Phi Phi Islands

Pristine beaches of powdery white sand, stunning limestone rock formations, vivid turquoise waters teeming with colourful marine life. Gorgeous Phi Phi island is easily among the most beautiful in the world.

Yes, both Phi Phi Don and the smaller rocky island of Phi Phi Ley, were affected by the tsunami, which hit in December 2004. But the islands have made a spectacular recovery with reburbished hotels and guesthouses now open for business. Along many beaches the famed soft sands fringed by swaying coconut palms and vibrant coral reefs are looking better than ever.

See our site about Phi Phi Island to learn more about this postcard perfect islands and book a place to stay.

From the peak of high-end luxury to the most barebones bungalow, the beauty of Ko Phi Phi is that a stunning backdrop rarely eludes you. Dotted all over the island are guesthouses and resorts, and even in the main tourist area of Ton Sai Bay (where nightlife and noise is most prevalent) palm trees, beaches and far-off rock formations seduce the eye.

If you prefer to find your relaxation under a coconut tree in a more tranquil spot, jump in a longtail and head for the parts which remain totally idyllic.

For more information see our Phi Phi Island site, especially the Phi Phi Island Hotels section.

Just because life on Phi Phi is mellow doesn't mean is has to be spent admiring scenery or wallowing on the beach. There are also lots of opportunities to get actively involved with the island. Go trekking up island paths, or hire a local boat with some snorkelling equipment and go beach hopping en route. Phi Phi Lei especially - with its beautiful shallow reefs teeming with vivid corals and tropical fish - is perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkellers.

And there's more. Fancy seeing the island's dramatic features up-close-and-personal? Ok, take to a kayak. Relish some rock climbing? Or courageous enough to attempt cliff jumping? You're in the right place.

Click here for more information on activities in Ko Phi Phi

Whether you are an aspiring or accomplished diver, Phi Phi is perfect! From shallow sheltered bays to wall, drift and wreck dives, there's something for every level of diver. The water temperature hovers between a balmy 27 and 30 degrees throughout the year, and the diversity of marine life staggering: soft corals, leopard sharks, lionfish, squid, groupers, even the occasional whale shark.

Click here for more information about diving in Phi Phi, including dive sites and recommended dive operators

You can fly from Bangkok to Phuket and then take a boat from Phuket town or Chalong. There's a regular service which leaves from Phuket Town twice a day to Phi Phi island - around 08:30 and 12:30. The boat trip takes around 1:30 minutes to 2:30 minutes, depending on whether it's an express or standard boat service.

The easiest way is to book through a local travel agent and arrange a pick-up from Phuket airport. Allow around 1 hours travelling time from Phuket Airport to the jetty at Phuket Town. If you plan to leave on the early boat from Phuket, remember to book an overnight stay.