Phuket To Phi Phi Island: The Ultimate Guide You Will Ever Need

Phuket To Phi Phi Island is an amazing experience!

Phuket to Phi Phi Island

Planning to go from Phuket to Phi Phi Island? Well, you have come to the right place! In this article, I'm going to highlight everything you need to know about Phi Phi Island. If you're wondering how I get to Phi Phi Island from Phuket, you will get to know that as well. So stay along, as I explain each aspect of this stunningly beautiful place!

Phi Pi Islands has arguably one of the most stunning beaches on the planet! That's not an exaggeration as you will soon find it when you reach there! For starters, Phi Phi Islands are an island group in the Krabi Province of Thailand.

There are two main parts of Phi Phi, the first is Phi Phi Leh and the second is Phi Phi Don. Phi Phi Don has a ferry port and hotels, and Phi Phi Leh is home to some of the most amazing, secluded, and romantic beaches still uninhabited and was used as a location for the Hollywood movie "The Beach".

Phi Phi: The Jewel of Thailand

Phuket, itself, has a lot to offer as a tropical island, but a day trip to Phi Phi offers is a must while you're in Phuket. Calling Phi Phi Islands the Jewel of Thailand isn't an overstatement, something you would agree with me shortly!

Depending on your budget, you may plan a visit to the islands. If you visit Phi Phi between May and October, the prices will be cheaper. However, this is also a time when it may rain. The prices are high during the months of November to April. So, you need to plan accordingly. 

What to see in Phi Phi?

Phuket To Phi Phi Island

Some of the top things to see and do in Phi Phi include:

Visit Maya Bay: 

This iconic beach was made famous by the movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The bay is home to a stunning beach with crystal clear waters and is surrounded by towering cliffs.

Snorkel or dive at Shark Point: 

This is a popular diving and snorkeling spot located just off the coast of Phi Phi Leh Island. It is home to a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish.

Hike up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint: 

This viewpoint offers panoramic views of the islands and is a great place to watch the sunset. The hike to the viewpoint is relatively easy and takes about 20-30 minutes.

Relax on the beaches: 

Phi Phi has a number of beautiful beaches, including Long Beach, Loh Dalum Beach, and Monkey Beach. These are great places to relax and soak up the sun.

Explore Phi Phi Leh Island: 

This is the larger of the two main islands in the Phi Phi group and is home to a number of interesting sites and activities, such as the Viking Cave, which is home to a colony of swallows and their nests, and the Phi Phi Leh Lagoon, which is a beautiful lagoon surrounded by cliffs.

Take a boat tour: 

There are a number of boat tour companies that offer day trips to the Phi Phi Islands. These tours usually include stops at various sites and activities, such as snorkeling, visiting Maya Bay, and exploring the islands.

Phuket to Phi Phi Island

Diving around Phi Phi Island

Feeding the sharks has become another popular activity for day trips to Phi Phi Islands. Most will feed the sharks early in the morning, and you can feed both leopard and black-tip sharks. Most day trips include visiting the local coral gardens for snorkeling to see black tip reefs and leopard sharks.

Snorkeling in Maya Bay has become another popular spot for snorkeling. Maya Bay is actually where Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed on "The Beach" by Phi Phi Leh and is usually included in most snorkeling day trips. So, make sure that your tour operator includes Maya Bay. If he hasn't, insist on the same or find another one as this has to be on your itinerary!

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Phi Phi Island Activities

Hike to Phi Phi Viewpoint offers one of the most awe-inspiring views of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh. The Phi Phi Viewpoint is over 600 feet tall, so it will require some stamina to reach. The hike can be challenging and tiring, but once you reach the end, all your fatigue will evaporate instantly! 

One of the best times to visit Phi Phi Viewpoint is at sunset or sunrise. If you're not an early riser, you could catch up with the sunset here! From there you can cross the hill to see the gorgeous eastern beaches.

For other unique dive sites, check out Hin Muang. The dive site is famous for being the tallest vertical wall in Thailand at 60 meters. You can find whale sharks, leopard sharks, reef sharks, and manta rays. 

The supreme glory of Hin Muang diving is the huge purple rock. There are dazzling colors found on coral reefs and the area has all kinds of coral reef fish. But be aware! Hin Muang's currents can be strong, so one needs to be mindful of the same. Ask the local guide and comply with their advice. 

Spend Some Time On The Monkey Beach

Phuket To Phi Phi Island

As mentioned earlier, Phi Phi has the famed Monkey Beach! Monkey Beach is not only the most beautiful beach on Phi Phi Island but also one of the most beautiful beaches in all of Thailand. 

The powdery white sand beach and incredible diving opportunities make this destination a favorite hangout spot, with monkeys frequenting the beach looking for food. Although they are harmless more often than not, you are not encouraged to feed the monkeys. As always, comply with the instructions of the local authorities.  

Bamboo Island: A Less Crowded Alternative

An alternative to Maya Bay, Bamboo Island is less populated and the island is just 8 miles from Ko Phi Phi. On Bamboo Island, you can find the Hin Klang Coral Garden. As it is a national marine park with environmental protection rules, there is an entrance fee. You will be required to adhere to the guidelines, please check with the reception or the local guides.

Rock Climbing on Phi Phi Island

You might not have expected to hear this as most people think Phi Phi Islands is all about beaches. But as you can imagine, Phi Phi's rugged terrain and jagged cliffs make it a dream destination for rock climbers. Book a tour and you will be taken to the limestone island cliffs best suited for climbing. 

A day trip to Phi Piro for rock climbing is an excellent option in itself as it is a rock climber's paradise. Typically, rock climbing in Phi Phi takes about half a day. 

Watch The Sunset Kayaking

Phuket To Phi Phi Island

Phuket to Phi Phi Island

On Phi Phi Island, you can rent a kayak and take a sea sunset tour. It's mesmerizing, to say the least. The experience of watching the sun go down the sea lingers in your heart forever! Many sea kayakers will go to Wanglong Bay, but there are plenty of other tour options if you look at it while kayaking. 

Learn to Cook Traditional Thai Cuisine

Have you ever wanted to cook traditional Thai food? At Pum's Thai Cooking School, you can learn some classic Thai tricks to make great food. You can find this culinary school in Tonsai Village, great for aspiring cooks or anyone who loves to cook. 

You can take a 30-minute class or stay for more than 6 hours. You can have a really good time learning new Thai cuisines at very affordable rates!

Phi Phi Market

One can learn a lot about a culture and local traditions through the local markets. You can learn a lot about a city based on the products it sells. Phi Phi market can be found in Tonsai Village, where you can find all the local fruits, vegetables, and seafood at affordable prices. 

Take a stroll, talk to the vendors, and look at the things they sell, you will get a good perspective of the local place!

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Phuket to Phi Phi Island

Banks and ATMs

Currency exchange in Tonsai Village is no problem. There are several banks in the area that exchange traveler's checks and cash. You can find many ATMs on the corner of the road, but you won't find many banking facilities on the east coast of the island. Be sure to bring cash or stop by Tonsai Village.

Hospitals, Pharmacies, and Police

Regarding hospitals in the area, Tonsai West recently built a new hospital to treat minor injuries. However, if you have more serious injuries, you will have to go to Phuket for further treatment. Pharmacies can be found through Tonsai Village and are open late. About 500 meters from the pier in Tonsai Village, there is a tourist police station. In general, at least one person can speak English.

Phuket to Phi Phi Island

Phuket To Phi Phi Island

Wondering how do I get to Phi Phi island from Phuket? Well, the quickest and most effortless way to reach Koh Phi Phi from Phuket is by motorboat. The motorboat takes just under 1 hour and the ride is comfy. 

The main departure points from Phuket are Krabi at Rassada Pier and Klong Girard Pier. From Phuket Airport, go straight along National Highway 402 to Rasada Pier. It takes about 50 minutes by car/taxi/bus.

Since the prices are fixed, you can choose any boat company as it hardly matters. The first speed boat to Koh Phi Phi departs at 8:30 am, and you’ll need to be at the port at least 30 minutes in advance. 

As you can see, Phuket to Phi Phi Island distance isn't much. You travel by affordable and safe motorboats and once-in-a-lifetime experience of pristine aquamarine waters!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Phuket to Phi Phi Island

How long is the ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi?

The ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific route and ferry operator. It is recommended to check with the ferry operator or a travel agency for more accurate information on the duration of the trip, as well as the availability of ferries and their departure times.

Is Phi Phi Island worth visiting?

Phi Phi Island is a popular tourist destination in Thailand known for its stunning beaches, turquoise waters, and beautiful landscapes. Many people find it to be a worthwhile place to visit due to its natural beauty and the various activities that can be enjoyed there, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and rock climbing. 

Phi Phi Island is also home to several restaurants, bars, and shops, making it a convenient place to spend a few days.

However, it is important to note that Phi Phi Island has become quite touristy in recent years, and as a result, some people may find it to be overcrowded and commercialized. If you are looking for a more laid-back and authentic island experience, you may want to consider visiting one of the other islands in the area, such as Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi. 

Ultimately, whether or not Phi Phi Island is worth visiting will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to get out of your vacation.

How much is boat from Phuket to Phi Phi?

The cost of a boat ride from Phuket to Phi Phi depends on the type of boat and the operator you choose. There are several options available, including speedboats, ferries, and longtail boats, with prices ranging from around 300 to 1,500 Thai baht (THB) per person, one way. Some operators may also offer round-trip tickets at a discounted rate.

It is recommended to shop around and compare prices from different operators to find the best deal. Keep in mind that the cost of the boat ride may also vary depending on the time of year and demand. It is a good idea to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and get the best price.

Is it better to stay in Phuket or Phi Phi?

Whether it is better to stay in Phuket or Phi Phi will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to get out of your vacation.

Phuket is a larger and more developed island, with a wider range of accommodation options, dining and shopping options, and activities to do. It is also a good base for exploring the surrounding areas, such as the nearby islands and beaches. 

However, Phuket can be quite touristy and crowded, especially in the high season, so if you are looking for a more laid-back and authentic island experience, you may want to consider staying somewhere else.

Phi Phi Island, on the other hand, is a smaller and more picturesque island known for its stunning beaches and beautiful landscapes. It is a popular destination for travelers looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. However, Phi Phi Island can also be quite crowded and touristy, and the accommodation options may be more limited and expensive compared to Phuket.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to stay in Phuket or Phi Phi will depend on your budget, preferences, and the type of vacation you are looking for. You may want to consider staying in one location and making day trips to the other island, or dividing your time between the two places.

Is 1 day enough for Phi Phi Island?

One day may be sufficient to see the highlights of Phi Phi Island, but it really depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend on the island. Phi Phi Island is relatively small, and it is possible to see many of the main attractions in a day, such as Maya Bay (where the movie "The Beach" was filmed), the Phi Phi Viewpoint, and the various beaches on the island. 

However, if you want to fully relax and enjoy the island's natural beauty, or if you are interested in activities such as snorkeling, diving, or rock climbing, you may want to consider staying longer.

Is it better to go to Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi?

Both Phuket and Krabi are located relatively close to Phi Phi Island, and the decision of which one to use as a base will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to get out of your vacation.

Phuket is a larger and more developed island with a wider range of accommodation options, dining and shopping options, and activities to do. It is also a good base for exploring the surrounding areas, such as the nearby islands and beaches. 

Phuket is well-connected to Phi Phi Island by ferries and speedboats, which operate regularly from the Rassada Pier in Phuket Town. The ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Krabi, on the other hand, is a province located on the west coast of southern Thailand known for its limestone cliffs, beautiful beaches, and natural beauty. It is a good base for exploring the surrounding islands, including Phi Phi Island, as well as the nearby national parks. 

There are several ferry operators that offer daily services from Krabi to Phi Phi Island, with the journey taking around 2 to 3 hours.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to go to Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi will depend on your budget, preferences, and the type of vacation you are looking for. You may want to consider staying in one location and making day trips to the other destinations or dividing your time between the two places.

Is Phi Phi a party island?

Phi Phi Island is known for its nightlife and attracts many young travelers looking to party. There are several bars and clubs on the island that stay open late, and the island has a reputation for being a party destination, especially in the high season. 

However, it is important to note that Phi Phi Island is not just a party destination and there are many other things to do and see on the island, such as visiting the beautiful beaches, snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the island's natural beauty.

Whether or not Phi Phi Island is a party island will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to get out of your vacation. If you are looking for a more laid-back and relaxing island experience, you may want to consider visiting one of the other islands in the area, such as Koh Lanta or Koh Yao Noi, which tend to be less crowded and more low-key.

How much it cost for Phi Phi island tour?

The cost of a tour of Phi Phi Island will depend on the specific tour operator and the type of tour you choose. There are several tour operators that offer day trips to Phi Phi Island from Phuket or Krabi, with prices ranging from around 1,500 to 3,000 Thai baht (THB) per person, depending on the inclusions.

Most tours of Phi Phi Island include round-trip transportation from your accommodation, a stop at Maya Bay (where the movie "The Beach" was filmed), a visit to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, and stops at several of the island's beaches, such as Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach. Some tours may also include snorkeling or diving equipment, a Thai buffet lunch, and other activities.

It is recommended to shop around and compare prices from different tour operators to find the best deal. Keep in mind that the cost of the tour may also vary depending on the time of year and demand. It is a good idea to book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and get the best price. Check the top-rated tours by Viator here.

How many days in Phuket is enough?

The amount of time you will need to spend in Phuket will depend on your interests and what you are looking to do on the island. Phuket is a large and diverse island with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit different interests, such as beaches, temples, national parks, and cultural attractions. 

If you are planning to relax on the beach and enjoy the island's natural beauty, you may be able to see the main attractions in a few days. However, if you are interested in exploring the surrounding islands and beaches, or if you want to try activities such as snorkeling, diving, or rock climbing, you may want to consider staying longer.

In general, most people find that 3 to 5 days is a good amount of time to spend in Phuket, which allows you to see the main attractions and have some leisure time to relax and enjoy the island. However, ultimately, the decision of how many days to spend in Phuket will depend on your budget, preferences, and the type of vacation you are looking for.

Is Phi Phi cheaper than Phuket?

Phi Phi Island is generally considered to be more expensive than Phuket, especially when it comes to accommodation. Prices for hotels and guesthouses on Phi Phi Island can be higher than those on Phuket, especially during peak season. 

The island is relatively small and has a limited number of accommodation options, which can drive up prices. In addition, the cost of living on Phi Phi Island is generally higher than on Phuket due to the island's popularity with tourists.

However, it is important to note that the cost of visiting Phi Phi Island or Phuket will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to do on the island. If you are planning to stay in a luxury resort or participate in more expensive activities, such as scuba diving or rock climbing, your costs may be higher on either island. 

On the other hand, if you are on a budget and are looking for more affordable options, you may be able to find lower-priced accommodations and activities on either island. It is recommended to do some research and compare prices before booking your trip to get the best deal.

Is Phi Phi Island walkable?

Phi Phi Island is relatively small and it is possible to walk around the main areas of the island. The main village on the island, known as Phi Phi Don, is located on the north side of the island and is home to most of the accommodation options, restaurants, and shops. 

The village is relatively compact and it is easy to walk around and explore on foot. There are also several paths and trails that lead to the various beaches and attractions on the island, such as Maya Bay and the Phi Phi Viewpoint, which can be reached by foot or by boat.

However, it is important to note that some of the beaches and attractions on the island may be more challenging to reach on foot, especially if you are traveling with children or have mobility issues. In these cases, you may want to consider renting a scooter or hiring a longtail boat to get around the island.

Can you swim in Phi Phi Island?

Yes, it is possible to swim on Phi Phi Island. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and has several beautiful beaches that are perfect for swimming. Some of the most popular beaches on the island for swimming include Long Beach, Loh Dalum Beach, and Tonsai Beach. The water is generally warm and clear, with good visibility, making it ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.

It is important to note that the conditions at the beaches on Phi Phi Island can vary depending on the time of year and the weather. Some of the beaches may have strong currents or waves, especially during the rainy season or when there are storms in the area. 

It is always a good idea to be cautious when swimming in the ocean and to pay attention to warning signs and local advice. It is also a good idea to use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, as the weather in Thailand can be hot and sunny.

Which is better Koh Samui or Phuket?

Phuket To Phi Phi Island

Koh Samui and Phuket are both popular tourist destinations in Thailand known for their beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and tropical climate. However, the two destinations have different vibes and offer different experiences to travelers.

Koh Samui is a large island located off the east coast of Thailand in the Gulf of Thailand. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and luxury resorts. The island has a good range of accommodation options, dining and shopping options, and activities to suit different interests, such as temples, waterfalls, and national parks. 

Koh Samui is a good base for exploring the surrounding islands, such as Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, which are known for their full moon parties and diving, respectively.

Phuket, on the other hand, is a larger and more developed island located on the west coast of southern Thailand. It is known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, and nightlife. Phuket is a good base for exploring the surrounding islands and beaches, such as Phi Phi Island, as well as the nearby national parks. 

The island has a wide range of accommodation options, dining and shopping options, and activities to suit different interests, such as temples, waterfalls, and cultural attractions.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to visit Koh Samui or Phuket will depend on your personal preferences and what you are looking to get out of your vacation. Both destinations have their own charms and offer different experiences to travelers. 

You may want to consider your budget, the type of vacation you are looking for, and the activities and attractions that interest you when deciding which destination is best for you.

What To Wear?

Thailand's islands like Phuket and Phi Phi usually wear informal attire. Nevertheless, most people here will love smart casual attire, especially if they plan to dine at the hotel restaurant. Well, in the end, it entirely depends on you. Whatever you feel works best for you, just wear it with elan! 

Thai police won't put you in jail for sunbathing nude, but many Thais will find it offensive. In Phi Phi, topless bathing has become more accepted, but it should be understood that it can attract unwanted attention. Occasionally, you may see signs in hotels telling you not to use topless baths or G-strings.

General Frequently Asked (FAQs) Questions About Travel 

Where can I find the best hotels?

We highly recommend using reputed portals like Trip.com, Trivago, and Expedia when searching for any class of hotels anywhere on the planet! 

Which is the best website to book a package tour that includes sightseeing, activities, and everything in between?

We highly recommend Viator (a TripAdvisor Company) for the package tours. They have some of the most user-friendly policies like free cancellation. Most suitable for people traveling with families, who don't want the trouble of booking things separately. You can browse their travel packages here.

Where can I look for the cheapest domestic and international air tickets?

We highly recommend checking the prices on Trip.com. Their portal is designed to fetch the cheapest air tickets from dozens of portals and show the cheapest air tickets to choose from.

Do I need a Visa?

Visa requirements are different for travelers. They depend on the country of origin and the destination country you are traveling to. Click here to see whether you need Visa for your travel. 

I'm traveling alone and I wish to look for hostel accommodation, where can I find the best hostels?

Hostelworld is one of the biggest and most reliable aggregators of hostel accommodation in the world. You can check the bed availability here.

Since I'm traveling alone, I'm looking for travel mates. From where can I find a travel-mate to my destination?

Again, Hostel World is the best source to find a travel mate.

Do I need travel insurance for my journey?

Most countries require travel insurance before you enter their borders. In any case, whether a country needs travel insurance, it's always advisable to have one for your own peace of mind. The cost of travel insurance isn't much anyway. You can get instant travel insurance from here.

I would like to do the sightseeing on my own. From where can I get reliable rental service for self-driven cars?

Self-driving lets you see the places at your own leisure without worrying about anyone being around. You can avail of the services of Economy Bookings, one of the largest and most reliable portals for rental cars on the planet.

From where can I book a bicycle/motorcycle/scooter/quad-bike?

BikesBooking.com is a specialized portal dedicated to these requirements. They have the biggest network in most countries around the world with some very flexible and user-friendly conditions. You can book right from here.

Can you recommend a reliable airport pick-and-drop service?

You can check GetTransfer, one of the most reliable and specialized airport pick-and-drop portals in the world.

From where can I buy an international roaming SIM for my mobile so that I remain connected? Can I get an international SIM card before I start my journey?

DrimSim is a specialized company that deals in international roaming SIM cards. Their SIM cards work across 190+ countries, so you will not need multiple SIM cards if you're visiting multiple nations. Moreover, they guarantee the lowest tariffs on internet data, so you can freely roam anywhere in the world while being connected with your loved ones via the internet.

Moreover, they provide eSIM (virtual SIM) as well as normal SIM cards, that you can order online before leaving your home. You can order your international roaming SIM by clicking here.

My flight was canceled/delayed, is there any way I can get compensation for the same?

Yes, AirHelp can help you recover your compensation of up to £520 per passenger for flights from the last 3 years. You can check whether you're eligible to get the compensation here.

From where can I book the tickets for the local attractions, activities, and experiences?

Before traveling to places of interest in other countries, you can book your tickets in advance through Tiqets, the specialty company for the purpose! Browse and book your tickets here.

I'm going to a South Asian/South East Asian country where I would need to travel by bus and ferry. From where can I book ferry tickets in advance?

You can book your local bus, ferry, and train tickets on 12go.asia, which is a specialty portal for that region and includes all the countries you plan to go to. Check their website here.

Conclusion: Phuket to Phi Phi Island

Visiting Phi Phi Island for a day trip is one of the best decisions you'll ever make. This is indeed one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. You are bound to have the best time of your life with family or friends here. 

The natural beauty, alluring white sand beaches, pristine teal water, and plenty of opportunities to explore the undersea are too tempting to ignore!

Go ahead, and plan your Phuket to Phi Phi Island trip today! Remember, tomorrow never comes! It's always a good time to do things now!

Bon Voyage!

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