Phi Phi Islands from Krabi: Complete Guide for an Unforgettable Excursion

2025-08-08T17:33:10.443Z · Amon Tour

Phi Phi Islands from Krabi: Your Guide to a Perfect Excursion

The Phi Phi Islands, located 45 minutes by speedboat from Krabi, are among Thailand's most famous destinations. This archipelago, made famous by the movie "The Beach," offers crystal-clear turquoise waters, spectacular cliffs, and unforgettable experiences.

The Phi Phi Archipelago: 6 Islands to Discover

1. Phi Phi Don - The Main Island

Characteristics:

• The only inhabited island
• Base for accommodations and restaurants
• Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay
• Lively atmosphere with bars and shops

Main activities:

• Viewpoint hike (30 minutes)
• Beach bars and restaurants
• Water sports equipment rental
• Snorkeling in shallow waters
• Traditional massages on the beach

2. Phi Phi Leh - The Wild Island

Famous for:

• Maya Bay: The legendary beach from "The Beach"
• Viking Cave: Ancient cave paintings
• Pileh Lagoon: Emerald lagoon surrounded by cliffs
• Loh Samah Bay: Protected snorkeling spot

Important: Maya Bay access is regulated to protect the environment

3. Bamboo Island (Koh Phai)

Paradise for:

• 360° white sand beach
• Crystal-clear shallow waters
• Perfect snorkeling for beginners
• Picnic in pristine nature

4. Mosquito Island (Koh Yung)

Ideal for:

• Advanced snorkeling and diving
• Spectacular coral reefs
• Tropical fish in abundance
• Underwater photography

5. Bida Nok and Bida Nai

Diving paradise:

• Spectacular diving sites
• Sharks and rays
• Advanced level diving
• Experienced divers only

How to Get to Phi Phi Islands from Krabi

Speedboat Tours (Recommended)

Departure: Ao Nang Pier or Klong Muang Duration: 45 minutes - 1h15 Price: 1,800-2,500 THB per person Advantages:

• More islands visited
• Professional guide
• Snorkeling equipment included
• Lunch and refreshments

Ferry (Budget Option)

Departure: Klong Jilad Pier (Krabi Town) Duration: 2h30 Price: 450-600 THB per person Schedule: 2-3 departures daily Accommodation: Overnight stay on Phi Phi Don

Private Speedboat

Price: 8,000-15,000 THB (6-10 people) Advantages:

• Flexible schedule
• Choose your itinerary
• Avoid crowds
• Luxury experience

Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots

Beginner Level

Bamboo Island

• Shallow water (2-5m)
• Excellent visibility
• Diverse tropical fish
• Safe and protected

Loh Dalum Bay (Phi Phi Don)

• Easy access from beach
• Calm waters
• Perfect for first experience
• Equipment rental on site

Intermediate Level

Pileh Lagoon

• Enclosed emerald lagoon
• Spectacular cliffs
• Tropical fish
• Unique photos

Loh Samah Bay

• Protected from waves
• Rich marine life
• Ideal depth (5-10m)
• Diverse corals

Advanced Level

Bida Nok

• 15-30m depth
• Leopard sharks possible
• Spectacular corals
• Strong currents

Bida Nai

• Technical diving
• Whale sharks (rare)
• Advanced certification required
• Professional guide mandatory

What to Bring: Complete Checklist

Essential

• Waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+)
• Hat and sunglasses
• Quick-dry swimsuit
• Waterproof bag
• Cash (for extras)

Recommended

• Underwater camera
• Anti-seasickness tablets
• Light snack
• Water bottle
• Change of clothes

Provided in Tours

• Snorkeling equipment (mask, fins, snorkel)
• Life jackets
• Lunch and drinks
• Fresh water for rinsing
• Towels (sometimes)

Best Time to Visit

High Season (November-March)

✅ Advantages:

• Perfect weather conditions
• Calm seas
• Optimal visibility for diving
• Less rain

❌ Disadvantages:

• More tourists
• Higher prices
• Need to book in advance

Low Season (May-October)

✅ Advantages:

• Fewer tourists
• Attractive prices
• More authentic experience
• Better photo opportunities

❌ Disadvantages:

• Risk of rain and storms
• Rougher seas
• Some tours may be cancelled

Optimal Period: December to February

Tour Types and Prices

Standard Day Tour

Duration: 7am-5pm Price: 1,800-2,200 THB Includes:

• Transport from hotel
• Speedboat
• Guide
• Snorkeling equipment
• Lunch and drinks
• Insurance

Premium Tour

Duration: 8am-6pm Price: 2,500-3,200 THB Extras:

• Smaller group (maximum 15 people)
• Better boat
• Premium lunch
• Professional photographer
• Additional activities

Sunset Tour

Duration: 1pm-7pm Price: 2,200-2,800 THB Highlight:

• Spectacular sunset
• Fewer tourists in the afternoon
• Romantic atmosphere
• Sunset cocktails

Practical Tips for a Successful Day

Health and Safety

• Take seasickness tablets 1 hour before departure
• Apply sunscreen every 2 hours
• Stay hydrated (drink water regularly)
• Respect marine life (no touching)
• Follow guide's safety instructions

Photography

• Best light: morning (8-10am) and late afternoon (4-6pm)
• Avoid noon for portraits (harsh shadows)
• Use polarizing filter for water
• Respect photography rules in protected areas

Environmental Respect

• Do not feed fish
• Do not collect shells or corals
• Use reef-safe sunscreen
• Leave only footprints
• Respect closure periods

Alternative: Stay Overnight on Phi Phi Don

Why Stay Overnight?

• Experience sunset and sunrise
• Avoid day-trip crowds
• Explore at your own pace
• Enjoy nightlife
• Better photos early morning

Recommended Accommodations

Luxury: Zeavola Resort (8,000-15,000 THB) Mid-range: Phi Phi Island Village (3,000-6,000 THB)
Budget: Blanco Beach Bar (1,000-2,500 THB)

Nightlife on Phi Phi Don

• Slinky Beach Bar (famous fire show)
• Reggae Bar (bucket cocktails)
• Apache Beach Bar (international DJs)
• Ibiza Pool Party (pool parties)

From Phi Phi: Other Possible Excursions

Combined Tours

Phi Phi + Bamboo + Railay: Full day (2,800 THB) Phi Phi + James Bond Island: 2 days (4,500 THB) Phi Phi + Krabi 4 Islands: Full day (2,200 THB)

Amon Tour organizes personalized excursions to Phi Phi Islands with certified local guides. Discover the secret spots and avoid tourist crowds with our exclusive experiences.