Unforgettable 4 Days on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Detailed Itinerary (2024)

If you’re visiting southern Thailand and are wondering whether Koh Phi Phi is worth staying on for a few days, I assure you, it absolutely is. 

While the islands are famous for Maya Bay, sadly, this is why many people overlook Koh Phi Phi. I spent almost a week here and found so many unique and adventurous activities beyond the typical tourist traps and loud parties.

A few hours on a day trip won’t be enough to truly discover the island’s hidden potential, as it is much more than crowds and nightlife

Read on to discover my four-day itinerary, featuring the best of Koh Phi Phi: snorkeling, kayaking, jungle hikes and secret beaches.

Day 1: Snorkeling at Long Beach, Coastal Trail, Mee Beach, and Dinner at Hippies Bar

Morning: Snorkeling at Shark Point, Long Beach

We will start our day early with an exciting snorkeling adventure at Shark Point, located near Long Beach. The early morning is the best time to visit as the water is calmer, visibility is higher, and there are fewer crowds.

To get to Long Beach from Tonsai Pier, you have a few options: a scenic 45-minute walk along the coastal trail, kayaking, or a quick boat ride. 

The trail is a beautiful hike with stunning views, and I highly recommend walking at least one way. Boats are also frequent and only take 5-10 minutes, costing around 100 baht per trip.

Breakfast options

If you start near Tonsai Pier, grab breakfast at the street food market with typical southern Thai dishes like skewers and milk tea. You will also be able to find more expensive and western places to eat in this area. 

Be mindful that some places might still be closed early in the morning. For a quick and easy alternative, pop into a convenience store like 7-Eleven for snacks. 

Snorkeling at the Shark Point

Shark Point is famous for its crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim with blacktip reef sharks. These sharks are small and harmless to humans, making this a thrilling yet safe experience. 

The best snorkeling spot is about 500 meters from Long Beach. If you’re not an experienced swimmer, you might want to rent a life jacket and fins, as navigating around rocks and coral can be tricky. Jellyfish and strong currents are possible, so exercise caution.

If you’re new to snorkeling or nervous about swimming off the beach, consider joining a guided snorkeling tour for added safety and a better experience. You can also rent a kayak and paddle out to Shark Point, but be careful of boats and swimmers.

Midday: Lunch and Visit to Loh Moo Dee Beach

After snorkeling, enjoy a beachside lunch at one of Long Beach’s lovely restaurants with fresh Thai food and affordable prices. Afterward, take a short 15-minute walk to Loh Moo Dee Beach, a serene and quiet destination on the opposite coast of Koh Phi Phi Don. 

The path is quite straightforward to follow once you go to the southern part of Long Beach. Moo Dee Beach is large, calm and perfect for swimming or more snorkeling off the beach.

There’s only one beach bar, so it feels much less crowded than other spots on the island.

Afternoon: Coastal Hike and Visit to Viking Beach

In the afternoon, hike back to Tonsai Village along the coastal path. If you didn’t take this route earlier, it’s a must-do! The trail is well marked, but having an offline trail map is always helpful.

The path offers fantastic views and leads to small, hidden beaches along the way. My favorite is Viking Beach, which has plenty of shade, beautiful views, and a small beach bar. 

You can also rent a kayak here to explore limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Viking Beach is ideal for a relaxing swim or more snorkeling, if you want to make this day all about discovering the best snorkeling spots on Koh Phi Phi Don.

Evening: Dinner with Live Music at Hippies Bar

As the sun sets, head to Hippies Bar for dinner and live music. The bar is along the route between Long Beach and Tonsai Village, making it a convenient stop after a day full of adventures. 

Enjoy the laid-back beachside vibe, colorful decor, and fire shows. While the prices here are a bit higher, the sunset view and live music create the perfect relaxed evening atmosphere. 

Located further from the Koh Phi Phi Don’s center, Hippies Bar doesn’t get as loud and crowded, yet it’s easily accessible and it only takes 10 minutes to walk there from the pier.

Day 1 Summary:

• Snorkeling at Long Beach
• Lunch by the beach and visit to Loh Moo Dee Beach
• Hike along the coastal path to Viking Beach
• Dinner with live music and sunset at Hippies Bar

Day 2: Viewpoints, Jungle Hikes, Mangroves, and Northern Koh Phi Phi

Morning: Hike to the Viewpoints

Start Day 2 with a hike to Koh Phi Phi’s famous viewpoints. The trek is moderately challenging, but the breathtaking panoramic views of the island are worth every step. You’ll see Tonsai Village, Loh Dalum Bay, and the surrounding cliffs from above.

As with the day before, you can easily find a place for breakfast in Tonsai Village. Since we have a steep climb ahead, it’s essential to have plenty of energy.

Don’t forget to bring water, comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and some cash for the hiking day ahead.

To reach the viewpoint, climb over 300 steps and pay a 50-baht entrance fee. The views improve as you ascend, and at the top, you’ll find a small restaurant (though it doesn’t serve alcohol). Arriving early means fewer crowds and better photo opportunities.

Koh Phi Phi’s viewpoint is very popular and most crowded in the afternoon, as everyone wants to see the sunset there. Arriving early in the morning allows you to avoid the crowds and experience the stunning scenery in a more peaceful atmosphere.

Taking pictures will also be much easier since there won’t be as many people around. Going during the day, opposite the sunset, better showcases the turquoise water, which isn’t as visible in the evening (as you can see in my pictures).

Midday: Loh Bao Ka Bay and Kayaking in the Mangrove Forest

After soaking in the views, we will continue our hike down to Loh Ba Kao Bay. This beach is less known to tourists, making it a perfect destination to escape the busier parts of Koh Phi Phi Don.

From the Koh Phi Phi viewpoint, you can also reach a few small hidden beaches on the east coast—Pak Nam Bay, Ran Tee Beach, and Toh Koh Beach. Each of these requires a separate, steep, and challenging jungle hike.

I didn’t include a visit to these beaches in our itinerary, but if you’re looking for more adventures, there are great and accessible hiking options on Koh Phi Phi. One piece of advice is to avoid hiking there at night, as it might get dangerous to navigate the dense and steep jungle after dark.

We will try to hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay before the midday heat. It shouldn’t take more than 50 minutes to an hour to get there, as it’s about 2 miles away.

When exiting the jungle and following the path to the beach, we will walk next to the river and pass through a local village. This side of Koh Phi Phi is totally different from the center, which is full of shops, restaurants, and tourists.It’s much calmer, with less tourist infrastructure.

It is still visited by tourists, and a large resort occupies a big part of the beach, but you won’t find there a lively party scene/ If you want to stay longer, this is a peaceful destination to swim and relax.

Once you’ve refreshed at Loh Ba Kao Bay, it’s time to explore a wilder side of Koh Phi Phi—the mangrove forests. Head to the northern part of the beach to rent a kayak and paddle through the local river.

Mangroves are a vital part of the island’s ecosystem, providing a habitat for various wildlife, including birds, fish, and huge monitor lizards. Kayaking through the mangroves is a peaceful experience that lets you get close to nature. 

I especially recommend visiting the mangrove forest if you don’t plan to do so elsewhere, as this type of ecosystem is typical to Thailand’s tropical climate. 

Afternoon: Explore the Northernmost Point of Koh Phi Phi Don

Unless you had lunch before kayaking, it’s probably time to find a local restaurant at Loh Ba Kao Bay and enjoy some authentic Thai dishes.

In the afternoon, it’s time for more hiking as we head to the northernmost point of the island, a less-visited area offering rugged natural landscapes and stunning coastal views.

The first part of our hike is straightforward and not very challenging. We’ll cross the Mangrove Suspension Bridge and follow the coastal road to reach Laem Tong Beach.

Additionally, if you are looking for more hiking and exploring hidden beaches, you can take a detour from the crossroads after crossing the bridge and head west to discover Loh Lana Bay and Nui Beach. These beaches are located about 15 to 30 minutes from Loh Ba Kao Bay.

Without taking the detour, it should take us around 45 minutes to reach Laem Tong Beach. This place is peaceful, though visited by day trips, and is a less-discovered spot on Koh Phi Phi Don.

You will find a few resorts and restaurants here, but prices are slightly higher than in the more popular areas. Near Laem Tong Beach, you can also find a village inhabited by the Urak Lawoi tribe, an indigenous community known as sea people.

Our final destination for today is the northernmost point of Koh Phi Phi Don, which we will reach by following a smaller path through the jungle. The northernmost tip of the island is marked by a flag, so you will know you’ve found it.

After a full day of hiking and exploring lesser-known parts of Koh Phi Phi, it’s time to head back to Tonsai Village. To save time on your return, we can take a boat back or walk along the coast, discovering even more scenery on Koh Phi Phi.

Boats can be found at Laem Tong or Loh Ba Kao Bay. Regular boats may be harder to catch from Laem Tong Beach, so returning to Loh Ba Kao Bay might be a better option.

If you feel very tired and can’t find a taxi boat, getting a private long-tail boat is also possible, though a bit more expensive. Opt for a boat if it’s already after dark, as hiking back for two hours might not be safe.

The boat ride is also a scenic journey along the island’s coastline, offering a different perspective of Koh Phi Phi, especially during sunset.

Late Night: Dinner and Nightlife by the beach

Heading back to Tonsai Village is the best option to find a delicious dinner. Look for small restaurants to enjoy authentic Thai cuisine, or choose from more upscale Western-style restaurants.

Fresh seafood is a specialty of Koh Phi Phi, and many restaurants offer delicious Thai dishes with a view of the ocean. Try some local favorites like Tom Yum Goong (spicy shrimp soup), Pad Thai, or Som Tum (papaya salad).

After dinner, explore the nightlife again. Whether you prefer a laid-back beach bar or a lively nightclub, Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife won’t disappoint.

As Koh Phi Phi is famous for its nightlife, you will find numerous bars offering everything from fire shows to live music performances and karaoke.

Day 2 Summary:

• Morning hike to Koh Phi Phi’s viewpoints
• Jungle hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay and kayaking in the mangroves
• Visit to Laem Tong Beach and the northernmost point of Koh Phi Phi Don
• Return to Tonsai Village for dinner and nightlife

Day 3: Island Hopping Day Trip and Muay Thai at Reggae Bar

Morning: Visit Maya Bay and Bamboo Beach

On our third day, let’s finally take a tour of some of Koh Phi Phi’s most famous attractions—Maya Bay. While I’m not a huge fan of this day trip, it’s worth checking out for yourself to see if it’s something you’d enjoy.

To prepare for an island-hopping trip, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, a towel, fast-drying clothes, and a dry bag for your belongings. Most tours provide drinks and snacks.

Maya Bay is a paradise beach, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters. Made famous by the movie The Beach, it’s a must-see for any visitor to Koh Phi Phi. Unfortunately, its popularity and crowds can detract from the experience.

The key to a more unique and authentic experience is to book a private tour and start as early as possible. Maya Bay opens at 7 a.m., and while it won’t be empty, it will be significantly less crowded in the morning.

Although booking a private tour is more expensive, it offers greater flexibility, and having a guide all to yourself makes the trip more personalized. If you can split the cost of a private long-tail boat with other travelers, I highly recommend doing so over taking a bumpy speedboat.

A visit to Maya Bay consists of arriving at the provisional pier, taking a short walk, and strolling along the beach. The main activity is admiring the views and taking pictures of the turquoise waters and iconic limestone cliffs.

Swimming and going too deep into the water is not allowed, and national park rangers ensure that tourists follow the rules. It’s crucial to comply with these regulations, as Maya Bay is working to restore its coral reefs and natural habitat after the damage caused by over-tourism.

Noon: Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Snorkeling and Swimming

The next stop on the day trip is usually Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. Honestly, I’m not a fan of Monkey Beach and would gladly skip it. It feels wrong to visit a small beach where monkeys are chased by tourists eager to take pictures of them.

Moreover, monkeys can be quite aggressive, attempting to steal food or protect their young. It’s not uncommon for tourists to be bitten.

Viking Cave is just a short stop without disembarking the boat. You can see old paintings inside the cave, but from the boat, there isn’t much to observe.

This destination is closed to tourists, though locals visit it to collect swiftlet nests for traditional swift nest soup.

You will also stop at a few spots for snorkeling and swimming. Thai waters are warm and usually clear—ideal for swimming. Once again, having a private boat enhances the experience, as the waters will be less crowded, and your guide can help you find the best marine life.

Around midday, it will be time for lunch. Depending on your trip’s itinerary, you might return to one of Koh Phi Phi Don’s beaches for a prepackaged meal or visit a restaurant.

Afternoon: Bamboo Island

In the afternoon, we will head to Bamboo Beach on Bamboo Island, located north of Koh Phi Phi.

This beach is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.

As part of the National Park, you’ll need to pay a 400 baht entrance fee, but if you visit Maya Bay on the same day, you’ll only pay this fee once.

There’s a beach bar on Bamboo Island, and it’s a much calmer and more peaceful destination than Maya Bay or Koh Phi Phi Don.

Evening: Dinner and Muay Thai Fights at Reggae Bar

After returning to Koh Phi Phi Don, relax with a delicious dinner at a Thai restaurant before preparing for some evening activities.

One of the most popular attractions on Koh Phi Phi Don is the Reggae Bar, which hosts live Muay Thai boxing matches. This unique entertainment spot allows tourists to volunteer and fight each other in the ring.

Whether you win or lose, you’ll receive a free bucket of drinks for participating. In between the tourist matches, you can also watch Thai boxers face off. While the fights aren’t official matches, they are entertaining and showcase the traditional elements of Muay Thai.

Whether you decide to watch or join in, it’s a thrilling way to experience Thailand’s national sport.

Day 3 Summary:

• Boat trip to Maya Bay, Viking Cave and Monkey Beach
• Snorkeling and swimming near Koh Phi Phi
• Visit to Bamboo Island
• Muay Thai and boxing matches at Reggae Bar

Day 4: Diving Expedition and Relaxation

All Day: Diving Expedition

Dedicate your final day to a diving expedition to explore the underwater wonders of Koh Phi Phi. The island is home to some of Thailand’s best diving sites, including Bida Nok, Bida Nai, and the King Cruiser Wreck.

These sites offer diverse marine life, vibrant coral reefs, and excellent visibility, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. Many local dive shops offer day trips that include equipment rental, a guide, and lunch.

If you’re new to diving, consider taking a Discover Scuba Diving course, which provides an introduction to diving with an instructor. There are even options for people who are not confident swimmers.

Evening: Catch Sunset and Swim with Bioluminescent Plankton

End your trip with a scenic sunset view. You can book a sunset boat trip followed by swimming with bioluminescent plankton for a unique experience.

Alternatively, you can hike up to the viewpoint again or simply find a quiet spot on the beach to watch the sun dip below the horizon.

Day 4 Summary:

• Full-day diving expedition
• Evening sunset and swimming with bioluminescent plankton 

Alternative Activities

Kayaking Around the Island

Spend your afternoon kayaking around the island. This is a fantastic way to explore Koh Phi Phi’s coastline at your own pace. Paddle around hidden coves, discover secluded beaches, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty from the water.

James Bond Island Trip

If you’re up for more adventure, consider a day trip to James Bond Island, located in Phang Nga Bay. Known for its striking limestone karsts that rise dramatically from the sea, this island was featured in the James Bond movie The Man with the Golden Gun.

The trip typically includes sightseeing, kayaking, and exploring unique limestone formations and hidden lagoons. It’s a great way to see another side of Thailand’s stunning coastline.

More Island Hopping

Beyond the main attractions, there are plenty of other islands and beaches to explore around Koh Phi Phi. Consider a trip to nearby Koh Lanta or Koh Jum for a more relaxed, less touristy experience. These islands offer beautiful beaches, friendly locals, and a slower pace of life.

A Relaxing Beach Day

If you prefer a slower pace, spend a day just relaxing on the beach. Koh Phi Phi has plenty of beaches where you can escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day in the sun. Bring a good book, some snacks, and a beach umbrella, and spend the day soaking up the tropical atmosphere.

Useful Tips for Visiting Koh Phi Phi

• Take cash – many smaller businesses don’t accept cards, so it’s best to carry cash for most of your transactions. 
• ATMs – All ATMs in Thailand charge 220 baht fee no matter what kind of card you are using.
• Respect local customs – When you’re not on the beach, limit wearing bikinis or walking around shirtless. Respect the local culture by covering up when in villages or other public areas.
• Booking tours – You don’t need to book tours far in advance, but planning a few days ahead can help you secure better prices or options. Last-minute bookings can be pricier or offer less availability.
• Low season vs. high season – Visiting during the low season (May to October) offers a different experience. There will be fewer tourists, but expect unpredictable weather and rough seas that may affect boat trips.
• Stay hydrated – Whether you’re hiking or lounging on the beach, it’s important to have plenty of water with you. 
• Sun protection – The tropical sun is intense. Don’t spend too much time in direct sunlight without proper sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing.
• Rock climbing restrictions – Unlike other parts of Thailand, rock climbing isn’t allowed on Koh Phi Phi to protect the natural environment.
• Drinking water – tap water is not safe for drinking, always buy bottled water while in Thailand

Best Time to Visit Koh Phi Phi and How to Get There

The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is during the high season, from mid October to May, when the weather is dry and the seas are calm. This is the most popular time for visitors due to ideal conditions for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking. 

Temperatures range from 77°F to 89°F (25°C to 32°C), perfect for enjoying the beach and the islands’ attractions.

During the low season, the island is much quieter, and accommodation prices drop, but be prepared for rain and rougher seas, which could limit boat tours and water activities. 

Keep in mind that Maya Bay closes for two months each year – August and September.

How to Get to Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and Krabi. The only way to get to the island is by boat. 

Ferries depart from Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta multiple times a day, and the trip takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your departure point. You will get there faster on a speedboat, but big ferries are much more stable and comfortable.

Tonsai Village, the main hub on Koh Phi Phi Don, is where most ferries arrive, and from there, you can easily access the rest of the island.

If you’re staying outside of Tonsai Village, like on Long Beach or Laem Tong Beach, you’ll need to arrange a taxi boat to your accommodation.

Final Thoughts

Koh Phi Phi is much more than a party island—it’s a destination full of adventure, natural beauty, and hidden gems. 

Whether you’re here for snorkeling, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach, this four-day itinerary offers a perfect balance of activities. Plan ahead, stay open to new experiences, and most importantly, enjoy your time in this tropical paradise!

Read My Other Posts about Visiting Koh Phi Phi:

• 24 Hours on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Detailed Itinerary (2024)
• 11 Best Hikes on Koh Phi Phi Don, Thailand – Detailed Guide (2024)
• How to Do Coastal Hike to Long Beach (Haad Yao) on  Koh Phi Phi – Detailed Guide (2024)
• How to Do Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay on Koh Phi Phi – Detailed Guide (2024)
• How to Visit Famous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand? – Detailed Guide and Review (2024)
• 17 Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Ultimate Guide (2024)
• 23 Pros and Cons of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – 2024 Guide
• How to Travel to Koh Phi Phi from Bangkok and Other Places – 2024 Guide