3 Days Itinerary for Koh Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
Are you planning to visit Koh Phi Phi? My complete itinerary for 3 days in Koh Phi Phi Island has everything you need!
I’ve included everything you need to know for your first visit to Koh Phi Phi Island: how to get there, the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi Islands, the lively nightlife, where to stay, and many restaurant recommendations, too!
The Phi Phi Islands, pronounced “Pee-Pee,” are composed of six islands, the largest of which is Koh Phi Phi Don, a small island with bars, hotels, restaurants, shops, and viewpoints inhabited by locals.
If you’re reading this and debating whether you should visit Koh Phi Phi for a day trip or stay on the island, I highly recommend you stay there for a night.
A day trip to Koh Phi Phi Islands will feel rushed, and you’ll miss the experience of staying on this beautiful remote island!
How to Get to Koh Phi Phi Island
First, let’s discuss how to get to Koh Phi Phi. There are two places you can reach Koh Phi Phi from.
Phuket and Krabi, each place has its various ports where you can depart from taking a ferry or speedboat to Koh Phi Phi.
Something you should know before coming is that there’s a 20 Baht environmental fee to enter the island as you arrive at Koh Phi Phi. Make sure you have some cash with you.
Koh Phi Phi Islands From Phuket
To get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi Island, you must go to the Rassada Pier in Phuket
Travel Time: 2 hours by Ferry – 1 hour by Speedboat
Ticket to Koh Phi Phi from Phuket – Choose Ferry or Speedboat
Cost: 500 Baht ($15 to 20 US) / Prices vary between companies and seasonal time of year
Koh Phi Phi Islands From Krabi
To get to Koh Phi Phi Island from Krabi, go to Klong Jilad Pier or Nopparat Thara Pier.
Whichever pier is closer to your location in Krabi, also make sure to purchase a ticket with a departure from the correct pier.
Tickets to Koh Phi Phi from Krabi – Choose Ferry or Speedboat
Time: 2 hours by Ferry – 1 hour by Speedboat
Cost: 500 Baht ($15 to 20 US) / Prices vary between companies and seasonal time of year
Day 1 in Phi Phi Islands
As you arrive at Koh Phi Phi, first things first, walking over to your hotel from the main pier and settling in.
Once you’ve settled in at your hotel, it’s time to enjoy some lunch on the island!
Afterward, it’s time to explore your surroundings in Koh Phi Phi! Depending on the time you arrive on the island, you may have more time to explore.
Ferries come to Koh Phi Phi from the early morning to early evening. I recommend you come in the afternoon an hour before your check-in for your hotel, and see if they’ll let you in early!
Island Exploration
You’re visiting an island in the middle of the Andaman Sea in Thailand, what else would you rather do than first explore your surroundings?
Take a walk and explore the charming winding roads in Koh Phi Phi, observe how locals live on the island, and wander around!
It’s a tiny island; you can walk across it in about 30 minutes. Koh Phi Phi is home to approximately 5,000 residents.
However, take your time as you walk. With its unique location, there’s plenty to notice on the island.
Many shops on the island sell all sorts of items, from clothing, swimwear, and small souvenirs to take you home with you. You’ll run into many bars, cafes, and restaurants if you want to stop and take a break!
Dinner
After exploring the island for the afternoon and you’ve rested at a cafe or perhaps got a few drinks at a bar.
It’s time to enjoy a nice dinner in Koh Phi Phi. Because the island sees tourists from all over the world, you will find all sorts of cuisine types, from Italian to Arabic, Mexican, and many local Thai restaurants.
So, no matter the type of cuisine you’re craving, you should be able to find it in Koh Phi Phi despite the island’s small size!
Sunset at Loh Dalum Beach
Time to experience your first sunset in Koh Phi Phi and there’s no better place to do just that than at Loh Dalum Beach.
In the evening, many locals and tourists gather to watch the sunset views as it comes down along the bay with the sea in the distance. You’ll spot large limestones on both sides of Loh Dalum Beach, making for a unique sunset view experience!
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink at one of the many beach bars as you take in the sunset. If you’d prefer to do your own thing, buy snacks and drinks from 711 and have a picnic on the beach!
During the day, the beach is full of tourists swimming, lounging around, and relaxing, you can also rent a kayak or paddleboard on the beach.
Nightmarket
There isn’t an official night market in Koh Phi Phi, but the area I’ll suggest to you on the island is similar to the many night markets in Thailand.
You’ll spot a few street food vendors selling foods, desserts and just steps aways there are vendors selling souvenirs and other goods.
After sunset, come stop by and check it out, or if you’d prefer, continue your night at a beach bar in Loh Dalum Beach!
Day 2 in Phi Phi Islands
The second day starts early, and I hope you’re ready with plenty of action-packed island hopping adventures!
Many visit Koh Phi Phi to explore its towering limestone cliffs and famous attractions like Maya Bay Beach and Pi Leh Lagoon. On day two, you’ll be doing just that!
Early in the morning, you’ll go on a famous Koh Phi Phi National Park tour. I recommend you take the morning tour to beat some afternoon crowds. After a morning of adventuring, you’ll spend the day relaxing at one of the beaches on the island.
Once you’ve freshened up at your hotel after the beach and enjoyed a nice dinner, head out to experience the Koh Phi Phi nightlife at one of the many bars and beach clubs.
Maya Bay Beach, Pi Leh Lagoon & More
It’s time to experience what most of us come to Koh Phi Phi for, the island’s many famous attractions, including Maya Bay Beach, Pi Leh Lagoon, Bamboo Island Monkey Beach, and others!
Below I’ve mentioned a morning tour, you can do an afternoon tour but I’d recommend you don’t, Maya Bay Beach get very crowded with tourists in the afternoon from Phuket and Krabi.
To experience and get to these many famous attractions you have three options, you can take a tour along with other passengers on a speedboat or longtail boat. Another option is a private tour on a traditional Thai longtail boat.
Speedboats despite being fast are more comfortable for passengers as the boats have more room onboard and overall it’s a smoother ride to the many attractions.
Longtail boats have their appeal, as they’re traditionally Thai and look beautiful, however for those who do get seasick, you may want to reconsider because of the bumpy ride.
Determine which of the three options would be best for you and others you’re visiting with!
Remember, a morning Koh Phi Phi Island tour won’t nearly be as crowded as the afternoon, and I’d imagine you’d like to take a few pictures!
Afternoon Beach Day or Scuba Diving
After an action-packed morning exploring some of Thailand’s most beautiful tropical nature, it’s time to spend the afternoon relaxing on one of the best beaches in Koh Phi Phi Don, Long Beach.
Known for its incredibly soft white sand, vibrant crystal clear waters, and relaxing atmosphere, Long Beach is the best beach in Koh Phi Phi. It’s an excellent snorkeling spot for those who want to explore the marine life. You’ll also find a few hotels, restaurants, and bars at the beach.
However, you can’t walk to this beach on foot in Koh Phi Phi, and you must take a quick longtail boat taxi to the beach. Walk over to this small beach area, and you’ll spot many boats, speak to them and be on your way to Long Beach!
A longtail boat taxi usually cost around 200 Baht per person, sometimes the driver will wait for other passengers to fill up the boat before leaving.
For other beaches in Koh Phi Phi to consider visiting, but you must take a longtail boat taxi to these as well:
- Laemtong Beach
- Loh Moo Dee Beach
- Nui Beach
If you don’t want to take a longtail boat taxi to one of Koh Phi Phi’s better beaches, you can spend the day at Loh Dalum Beach or this small Phi Phi Beach shoreline.
If you visit Koh Phi Phi during the off-season months from May through October, some beaches are inaccessible because of the low tide, and longtail boat taxis can’t get there.
For those who prefer a more active afternoon, you can skip the beaches and attend one of the many scuba diving day trips on the island!
Party Time
After you’ve washed up from the beach and gone for dinner, it’s time to experience the nightlife in Koh Phi Phi!
The partying in Koh Phi Phi is one of many reasons the island is famous among tourists. Many solo travelers frequent Koh Phi Phi, so if you’re traveling alone, you’ll meet many when partying!
If you want to experience a long night out, head to Ibiza Pool Party, where the party goes into the early morning hours. Also, Slinky Bar and Stones Bar are fun beach parties that are also a good time.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more chill night out, many bars offer drinks with board games, billiards, and more. After that, you can always follow your night up with a few Muay Thai fights at the local stadium!
Day 3 in Phi Phi Islands
It’s your last day in Koh Phi Phi as you travel to the next destination. The third day will be relaxing, but your morning will involve a fun adventure to the top of the island!
After your morning hike, take it easy around the island while waiting for your ferry departure and enjoy a drink at the best cafe on the island. Remember to show up 30 minutes before your ferry departure.
Hike Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 1, 2 & 3
If you’ve spent some time looking at images of Koh Phi Phi online, you’ll more than likely have seen the shot from the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints featuring a view of the entire island!
This fun 30-minute hike to the top of the island is a great way to spend your morning or later afternoon and a memorable way to go home with the best photos of the island. It does cost 40 Baht to do the hike, make sure you bring some cash with you.
It’s not a challenging hike, and it’s well worth experiencing the viewpoints in Koh Phi Phi.
Once you’ve reached Phi Phi Viewpoint 3, you will see mesmerizing views of Koh Phi Phi, both bays connecting to the island and large limestones in the background. The pictures don’t do it justice, and it’s much more beautiful in person.
You can do the hike in the morning or afternoon, it’s up to you, however earlier is better to avoid the hotter sun. Also, it gets busier at the viewpoint in the afternoon.
Drinks at Phi Phi Don Cafe
After completing the beautiful viewpoints hike, it’s time to sit back and relax at one of Koh Phi Phi’s best cafes, offering exceptional island views!
Phi Phi Don Cafe and Restaurant has the best views of the main pier, beach shoreline with all the longtail boats and towering limestones that make up the main island.
Sit back, order a drink, maybe some lunch, I highly recommend the coconuts here they’re huge and worth it!
Keep track of the time so you know when to leave and can walk over to the main pier to catch your ferry.
Where to Stay in Koh Phi Phi
Below, you’ll find excellent accommodations on the island, from budget-friendly hostels to resorts and boutique hotels. No matter your budget, Koh Phi Phi is accommodating to all.
Overall the island is tiny so you can easily walk to and from your hotel with ease, restaurants, bars, cafes, everything is conveniently nearby.
There are accommodations on the island that offer quieter stays along Long Beach and north of the island, but if you stay there, you’ll need to take a longtail boat taxi whenever you want to do something.
Zeavola Resort / A luxurious 5 Star resort offering a secluded, quiet atmosphere located north of the island, away from the central part.
Phi Phi Coco Resort / 4 Star Beach Resort is located by the main port, a beautiful hotel, and conveniently located.
Phi Phi Anita Resort / 3 Star resort located in the heart of the island, nearby bars, restaurants, and only a 10 minute walk to the main pier.
Ibiza House / 3 Star hotel famous for its infamous pool parties by the beach.
- Note for Ibiza House: The parties at this hotel last until early morning, so consider choosing another hotel if you prefer a quieter environment.
Blanco Beach Bar / Popular hostel with a beachfront pool facing the sea. And at night, the place turns into a fun, lively beach bar.
The Pier 519 / A boutique-style hostel is centrally located and ideal for those not looking to be around too much partying
How Many Days in Koh Phi Phi Island
Ideally, spending at least two to three days in Koh Phi Phi Island is best. There are stunning beaches here, and the island’s attractions alone take a day or two to visit.
This time will also allow you some time to explore the main island. Many do day trips to the famous island and miss exploring the main island, which shouldn’t be missed!
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Best Restaurants in Koh Phi Phi
Garlic 1992: A humble local Thai restaurant that’s been open since 1992, family-owned/operated. The food was delicious here, it was well-priced, and their cocktails were massive
Phi Phi Don Cafe & Restaurant: This cafe/restaurant has the best view of the bay on the island. Their menu is extensive, and they serve cocktails throughout the whole day
Thai Duck Noodle Soup: Located right in the night market, the friendly man who owns this shop always has awesome music, serving several various classic duck Thai dishes
Atom Resto: Locally owned Italian restaurant serving both Italian and Thai food, an excellent choice for those craving pasta
Only Noodles: This small hidden restaurant on the corner of a street serves delicious cheap pad-thai in several ways, a perfect place for a quick, affordable lunch
Best Time to Visit Koh Phi Phi
The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi to experience the island for all it offers is during the dry season, from November through April, the island shares the same weather patterns as Phuket.
During this time, it’s warm enough for the beach, humidity levels are low, and chances of rain are unlikely.
Dry Season in Koh Phi Phi: November to April
Monsoon/Rainy Season in Koh Phi Phi: May to October
If you visit during the off-season months from May to October, you may experience some sunny days, but be prepared for some cloud and rainy days.
Also, humidity levels are much higher during the rainy season, which may be uncomfortable for some.
Another essential aspect is the more aggressive currents in the sea during the off-season months from May through October. Tours to popular attractions like Maya Bay Beach, Monkey Island, and others sometimes get canceled for the day because of the aggressive current in the sea.
Tips for Visiting Koh Phi Phi Island
Koh Phi Phi is one of those places where, if you know a few tips, it will make your visit much smoother. Here are a few tips you should know before visiting the island!
- Bring cash with you, there are ATMs but sometimes they’re down, some restaurants accept cards, but not all.
- You must take your luggage to your hotel from the pier. Some luxury hotels offer a transport service where employees pick up your luggage from the pier.
- Consider bringing a dry bag, when you arrive at beaches and islands, sometimes you’ll need to go in the water, these types of bags ensure your things don’t get wet.
- Fast drying towels are excellent for excursions in Thailand, they help keep you dry but dry fast so you can put them back into your bag!
- Make sure you experience a drink bucket, they’re buckets sold with a variety of alcohol, it’s a Thailand party thing!
- Ferries leave on time, so make sure you arrive 30 minutes before departure and check in with staff.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, that sums up my ultimate guide for three days on Koh Phi Phi Island.
If you’re debating visiting, there’s no reason not to visit and stay on the island. Koh Phi Phi Islands is worth visiting!
It’s a unique experience to visit such a remote island in the center of the Andaman Sea. The nature on and around the island is just mesmerizing, and overall, Koh Phi Phi is a bucket-list destination!
Once you’ve visited Koh Phi Phi, consider visiting Railay, another tropical-rich destination in Krabi with a more laid-back vibe!
Take a Maya Bay Beach day trip to see the famous beach, Pi Leh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island.
Hike to amazing viewpoints, chill on beautiful beaches and enjoy Koh Phi Phi’s lively nightlife. It’s the perfect mix of daytime exploring and evening fun!
The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is the end of November through April. This is when the dry season is, and the weather is optimal for beaches, island hopping, and all that Koh Phi Phi offers!
Yes, that way, you can experience the main island, Koh Phi Phi Don, to the fullest and take your time as you explore its surroundings.
If you’re on a tight itinerary in Thailand, then yes. Otherwise, spending 2 to 3 days is far more ideal!
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