How to Plan a Thailand Phi Phi Island Tour in 2024?

Beautiful Thailand! Beautiful, gorgeous Thailand! There is so much to love about this country, and when it comes to Phi Phi Island, its beauty is unparalleled! Phi Phi Island is one of the most beautiful Islands in the world and attracts hundreds of visitors every year.

And if you're one of those who are planning a visit there for 2024, make the most of your time on Phi Phi by using this travel guide. Here, we will walk you through planning your 2024 Phi Phi Island vacation. So, let's roll up those sleeves, Phi Phi Island, here we come!

Where Is the Phi Phi Island Located? The Location Map

The Phi Phi Islands are situated in the Andaman Sea, part of the Krabi Province of Thailand. It consists of six islands, with Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh being the most well-known.

● Phi Phi Don is the largest of the two and is the only one with permanent settlements, including the main town of Tonsai. It's a hub of activity featuring resorts, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.
● Phi Phi Leh is a smaller, uninhabited island and is famous for its stunning Maya Bay, featured in the movie "The Beach."

Phi Phi Island location map

On the world map, you can locate the Phi Phi Islands by heading to the southern part of Thailand, off the west coast of the Malay Peninsula. They are approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) southeast of Phuket and about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of Krabi. These islands sit in close proximity to other popular destinations in the Andaman Sea, such as Phang Nga Bay and James Bond Island, further enhancing the allure of this region for tourists.

Phi Phi Don, the largest island, is situated at approximately 7.7° N latitude and 98.8° E longitude. It enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination for travelers seeking a taste of paradise.

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How to Get to the Thailand Phi Phi Island?

Getting to the Phi Phi Island is a part of the adventure, which is one of the best islands in Thailand. Island’s strategic location in the Andaman Sea means it's accessible via various modes of transportation, including boats and ferries from Phuket, Krabi, and other nearby coastal towns. Here's a breakdown of how you can reach this tropical haven from different locations:

● From Phuket: You can catch a ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi Don, which is one of the most popular routes. The ferry ride provides incredible views of the Andaman Sea and the surrounding islands. The journey takes approximately 1 hour & 12 minutes, and typically, it costs around $56 & $276 to travel between Phuket (Rassada Pier) and Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier).
● From Krabi: Another common route is from Krabi to Phi Phi Don. The ferry ride from Krabi takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Ferries depart from Ao Nang, Krabi Town, and Railay Beach. The journey offers scenic vistas of the limestone karsts and emerald waters of the Andaman Sea.
● From Koh Lanta: If you're on the nearby island of Koh Lanta, you can also reach Phi Phi Don via ferry. The journey typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, providing yet another opportunity to soak in the stunning coastal views.
● Private Speedboat: For those seeking a more exclusive and swift journey, private speedboats can be chartered from various coastal towns, providing a personalized and efficient way to reach the Phi Phi Islands.

The modes of transportation may vary in terms of cost, convenience, and travel time. It's advisable to plan your trip and consider your preferences and budget when choosing how to get to this tropical paradise. Whether arriving from Phuket, Krabi, or other nearby destinations, the journey to the Phi Phi Islands is sure to be as fascinating as the destination itself.

Get to Phi Phi Islands by Private Speedboat

When Is the Best Time to Visit Thailand Phi Phi Island?

Phi Phi Island, with its stunning natural beauty and inviting waters, is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit as a relaxing Thailand tour largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek.

Peak Tourist Season (November to April)
The peak season, from November to April, is the most popular time to visit Phi Phi Island.

During this period, the weather is typically dry and pleasant, making it ideal for various outdoor activities. The sea is calm, and the skies are clear, creating perfect conditions for water sports, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. This is when Phi Phi Island showcases its postcard-perfect beauty. However, it's also when the island is most crowded, and prices for accommodations and activities are at their highest. Advance reservations are crucial during this season.

November to April is best time to Phi Phi Islands

Shoulder Season (May to October)
The shoulder season, from May to October, is characterized by the southwest monsoon, bringing higher humidity and increased rain chances. While the weather can be less predictable, the upside is that the island is less crowded, and accommodations and activities may be more affordable.

The island's lush greenery stands out during this time, and for those seeking a quieter and more budget-friendly vacation, the shoulder season can be a great choice.

Enjoy a romantic sunrise at Phi Phi Island during May to October

Festival Season
Phi Phi Island hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, offering a unique cultural experience. Songkran, the Thai New Year, is celebrated in April and involves spirited water fights, while Loy Krathong, the Festival of Lights, is celebrated in November with mesmerizing floating lanterns. These events can provide an authentic glimpse into Thai culture.

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What Activities Are Available on the Phi Phi Island?

With six different islands loaded with natural beauty, there are so many fun activities available on Phi Phi Island. You can enjoy water sports, photography, and exploration on the uninhabited islands and indulge in wild parties and delicious food on the inhabited islands.

Here are some of the best activities available on the Phi Phi Island:
1). Snorkeling and Diving
The crystal-clear waters surrounding Phi Phi Island are perfect for exploring colorful coral reefs and marine life. Sites like Shark Point and Maya Bay are renowned for their underwater beauty.
2). Island Hopping
The Phi Phi archipelago comprises several islands, each with its unique charm. You can take boat tours to explore these neighboring islands and their hidden coves and lagoons.
3). Hiking and Viewpoints
Phi Phi Don has a few hiking trails leading to stunning viewpoints. The hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, for instance, rewards you with panoramic vistas of Tonsai Bay and the surrounding islands.
4). Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet-skiing are popular water sports available for adventure seekers.
5). Beach Relaxation
Relaxing on pristine beaches, such as Long Beach and Monkey Beach, is a must-do activity on the island.
6). Nightlife
Phi Phi Island comes alive at night with its vibrant nightlife. The bars and beach parties provide entertainment for those looking to enjoy the island after dark.
7). Thai Cooking Classes
Learn the art of Thai cooking by joining a cooking class on the island. It's a fun way to take a piece of Thai cuisine back home with you.
8). Boat Tour
Explore the surroundings on various boat tours, whether it's for sightseeing, snorkeling, or sunset cruises.
9). Wildlife Encounters
Phi Phi Island is home to a variety of wildlife. You can witness cheeky monkeys on Monkey Beach and enjoy bird-watching in the island's lush forests.

Having fun at snorkeling on Phi Phi Island

The Most Recommended Tour Length and Itinerary

If you want to explore the Phi Phi Islands in the best way possible, a 1-2 days tour is recommended that covers the main attractions and hidden gems of the Island. This tour will give you enough time to enjoy the stunning scenery, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, and relax on the white-sand beaches.

Depending on your departure point, you can choose from different types of boats, such as speedboats, longtail boats, or ferries. A typical full-day tour itinerary would include the following stops:

● Phi Phi Leh Island: It is one of the smaller and uninhabited islands of the Phi Phi group where you can admire the natural beauty of Maya Bay, swim in Pileh Lagoon, and explore Viking Cave, where locals collect bird nests for soup.
● Phi Phi Don Island: This is the larger and more populated island of the Phi Phi group, where you can enjoy a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, visit Monkey Beach, where you can see wild monkeys up close, and snorkel at Bamboo Island, a small island with coral reefs and colorful fish.
● Other islands: Depending on your tour operator and weather conditions, you may also visit other nearby islands, such as Khai Island, where you can feed tropical fish by hand; Mosquito Island, where you can spot blacktop reef sharks, and Bamboo Island, where you can relax on a pristine beach.

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More Tips about Thailand Phi Phi Island Tour

To help you make the most of your trip, here are a set of invaluable tips that are essential to keep in mind. These insights will not only enhance your overall experience during your Thailand Phi Phi Island tour in 2024 but also make your journey more enriching and rewarding.

1. Advance Reservations: Regardless of the season, securing accommodations, boat tours, and activities in advance is wise to ensure your preferences are available when you arrive and avoid last-minute disappointments.
2. Packing Essentials: Remember to pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and comfortable footwear suitable for island exploration.
3. Respect Local Culture: Thailand has a rich and unique culture. Show respect by dressing modestly when visiting temples, removing your shoes before entering homes or specific establishments, and adhering to local customs and etiquette.
4. Travel Insurance: Consider investing in comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and unforeseen circumstances during your journey.
5. Currency Matters: Thai Baht (THB) is the local currency. Ensure you have adequate cash on hand, especially in more remote areas that may not accept credit cards.
6. Environmental Responsibility: Contribute to preserving Phi Phi Island's natural beauty by disposing of waste responsibly, respecting marine life while snorkeling or diving, and practicing eco-friendly travel habits.

Conclusion

A trip to the Phi Phi Islands combines natural beauty and cultural charm that will leave you with a lifetime of memories. So, if you're looking to plan your Thailand Phi Phi Island tour in 2024, IndoChinaTour stands ready to help. Our goal is to ensure that every moment you spend in the Phi Phi Islands is as beautiful and mesmerizing as you imagined. Contact us for more detailed information about Thailand islands tour now!