There are many things to do in Koh Phi Phi Islands in Thailand. Set between the island of Phuket and the Strait of Malacca, the Koh Phi Phi Islands are two islands that have plenty of things to do, both on land and in the water.
The smaller island of the two is called Koh Phi Phi Don and the larger island is called Koh Phi Phi Lee. While there are a number of smaller islands that make up the area, they are mostly just limestone rocks. You can reach the Koh Phi Phi islands by boat from Krabi Town or other places in the Phuket Province.
Koh Phi Phi Don
1. The view point
Set almost in the middle of Koh Phi Phi Don, this viewpoint overlooks the village on the island along with the two bays. From atop this vantage point you can take amazing pictures that help to capture the beauty of the island.
The trek to the viewpoint takes about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on your athletic ability. It is 186 meters above sea level and the path is nice and paved. The best time to make the trek is before lunch as you will benefit the most from the natural lighting. If you’re hungry from the climb there’s a small store that sells drinks and snacks.
2. Pirate Island Adventures
If you are into pirates and want to take a step back in time, visit this two storey house on Koh Phi Phi Don that has been done up to look like a haunted pirate shipwreck. There is an electronic shooting range where you can practice with muskets and pistols.
There is also a 5D motion theater that has the option of different rides: Cosmic Coaster, Haunted Mine, Canyon Coaster and Ravine Racer. The mini amusement park also has a haunted house with special effects and life tricks. It is guaranteed to delight both children and adults.
3. Moo Dee Bay
Located on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Don, Moo Dee Bay has a long white sand beach and emerald green waters. It is peaceful and relaxing. There are many opportunities to snorkel in the bay and if you get hungry there is a small shack on the beach that sells food and drinks.
4. Tonsai Tower Rock Climbing
At the western end of Tonsai Beach you can find Tonsai Tower, an amazing limestone tower that is 200 meters tall. There are 48 different bolted routes to the top that have been marked in their level of difficulty. There are routes for everyone, from beginner to advanced.
Tonsai Tower is a great draw for anyone interested in rock climbing. There are many companies that will provide training and lessons as well as half or full day tours.
5. Shark Watching Tours
While the tours themselves travel out to sea, most shark watching tours originate from Koh Phi Phi Don. The waters around the Koh Phi Phi islands have many species of sharks including black-tip and leopard sharks, but don’t worry as they are relatively harmless.
Most shark watching tours are half day but some can be full day and start early, about 6:00 AM. The tours take place in small groups and all of your snorkeling equipment is provides. There is also a professional guide that comes with you.
While the shark tours may vary in location, just 800 meters from Long Beach is a shark point where many sharks seem to congregate.
6. Scuba Diving
The waters off the Koh Phi Phi Islands are world renowned for their scuba diving experiences. There are many companies that operate on Koh Phi Phi Don that will provide equipment and training. Good scuba diving areas include Shark Point and Anemone Reef as well as the King Cruiser Wreck, all of which are located to the west of the Koh Phi Phi Islands.
7. Take a cooking class
Even though Koh Phi Phi Don is relatively small, there is a cooking school located on the island, called Pum’s Thai Cooking School. It is one of three locations for the business in Thailand. Here you can learn the history of Thai cuisine and what makes it so delicious. A cooking class is a great way to experience the culture and be able to bring a part of your vacation home to enjoy whenever you would like.
At the cooking school you can choose from a quick 30 minute demonstration to a more intensive 3 hour lesson. You’ll get to learn new recipes and understand more about local ingredients.
8. Go on a booze cruise
If you like to explore the area and have a few drinks at it, a party or booze cruise is a good option. You can sail around the many different Koh Phi Phi Islands on a comfortable boat, have access to drinks and meet new people. Most sail from Tonsai Bay and go from the afternoon to evening. The boat will stop at different interesting parts of the islands so that you can snorkel, kayak and even cliff jump.
Other Islands
9. Koh Phi Phi Leh – Maya Bay
Maya Bay became known around the world after the 2000 movie ‘The Beach’, starring Leonardo DiCaprio. It has stunning white sands that are powder fine with crystal clear waters. Along the edge of the beach are palm trees that sway gently in the wind. It really is a small piece of heaven.
Peak season is November to April and during this time Maya Bay is overrun with tourists. While it can seem crowded, it is still worth visiting. At the backend of the beach a small terrace was built that allows visitors to see over to Loh Sama, a nearby bay great for snorkeling.
10. Bamboo Island
Although Bamboo Island is not one of the major Koh Phi Phi Islands, it is an interesting sight to see. The island is small and is just 600 m wide and 700 meters long. The island is covered by lush vegetation and an abundance of bamboo plants, hence the name of the island. All around the mini forest is a thin strip of white sand, making it a picture perfect place.
A day trip to Bamboo Island will most likely include some snorkelling. Off the western side of the island are coral reefs that feature an abundance of sea life.
The many things to do in Koh Phi Phi Islands in Thailand represent the best that the country has to offer. A rich culture in a jungle paradise make the Koh Phi Phi Islands an amazing place to visit.
