23 Pros and Cons of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – 2024 Guide
Koh Phi Phi in Thailand is a destination most famous for its huge parties and paradise-like scenery. But, you might have also heard it’s an overrated tourist trap and better to be avoided.
Well, after spending a week there, I completely disagree. These islands offer so much more than just crowds and parties.
It’s a place full of adventurous hikes, scenic coastal trails and countless hidden beaches. The crystal-clear waters are home to diverse sea life, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Sure, there are downsides like noise and overdevelopment, but Koh Phi Phi still offers authentic experiences.
Let’s look deeper into all the pros and cons of visiting Koh Phi Phi to help you decide if it’s worth adding to your travel list!
Where is Koh Phi Phi Located?
Koh Phi Phi is not a single destination, but a group of islands located in the northern part of the Strait of Malacca in the Thai Andaman Sea.
If you look on the map, you can see that Koh Phi Phi is conveniently situated between Phuket, Koh Lanta, and Krabi, with excellent ferry and speedboat connections.
The most popular islands are Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Le. Ferries will take you to Ao Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don, which has all the tourist amenities you need.
Koh Phi Phi Leh, on the other hand, is a secluded nature spot. It’s famous for Maya Bay, where the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. You can visit it for a few hours, but overnight stays are not allowed.
Pros of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
1. Beautiful and Easily Accessible Beaches
Beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don have soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. The island is very walkable, making most beaches easy to access. They’re perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Popular beaches come with amenities like chair rentals, public toilets, massage parlors, and restaurants. Even if crowded (with people and boats) you’ll always find a spot for yourself.
In the evening, lively beaches, like Loh Dalum Beach and Tonsai Beach, get busy with parties, live music and fire shows.
Long Beach, with shark point, is a beloved destination for snorkeling. Viking Beach offers a relaxed atmosphere, while still being walkable from the Tonsai Village.
If you are looking for a place away from the crowds and closer to nature, Koh Phi Phi Don is also a home to many secluded beaches worth exploring.
The most remote beaches include Loh Moo Dee Beach, Loh Lana Bay, Laem Tong Beach, and Wang Long Bay. These spots require hiking or renting a boat to reach.
2. Vibrant Party Scene
Nightlife and huge parties are what Koh Phi Phi Don is most famous for. Tonsai Village, the island’s central hub is home to countless bars that get loud with live music, pool parties, and sports screenings.
You can buy a bucket of drinks at almost every corner, grab a snack in the middle of the night, find a huge party or even take part in a boxing match. The attractions seem endless.
For pool parties and clubbing, head to the Loh Dalum Beach. Many hostels host themed parties a few times a week. You’ll also find numerous beach clubs with live music and entertainment for tourists.
Koh Phi Phi Don is your typical lively party island. You’ll always find something to do in the evening and never be bored!
3. Walkability
One of the biggest advantages of Koh Phi Phi Don is its walkability. The main street in Tonsai Village, where you will find all the bars and restaurants, is designed exclusively for walking.
Even if you stay farther from the center, you can reach the nearest beach in 15 minutes. Convenient stores like 7-Eleven, ATMs, and laundry places are easily accessible.
You’ll also find many restaurants, bars, massage parlors, and tattoo studios to choose from.
You won’t need transportation on Koh Phi Phi Don unless you stay in one of the island’s remote parts. If you decide to visit Loh Ba Kao Bay or Laem Tong Beach, you’ll need a boat to reach your hotel or prepare for a long hike.
4. Great Hiking Trails
Koh Phi Phi Don is (surprisingly) a great place for hiking. While many people come here for the parties or day trip to Maya Bay, you can easily find numerous hiking trails to escape the crowds. Some popular trails starting in Tonsai Village include:
- Coastal trail to Long Beach via Viking Beach
- Path via mainland and reservoir to Loh Moo Dee Beach and Long Beach
- Jungle hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay
- Hike to the viewpoints
- Jungle hike to the northernmost point on Koh Phi Phi Don
5. Epic Viewpoints
If you are not a fan of long hikes, Koh Phi Phi Don has also to offer some of the best viewpoints in the area. From Tonsai Village you can easily find stairs leading to 3 viewpoints.
The hike consists of steep stairs and paved paths through a beautiful garden (you can meet a few cats there too). Although climbing for 30 minutes in hot weather can be challenging, the panoramic view of Tonsai and Loh Dalum bays is definitely worth it.
The entrance fee to the viewpoints is 50 baht, and there are snack bars at the top. You can relax, enjoy the scenery, and take some lovely pictures.
Obviously, Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi Leh offers the most stunning scenery, but walking along the coast on Koh Phi Phi Don reveals beautiful spots with turquoise water that are far less crowded.
6. Well Connected to Other Places
Ao Ton Sai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don is always busy with boats and ferries, making it easy to find connections to popular destinations in the area.
Direct ferries are available to Koh Lanta, Phuket, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang. This allows you to stay flexible without needing to book transportation far in advance. And you can easily choose between a ferry or a speedboat.
Koh Phi Phi’s accessibility is a significant advantage if you are wanting to explore multiple destinations in southern Thailand without extensive planning and complicated logistics.
7. Variety of Day Trips
There are countless day trips you can book on Koh Phi Phi. Most include visits to Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach, with various options for different swimming and snorkeling spots.
Other popular day trips include visits to Bamboo Island, known for its pristine beaches and clear waters, snorkeling at Shark Point, trips to James Bond Island and Phang Nga Bay, or a visit to Ao Nang.
You can also book shorter, yet stunning, sunrise and sunset boat trips and even swimming with bioluminescent plankton.
Most organized trips include snorkeling gear, light snacks, and sometimes lunch.
8. Many Diving Centers
Koh Phi Phi Don is a great hub for divers, offering numerous diving centers where you can get your PADI license. For beginners, discovery dives are available to start your scuba diving journey.
Many diving centers are offering morning, evening, and full-day trips.
The waters around Koh Phi Phi are home to diverse marine life with good visibility. The best dive sites include Bida Nok, Bida Nai, and the King Cruiser Wreck.
9. Great Snorkeling Spots
If you’re not into diving, there are also many snorkeling spots on Koh Phi Phi and around the neighboring islands.
The clear waters and diverse marine life make snorkeling a must-do activity when visiting Phi Phi islands.
It’s actually hard to find a trip that doesn’t include snorkeling, and there are many options available. It’s worth checking a few places and negotiating the price.
Even if you’re new to snorkeling, guided tours will help you navigate the coral reefs and ensure safety in the water. All trips should include equipment, water, and some snacks.
Popular snorkeling spots in the area are Pileh Lagoon, Malong Bay, and Bamboo Island.
The best places for snorkeling off beach on Koh Phi Phi Don include Long Beach, with shark point, and secluded Nui Beach.
10. Kayaking in the Mangrove Forest
Mangrove forests are not what Koh Phi Phi Don is known for, but they are present on the island. You can easily rent a kayak to explore this natural wonder up close.
It’s not a very popular activity, as you need to get to the Loh Ba Kao Bay, which is accessible via jungle hike or a boat ride. The quickest way to get there from the Tonsai pier is by taking a boat.
Once you arrive at Loh Ba Kao Bay, head to the northern part of the beach, where you’ll find a river and kayak rental.
While kayaking through the mangroves you can spot monitor lizards living in this area (I saw two just walking in the village next to the forest).
You can find similar places in other popular destinations like Koh Lanta, Krabi, and Langkawi. However, if you’ve never been to a mangrove forest, you should definitely visit this place. It’s a peaceful experience, where you can see unique wildlife and ecosystems up close.
11. Urak Lawoi Community
Koh Phi Phi Don is one of the places on the Andaman coast where the Urak Lawoi, an indigenous Thai sea tribe, was resettled. Their village is near the Laem Tong Beach.
If you visit Koh Phi Phi Don, try to support the Urak Lawoi tribe by using their services, buying their handmade crafts, or taking a guided tour led by them. Supporting their local businesses contributes positively to their community.
This not only helps preserve their culture and traditions but also provides you with a more authentic and enriching experience of Koh Phi Phi. Learning about the Urak Lawoi’s history and their way of life offers a deeper understanding of the island beyond its tourist attractions.
12. Thai Boxing for Tourists
One of the most unique and popular experiences on Koh Phi Phi Don is watching Muay Thai fights combined with amateur fights involving tourists.
Here’s how it works: You go to a bar with a ring (arrive early to get a good spot), and you only have to pay for a drink, which you must buy (even if you will be sipping the same drink for the whole night).
First, you watch the Thai fighters in the ring for three rounds. They are very athletic and professional, with all the traditional dance and music.
After the professional fight (which is probably staged, but still enjoyable), volunteers are asked to enter the ring. Everyone who fights gets one free bucket of drinks, win or lose.
As the night goes on, more people volunteer, and the fights become more entertaining. Girls fight each other, men fight each other, and a judge ensures the fights are safe.
This is an interesting alternative to clubs or busy beach bars. Participating in or just watching these matches can be a memorable part of your visit to Koh Phi Phi.
13. Diversity of Dining Options
Koh Phi Phi Don offers a great variety of restaurants. While there are many Thai places with authentic local cuisine, you can also find restaurants serving Indian, Japanese, and Italian dishes. The diversity is impressive for such a small island.
Prices can vary, with some restaurants being more expensive than typical Thai eateries. However, you can still stay on a budget and enjoy delicious food while staying on Koh Phi Phi Don.
There are also many food stalls serving fresh fruit and popular convenience stores where you can buy quick snacks typical of Thailand.
Some places accept card payments, but it’s always better to have some cash, especially in smaller, local places.
14. Good Remote Work Conditions
The infrastructure on Koh Phi Phi Don is well developed for digital nomads and remote workers, looking for spending time in a tropical destination.
Tonsai Village and its surrounding area have decent data coverage. Even while hiking in the jungle, I didn’t have problems with mobile reception. The Wi-Fi in our hotel was also reliable.
You’ll also find cozy cafes and restaurants offering free Wi-Fi, making it easy to find a comfortable spot to work.
There are many accommodation options available on Koh Phi Phi Don, with different price ranges. I actually expected it to be much harder to find an affordable room to work in, and was pleasantly surprised.
We booked hotel rooms the same day we arrived and they weren’t the most spacious, but conveniently located. With some planning, you can certainly get a better deal.
Cons of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
15. Crowds
Crowds are common on both Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh. The busiest places are Maya Bay and Tonsai Village, especially near the pier.
Restaurants can get quite crowded, and you might need to spend some time finding the best spot to eat.
The small streets of Tonsai Village are full of tourists, many of whom are only visiting Koh Phi Phi on a day trip. The only time it gets calmer is early in the morning.
If you’re looking for a quieter place, you will need to venture outside the main village and popular beaches.
16. Loud Parties
Finding a peaceful spot to relax in the evening might be challenging in Tonsai Village and near the popular beaches. Parties make the island lively but also very loud.
Consider staying in more remote bungalows if you’re looking for a calm area.
Personally, I didn’t have a problem with the noise. Our accommodations were a bit further from the tourist center, yet within walking distance.
For those who enjoy nightlife, the vibrant atmosphere is a plus, but for others, it might be a bit overwhelming.
17. Pollution
Koh Phi Phi Don, being quite developed with many buildings and ongoing construction, faces some pollution problems.
On some smaller roads, you might find smelly rivers, as we did near our accommodation, showing the island’s issue with sewage disposal.
Littering is also common. Although not very disturbing, you might see it in less popular places.
The island’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the influx of tourists, leading to issues with waste management and pollution. Although efforts are being made to improve this, it’s something to be aware of.
18. Some Parts of the Island are Hard to Access
If you decide to stay in places like Laem Tong Beach or Loh Ba Kao Bay, you will need to take a boat to get there.
Although hiking is possible (and scenic), it would take a lot of time and energy. You definitely won’t be able to do it every day both ways, just to visit the town.
Before booking accommodation on Koh Phi Phi Don, make sure to check the location. It might not be easy to return to a secluded beach in the middle of the night.
If you plan to stay close to nightlife activities, ensure your accommodation is located near Tonsai Village.
19. Jelly Fish on the Beaches
The most popular beach near Tonsai Village on Koh Phi Phi Don was unfortunately full of jellyfish, both on land and in the sea.
Although jellyfish float and it’s hard to predict where you will see them, we encountered them in huge numbers during our stay in early February.
Stay safe and don’t swim in water full of jellyfish. Jellyfish stings can be painful and potentially dangerous, so always check with locals or tour guides about current conditions before swimming.
If you’re traveling during jellyfish season, consider wearing protective swimwear or sticking to areas known to be free of these creatures.
20. Beaches Get Busy with Boats
Although convenient for visiting nearby places like Phuket, Koh Lanta, and Krabi, longtail boats moored by the beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don can be a disadvantage when you want to swim.
If you prefer quieter beaches, head to more secluded places like Viking Beach, Loh Lana Bay, or Loh Moo Dee Beach.
21. Feels Gentrified and Overdeveloped
The main tourist area of Koh Phi Phi Don, Tonsai Village, is very busy and developed compared to other Thai islands. One of the most criticized aspects is the McDonald’s located next to Tonsai Pier.
I can’t really argue with that. Seeing this popular restaurant makes the place feel less authentic, especially since Koh Phi Phi is marketed as a tiny paradise island with picturesque Maya Bay.
Personally, McDonald’s didn’t bother me much. I avoided the area near the pier and ventured to the outskirts, local villages, and jungle trails.
The island has also many construction sites and hosts a party every night during high season, making it feel more like a popular resort than a serene paradise.
Still, thanks to its development we found many nice restaurants on Koh Phi Phi. And before coming there I knew it was a party island, so honestly, I was prepared for much worse.
22. It’s More Expensive Than Other Islands
Being a top tourist spot, Koh Phi Phi is more expensive than other islands.
Although we didn’t struggle to find accommodation, the rooms were small for the price we paid. However, the location was convenient, as it was close to town.
Koh Phi Phi offers a great diversity of bars and restaurants. Some are really nice, but more western-style and less local, making them unfortunately more expensive too. Even the famous McDonald’s isn’t very cheap.
As the island is heavily focused on parties, getting a drink in a busy bar will be more expensive too. To save money, head to small, local bars and restaurants, preferably well-hidden in the small streets or located further from the center.
23. Maya Bay Feels Like a Tourist Trap
Famous Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh, where the movie “The Beach” was filmed, is an extremely crowded destination. Even if you go there early in the morning or late in the evening, you’ll still be surrounded by many other tourists.
Although the place is stunning, it was hard for me to understand the hype. The whole experience is simply walking on the beach and taking photos, along dozens other tourists.
It really wasn’t a highlight of the month we spent in Thailand and more of a checkbox to cross and never come back.
Not to mention the stop at Monkey Beach, which felt disturbingly unethical and something I wish I hadn’t supported.
It definitely didn’t feel like an authentic experience, overshadowed by the crowds and the sense of a forced must-see attraction.
Final thoughts about visiting Koh Phi Phi
I’m not someone who will bash Koh Phi Phi for its overdevelopment and crowds of tourists. As a tourist, I’m aware I’m part of the problem. But I spent a week on the island and honestly enjoyed my stay.
I loved how walkable it was and how easy it was to find cheap restaurants and affordable accommodation. Despite its busyness, it was super easy to find a secluded beach or go on a hike and plan the perfect itinerary.
Visiting Maya Bay was probably the biggest disappointment for me, as it’s hyped so much and everyone sells day trips there.
Still, I would visit Koh Phi Phi again for its stunning beaches, turquoise water, vibrant nightlife, and nearby nature spots.
FAQs about Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
- How do I get to Phi Phi Islands?
- You can reach the Phi Phi Islands by ferry or speedboat from Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Lanta.
- What are the arrival points on Phi Phi Islands?
- The main arrival point on Koh Phi Phi Don is Tonsai Pier. On the northern part of the island, there’s Laem Tong Pier, which is less popular and provides access to remote resorts.
- Is there a fee for visiting the Phi Phi Islands?
- You will need to pay a 20 baht entry fee when arriving at Tonsai Pier.
- Can I visit Phi Phi Islands on a day trip?
- Yes, many day trips are available from Phuket, Koh Lanta, and Krabi Town.
- What is the best time to visit?
- The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is between mid-October and May, when the weather is dry and the sea is calm. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds.
- Can I visit Phi Phi Islands during the monsoon season?
- While it is possible, the weather can be unpredictable with heavy rains and rough seas. Ferry lines won’t be operating as often as during the high season.
- What is the weather like on Phi Phi Islands?
- The islands have a tropical climate with hot and humid weather all year-round. During the dry season, the weather is extremely hot, so it’s essential to protect yourself from the sun. The monsoon season can bring heavy rains and tough sea conditions.
- Is Phi Phi Islands too touristy?
- Phi Phi Islands are quite popular and can get very crowded, especially during the high season. The busiest areas are Tonsai Village on Koh Phi Phi Don and Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh. However, more secluded places can be found on Koh Phi Phi Don.
- How long should I stay on Koh Phi Phi?
- A stay of 3-4 days should be enough to explore Koh Phi Phi’s main attractions. If you’re into diving or want to spend more time relaxing on the beach, you might want to extend your stay.
- Is Koh Phi Phi expensive?
- Koh Phi Phi is more expensive compared to other Thai islands. However, budget options are also available if you explore and plan accordingly.
- Is Koh Phi Phi safe?
- Koh Phi Phi is generally safe for tourists. However, like any popular tourist destination, it’s important to be mindful of your belongings.
- Can I swim in the sea on Koh Phi Phi?
- Yes, it’s safe to swim on Koh Phi Phi Don, but be cautious of jellyfish, especially during certain times of the year. Swimming in Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh is not allowed.
- Can I visit Maya Bay on Phi Phi Islands?
- Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is open during the high season from October 1st to June 30th. Check official information before visiting.
- What are the best things to do on Phi Phi Islands?
- Popular activities include snorkeling, scuba diving, visiting Maya Bay, enjoying the nightlife, hiking in the jungle, visiting Phi Phi Viewpoints, and kayaking.
- What are the best spots for snorkeling on Phi Phi Islands?
- Great snorkeling spots include Loh Samah Bay, Hin Klang, and Bamboo Island, where you can see diverse marine life.
- Can I rent snorkeling or diving equipment on the islands?
- Yes, there are many shops offering rental equipment for snorkeling and diving, and centers organizing trips that provide all the necessary equipment.
- What are the best spots for diving?
- The best diving spots near Koh Phi Phi include Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Hin Phae, and King Cruiser Wreck.
- What are the best beaches on Phi Phi Islands?
- The most popular beaches on Koh Phi Phi Don are Tonsai Pier Beach, Long Beach, and Loh Dalum Bay. Calmer and more secluded beaches include Viking Beach, Loh Lana Bay, Nui Beach and Loh Moo Dee Beach.
- Are there hospitals or medical facilities on the islands?
- Yes, there is a general hospital and small private clinics on Koh Phi Phi Don.
- Are there ATMs on Koh Phi Phi?
- Yes, there are several ATMs on Koh Phi Phi Don. Carry cash as many places do not accept cards.
- Can I use credit cards on the islands?
- Credit cards are accepted in many hotels and some larger restaurants, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
- Is the internet available on Phi Phi Islands?
- 4G/5G internet is available, and most accommodations and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
- Can I drink tap water on Koh Phi Phi?
- No, it’s not safe to drink tap water in Koh Phi Phi. Stick to bottled water.
- What should I pack for a trip to Phi Phi Islands?
- Pack light, breathable clothing, hat, sunglasses, swimsuits, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, flip-flops and covered shoes if you plan hiking.
- What are the main transportation options on the islands?
- The Koh Phi Phi Don area near Tonsai Village and the pier is very walkable. To get to the remote parts of the island, you will need to get a boat or prepare for a long hike.
- Are there any cultural or dress code considerations?
- Tourists tend to wear beachwear everywhere, but local people won’t wear it often as the island is inhabited mainly by a Muslim population. Try to limit beach wear to swimming pools and beaches.
- What is the nightlife like on Phi Phi Islands?
- Koh Phi Phi Don is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, beach clubs, pool parties, live music, and fire shows near Tonsai Village.
- What is the cost of food and drinks on the islands?
- Prices can vary; you can find more expensive restaurants as well as many cheap and tasty dining options and street food.
- Is Phi Phi Islands suitable for families?
- Yes, there are many activities and accommodations suitable for families. Choose quieter areas for a more family-friendly atmosphere.
- What kind of wildlife can I see on Phi Phi Islands?
- You can see rich marine life when snorkeling or diving, monkeys, monitor lizards in the mangrove forest, and diverse bird species.
- What are the opening hours for main attractions on Phi Phi Islands?
- Most attractions, like Maya Bay, are open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- What are the accommodation options on Phi Phi Islands?
- The islands offer a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury resorts. The center of Tonsai Village can get loud and busy, while places like Laem Tong Beach or Loh Ba Kao Bay are much calmer but harder to access without getting on a boat.
- What types of cuisine can I find on Phi Phi Islands?
- You can find fresh seafood and a variety of cuisines including authentic Thai dishes, as well as Italian, Indian, Japanese, and some international fast food chains.
- Are there any unique cultural experiences on Phi Phi Islands?
- Visitors can experience traditional Thai cultural elements such as Muay Thai kickboxing matches, Thai cooking classes, and visit the Urak Lawoi tribe village near Laem Tong Beach.
- Is it possible to rent a kayak or paddleboard on Phi Phi Islands?
- Yes, renting kayaks and paddleboards is a popular activity on Koh Phi Phi. You can explore the coastline, nearby smaller islands, and the mangrove forest near Loh Ba Kao Bay.
- Can I go rock climbing on Koh Phi Phi?
- No, rock climbing is not allowed on Phi Phi islands.
- Are there many massage parlors on Koh Phi Phi?
- Yes, you will find many affordable massage parlors on Koh Phi Phi Don.
- Can I get a tattoo on Koh Phi Phi?
- Yes, Koh Phi Phi Don is home to many tattoo studios, especially for getting a bamboo tattoo.
- Are there any tsunami safety measures in place?
- Yes, there are tsunami hazard zones and evacuation routes marked on the islands.
Read My Other Posts about Koh Phi Phi:
- How to Trek 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
