15 Best Things to Do in Phi Phi Island, Thailand

Phi Phi Island needs no introduction, but I’ll give it one anyway. Often splashed across postcards and travel feeds, this small cluster of islands in the Andaman Sea is just as stunning in real life as the photos suggest.

Think limestone cliffs shooting out of turquoise water, white sand beaches tucked away in coves, and a laid-back vibe that hits as soon as you step off the boat.

But what many travelers don’t realize is that Phi Phi Island isn’t just a quick day trip. It’s also a place worth slowing down for.

Whether you’re hiking to panoramic viewpoints, snorkeling with reef fish, or catching a beach fire show under the stars.

And unlike other parts of Thailand, Phi Phi is car-free. You’ll walk, boat, kayak, or swim your way through this island, and honestly? That’s part of what makes it feel like a remote escape.

This guide covers the best things to do in Phi Phi Island, from iconic must-dos to lesser-known gems. Whether you’re spending a few nights or just passing through the island on Thailand itinerary, these ideas will help you make the most of your time here.

Hike Up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint (Viewpoint 1, 2 & 3)

If there’s one view that defines Phi Phi Island, it’s the iconic double-bay panorama seen from the island’s viewpoints.

The hike to the top takes you through a tropical path shaded by trees, with a few steps and inclines that’ll get your heart rate up, but the reward is more than worth it.

There are actually three viewpoints, each offering a slightly different perspective. Viewpoint 1 is the quickest to reach and has a small cafe and sitting area.

Viewpoints 2 and 3 take a bit longer, but they’re quieter and offer an even more dramatic view of the island’s unique hourglass shape.

The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon when the heat isn’t as intense and the lighting is perfect for photos.

This is my favorite activity on the island, and something most people on day tours miss out on. Tour don’t stay long enough for travelers to experience the hike, which is a shame.

From the top, you’ll get sweeping views of both bays, with massive limestone cliffs framing the island in every direction. 

Sunset at Loh Dalum Bay

If you’re staying on Phi Phi Don, one of the easiest and most beautiful ways to end your day is by heading to Loh Dalum Bay for sunset.

This wide bay sits opposite the main Tonsai Pier area and faces west, which means golden hour views are a nightly event.

As the sun begins to dip, the whole bay lights up with a warm, golden glow. Locals and travelers alike start to gather, some sitting right on the sand with drinks in hand, others swimming or wading in the shallow waters as the sky changes color.

It’s relaxed and scenic, with longtail boats bobbing in the distance and the dramatic silhouette of limestone cliffs framing the horizon. No ticket, no tour, no plan, just show up and soak in the moment.

Snorkel Off Ao Nui or Loh Sama Bay

Snorkeling in Phi Phi is something you really shouldn’t miss, especially at Ao Nui or Loh Sama Bay.

These are two of the most beautiful spots around the island for coral reefs and crystal-clear water. By the way I recommend bringing a quick dry towel for your

The visibility is usually great, and you’ll find plenty of colorful reef life below the surface.

Perfect for anyone who wants to spend a bit of time floating, exploring, and just soaking in the beauty of the sea. If you’re into snorkeling, this is where you want to be.

Take a Longtail Boat Tour Around Phi Phi Leh

An absolute must-do while in Phi Phi is taking a traditional longtail boat around Phi Phi Leh, the smaller, uninhabited sister island just south of the main one.

This is where you’ll find emerald lagoons, dramatic limestone cliffs, and hidden coves that are only accessible by boat.

One of the highlights is a stop at the iconic lagoon near Phi Phi Leh, where the water turns an unreal shade of turquoise and the cliffs rise steeply on all sides.

It’s not far from Maya Bay, so most tours include both on the same route, which makes the whole trip even more worthwhile.

You’ll glide across still waters, snap surreal photos, and get a firsthand look at why Phi Phi’s beauty is world-famous.

Explore the Maya Bay Beach

Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s heavily photographed. But guess what? Maya Bay is that beautiful, and there’s a reason it’s on the cover of half the Thailand postcards you’ve seen.

First made famous by the film The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio, this stretch of white sand and towering cliffs became an icon overnight.

Seeing it in person is something else. The water is ridiculously clear, the setting is cinematic, and it’s hard to believe a place this surreal actually exists.

Keep in mind: Maya Bay is periodically closed during off-seasons sometimes to protect its ecosystem, and even when open, visitors can only wade up to their knees to help preserve the coral.

Still, it’s an absolute bucket list stop, and one of those “wow” moments that stick with you long after the trip ends.

Try a Sunset Cruise Around the Islands

Watching the sunset in Thailand is always special, but doing it from a boat in the Phi Phi Islands? Next level.

A sunset cruise lets you wind down after a day of exploring, with nothing but ocean breeze, glowing skies, and the silhouette of limestone cliffs on the horizon.

There’s just something about seeing the fiery colors of the sky reflect on the water, with the iconic cliffs of Krabi’s region framing the whole view.

It’s the kind of ending that ties your whole island day together. Trust me, this is one of those must-do experiences that turns into a core memory, especially after a long day of adventure.

Visit the Phi Phi Market in Tonsai

If you’re exploring the center of Phi Phi, don’t skip the local market near Tonsai. It’s not massive, but it’s buzzing with energy and full of character.

You’ll find everything from handmade crafts and colorful beachwear to fun souvenirs, fresh fruit shakes, grilled meats, and of course, mango sticky rice.

It’s a mix of locals and travelers, with small shops and food stalls lining the narrow paths.

Whether you’re after a sarong, a cheap pair of flip-flops, or just want to wander with a snack in hand, it’s an easy, low-effort way to soak up the island atmosphere.

Kayak Along the Coastline

Paddling along the coastline is one of the most scenic ways to appreciate the limestone beauty surrounding Phi Phi.

Whether you’re going solo or with a friend, kayaking offers you front-row views of towering karsts, quiet coves, and emerald waters.

And here’s the part that stays with you: seeing the dramatic cliffs from water level is simply unforgettable.

You’re not just sightseeing, you’re in it. As someone who’s done this a few times, I can say with confidence, it’s one of those peaceful, yet epic memories that’ll stick with you.\

Visit Monkey Beach

Monkey Beach is exactly what it sounds like, a tropical shoreline where monkeys roam freely, steal the spotlight, and definitely aren’t shy about saying hello.

It’s one of those “only in Thailand” experiences that sticks with you. Many Phi Phi boat tours stop here (though not all actually let you get off anymore, due to monkeys being too interactive with tourists sometimes).

Just know this: the monkeys are bold. If you’re holding snacks or even a plastic bag, expect some interaction, the kind that might leave you laughing or nervously backing up.

Some tours only cruise past the beach now to keep the peace, but even from the boat, seeing wild monkeys on a jungle-backed beach feels like a scene out of a movie.

Either way, it’s a tropical experience that captures the wild charm of Phi Phi.

Escape to Long Beach

If you’re feeling like the main beaches of Tonsai aren’t exactly showstoppers, you’re not wrong.

That’s why a quick longtail taxi ride over to Long Beach is worth every baht. This beach is everything you imagine a Thai island beach to be: soft sand, turquoise water, and much fewer people.

It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing away from the more crowded central spots.

And yep, the sand here really is powdery soft, exactly what people picture when they dream of paradise. Just make sure to bring a quick-dry towel and check out this guide on what to pack for Thailand so you’re prepped for long beach days like this.

Watch Fire Shows on the Beach at Night

As the sun sets and the sky fades into stars, Phi Phi’s beach bars transform into a laid-back party scene with one standout feature: fire shows.

These performances aren’t just a tourist gimmick, they’re wildly entertaining, with skilled performers spinning flaming poi, breathing fire, and pulling off tricks right on the sand.

You’ll often catch these shows while you’re already enjoying a drink or two with your feet in the sand.

The combo of some music, tropical breeze, and fiery stunts makes for an easy highlight of the night.

Experience the Phi Phi Party Scene

Phi Phi has built a reputation for its vibrant party scene, especially among backpackers.

Whether it’s beach bars pumping music until late, hostel events that turn into dance parties, or just the overall vibe of the island, it’s one of the best places in Thailand to let loose.

Most of the party action centers around Tonsai, with bar crawls, neon paint, buckets of drinks, and new friends made nightly.

It’s not the kind of place you need to plan your night, the party tends to find you.

Day Trip to Bamboo Island

Bamboo Island (Ko Mai Phai) is one of those picture-perfect islets that looks like it was made for a postcard.

Just a 30-minute longtail boat ride from Phi Phi Don, it offers that idyllic escape many travelers are chasing in Thailand, soft white sand, turquoise waters, and a peaceful vibe that feels worlds away from the busier beaches.

The island is mostly undeveloped, so don’t expect shops or beach bars, just a few shaded spots, a ranger station, and endless stretches of calm, clear water.

It’s the perfect place to lay out a towel, snorkel off the shore, and soak up that quiet island energy.

Bamboo Island is often bundled into tours that include Maya Bay and other stops around Phi Phi Leh, but not always.

But honestly, it’s best to visit this island by longtail boat taxi without a tour so you can take your time here and have a beach day!

Go Diving — Even If You’re a Beginner

Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most popular dive spots, and the good news is you don’t need to be a pro to enjoy it.

There are tons of dive schools on the island offering beginner-friendly options, including discovery dives and certification courses.

Underwater, the marine life is vibrant and the visibility can be impressive, especially around sites like Bida Nok or Hin Klang.

If you’ve ever been curious about diving, this is one of the best places to give it a try.

Treat Yourself to a Thai Massage

After a full day of beach-hopping, snorkeling, or just baking in the sun, there’s really no better way to wind down than a Thai massage.

You’ll find massage shops all around Tonsai offering everything from traditional Thai stretching massages to oil massages and foot treatments.

Personally, a Thai massage is how I end most of my active island days. It’s both relaxing and re-energizing, and a perfect cherry on top to a day in paradise.

I slow travel myself and spend one to three months a year in Thailand, massages are a weekly or twice a week thing for me, nothing beats a good Thai massage!

Best Hotels in Phi Phi Island

With Phi Phi Island’s growing popularity, it’s no surprise the island is packed with a wide range of hotels, from beachside luxury stays to budget hostels right in the heart of the action.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet escape or a place close to the nightlife, there’s something here for everyone.

That said, if you’re planning to visit during high season in Krabi (December through March), book ahead for availability and to save on your trip costs to Thailand.

The earlier, the better, not only do prices rise the closer you get, but availability for top picks goes fast, especially if you have specific preferences.

Luxury Stays on Phi Phi Island

• Outrigger Phi Phi Island Resort – A relaxed beachfront resort with tropical bungalows, an outdoor pool, and access to diving, snorkeling, and kayaking.

• SAii Phi Phi Island Village – Tucked into a private bay with spacious bungalows and an infinity pool facing the sea.

Mid-Range Accommodations

• Phi Phi Natural Resort – A peaceful beachfront resort on Laem Tong Beach, offering private bungalows surrounded by lush gardens and direct access to snorkeling and a quiet beach.

• Phi Phi Erawan Resort – A laid-back escape on Laem Tong Beach featuring cozy bungalows, friendly service, and direct beach access perfect for a peaceful island stay.

Budget-Friendly Hotels & Hostels

• Blanco Beach Bar – A beachfront hostel popular with party-goers and solo travelers.

• The Pier 519 Hostel – Right near the pier, it’s convenient, clean, and well-rated by budget travelers.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in Phi Phi Island

Phi Phi Island really is one of those places that delivers on the postcard-perfect promise, the cliffs, the clear turquoise waters, the little walking streets, and the beach bars that come alive at night.

Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint, snorkeling around coral reefs, or catching a fire show by the water, this island makes its mark.

That said, if it’s your first time in Thailand and Phi Phi isn’t part of your itinerary, it’ll feel like something’s missing. Before you plan, it’s worth brushing up on a few travel tips for Thailand to make the most of your trip.

This island is one of those iconic places that defines the dreamy vision many of us have when we start planning a trip to Thailand.

The kind of spot you imagine during those late-night planning sessions, browsing through photos of longtail boats and limestone cliffs.

One of the most common questions people have is whether to visit Phi Phi on a day tour or actually stay overnight.

Tours from Phuket or Krabi are extremely popular, and if you’re short on time, they’re convenient. You’ll hit Maya Bay, cruise around the cliffs, and check off a few highlights. It’s fun, it’s efficient, but let’s be honest, it’s also rushed.

If you really want to experience Phi Phi, don’t just tour it, stay here. Spend at least one or two nights.

Walk the village, grab mango sticky rice at the market, wake up for that sunrise hike, and chill at the quieter beaches once the day tours leave. That’s when the island slows down and reveals its magic, something the day-trippers will never get to see.

And here’s a smart tip: if you’re in Thailand for 15 days or more, use Phi Phi as a launchpad. The island is perfectly situated between Phuket and Krabi, making it a natural stopover.

Whether you’re heading from one side to the other, it’s easy to slot in a night or two and absolutely worth it.