9 Best Things to Do in Phi Phi Island

The Phi Phi Islands are among Thailand's most spectacular destinations, offering crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life. If you're wondering what things to do in Phi Phi Island will make your trip unforgettable, this guide covers the essential experiences you won't want to miss.

One of the most iconic things to do in Phi Phi Island is visiting Maya Bay. Made famous by the movie "The Beach" this stunning bay has been carefully restored and now welcomes visitors with pristine conditions. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the turquoise waters and white sand beach create a picture-perfect setting. The surrounding coral reefs teem with colorful fish, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Visit early in the day for calmer waters and better visibility, and don't forget your waterproof camera for this once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.

1. Visit Maya Bay

One of the most iconic things to do in Phi Phi Island is visiting Maya Bay. Made famous by the movie "The Beach," this stunning bay has been carefully restored and now welcomes visitors with pristine conditions. Surrounded by towering cliffs, the turquoise waters and white sand beach create a picture-perfect setting. The surrounding coral reefs teem with colorful fish, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Visit early in the day for calmer waters and better visibility, and don't forget your waterproof camera for this once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.

2. Explore Pileh Lagoon

Exploring Pileh Lagoon ranks among the top things to do in Phi Phi Island. This emerald-green lagoon is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs that create a natural swimming pool with some of the clearest water you'll ever see. The sheltered waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, with excellent visibility to spot tropical fish darting through the coral. The lagoon's calm conditions make it ideal for all skill levels, and the dramatic scenery provides an unforgettable backdrop for photos and memories.

3. Discover Viking Cave

Discovering Viking Cave is one of the most unique things to do in Phi Phi Island. Located on Phi Phi Leh, this cave gets its name from ancient paintings on the cave walls that resemble Viking ships. While you typically can't enter the cave as it's an active bird's nest harvesting site for local communities, viewing it from the water offers a fascinating glimpse into local traditions. The impressive cliff formations and the significance of the cave to the local economy make this stop both scenic and culturally enriching.

4. Check In at Monkey Beach

Checking in at Monkey Beach is one of the most entertaining things to do in Phi Phi Island. True to its name, this beach is home to a colony of wild long-tailed macaques that have become the stars of countless vacation photos. Watch these playful creatures from a respectful distance as they play along the shoreline while you enjoy the beautiful beach setting. The beach also offers good snorkeling opportunities in the clear shallow waters. Remember to never feed the monkeys, as it disrupts their natural behavior and can make them aggressive.

5. Snorkel at Bamboo Island

Snorkeling at Bamboo Island is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Phi Phi Island for underwater enthusiasts. Located north of Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island (Koh Phai) features powdery white sand beaches and some of the most pristine snorkeling conditions in the area. The island is surrounded by shallow coral reefs with abundant marine life, including parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even small reef sharks and sea turtles. The relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural beauty make it perfect for a peaceful beach break between snorkeling sessions.

6. Visit Koh Khai Islands

Visiting the Koh Khai Islands is among the most rewarding things to do in Phi Phi Island area. These three small islands offer some of the clearest waters in the region, with visibility often exceeding 10 meters. Perfect for snorkeling and swimming, Koh Khai Islands tend to be less crowded than some of the main Phi Phi attractions, giving you a more intimate experience with nature. The shallow waters are ideal for beginners and families, and the variety of marine life includes clownfish (like Nemo!), butterfly fish, and vibrant coral formations that create an underwater wonderland.

7. Snorkel at Hin Klang

Snorkeling at Hin Klang is one of the hidden gem things to do in Phi Phi Island that many visitors miss. This dive and snorkel site between Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh features submerged rocks that create an artificial reef attracting diverse marine life. You'll find schools of tropical fish, colorful sea anemones, and if you're lucky, you might spot octopuses, cuttlefish, or moray eels. The site is suitable for confident swimmers and snorkelers, offering a different underwater landscape compared to other spots around the islands.

8. Relax at Loh Dalum Bay

Relaxing at Loh Dalum Bay rounds out the essential things to do in Phi Phi Island. Located on the opposite side of Tonsai Bay, this beach offers a more laid-back atmosphere during the day. The shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming and paddling, and the long stretch of soft sand provides plenty of space to unwind with a good book or simply soak up the tropical sun. The bay is protected from waves, making it ideal for families with children. As evening approaches, Loh Dalum Bay transforms into a vibrant social hub with beachfront dining options and island entertainment.

9. Snorkel at Maiton Island

Snorkeling at Maiton Island is one of the most serene things to do in Phi Phi Island area tours. Also known as "Honeymoon Island" Maiton Island is a private island paradise located between Phuket and Phi Phi. The island boasts pristine coral reefs and crystal-clear waters with exceptional visibility, making it perfect for underwater exploration. You'll encounter diverse marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral gardens. The island's exclusivity means fewer crowds and a more peaceful snorkeling experience. The white sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing between snorkeling sessions, and the shallow reefs close to shore make it accessible for snorkelers of all levels.

Planning Your Things to Do in Phi Phi Island

These nine activities represent the best things to do in Phi Phi Island, combining natural beauty, marine life encounters, and authentic local experiences. The most efficient way to experience all these highlights in one day is through an organized tour, which handles all logistics, provides quality snorkeling equipment, and ensures you visit each location at the optimal time.

The ideal time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from November to April when the seas are calmer and visibility is at its best. However, the islands offer year-round beauty, and visiting during the shoulder seasons can mean fewer crowds and more intimate experiences at each location.

Remember to bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate marine ecosystem, plenty of water to stay hydrated, and a waterproof camera or phone case to capture your adventures. Most importantly, bring your sense of adventure and be ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you're snorkeling in crystal-clear lagoons, meeting playful monkeys, or exploring dramatic limestone caves, these things to do in Phi Phi Island promise an unforgettable tropical experience. The combination of stunning natural beauty, incredible marine life, and unique island attractions makes Phi Phi one of Thailand's most remarkable destinations.