17 Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Ultimate Guide
Modified on
The Phi Phi Islands are famous for their turquoise waters, but there is so much more to explore beyond Maya Bay.
While Tonsai and Loh Dalum beaches are the go-to spots for nightlife, the island’s true magic lies in its harder-to-reach gems like Nui Beach and Wang Long Bay.
After a week on Koh Phi Phi Don, I’ve mapped out the best spots for everything from serene seclusion to world-class snorkeling.
Read on for my honest guide to the island’s top beaches and how to reach them.
Koh Phi Phi Location and Terrain
Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi
The “Convenient & Lively” Beaches (Tonsai Area)
- Ton Sai Beach – Located right by the main pier. It is the busiest hub for transportation but has soft white sand and calm water.
- Loh Dalum Beach – Situated on the opposite side of the Tonsai beach. It is famous for its curved shape and is the island’s primary party spot at night, but remains relaxed during the day.
- Laem Hin Beach – A 15-minute walk from the pier. It is quieter than the main center and home to the popular Hippie Bar, with fire shows and live music at night.
The “Nature & Snorkeling” Favorites
- Long Beach (Haad Yao) – Accessible via a 40-minute coastal hike or a 10-minute boat ride. It is widely considered the best spot for off beach snorkeling, specifically at Shark Point.
- Nui Beach – A secluded cove with limestone cliffs. It is best reached by private boat or a challenging jungle hike. It’s perfect for swimming but gets crowded with boats in the afternoon.
- Loh Moo Dee Beach – A long, quiet beach opposite Long Beach. It offers a peaceful alternative to the busier southern spots and views of Bamboo Island.
The “Remote & Adventurous” Spots
- Loh Ba Kao Bay – located on the east coast, reachable by a 1-hour jungle hike or boat; near mangrove forest – perfect for kayaking to spot monitor lizards.
- Pak Nam, Ran Tee, & Toh Koh – isolated beaches on the east coast reachable via steep, dense jungle treks or boat. They offer total seclusion and excellent off-shore snorkeling.
- Loh Lana Bay – a secluded spot on the northwest coast. It is quiet but often suffers from washed-up trash and lacks amenities.
Off-Island Icons (Requires a Boat)
- Maya Bay (Koh Phi Phi Leh) – the world-famous location from The Beach. It’s a protected area and you cannot swim here, but it remains a must-visit for the iconic scenery.
- Bamboo Island – A small island north of Phi Phi Don. It is essentially one giant, pristine beach with “perfect” blue water and is a top-tier snorkeling destination.
1. Ton Sai Beach
Ton Sai Beach is located near the busy Ton Sai Pier. You can easily walk there along a paved path.
The area is well-developed, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and public toilets nearby.
Being close to the main attractions, it’s one of the easiest beaches to access.
You’ll find soft, white sand here, and the water is calm and clean.
Though you might encounter jellyfish both on the beach and in the water. Keep safe and avoid swimming with the jellyfish.
You can rent a chair, grab a drink from local vendors, or treat yourself to a massage.
Unfortunately with the number of boats around, the swimming area is limited to the designated spaces between them.
You can enjoy picturesque views of blue water, limestone cliffs, and boats sailing in the distance.
This beach gets quieter at night, as parties take place on the opposite side of the island.
2. Loh Dalum Beach
Loh Dalum Beach is situated on the backside of Tonsai Bay. It’s a wide, sandy beach, not as busy with boats as Tonsai Beach.
This is famous for its curved shape and stunning views of cliffs covered with green jungle.
The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for a daytime visit, though finding a shady spot can be challenging.
The western side of the beach is more relaxed with coffee shops and beach bars.
The eastern side is the main party area on Koh Phi Phi Don, with clubs and bars open all night.
Due to its central location, accommodation near Loh Dalum Beach tends to be more expensive.
3. Laem Hin Beach
Just a short 15-minute walk from Ton Sai Pier, you’ll find the quieter Laem Hin Beach.
Laem Hin Beach isn’t always well-marked on maps, so to reach it, head towards Hippie Bar, a popular spot located right by the beach.
At this restaurant, tables are set right next to the beach, offering an excellent location to enjoy the seaview. However, having a prime spot to eat also means higher prices on the menu.
Laem Hin Beach is sandy and calm, much less crowded than the central beaches, although it’s also a common stop for day trips.
Beach usually gets busier when large groups arrive at lunchtime.
Nearby, you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, hotels, and even a local mosque.
And at night, Hippie Bar becomes even more lively with fire shows and live music.
Laem Hin Beach’s location is very convenient—far from the loud parties and crowds, yet still within a short walk of Koh Phi Phi’s main attractions.
4. Viking Beach
Viking Beach is about a 20 minute walk south from Ton Sai Pier.
Once you pass Hippie Bar, you’ll continue along the coast, walking via the scenic pathway near seaside bungalows.
Viking Beach offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the larger, busier beaches.
The breathtaking views of the bay with cliffs in the distance, make it an excellent spot for sunsets.
The turquoise water is inviting, and the beach rarely gets crowded with boats, so most of the time it remains peaceful.
You’ll also find a beach bar and some accommodation options nearby.
5. Long Beach (Haad Yao)
Long Beach is a popular destination located farther from Tonsai Village on the southwest side of Koh Phi Phi Don.
To reach Long Beach, you can hike along a stunning coastal trail, following the same path as if you were heading to Viking Beach.
The hike takes at least 40 minutes and includes some steeper parts, but it’s not very challenging.
Alternatively, you can take a parallel route through the jungle via the village road.
This path might be a bit easier, but it takes you directly to Long Beach, so you won’t have the opportunity to stop by Viking Beach along the way.
You can also reach Long Beach by jumping on a taxi boat.
It’s a short ride from Tonsai Pier, taking less than 10 minutes.
Long Beach is an excellent spot for snorkeling, with clear waters and beautiful marine life.
Shark Point, located just off the coast, makes this beach particularly popular for snorkeling.
The best time for discovering underwater life is early morning, before tourists and long-tailed boats crowd the area.
Soft, white sand makes Long Beach perfect for enjoying the sun.
There are a few big beachfront resorts at Long Beach, as well as restaurants, bars, shops, and a diving center.
6. Loh Moo Dee Beach
Loh Moo Dee Beach is situated opposite Long Beach.
You can reach it with a 15-minute walk from Long Beach or a 40-minute trek from Tonsai Pier.
This long, stunning, and secluded beach is less crowded with boats and people than Long Beach, making it a more peaceful spot.
The clear water is ideal for snorkeling.
Although Loh Moo Dee isn’t highly developed, you can still find a beach bar and rent a chair.
The water is beautifully blue, and you’ll enjoy a picturesque view of Bamboo Island.
7. Loh Ba Kao Bay
Loh Ba Kao Bay is located on the east side of Koh Phi Phi Don.
You can reach it by taking a taxi boat or by hiking through the jungle.
There are two main routes: one along the coast and another via a steep jungle path that passes by the Phi Phi Viewpoints.
This beach is one of the longest on Koh Phi Phi, but it’s not very popular with tourists due to its remote location and lack of nightlife.
Unfortunately, much of the bay is occupied by a resort, limiting access for visitors.
In the area, you’ll also find a small local village and a street with shops and restaurants.
Since there’s no ATM, be sure to bring cash.
While Loh Ba Kao Bay itself isn’t particularly spectacular, it does offer a unique experience.
You can explore a nearby river and mangrove forest by kayak, where you might spot huge monitor lizards.
Kayak rentals and a diving center are also available at the bay.
8. Loh Lana Bay
Loh Lana Bay is on the west coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, directly opposite Loh Ba Kao Bay and you can reach it from there with a 15-minute walk.
If you’re starting from Tonsai Pier, an hour-long hike following the same route as to Loh Ba Kao Bay.
Alternatively, you can take a boat and get there much faster.
Loh Lana Bay is smaller and more secluded than other beaches on the island.
However, the area has seen better days, with an abandoned resort and a significant amount of trash washed up from the sea.
The beach isn’t frequently cleaned and lacks tourist amenities.
Despite its lack of maintenance, Loh Lana Bay offers a peaceful spot for snorkeling or enjoying a quiet sunset.
9. Nui Beach
Nui Beach is close to Loh Lana Bay, with signs along the way pointing you in the right direction.
The hike can be challenging, with ropes to help you through some steep sections, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
If hiking isn’t your thing, you can reach Nui Beach by renting a private long-tailed boat.
Since it’s not a popular spot, be ready to negotiate a good price or share the cost with others.
Another option is to rent a kayak at Loh Dalum Beach and paddle there, which takes about an hour.
Nui Beach is a scenic and secluded spot, known for its white sand, turquoise water, and limestone cliffs.
It’s perfect for a beach day filled with swimming and snorkeling.
This stunning location tends to get crowded with boats in the afternoon, so arrive early to fully enjoy the serene beauty.
10. Laem Tong Beach
Laem Tong Beach is the northernmost beach on Koh Phi Phi Don, situated on the east coast.
If you choose to hike there, it will take at least 2 hours from Tonsai Village, plus an additional 30 minutes to reach the very tip of the island.
Since Laem Tong Beach is home to a few hotels, you can also catch a boat, which typically operates three times a day during the high season.
At Laem Tong Beach, you’ll find restaurants, beach bars, and a diving center.
The resorts here tend to be more expensive compared to those near Tonsai Village.
For a more authentic experience, consider visiting the Urak Lawoi tribe in the nearby village.
It’s worth taking a guided tour with them to learn about their traditional fishing methods and sea life.
11. Pak Nam Bay
Reaching Pak Nam Bay from Tonsai Village requires an one hour hike by the Phi Phi Viewpoints, and further down through the jungle, with some steep and challenging parts.
Additionally, if you’re carrying food while hiking through the jungle, be cautious as monkeys may approach you in this area.
Another adventurous way to reach Pak Nam Bay is to rent a kayak at Loh Ba Kao Bay and paddle along the east coast.
You can also get there by taking a boat from Tonsai Pier, though it’s not a popular destination, so the ride might be a bit expensive (around 350 baht per person one way).
During the monsoon season, reaching the bay can be more difficult, as hiking conditions worsen and taxi boat availability can change.
Pak Nam Bay is also a popular stop for day trips, so it can get crowded at times.
The area also has a few resorts with restaurants available for visitors.
If you want to try snorkeling, this a great spot, as a coral reef can be found just around 100 meters from the beach.
However, be cautious when swimming, as the shore is rocky, requiring you to navigate between large stones.
12. Ran Tee Beach
Ran Tee Beach is a remote spot on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don.
You can reach it by hiking through the Phi Phi Viewpoints, but it’s not an easy trek—the jungle is dense, and the path down to the coast is steep.
During the monsoon season, getting there can be dangerous due to potential landslides.
Fortunately, taxi boats are also available, departing regularly from Tonsai Pier.
A one-way ride costs around 200 baht, but be mindful of the schedule—if you miss the last boat, you’ll need to hike back.
Ran Tee Beach is small and secluded, with white sand mixed with large black rocks and plenty of trees providing shade for rest.
A coral reef just offshore offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.
While Ran Tee Beach doesn’t attract large crowds, you can find bungalows and resorts where you can enjoy a peaceful stay surrounded by nature.
If you decide to stay overnight, wake up early to witness a breathtaking sunrise.
13. Toh Koh Beach
South of Ran Tee Beach on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, you’ll find Toh Koh Beach, an equally secluded and hard-to-reach spot.
To get there, similarly to Pak Nam Bay and Ran Tee Beach, you’ll need to hike through the Phi Phi viewpoints and deep jungle.
The hiking trail is not very popular, so be careful as it can be difficult to follow.
Safer option will be renting a kayak at Ba Kao Beach or looking for a boat either from Ba Kao Beach or Tonsai Pier.
Toh Koh Beach is home to two resorts, offering a quiet and peaceful stay.
If you decide to book accommodation with them, they will also help you with the transportation from the Pier.
Ran Tee Beach, though not long, is spacious and sandy.
You can snorkel in the clear water to explore the nearby coral reef, and enjoy swimming without the crowds or boats you’ll find at other beaches.
Due to its remote location, you might havetrouble with data coverage, so it might not be the best spot for remote work.
14. Monkey Beach (Yong Kasem Bay)
Monkey Beach is a popular stop during boat tours and day trips to Maya Bay, known for its population of wild monkeys.
You can only reach it by boat or kayak, and it’s best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.
Despite its popularity, Monkey Beach is my least favorite spot on Koh Phi Phi.
While the cliffs are stunning, the sight of tourists chasing after monkeys for photos feels wrong.
I’d prefer to see the animals left in peace, with their habitat undisturbed by the influx of visitors.
The monkeys here can be aggressive too, especially when searching for food.
If you decide to visit, don’t bring food with you, and be cautious with your belongings—monkeys are known to snatch phones or glasses.
15. Wang Long Bay
Wang Long Bay is located in the south of Koh Phi Phi Don, similar to Monkey Beach. Y
ou can reach it on a snorkeling day trip, by renting a private boat, or by kayaking—about an hour of paddling.
This bay is a stunning spot, surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs.
The beach itself is small and accessible through a narrow passage between rocks.
Since bigger boats don’t reach the beach, most visitors focus on swimming and snorkeling in the deeper water.
This leaves the small beach peaceful, perfect for relaxing and parking your kayak.
You might encounter monkeys here, so be cautious with your belongings and food.
16. Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh
Maya Bay is undoubtedly the most famous beach on Koh Phi Phi, located on the island of Phi Phi Leh.
It draws massive crowds of tourists every day during the high season.
You can only reach Maya Bay by boat, either through an organized tour or by renting a private longtail boat.
Made famous by the movie “The Beach” starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Maya Bay is celebrated for its stunning beauty, with turquoise waters and magnificent limestone cliffs.
However, I found the place too crowded to fully appreciate its natural beauty.
Swimming is not allowed due to ongoing coral reef restoration efforts.
The only activities available are taking pictures and strolling along the beach.
17. Bamboo Island
Bamboo Island is located north of Koh Phi Phi Don and is accessible only by boat.
Most tours to Maya Bay also include a visit to Bamboo Island.
The island is famous for its stunning soft, white sand and perfectly blue water.
It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling, typically not too crowded, with plenty of trees offering shade.
On the island, you’ll find a public restroom and a beach bar.
An entry fee to the national park is required, but if you visit both Maya Bay and Bamboo Island on the same day, one ticket covers both locations.
How to Choose Best Location to Stay on Koh Phi Phi Don
When choosing accommodation on Koh Phi Phi Don, consider the following factors to find the perfect spot for your stay:
Prices
- Koh Phi Phi Don offers a wide range of accommodations, with Tonsai Village providing the most options across all price ranges.
- The most expensive resorts are typically located next to the beach.
Crowds and Noise
- The central part of the island, especially around Tonsai Pier, can be overwhelming due to constant crowds and non-stop parties.
- If you prefer a quieter environment, it may be better to avoid staying in the center or near the hostels along Loh Dalum Beach.
Nightlife
- If you enjoy nightlife, choose accommodation near beach clubs, restaurants, and bars.
- Staying in Tonsai Village is ideal, as this part of the island is very walkable, with easy access to vibrant evening activities.
Seclusion
- For a more tranquil experience, opt for a secluded spot close to nature. Koh Phi Phi Don has many remote resorts built next to the beach, perfect for a peaceful retreat.
- Consider areas like Pak Nam Bay, Ran Tee Beach, Toh Koh Beach, or Laem Tong Beach.
Accessibility
- While Tonsai Village is very walkable, Koh Phi Phi Don is quite vast. Some remote beaches are accessible only by boat or a long hike through the jungle.
- Your hotel will likely assist with transportation from the Pier upon arrival, but visiting the central part of the island daily might be less convenient.
Internet
- Secluded beaches may have less reliable internet.
- If you plan to work on your laptop, double-check the Wi-Fi speed with your hotel.
Mosquitoes
- Bungalows near the jungle, though rustic and serene, are more likely to have mosquitoes.
- While accommodations in Tonsai Village typically have fewer mosquito issues, be prepared for bites on the beach and in the jungle.
Best Time to Visit Koh Phi Phi
To experience the island’s full potential, including its vibrant nightlife and popular activities, visit during the dry season, which runs from mid-October to May or June.
The high season brings bigger crowds, but you’ll also enjoy better accessibility and ideal weather conditions.
If you prefer a quieter visit, consider coming during the monsoon season.
However, keep in mind that Maya Bay might be closed for nature restoration, and sea conditions could complicate transportation.
Final Thoughts on Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi
Each beach on Koh Phi Phi offers a unique experience, from lively party spots with drinks and foot massages to secluded, hard-to-reach hideaways.
You could easily spend several days on Koh Phi Phi, dedicating your time to exploring the island’s diverse beaches.
You will be able to choose from the most unique experiences like hiking via the scenic, coastal trail, kayaking in the mangrove forest, snorkeling in crystal-clear water or fishing with a local guide.
Consider your favorite activities and plan the perfect itinerary to make the most of your time on Koh Phi Phi.
Table Summarizing Key Features of 17 Beaches on Koh Phi Phi
| Island | Beach Name | Location | Accessibility | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phi Phi Don | Ton Sai Beach | Near Tonsai Pier | Close to Ton Sai Pier, walking on paved path | Popular area, soft white sand, calm water, busy with boats; picturesque views of cliffs and sea |
| Phi Phi Don | Loh Dalum Beach | Backside of Tonsai Bay | Central location, easy to access | Wide sandy beach, stunning cliff views; relaxed on the western side, party area on the eastern side |
| Phi Phi Don | Laem Hin Beach | Near Tonsai Pier | 15-minute walk from Tonsai Pier | Quieter beach, sandy and calm; close to shops, restaurants, and Hippie Bar; lively at night |
| Phi Phi Don | Viking Beach | South of Tonsai Village | 20-minute walk from Tonsai Pier | Quieter atmosphere, scenic pathway, breathtaking views, turquoise water, one beach bar |
| Phi Phi Don | Long Beach (Haad Yao) | Southwest of Tonsai Village | 40-minute hike or 10-minute boat ride | Excellent snorkeling at Shark Point, soft white sand, beachfront resorts, and restaurants |
| Phi Phi Don | Loh Moo Dee Beach | Opposite Long Beach, south of Tonsai Village | 15-minute walk from Long Beach, 40-minute walk from Tonsai Pier | Long, secluded beach, clear water, beach bar, view of Bamboo Island |
| Phi Phi Don | Loh Ba Kao Bay | East coast | 1-hour hike or taxi boat | Long beach, remote area, small village, mangrove forest for kayaking; limited access due to resort |
| Phi Phi Don | Loh Lana Bay | Northwest coast | 15-minute walk from Loh Ba Kao Bay, 1-hour hike from Tonsai Pier | Smaller and secluded; abandoned resort, good for snorkeling, but not well-maintained |
| Phi Phi Don | Nui Beach | Northwest coast, near Loh Lana Bay | Jungle hike or private long-tailed boat | Scenic, secluded, white sand, turquoise water, limestone cliffs, perfect for swimming and snorkeling |
| Phi Phi Don | Laem Tong Beach | Northernmost beach, east coast | 2-hour hike from Tonsai Village, boat service during high season | Remote location; home to a few hotels, restaurants, beach bars, and a diving center; near Urak Lawoi tribe village |
| Phi Phi Don | Pak Nam Bay | East coast, near Loh Ba Kao Bay | 1-hour hike or taxi boat; kayak from Loh Ba Kao Bay | Secluded beach, popular stop for day trips; coral reef for snorkeling, but rocky shore |
| Phi Phi Don | Ran Tee Beach | East coast | 1-hour hike or taxi boat from Tonsai Pier | Small and secluded; white sand mixed with black rocks, excellent snorkeling, peaceful bungalows |
| Phi Phi Don | Toh Koh Beach | South of Ran Tee Beach, east coast | Hike through jungle, kayak, or boat | Secluded, home to two resorts; great snorkeling, quiet atmosphere, limited data coverage |
| Phi Phi Don | Monkey Beach (Yong Kasem Bay) | Southeast | Only by boat or kayak | Known for its monkey population, stunning cliffs, often crowded; monkeys can be aggressive |
| Phi Phi Don | Wang Long Bay | Southwest | Only by boat or kayak | Surrounded by limestone cliffs; small and peaceful; popular for snorkeling and swimming |
| Phi Phi Leh | Maya Bay | South of Koh Phi Phi Don | Only by boat | Famous from “The Beach” movie; picturesque views; overcrowded; swimming and flying drones is not allowed |
| Bamboo Island | Bamboo Island | North of Koh Phi Phi Don | Only by boat | Soft white sand, perfect blue water, great for snorkeling; public restroom and beach bar available |
Read My Other Posts about Koh Phi Phi:
- How to Trek Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay on Koh Phi Phi – Detailed Guide
- How to Visit Famous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand? – Detailed Guide and Review
- 17 Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Ultimate Guide
- 23 Pros and Cons of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Guide
- How to Travel to Koh Phi Phi from Bangkok and Other Places – Guide
