Maya Bay may be the name everyone knows, but the Phi Phi Islands have much more to offer once you step away from the crowds. A little planning opens up a calmer, more varied trip.
Spend time on the quieter north coast
Phi Phi Don’s northern beaches, such as Loh Bagao and Laem Tong, sit away from the island’s busiest areas. Resorts here, like SAii Phi Phi Island Village, are reached by boat from Phuket in just over an hour, which helps keep things peaceful. Arrange transfers ahead of time.
Get in the water
Some of the best things to do in Phi Phi Islands are simply swimming and snorkelling. Pileh Lagoon, close to Maya Bay, is a calm, sheltered spot where swimming is allowed, and most boat tours stop there. A longtail boat trip can reveal hidden coves, towering limestone cliffs and emerald lagoons.
Visit Maya Bay the right way
Boats now arrive at the back of the island, visits are limited to about an hour, and swimming isn’t allowed, which protects the reef and the blacktip sharks that have returned. The bay also closes for a couple of months each year, so check dates before you plan.
Add Monkey Beach and Bamboo Island
A boat loop can include both. At Monkey Beach, watch from a distance and never feed the monkeys. Bamboo Island is known for pale sand and clear water, and the national park fee covers it too.
Go early, keep your plans flexible and the islands will feel much bigger than one famous beach.
