The best way to take in the majestic beauty of Koh Phi Phi is through its Viewpoints. You’ll fully understand its landscape – from crystal clear waters to swaying palm trees; there’s no doubt that it is a paradise. Nowadays, it has been heavily influenced by a party crowd. However, once dawn hits and the slightest bit of sunset’s darkness falls, these streets are transformed into bucket-selling vendors.

Let’s go ahead and get into all the essential information you need to know about the Viewpoints. These spots are certainly not to be missed, so check out every bit of information while backpacking Koh Phi Phi!

Why Visit Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints

Aside from being among the most well-known and must-do things in Koh Phi Phi, the Viewpoints are the best ways to appreciate the island’s overall surrounding beauty. There are views over the isthmus, the land’s low-lying strip between the two hills, and crystal-clear waters on either side. Honestly, these places let you appreciate mother nature even more.

The viewpoints are also some of the few things on Koh Phi Phi, which are actually cheap. As a matter of fact, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most expensive places. Thanks to Koh Phi Phi being an island and a popular tourist destination, this reality has jacked up prices throughout the years enough to make any visitor’s pockets cry for help.

As the famous saying goes, “if you put the hard work in, you will reap the rewards.” This same ideology goes with discovering the popular Koh Phi Phi viewpoints. In actuality, there are three (3) different viewpoint spots you’ll discover up the tracks, with each one having something a bit special.

What are the different Phi Phi viewpoints?

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 1

After walking up the steep and seemingly never-ending staircase, you’ll stumble upon the first spot is the Phi Phi Viewpoint #1. Although as challenging as it may seem, the hike leading to this viewpoint should only take you about 20 minutes to reach. Known as the “I Love Phi Phi Viewpoint”, its sizeable colourful statement is the one to be given thanks for this moniker. This first viewpoint is undoubtedly the most popular lookout among the three and the easiest to get to and enjoy. Make sure to look out for Maya Bay on the way up!

Upon arriving at this spot, you will need to pay an entry fee. Hold on tightly to this ticket because you will need it again to enter the second viewpoint. Many are not fans of Viewpoint #1 because of the colourful lettering that seemed tacky against the beautiful backdrop scenery that unfolds behind it. However, the other half of the fanbase loves this beautiful addition to the already beautiful view showcased in this spot.

People wanting some photo op may only find themselves hiking up as far as this viewpoint. However, those wanting more epic views and a bit more of mother nature will keep heading up this steep hill to the next spot.

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 2

Probably the most challenging part of the overall hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoints is behind you now. So, take a breather and enjoy as you begin walking up to the second lookout, the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 2. This walk-up should take you no more than another 20 minutes or the like. The worst part is over–the trail is relatively well signposted, having no issues getting lost.

Entering this clearing around Viewpoint 2 will become a lot less touristy than the first. Viewpoint 2 looks like the most naturally formed viewpoint amidst the lush Thai jungles. A personal favourite viewpoint to many, it showcases a large set of rocks that provides an opportunity in giving you that little tiny bit advantage in height for that perfect view over the island.

If you want a bit of a break before hiking up even higher again, you can enjoy some relaxation at the café recently built in this spot. Of course, as anything that goes with a good view, expect prices to be a bit on the high side when you dine here. Nevertheless, grab cold drinks and bits of food to eat, sit back and relax on the viewing deck or inside, fully air-conditioned, and take in all the amazing views right in front of you.

Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 3

After some rest, get back right up and get away from the crowds heading up to the last but certainly not the least of the lookouts, the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoint 3. The majority of tourists stop at the second spot rather than continuing and going all the way up. So, expect this spot to be a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere situated right at the top.

But be aware–this part of the hike is much like the same difficulty level as the first part. It will become rather steep as you navigate yourself up to the side of the hill.

Once you reach the clearing, you will need to pay the second entry fee again. However, this fee comes with a well-deserved bottle of water, which becomes rewarding you and, no doubt, something much needed when you reach this point. Enjoy an endless opportunity to take photos here, with some epic shots on the gram and are sure hits (make sure to check out Laem Tong Beach).

The evening sunset from the Viewpoint on Koh Phi Phi

The Phi Phi viewpoint provides a stunning view of the sunset. It’s not a difficult walk, but you’ll want to make sure to bring a flashlight because the path back is dark. Also, keep in mind that this viewpoint can be crowded during peak times, so plan your trip accordingly.

The Viewpoint itself is a small area with benches and tables where visitors can sit and enjoy their snacks or meals while taking in the view. There are also bathrooms available there as well as some vendors selling drinks and snacks if you don’t want to pack anything from home.

Visiting Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints: When’s the Best Time?

Suppose you want to plan your visit avoiding thousands of other travellers also visiting this lookout point, better prepare ahead of time. This ultimate Instagram spot will surely be a hit to anyone, so be aware of the schedule so you can have the entire place to yourself. Nevertheless, you can do certain things to avoid a lot of the crowds:

• Between 10 am to 2 pm is the best time to visit the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints. During this period, the sun will be behind you and result in a bright blue sea on every side of the island. 
• Once mid-afternoon hits, the sun has already moved to the island’s side and creates blown out white waters that register poorly in photographs and gives quite harsh shadows.
• “The earlier, the better” – that’s the best thing to consider in viewpoint hikes. Begin your walk-up around 9 am when the majority of the island still sleeps, recovering from last night’s hangover.
• When visiting for sunset, the perfect spot to experience this event would be at the top lookout, Viewpoint 3. Since the other viewpoints are based on the island’s middle part, this viewpoint is best because the sun sets on the side. Be aware also that most likely, you won’t be alone watching the majestic sunset from up here.

Phi Phi Viewpoints: Takeaways

This article is only a guide you can take with you to visit the Koh Phi Phi Viewpoints. There are many ways to experience these exquisite gifts Thailand has to offer, so go ahead and discover for yourself the beauty that is the Phi Phi Viewpoint.