Phi Phi Islands
Limestone cliffs rising straight out of the Andaman Sea, turquoise lagoons and reefs you can reach from the shore.
From fishing village to famous archipelago
The Phi Phi Islands have been inhabited since ancient times, with evidence that early sea-gypsy communities, the Chao Leh, lived around these waters long before modern settlements existed. During the era of maritime trade across the Andaman Sea, Phi Phi was a natural stopover for fishermen and traders sailing between Thailand, Malaysia and Myanmar.
In the 1940s the islands became part of Thailand’s Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, protecting their marine ecosystems and limestone landscapes. For decades Phi Phi remained a quiet fishing community, until tourism began to flourish in the 1980s, drawn by the dramatic cliffs, the turquoise lagoons and the exceptional snorkelling.
Today the archipelago is made up of six islands. Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited one, and Phi Phi Leh is famous for Maya Bay. Despite becoming a world-famous destination, the islands keep their natural charm, protected by environmental regulations and ongoing conservation work.
What you’ll find
Iconic bays and lagoons. Maya Bay, Loh Sama and Pileh Lagoon are among the most photographed spots in Southeast Asia — from the sheltered calm of Pileh to Maya Bay, now carefully managed so its coral can recover.
Limestone cliffs and viewpoints. Karst formations rise straight out of emerald water across the archipelago. The viewpoint above Ton Sai Bay on Phi Phi Don looks over the twin bays, one of the most recognisable views in Thailand.
Snorkelling and marine life. Coral reefs circle most of the islands. Reef fish, sea turtles and the occasional blacktip shark appear in the clear Andaman water.
Longtail boat excursions. Traditional longtails reach hidden beaches, sea caves and quiet coves you cannot walk to. A full-day boat trip is the best way to grasp the scale of the archipelago.
Island atmosphere. The main village on Phi Phi Don has a relaxed, sociable energy: beach cafés, dive shops and travellers from everywhere, with monkeys and tropical birds never far away.
Phi Phi moments
An archipelago that earns its fame
The Phi Phi Islands offer a rare combination of adventure, rest and natural beauty. Hidden lagoons, reefs full of colour and long slow afternoons on the water — the balance is up to you.
Go early or go late: the bays are at their quietest before the day-trip boats arrive from Phuket and after they leave, and that is when the archipelago feels closest to what it was.
It is a destination that captures the essence of tropical Thailand, and one most travellers end up wishing they had given another day.