In January 2025, I had the opportunity to explore Koh Phi Phi in a small group of 2 days. It was a memorable trip with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and absolutely splendid secret coves. During these 2 days in Koh Phi Phi, I discovered beautiful places, enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere and found authentic places. Thanks to a well-thought-out itinerary and a few practical tips, I was really able to savor all the incredible natural beauty of the island.
Koh Phi Phi, located in Krabi Province, is an archipelago made up of six islands with spectacular scenery, including Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le, famous for their pristine beaches and limestone cliffs. This place, nicknamed the "vacation paradise," attracts thousands of travelers every year, offering lush jungles, secret coves, and coral reefs. It also owes its fame to films such as James Bond and The Beach, which revealed the beauty of Maya Bay. However, the archipelago's popularity threatens its fragile ecosystems. To preserve this place, conservation efforts, such as the temporary closure of Maya Bay, have been put in place. Visitors are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as limiting plastic waste, respecting marine life, and using coral-friendly products.
Itinerary: Maya Bay - Pileh Lagoon - Wang Long Bay - Monkey Beach
We woke up at dawn to start our 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi ! At 6:30 am, we boarded a long-tail boat to Maya Bay on Phi Phi Le Island, for a fee of about 3,000 THB (about 89,10 $). Maya bay is famous for having served as the setting for the film The Beach. By leaving early, we avoid the massive crowds that invade the place from 7:20 am. Through direct negotiation with a local captain, we save on organized excursions and dive into the authentic essence of this Koh Phi Phi tour in 2 days from day one.
Please note: access to the bay is now strictly regulated, with an entrance fee of 400 baht per person (about $12), and boats can no longer dock directly. The beach is sublime, but Thailand is full of other gems that are just as stunning. The emotion comes above all from our encounter with three baby blacktip sharks, an encouraging sign after the three-year closure aimed at restoring the ecosystem. Although the entrance fee is relatively high, the experience is absolutely worth it.
After Maya Bay, head for Pileh Bay, a cove surrounded by limestone cliffs where the turquoise water is reminiscent of the Blue Gatorade. Despite a multitude of jellyfish that shorten our snorkeling (bring covering clothing!), the spectacular coral reefs dazzle us with their shapes and colors. Without a doubt, Pileh Bay was our absolute favorite of these 2 days in Koh Phi Phi !
Our next destination in our 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi by long tail boat is Wang Long Bay. This bay is a stop on boat trips that go around the island. As sublime as Maya Bay, in my opinion, with the advantage of being able to swim freely and access the beach. A perfect spot to relax for a few hours, away from the crowds. Why is this place absent from the maps? It's a secret cove that only local boat captains seem to know about. A discreet nugget, preserved from mass tourism, where the translucent water and the peaceful atmosphere create an almost magical experience. A real enchantment!
We continue with Monkey Beach, crowded with tourists attracted by monkeys, then Shark Point to explore the seabed. Despite the crystal clear water, no shark in sight ... only jellyfish, again and again, dancing between the corals like a flimsy reminder of underwater life.
Tip: Avoid Monkey Beach in the middle of the day and stick to early hours for popular sites.
To close this first day of our 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi, the evening ends with an immersion in the electric nightlife of the island. After a quick dinner (and a surprising smell in some alleys...), we let ourselves be tempted by the Hippie Bar: a bohemian atmosphere, acoustic melodies at sunset, then a hypnotic fire show from 9 PM. Between the dancing flames and the murmur of the waves, the moment is magical, far from the hustle and bustle of crowded clubs. A perfect conclusion to this day rich in emotions, and a tantalizing foretaste of what the next day has in store.
Learn more:
> Where To Stay In Koh Phi Phi ?
> Best Time To Go To Phi Phi Island ?
Itinerary: Nui Bay - Loh Dalum Beach - Viewpoint 2
Waking up peacefully under a bright blue sky, accompanied by a perfect turquoise sea. The weather is ideal for kayaking along the coasts or diving in these crystal clear waters. We rented kayaks for 400 baht (about $12), a great way to explore secluded beaches, away from the tourist hustle and bustle. The emerald water and dramatic rock formations are a reminder of why Koh Phi Phi is a postcard star.
After leaving the coast, we paddled 45 minutes to Nui Beach, a key stop on a 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi, balanced between adventure and relaxation. This uncrowded beach is ideal for snorkeling in the sun, with white sand and beautiful water. The experience, although short, sums up the magic of spending 2 days on the island Phi Phi : intimate moments with unspoiled nature.
After our kayaking tour, we rented kayaks at Loh Dalum Beach, located right in front of the Ibiza pool area. This lively but convenient beach is perfect for a 2-day Koh Phi Phi in a small group : accessible rentals, proximity to the city center, and crystal clear water at high tide. What sets Koh Phi Phi apart is the lack of cars — only a few motorcycles exist, but they are rarely used for transportation. Everything you need is transported on small carts, which adds to the unique charm of the island.
Our 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi includes a hike to the Viewpoints. There are three Viewpoints, all within walking distance of the city centre. The entrance fee is 30 Baht per person (about 70 cents USD), and Viewpoint 1 has a nice view with photo opportunities, but we headed to Viewpoint 2, which I highly recommend. The climb took about 20 minutes, with a few breaks for photos and rest, but it's doable, especially if you're in good shape. The view from Viewpoint 2 is spectacular, although it is important to note that during low tide, the view loses a bit of its brilliance as one side of the beach becomes exposed to a muddy area. Despite the rain, the climb and the view were definitely worth it.
Then, we spent a few days in Koh Phi Phi, exploring its nature, nightlife, and all it has to offer. If you are looking for an island to party and meet young people, this is the place to be. But if you want to experience some of the most unreal scenery in the world, Koh Phi Phi is also a great choice.
In summary, 2 days on the island Phi Phi offers a perfect balance between exploration and relaxation. In the morning, kayaking and snorkeling; in the afternoon, idleness and hiking; In the evening, there is a lively nightlife or dinners with your feet in the sand. Koh Phi Phi is breathtakingly beautiful, and the purpose of this trip is above all to admire its spectacular landscapes, connect with nature and develop a true admiration for the treasures it offers us. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or in a small group, the island adapts to any pace. Between surreal landscapes and festive atmosphere, Koh Phi Phi deserves its title of pearl of the Andamans.
Learn more :
> What to do in Koh Phi Phi in 24 hours ?
> Thailand Travel Guide
> Thailand Tour Packages itinerary 15 Days 14 Nights
> Thailand Tour Packages
Accessible from Krabi or Phuket by ferry, speedboat or longtail boat, the Phi Phi Islands are a gateway to a magical universe. Far from being a simple seaside stopover, they embody a waking dream: hypnotic turquoise lagoons hug limestone cliffs sculpted by time, while sunsets paint the horizon in golden shades. A natural painting where every detail seems to be orchestrated by perfection.
A 7-day stay in Koh Phi Phi costs an average of $2,330 for a solo traveler, $4,180 for a couple, and $7,830 for a family of four. The best way to visit Koh Phi Phi is in 1 to 2 days, enjoying its stunning landscapes without overspending. Include it in a Thailand Tour Package itinerary 15 days a well-rounded trip.
Visiting Koh Phi Phi in one day is possible, but planning a 2-day trip to Koh Phi Phi is a must for in-depth exploration. If the daily excursions from Krabi or Phuket (especially by speedboat to save time) allow you to discover the islands, opt for a 2-day stay in Koh Phi Phi : the ideal duration to savor every corner without rushing, combining discovery and relaxation.
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