Location & Transportation
When arriving at Ko Phi Phi, your ship will tender you to the shore. Once on the island, you'll quickly notice that no motorized vehicles roam the streets, making it a peaceful, walkable paradise. The best way to explore is on foot or by renting a bicycle, especially in the bustling area of Tonsai, where everything is just a short walk away. If you want to hop between beaches, long-tail boats are readily available. They’re a fun and traditional way to get around—expect to pay roughly 40 Baht per person for an afternoon ride, with slightly higher fares at night, or a bit more if you want the whole boat to yourself.
Sightseeing
Ko Phi Phi might be well-known for its busy nightlife and busy tourist scene, but it still holds some truly magical spots:
- Viewpoint: A steep climb (about 10–25 minutes depending on your pace) rewards you with a breathtaking 360° view of the island at sunrise or sunset. Don’t forget a flashlight if you’re heading up early!
- Monkey Beach: Accessible on foot, by canoe, or via a long-tail boat, this beach offers a chance to see some cheeky local monkeys. A little banana treat goes a long way.
- Tsunami Memorial Garden: Located near The Tia and Millie Sunflower Bar, this garden provides a moment of quiet reflection and pays homage to the resilience of the island’s community.
- Fireshows: In the evenings, several venues such as Carlito's, Apache Bar, Hippies, Carpe Diem, and The Tia and Millie Sunflower Bar light up with impressive and entertaining fireshows.
- Dive Shops & Snorkeling: With dozens of dive operators around, the clear waters offer fantastic opportunities for snorkeling or scuba diving, showcasing vibrant marine life.
Tours & Excursions
Since motorized transport is off the island, local tours focus on the natural beauty and relaxed pace of island life:
- Guided Boat Tours: Private long-tail boat tours can take you to hidden bays and quieter beaches.
- Bicycle Tours: Rent a bike and explore the island’s nooks and crannies at your own pace.
- Self-guided Walking Tours: Stroll through Tonsai for an authentic feel of local life, popping into cafes, small markets, and charming alleys.
It‘s a good idea to compare shore excursion costs between what your cruise line offers and options like Viator and GetYourGuide. They often provide lower prices and include customer reviews and ratings to help you choose the best option. They may also offer more more flexible cancellation or rescheduling policies than those available through your cruise line. However, while booking independently might give you more variety and potentially better rates, be mindful of your schedule - cruise line excursions are typically coordinated to match your ship‘s schedule with guaranteed pick-up and drop-off times.
There is also a great resource for finding local guides at Tours by Locals. Tours by Locals connects you with local guides who can help you plan a private personal tour, guide you, and get you back to your ship on time. You can also check out Rome2Rio for local transportation options. It is a great resource for finding how to get from one place to another, including public transportation, taxis, ferries, and more.
Shopping
While Ko Phi Phi is best known for its natural scenery rather than big shopping malls, you can still find local markets and small boutiques along Tonsai Village. Here, artisans sell handmade crafts, beachwear, and unique souvenirs that capture the island’s laid-back vibe.
Dining
The island offers a delightful range of dining options. You can savor fresh seafood, authentic Thai cuisine, and international dishes at beachfront restaurants and cozy local eateries. I love enjoying a meal outdoors with the sound of the waves in the background—try local favorites like spicy papaya salad, grilled fish, and enjoy a refreshing coconut drink.
Culture & Local Events
Ko Phi Phi is not just about its beaches—its local culture and events give visitors insight into everyday Thai life:
- Local Language & Communication: Thai is the official language, but English is widely understood in the tourist areas. You might also hear a few Chinese dialects spoken.
- Currency & Payment Tips: The local currency is the Thai Baht (THB). While many places accept credit cards, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller vendors or local market stalls.
- Typical Business Hours: Most restaurants and shops operate from around 10:00 to 22:00, with some variations during national holidays.
- Festivals & Events: If you’re visiting in mid-April, don’t miss the lively Songkran Festival, a traditional water celebration marking the Thai New Year. Even outside of festival time, the nightly fireshows and beach parties showcase the island’s vibrant social scene.
- Local Insights: Despite rapid development and increased tourism, Ko Phi Phi retains a unique charm that comes from its history (the island was rebuilt following the 2004 tsunami) and the warmth of its locals.