Hotels near Phi Phi Islands (day trip)

The Phi Phi Islands are a cluster of six islands located in the Andaman Sea, roughly 45 kilometers southeast of Phuket. Known for their dramatic limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs, they rank among Thailand's most visited natural attractions — and a day trip from Phuket is one of the most popular ways to experience them.

What to Expect on the Islands

The archipelago consists of two main islands: Koh Phi Phi Don, the only inhabited island, and Koh Phi Phi Leh, a protected marine national park. Phi Phi Leh is home to Maya Bay, which gained international attention after featuring in the 2000 film The Beach. The bay was closed to tourists from 2018 to 2022 to allow ecological recovery and now operates under strict visitor limits. Snorkeling spots such as Shark Point and Monkey Bay offer encounters with reef fish, blacktip reef sharks, and sea turtles.

Day Trip Logistics and Activities

Most day trips depart from Rassada Pier or Ao Makham Pier in Phuket and take approximately 90 minutes by speedboat or 2 hours by ferry. Typical itineraries include snorkeling stops, a visit to Maya Bay, and time at Tonsai Village on Phi Phi Don. The islands fall within Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, so a park entrance fee applies.

Practical Tips

• Book speedboat tours in advance during high season (November to April).
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystem.
• Arrive early — crowds at Maya Bay build significantly by midday.
• Carry cash for food and drinks on Phi Phi Don, as card acceptance is limited.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a visa to visit the Phi Phi Islands from Phuket? A: No separate visa is required. Standard Thai entry rules apply regardless of which islands you visit.

Q: When is the best time to take a day trip to Phi Phi? A: November through April offers the calmest seas and clearest visibility. The monsoon season (May to October) can bring rough conditions and some tour cancellations.

Q: Is there an entrance fee for the Phi Phi Islands? A: Yes. As part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Koh Phi Phi National Park, a national park fee is charged, typically around 400 THB for foreign visitors.

Q: Can I stay overnight on the Phi Phi Islands instead of doing a day trip? A: Yes, Koh Phi Phi Don has accommodation options ranging from guesthouses to beach bungalows, though many travelers choose the day trip format from Phuket for convenience.