How to Choose a Phi Phi Islands Tour and What to Expect

Phi Phi Islands are recognised for their turquoise sea, limestone cliffs, and some of Thailand’s most famous beaches. Many tourists take tours to see both the well-known and less well-known islands. Follow these steps to choose the right tour and know what to do next if you want to get the most out of your trip.

Choose Your Starting Point and Island Focus

Most tours start in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Lanta, or on Phi Phi Don itself. Starting on Phi Phi Don provides you more time at each location and allows you to explore at quieter hours. Tours from the mainland generally take longer to get to the most popular places because they have to go by boat with bigger groups. If you are staying at a resort such as SAii Phi Phi Island Village, they will be able to arrange a tour according to your needs.

Choose tours that highlight Phi Phi Leh for scenery, including Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon. Bamboo Island is a good place to swim and relax on the beach. Find out how long each trip stays at each place.

A Tour in the Morning, a Tour in the Evening, or a Private Tour

People go on early trips in the day to avoid the crowds, because beaches fill up quickly during the busiest times of year. Some of the things to do after dark are swimming with bioluminescent plankton near Nui Bay before heading back to your Luxury Resort on Phi Phi Island for the night.

You have more freedom on private boat tours, and you can get to Maya Bay before the visitors do in the morning. Sharing the expense with friends or family is the best way to get a good price. If you want a firm timetable and a clear price, book group excursions with providers you can trust. Always check the most recent reviews to make sure the service and safety are good.

Choose Between a Long-tail Boat or a Speedboat

Speedboats can go faster and stop at more places in a day, but the trip might be rough when the water is turbulent. Long-tail boats are better since they are old-fashioned and make for great photographs. They also have a slower, quieter ride that is great for folks who want to relax. Consider how much motion sickness you can tolerate and what the weather will be like.

What’s Included: Snorkelling, Lunch, and Fees

Most excursions provide snorkelling gear and make many stops where you can swim in clear water. Snorkelling is fun for everyone, including people who can't swim. Ask if lunch and drinks are included—typical meals comprise fried rice or local curries, fresh fruit, and water.

Make sure that the booking price includes the National Park fee. These are mandatory; if not included, you pay cash on the day.

Some of the Best Parts of a Typical Tour

Monkey Beach: You can see monkeys from a safe distance, but don't bring food or loose bags.

Viking Cave: Boats stop for photographs; access is closed to safeguard the swiflet birds.

Pileh Lagoon: Swim in blue-green water surrounded by cliffs.

Maya Bay: Walk from the pier to the beach. There are a lot of people there, but you can find plenty of open sand to relax on away from the entrance. To conserve coral, there are new laws that limit swimming.

Bamboo Island: White sand, shade, food, and clear water—ideal for relaxation and photographs.

Some sunset tours end at Nui Bay, where you can swim and see the vista.

Swimming with bioluminescent plankton at the end of the trip makes it even more special. As you walk through the water, you can see little sparks of light.