The beauty of the two Phi Phi Islands has made them world famous. But fame and easy access (Phi Phi is only a 45-minute jaunt from Phuket) has its price: hundreds of visitors land on Phi Phi's shores every day, crowding this tiny island oasis. The upside of this is that the bulk of these visitors come at 10 a.m. and leave by 3 p.m. Staying the evening at one of the island's many bungalows is recommended, if you want to enjoy the tranquility of the island in the early morning and evening. 

Snorkelling around the archipelago's coral reefs or climbing to one of the many karst limestone lookouts is an unforgettable experience. Sheer cliffs stained with earth colours soar from calm, clear seas. Phi Phi Don, the larger island, has idyllic tropical beaches lining its southern and eastern shores. Phi Phi Le, to the south, is host to scores of daytrippers snorkelling and visiting the Viking Cave during the day, but offers no accommodation.

Too much development?

Ton Sai Bay, the main tourist centre on Phi Phi Don, is worth a visit, although environmentalists may be concerned at its overly rapid development. Phi Phi now welcomes hundreds of tourists each day, its spectacular beauty remains. The northern end is quiet and beautiful, with a few small resorts.

Getting to Phi Phi

Transportation can be arranged at any tourist agency for day trips which include bus transportation to boat jetties in Phuket Town or Chalong, and lunch for between 500-1200 baht. Cost depends on how luxurious a boat you want, as well as whether snorkelling or viewing around coral reefs is included. Transit only, for overnight stays, costs about 400 baht return.

Staying over

There are many bungalows on Phi Phi Don, some of them cheap and nasty, others catering for more respectable backpackers. For the most part, you are advised to just turn up and try your luck.