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17 Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi (Hidden & Worth Visiting)
The best beaches on Koh Phi Phi aren’t always the ones you see first.
Most people arrive at Tonsai Pier, see the crowds and longtail boats, and assume that’s what the island is like. It’s not.
The beaches that actually make Koh Phi Phi special — clear water, fewer people, and proper snorkeling — are usually a short hike or boat ride away.
If you want a quick starting point: Long Beach is the most reliable for snorkeling, Nui Beach has the most dramatic scenery, and Loh Moo Dee is one of the quietest beaches near the main area.
This guide is based on visiting 15+ beaches across Koh Phi Phi, including both popular spots and remote locations reached by hiking and boat.
Below, you’ll find every major beach on Koh Phi Phi, including how to get there, what to expect, and which ones are actually worth your time.
Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi (Quick Answer)
If you’re short on time, these are the best beaches on Koh Phi Phi based on what you’re looking for:
Best overall combination: Long Beach + Nui Beach + one east coast beach (Pak Nam or Ran Tee).
Tip: Most travellers only visit 2–4 beaches, so picking the right ones upfront makes a big difference.
If you only visit 2–3 beaches, choose carefully — getting between them takes longer than it looks on the map.
If you’re short on time, follow my Koh Phi Phi 24-hour itinerary for a simple route covering the best beaches.
Why Beaches on Koh Phi Phi Feel So Different
Most beaches on Koh Phi Phi look similar in photos — white sand, turquoise water, and limestone cliffs — but in reality, they offer very different experiences.
The main differences come down to four key factors:
Understanding these differences helps you choose the right beaches — and avoid wasting time on the wrong ones.
Koh Phi Phi Beaches Map
Use this map to plan your route between beaches — especially if you’re short on time.
Distances on Koh Phi Phi can be misleading, and some beaches require a boat or steep hike.
You can open the map in full screen to plan your route between beaches more easily.
Tip: Beaches on the east coast are much more remote. Group them into one day to avoid long transfers between locations.
Essential Travel Tools for Visiting Thailand
Which Koh Phi Phi Beaches Are Actually Worth It?
Koh Phi Phi is one of the most popular stops along the Andaman Coast — see the Southern Thailand travel guide to understand how it fits into a wider trip.
Not all beaches on Koh Phi Phi are worth your time — especially if you only have a few days.
If you only visit the central beaches near Tonsai, you’ll miss what actually makes Koh Phi Phi special.
Not sure how to combine these beaches? See the itineraries below or follow my 4-day Koh Phi Phi itinerary for a complete plan.
All Beaches On Koh Phi Phi (Quick Overview)
This table gives you a quick overview of all beaches on Koh Phi Phi, including what each one is best for and how easy it is to reach.
If you’re planning your trip, check out my Koh Phi Phi travel guide for itineraries, hikes, and essential tips.
| Beach Name | Highlights & Access |
|---|---|
| Convenient & Lively Beaches (Tonsai Area) | |
| Ton Sai Beach |
|
| Loh Dalum Beach |
|
| Laem Hin Beach |
|
| Best For Snorkeling & Nature | |
| Long Beach (Haad Yao) |
|
| Nui Beach |
|
| Loh Moo Dee Beach |
|
| Remote & Less Crowded Beaches | |
| Loh Ba Kao Bay |
|
| Pak Nam, Ran Tee & Toh Koh |
|
| Loh Lana Bay |
|
| Famous Beaches & Day Trips | |
| Maya Bay |
|
| Bamboo Island |
|
How Hard Is It To Reach Each Beach On Koh Phi Phi?
Outside this central area, the island becomes much quieter, with remote beaches, small villages, and resorts spread along the east and north coasts.
Not all beaches on Koh Phi Phi are easy to reach — and this is one of the biggest factors that affects your experience.
Some beaches are just a short walk from Tonsai, while others require a long jungle hike or a taxi boat. Planning this properly can save you hours of travel time.
Easy (Walkable from Tonsai)
Moderate (Short Hike or Boat)
Hard (Jungle Trek or Boat Required)
Tip: If you’re short on time, focus on a mix of easy and moderate beaches. The most remote beaches take significantly longer to reach and are best visited as part of a full-day plan.
Koh Phi Phi Beaches by Travel Style
If you’re not sure which beaches to prioritise, use this quick breakdown based on travel style and time.
Guide to The Best Beaches On Koh Phi Phi
Not all beaches on Koh Phi Phi are equally worth visiting — and the difference usually comes down to access, crowds, and what you want from each spot.
Some are steps from Tonsai and easy to reach, while others require a boat or a steep jungle hike.
Below, you’ll find a full breakdown of every beach, including how to get there, what to expect, and whether it’s actually worth visiting.
1. Ton Sai Beach
Best for convenience, arrivals, and easy access to restaurants and shops.
Ton Sai Beach is the main arrival point on Koh Phi Phi, located right next to the pier and Ton Sai Village.
It’s the most developed area on the island, with shops, restaurants, and facilities all within a short walk.
While the beach looks picturesque — with white sand, turquoise water, and limestone cliffs — it’s not the best place for swimming due to constant longtail boat traffic.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Not really for swimming or relaxing — but you’ll pass through it anyway. Think of it as a transport hub rather than a beach you’d plan time around.
👉 Tip: Stick to designated swimming areas and avoid the central section where boat traffic is highest. Jellyfish are sometimes present, so check conditions before getting in the water.
2. Loh Dalum Beach
Best for nightlife, central location, and sunset views.
Loh Dalum Beach sits on the opposite side of Tonsai Bay, forming a wide, curved bay backed by limestone cliffs.
It’s one of the most popular beaches on Koh Phi Phi thanks to its central location and easy access.
Unlike Tonsai, there are no boats cutting through the beach — but swimming depends heavily on the tide. At low tide, the water retreats far out, leaving shallow water that’s not ideal for swimming.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — but mainly for the atmosphere, not for swimming. It’s a great place to relax during the day or experience Koh Phi Phi’s nightlife, but not the best beach if your priority is clear, swimmable water.
👉 Tip: Visit at high tide for the best conditions, and head to the western side if you want a quieter experience away from the party scene.
3. Laem Hin Beach
Best for a quieter beach near Tonsai and relaxed evening drinks.
Laem Hin Beach is a short walk from Tonsai but feels noticeably calmer. It’s not as busy as Ton Sai or Loh Dalum, making it a good option if you want to stay close to the centre without the crowds.
The beach itself is sandy and fairly calm, though it’s not a standout for swimming. Its main appeal is the balance between convenience and a more relaxed atmosphere.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — especially if you want something quieter without going far. It’s not worth going out of your way for, but it’s a good alternative to the busier central areas.
👉 Tip: Come in the evening for a drink at Hippie Bar — there are fire shows and live music, but the vibe is much more relaxed than Loh Dalum. It can get busier around lunchtime when day trips arrive.
4. Viking Beach
Best for a quiet stop between Tonsai and Long Beach.
Viking Beach sits along the coastal path south of Tonsai, about a 20-minute walk from the main pier.
It’s smaller and quieter than the main beaches, making it a good place to pause if you’re heading further towards Long Beach.
It doesn’t have the same snorkeling or space as Long Beach, but it’s noticeably more peaceful than Tonsai and Loh Dalum, with fewer boats and a more relaxed feel.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — but mainly as part of the walk rather than a destination on its own. It works best as a short stop on the way to Long Beach.
👉 Tip: Use Viking Beach as a stop on the way to Long Beach — it’s one of the best scenic sections of the coastal walk.
5. Long Beach (Haad Yao)
Best for snorkeling and clear water near Tonsai Village.
Long Beach is one of the most reliable beaches on Koh Phi Phi if you actually want to swim and snorkel.
The water is clearer than Tonsai, there’s less boat traffic, and you can often spot blacktip reef sharks near Shark Point.
It’s one of the few beaches that’s both easy to reach and genuinely worth it – close enough to reach easily, but far enough to feel noticeably better.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — if you only visit one beach near Tonsai, this is one of the best choices. It’s significantly better for swimming than Tonsai or Loh Dalum and doesn’t require a full day trip.
If you’re planning to walk here, check my Long Beach coastal trail guide for the best route.
👉 Tip: Go early in the morning for the best visibility and fewer boats. You can rent a mask and fins from beachfront resorts (around 100 THB) to snorkel around Shark Point.
If you want to explore beyond Long Beach, many snorkeling tours include Shark Point and nearby reefs:
6. Loh Moo Dee Beach
Best for a quiet, less crowded alternative to Long Beach.
Loh Moo Dee Beach sits on the opposite side of Long Beach and feels noticeably more secluded. It’s one of the best options near Tonsai if you want fewer people and less boat traffic without going too far.
The beach is long, sandy, and far more peaceful than Long Beach, with clear water that’s suitable for swimming and light snorkeling.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — especially if you like Long Beach but want something quieter. It feels similar to Long Beach, but with far fewer people, making it one of the best peaceful beaches close to the main area.
👉 Tip: There’s very little natural shade, so bring a hat or plan your visit earlier in the day.
Looking for quieter beaches and better snorkeling? See this Koh Lipe travel guide.
7. Loh Ba Kao Bay
Loh Ba Kao Bay on Koh Phi Phi — a long, quiet beach on the island’s east coast.
Best for a remote stay, kayaking, and a quieter side of Koh Phi Phi.
Loh Ba Kao Bay is located on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don and feels very different from the busy Tonsai area.
It’s one of the most developed “remote” areas, with a mix of resorts and a small local village.
The beach itself is long and scenic, but not ideal for swimming in all conditions.
Its main appeal is the quieter atmosphere and access to nature rather than being the best beach on the island.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
It depends — this is better as a place to stay than somewhere to visit for a few hours. If you’re looking for a quieter base away from Tonsai, it’s a good option, but there are better beaches for swimming and scenery.
👉 Tip: Rent a kayak to explore the mangrove area at the back of the bay — it’s one of the few places on the island where you might see monitor lizards. Bring cash, as there’s no ATM in the area.
8. Loh Lana Bay
Best for seclusion — but not one of the best beaches on the island.
Loh Lana Bay sits on the northwest coast of Koh Phi Phi Don and feels remote compared to the main areas. It’s relatively easy to reach from Loh Ba Kao, but much less visited.
While the setting is quiet and surrounded by nature, the beach itself isn’t particularly well maintained. An abandoned resort and washed-up debris can take away from the overall experience.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
For most travellers, it’s not worth the effort. While it’s quiet and secluded, there are better beaches on Koh Phi Phi that offer the same atmosphere without the downsides.
If you want to hike here, follow my Loh Ba Kao Bay jungle trek guide for the exact route.
👉 Tip: If you do visit, go at high tide — the shoreline is rocky, and conditions are better when the water is higher.
9. Nui Beach
Best for scenery and a secluded tropical cove.
Nui Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Phi Phi, tucked away on the northwest coast near Loh Lana Bay.
It’s known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise water, and small, enclosed bay.
Because of its location, it feels much more remote than the main beaches — but getting here requires some effort.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — this is one of the most scenic beaches on Koh Phi Phi and feels completely different from the main areas. The effort to get here pays off, if you’re looking for a quieter, more “hidden” beach.
👉 Tip: Arrive before 11:00 AM — by midday, the small bay often fills with tour boats, which takes away from the atmosphere.
10. Laem Tong Beach
Best for a quiet, upscale escape away from the crowds.
Laem Tong Beach is the northernmost beach on Koh Phi Phi Don, located on the island’s east coast.
It’s one of the most remote and peaceful areas, far removed from the busy atmosphere of Tonsai and Loh Dalum.
This part of the island feels completely different — quieter, more spacious, and focused around a handful of higher-end beachfront resorts.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — if you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed side of Koh Phi Phi. It’s one of the best places to stay on the island if you want to avoid the party areas completely.
👉 Tip: Visit the nearby Urak Lawoi village to experience the island’s local culture — guided visits offer insight into traditional fishing and sea life.
11. Pak Nam Bay
Best for adventure, seclusion, and quiet snorkeling.
Pak Nam Bay is a remote beach on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, far from the busy areas around Tonsai. It’s much less visited than other beaches, giving it a quieter and more untouched feel.
Reaching the bay requires effort, which is exactly why it remains peaceful.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — if you’re looking for a more adventurous and less crowded beach. It feels completely different from the main beaches and is one of the best spots for escaping the crowds.
👉 Tip: Keep food packed away on the hike — monkeys are common along the trail.
Also, check conditions during monsoon season, as trails can become difficult and boat availability may be limited.
12. Ran Tee Beach
Best for a raw, off-grid beach experience with very few tourists.
Ran Tee Beach is a remote beach on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, offering a quiet and less-developed alternative to the main areas.
It’s one of the more “untouched” spots on the island, with a mix of jungle, simple bungalows, and natural shoreline. Getting here isn’t easy, which keeps the crowds away.
What to expect
How to get there
👉 Tip: If you stay overnight, wake up early — this is one of the best spots on the east coast for sunrise. Also, don’t miss the last taxi boat back, or you’ll need to hike out.
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — if you want a more rugged, less touristy side of Koh Phi Phi. It’s a good option for travellers looking to disconnect and experience a quieter part of the island.
13. Toh Koh Beach
Best for total isolation and a true off-the-beaten-path experience.
Toh Koh Beach is located south of Ran Tee Beach on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don. It’s one of the most remote and least-visited beaches on the island, offering a completely quiet and undeveloped atmosphere.
Because of how difficult it is to reach, very few travellers make it here.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — if you’re looking for complete isolation and don’t mind the effort to get there. It’s one of the most untouched beaches on Koh Phi Phi.
👉 Tip: Download an offline map before hiking — the trail is often overgrown and mobile signal can be unreliable in this area.
14. Monkey Beach (Yong Kasem Bay)
Best for seeing monkeys — but with caution.
Monkey Beach is a small bay on the southwest side of Koh Phi Phi Don, known for its population of wild macaques. It’s a common stop on island-hopping tours, especially those heading towards Maya Bay.
While the setting is beautiful, the experience can feel crowded and chaotic, especially when tour groups arrive.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
For most people, it’s not worth prioritising. The scenery is beautiful, but the experience is heavily influenced by crowds and how tourists interact with the monkeys. If you’re looking for a peaceful beach, there are better options on Koh Phi Phi.
👉 Ethical tip: Do not feed the monkeys or approach them. They can be aggressive, and feeding them disrupts their natural behaviour. Keep your belongings secure — monkeys are known to grab loose items.
15. Wang Long Bay
Best for hidden lagoon-style scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs.
Wang Long Bay is located on the southwest side of Koh Phi Phi Don, not far from Monkey Beach. It’s one of the most unique and visually striking spots on the island, with towering cliffs and a narrow entrance that opens into a sheltered bay.
The beach itself is small and tucked inside the cliffs, giving it a secluded, almost hidden feel.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — this is one of the most visually unique spots on Koh Phi Phi. While most visitors stay in the water, the small beach offers a quieter place to relax once inside the bay.
👉 Tip: The entrance to the bay is a narrow gap in the rocks and is easiest to access at higher tide. Also, be mindful of monkeys in the area and keep your belongings secure.
16. Maya Bay (Koh Phi Phi Leh)
Best for iconic scenery and must-see views.
Maya Bay is the most famous beach in Koh Phi Phi, located on the uninhabited island of Koh Phi Phi Leh. It became world-famous after appearing in the movie The Beach, and is now one of the most visited places in Thailand.
The bay is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and filled with clear turquoise water, making it one of the most visually impressive spots in the region.
What to expect
How to get there
Most visitors reach Maya Bay as part of a guided island-hopping tour.
→ Check Maya Bay + Bamboo Island tour options
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — it’s one of the most iconic locations in Thailand and worth seeing at least once. However, the experience depends heavily on timing, as it can feel very crowded during the middle of the day.
For full details, see my Maya Bay guide with updated rules and tips.
👉 Important: Swimming is not allowed to protect the coral reef and marine life. Visitors must use designated paths and boardwalks, and a 400 THB National Park fee applies.
17. Bamboo Island
Best for white sand, clear water, and easy snorkeling.
Bamboo Island is located north of Koh Phi Phi Don and is only accessible by boat. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in the area, known for its soft white sand and bright turquoise water.
Compared to other popular stops, it feels more open and relaxed, making it a great place to spend a few hours swimming or snorkeling.
What to expect
How to get there
Is it worth visiting?
Yes — this is one of the best beaches near Koh Phi Phi for relaxing and swimming. It’s less dramatic than Maya Bay but far more enjoyable for spending time in the water.
👉 Tip: There is limited shade in the centre of the island — stay near the trees along the edges. A 400 THB National Park fee applies (usually combined with Maya Bay if visited on the same day).
Best Koh Phi Phi Beach Itineraries (1–3 Days)
If you’re not sure how to combine the beaches, these simple itineraries will help you plan your time based on how long you’re staying.
1 Day in Koh Phi Phi (Short Stay)
Route: Long Beach → Loh Moo Dee → Loh Dalum (sunset)
- Start early at Long Beach for snorkeling and calm water
- Walk to Loh Moo Dee for a quieter, less crowded beach
- Finish at Loh Dalum for sunset and nightlife
This is the most efficient way to see both sides of the island in one day.
👉 For a full breakdown, see my 24-hour Koh Phi Phi itinerary.
2 Days in Koh Phi Phi
Day 1: Long Beach + Nui Beach
Day 2: Maya Bay + Bamboo Island (boat trip)
- Combine one hiking day with one boat day
- Nui Beach offers the best scenery on Phi Phi Don
- Maya Bay and Bamboo Island are must-see highlights
This route is easiest with a boat tour — it saves time and covers multiple spots in one day.
→ Compare top-rated Maya Bay + Bamboo Island tours (fastest way to see both in one day)
3 Days in Koh Phi Phi
Day 1: Tonsai area + Long Beach
Day 2: Nui Beach + Loh Lana + Viewpoints
Day 3: East coast (Pak Nam or Ran Tee)
- Add a remote beach for a completely different experience
- East coast beaches are quieter and less developed
- Best option if you want to avoid crowds
👉 Planning a longer stay? See my 4-day Koh Phi Phi itinerary for a more complete route.
How to Plan Your Beach Route (Avoid Wasting Time)
Koh Phi Phi looks small on the map, but getting between beaches can take longer than expected.
The best way to explore is to combine nearby beaches in one route:
- Easy route: Tonsai → Viking Beach → Long Beach → Loh Moo Dee
- Scenic route: Loh Ba Kao → Loh Lana → Nui Beach
- Remote route: Viewpoints → Pak Nam → Ran Tee → Toh Koh
Trying to jump randomly between beaches often wastes time — grouping them properly makes a big difference.
How Many Beaches Can You Realistically Visit?
Most travellers overestimate how many beaches they can visit on Koh Phi Phi.
In reality, you can comfortably explore:
- 1 day: 2–3 beaches
- 2–3 days: 4–7 beaches (including one boat trip)
Trying to visit too many usually means spending more time walking or waiting for boats than actually enjoying the beaches.
It’s better to choose fewer beaches that match what you’re looking for than to rush through all of them.
How to Choose the Best Area to Stay on Koh Phi Phi Don
Where you stay on Koh Phi Phi Don will have a huge impact on your experience. The island may look small, but each area feels completely different depending on crowds, noise, and accessibility.
Here’s how to choose the right location based on your travel style:
💸 Prices
- Tonsai Village has the widest range of accommodation (budget to mid-range)
- Beachfront resorts (especially on Long Beach and Laem Tong) are significantly more expensive
- Remote areas often cost more due to transport and limited supply
🎉 Crowds & Noise
- Tonsai and Loh Dalum are the busiest areas with constant activity
- Loh Dalum is the main party zone with loud music at night
- Quieter alternatives: Long Beach, Loh Moo Dee, or Laem Tong
🍹 Nightlife
- Stay near Loh Dalum Beach or Tonsai Village for easy access to bars and clubs
- Everything is walkable here — no need for boats or taxis
- Best for backpackers and social travellers
🌿 Seclusion
- For a peaceful stay, choose remote east coast beaches
- Best options: Laem Tong (luxury), Pak Nam Bay, Ran Tee Beach, Toh Koh Beach
- These areas feel completely different from the main village
🚶 Accessibility
- Tonsai is the most convenient — everything is within walking distance
- Long Beach offers a balance (walkable + short boat ride)
- Remote beaches often require longtail boats or steep jungle hikes
📶 Internet
- Strongest and most reliable in Tonsai Village
- Unreliable or weak on remote beaches
- If you need Wi-Fi for work, confirm speed with your hotel before booking
🦟 Mosquitoes
- More common near jungle and remote beaches
- Less noticeable in central Tonsai areas
- Bring repellent, especially if staying in bungalows
📍 Quick Recommendations
If you’re comparing islands, here’s how they stack up against the best beaches in Koh Lipe.
Best Time to Visit Koh Phi Phi
The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for — weather, crowds, and sea conditions can vary significantly throughout the year.
☀️ Dry Season (November to April) — Best Overall
- Sunny weather, calm seas, and clear water
- Best conditions for snorkeling, boat trips, and beach hopping
- All tours and transport run reliably
- Peak crowds, especially December to February
This is the best time to experience Koh Phi Phi at its full potential — especially if you plan to visit places like Maya Bay or Bamboo Island.
🌦️ Shoulder Months (October & May) — Good Balance
- Fewer tourists and lower prices
- Weather is still mostly good, with occasional rain
- Sea conditions can be slightly less predictable
These months offer a good balance between weather and crowds, especially if you want a quieter trip without fully risking the monsoon.
🌧️ Rainy Season (June to September) — Quiet but Unpredictable
- Fewer tourists and cheaper accommodation
- Rough seas can limit boat access to beaches
- Some tours may be cancelled due to weather
- Maya Bay is closed for restoration
This can still be a good time to visit if you prioritise quiet beaches, but access to more remote spots like Nui Beach or Bamboo Island may be limited.
📍 Summary
- Best overall: November to April
- Best for fewer crowds: October or May
- Best for budget travel: June to September
Weather also affects transport — see my how to get to Koh Phi Phi guide for ferry schedules.
Koh Phi Phi Location and Terrain
Koh Phi Phi is a group of islands in southern Thailand, located in the Andaman Sea between Phuket and Krabi.
The islands are easily accessible by ferry and speedboat routes from nearby destinations such as Phuket, Krabi Town, and Ao Nang.
It is also quite easily accessible from Bangkok.
- Koh Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island and serves as the main base for accommodation, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Ao Ton Sai Pier is the main arrival point and transportation hub.
- Koh Phi Phi Leh is uninhabited and home to famous spots like Maya Bay and Viking Cave.
Koh Phi Phi has a rugged, mountainous landscape with steep limestone cliffs and dense jungle, which makes much of the island inaccessible.
Most development is concentrated on a narrow strip of land (an isthmus) between Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Beach, where the main village is located.
You can check ferry schedules and prices from Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta here:
→ View ferry options to Koh Phi Phi
The Biggest Mistake Most Travellers Make
Most people stay near Tonsai and never explore beyond it.
That means they only experience the busiest part of the island – and miss the beaches that actually make Koh Phi Phi worth visiting.
Even a short hike or boat ride can completely change your experience, with clearer water, fewer people, and better snorkeling.
For a full breakdown of activities beyond beaches, see my guide to the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi.
Final Thoughts on the Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi
If you only have time for a few beaches, focus on Long Beach for swimming, Nui Beach for scenery, and one remote beach like Pak Nam or Ran Tee for a quieter experience.
The biggest mistake most travellers make is staying near Tonsai and never exploring beyond it — which means missing what actually makes Koh Phi Phi special.
Even a short hike or boat ride can completely change your experience. Once you leave the main village, the island feels completely different.
If you’re planning your trip, start with:
- Where to stay (area matters more than hotel)
- 2–3 key beaches (don’t try to do everything)
- One boat trip (Maya Bay + Bamboo is the best combo)
→ See my full Koh Phi Phi travel guide to plan everything step by step
FAQs About Koh Phi Phi Beaches
Why can’t you swim at Maya Bay?
Swimming is restricted to protect coral reefs and marine life, including reef sharks. Visitors can only walk along the beach and use designated paths.
Can you walk to Monkey Beach?
No, Monkey Beach is only accessible by kayak or longtail boat from Loh Dalum or Ton Sai.
How many days do you need in Koh Phi Phi?
2–3 days is ideal. This gives you enough time to explore several beaches, take a boat trip, and visit popular spots early before crowds arrive.
Which beach is best for snorkeling?
Long Beach is the most reliable snorkeling spot on Koh Phi Phi, especially near Shark Point, where you can often see blacktip reef sharks.
