, but you might need to order a cold beer or a local cocktail to get a spot on the plastic chairs near the stage. Also, arrive early unless you’re okay with sitting on the sand. 

What Time Do Fire Shows Start in Phi Phi Island?

My top pick is the Phi Phi fire show at Slinky Bar, starting daily at 8:30 and keeping you entertained for about an hour.

I loved the music and the interactive performances, including lighting customers’ cigarettes, fire-eating, and fire-throwing.

Around 10 pm, there’s another spectacular fire show right on the beach in front of Carlito’s Bar, near Tonsai Bay.

Travel Tip: Keep an eye out for the mesmerizing spiral in the sea that marks the end of the show! 

2. Try a Bucket of Alcohol 

Phi Phi Island nightlife is legendary, and there’s a traveler’s rite of passage – drinking from a bucket! 

Yep, you read it right – I mean enjoying  your favorite drink from those colorful plastic toy buckets kids play with at the beach.

These buckets are usually quite cheap (150-200 THB) and pack a punch, so one is usually all it takes for a fantastic night out. 

The best part? You can grab a bucket and take it with you to the beach! It’s a great way to save money while traveling on a budget!

Travel Tip: always keep an eye on your drink – because, even in a party island like Koh Phi Phi, safety comes first! 

Read More: 40 Safety Items for Solo Female Travelers in 2024

3. Join a Muay Thai Fight at Reggae Bar

Joining a Muay Thai Fight at the Reggae Bar is hands down one of the most unique and thrilling things to do in Phi Phi Island.

The folks at Reggae Bar actively encourage tourists to step into the ring for a friendly (or not-so-friendly) fight with friends or even strangers.

If luck is on your side, you might even catch some thrilling fights featuring Muay Thai pros.

Don’t worry – they provide all the necessary protective gear. And, just for jumping into the action, you’ll get a free bucket of alcohol!

The excitement kicks off from 9 pm onwards each night, starting with relatively mild matches and gradually cranking up the intensity as the evening progresses

Quick tip: Before you decide to throw those punches, make sure the alcohol hasn’t thrown you off balance!

4. Party at the Beach in Phi Phi island

Phi Phi Island is undeniably a party island. Missing out on Phi Phi island nightlife? Not an option!

From my perspective, each night followed a somewhat similar pattern.

Start with a fire show at the beach, hop around the lively bars in town (Irish Bar or Reggae Bar, perhaps?), and round off  the night with the beach parties on Loh Dalum Beach.

I had so much fun, but let’s face it, two nights of these wild parties were more than enough for someone like me, sadly no longer 18.

Experience Phi Phi Island Nightlife

My favorite party spot in Phi Phi Island was, once again, Slinky´s Bar. After the incredible fire show, it offered fantastic music, cheap drinks and even a mechanical bull ride for just 100 THB. 

To give you a taste of the madness at Koh Phi Phi beach bars: you can get a free shot every time you limbo under a flaming bar or, for the bold, land a free bucket by doing it topless (for ladies) or entirely bare (for guys). 

A bit of advice: Go easy on those buckets before attempting the flaming jump rope – your back will thank you!

Travel Tips to Enjoy Phi Phi Island Nightlife

• Party Hours: The parties typically start around 11 pm and continue until almost 2 am.
• Noise Level: Loh Dalum Beach can get wild and loud. Something to consider when choosing where to stay in Koh Phi Phi.
• Low Tide: Loh Dalum Beach experiences one of the lowest tides I´ve ever seen, offering a unique opportunity to dance in the water and stroll out to the boats.
• Footwear Dilemma: Dancing in flip-flops on the sandy floor is nearly impossible. It’s better to go barefoot to avoid losing your flip-flops forever.

5. Dance at the Ibiza Pool Party

If you’re up for some serious fun, the Ibiza Pool Party is an absolute must on your Phi Phi Island Itinerary! 

This popular party happens at Ibiza Hostel every Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, kicking off from 1 PM and lasting until 9 PM.

Trust me, it’s not just a party; it’s a fantastic opportunity to make new friends, challenge someone to a game of beer pong, and enjoy some budget-friendly drinks. Easily ranking as one of the best things to do in Phi Phi Island

Travel Tip: Consider staying at Ibiza Hostel for a single night. Then, on the following day, you can always move to a more laid-back hotel for some well-deserved rest.

E. Other Things to Do in Phi Phi Island

1. Enjoy a Traditional Thai Massage

During my last Southeast Asia trip, I couldn’t resist indulging in a traditional Thai massage.

 As expected, it was undeniably intense and somewhat uncomfortable, but the relief it brought to every tired muscle made it absolutely worthwhile.

I can’t recall the exact price I paid, but Alika from Alika In Wonderlust snagged a full one-hour massage at Mandarin Massage Phi Phi for just 200 baht. 

Now, there are plenty of Thai massage parlors in Koh Phi Phi – The Pier Massage, Baan Sabai Thai Massage, Apple’s Thai Massage, to name a few. 

Travel Tip: For a more relaxing experience, go for a massage that uses essential oils. 

2. Take a Thai Cooking Class

If you are exploring Thailand, you´ve got to take a Thai cooking class. 

It’s not only the perfect introduction to Thai cuisine but also a fantastic chance to get familiar with common Thai ingredients.

In these classes, you’ll learn how to make the most popular Thai dishes like Pad Thai, Thai green curry, or even mango sticky rice. 

Honestly, based on my own fantastic experience, I’d steer you toward a Thai cooking class in Chiang Mai (shoutout to Zabb e Lee Thai Cooking School—I absolutely loved it).

However, opting for one in Koh Phi Phi is still a fantastic option, especially on a rainy day or when heading north isn’t feasible.

3. Shop at Tonsai Village 

Tonsai Village is the narrow stretch of land linking Ton Sai Bay (where your boat docks) to Loh Dalum Bay (home to many party hostels in Koh Phi Phi).

This area is packed with everything you need for a fantastic time – bars, tattoo parlors, tourist kiosks, you name it.

Believe me, with shops practically on top of each other, the only real challenge is finding the same one again in all the chaos. 

In the morning, things mellow out a bit as most tourists are either off on a Phi Phi Island tour or recovering from the previous night’s hangover.

And don’t worry, shops stay open until late at night!

4. Get a Tattoo in Koh Phi Phi

If you want a lasting memory from your Thailand adventure, you should consider getting a tattoo on Phi Phi Island.

While my friend bravely went for it, I hesitated at the last minute and opted for a beautiful bracelet instead.

Travel Tip: Maybe avoid the tattoo parlor after a few buckets. I mean, getting a matching tattoo with a random guy might sound great at night, but you could wake up with some regrets.

What to Do in Phi Phi Island for 3 Days

Now that we’ve covered the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi, let’s create an epic 3-day Koh Phi Phi itinerary to make your trip truly unforgettable. 

Remember, it’s your adventure – feel free to adapt, tweak, and adjust based on your travel style and personal preferences.

Arrive from Krabi to Phi Phi – Day 1

• Check into your Phi Phi Island accommodation
• Book your Phi Phi Island tour for the next day
• Relax at the beach or rent a kayak to Nui Bay 
• Catch the sunset at “The Only Bar”

Explore Phi Phi Island – Day 2

• Embark on the Phi Phi Island tour
• In the afternoon, hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint or visit Long Beach
• Have dinner at Garlic 1992

Head from Phi Phi to Phuket – Day 3

• Explore any remaining activities from the previous day
• Join the Ibiza Pool Party (check the dates!) 

Every Night: Choose Your Adventure!

• Watch the Phi Phi Fire Show at Slinky’s or Carlito’s
• Witness a Muay Thai Fight at Reggae Bar
• Enjoy live music at Kong Siam Bar
• Party the night away at Slinky’s

Ready to Visit Thailand?

There you have it—my top 20 things to do in Phi Phi Island!

Now, tell me, what would you add to my Koh Phi Phi itinerary? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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