While the Phi Phi Islands may be small, unlike its neighboring islands within Thailand’s Andaman Sea, its reputation is known worldwide. Before you begin your getaway plans to this famous piece of Thailand’s paradise, peruse first the guide we’ve come up with today for you to learn run-around, the best time to visit, and other helpful tips for Koh Phi Phi itinerary.

Planning Your Trip FAQs

1. “When is the best time to visit?”

Plan your visit during the low seasons between May and September because the dry seasons from December to April are much hotter. January and February are the top months of the driest and busiest since it’s the school holidays abroad. In addition, heavy rain and thunderstorms happen during the monsoon seasons of July and August; however, things are still hopping on the Phi Phi Islands. Typically, the crowd of visitors arrives in Koh Phi Phi in time for the other islands’ Full Moon Parties. You can retreat to the nearby Koh Lanta when you’re enjoying anymore.

2. “What’s their language?”

Most people on the island speak Thai, the primary language spoken in Thailand. Many can also speak and understand English, especially those who work in customer service, such as hotels, restaurants, stores, and attractions usually visit foreigners. You can say hello in Thai, “sah-wah-dee khaaaa” for females, or “sah-wah-dee khrap” for males, of course, together with a wide smile.

3. “What’s their currency?”

Thailand’s official currency is the Thai baht. Plenty of ATMs frequent the island’s vicinity. But to be sure, bring back up cash if the network encounters any trouble. Visa and MasterCard are still widely accepted, with American Express typically only being used for higher-end hotels and shops transactions.

4. “How to get around Koh Phi Phi?” 

Include in your itinerary a walk to the famous Viewpoints, rent a kayak going to the Viking Cave, or bicycle your way around the island since motorized transportation is practically nonexistent. Only a handful of scooters on the island are available and used by police or construction contractors. Although a bit noisy, you can hire long-tail boats to shuttle travelers around for either a day or a single journey. Their prices may vary depending on the distance traveled and what time of day you’ll be traveling.

5. “Any travel tips?” 

Remember that in Thailand, ph is pronounced with the h silent. For example, Phuket is pronounced “poo-ket” and the word koh, or ‘island,’ is pronounced deeper in the throat – say “goh.” Now you know the correct pronunciation of “Koh Phi Phi” is “goh-pee-pee,” not “ko-fee-fee” or “ko-fye-fye.” Its moniker came from the Malay word for fire, api, pronounced “ah-pee.”

6. “Where can I stay there?”

When the 2004 reconstruction that followed the immense Indian Ocean Tsunami, some took the opportunity in seizing control, squeezing out the island’s many budget bungalow operations, leaving an uneasy combination of ramshackle party hostels, upscale resorts, and mid-range guesthouses. 

Loh Dalum is the big party beach, so stay as far as possible from this party haven unless fire shows and late-night revelry are included in your trip’s itinerary. Backpackers searching for hostels should head east after getting off at the ferry. They’ll have loads of options in getting cheaper the farther from the beach you search and the more uphill your place is located. 

Laem Tong Beach on the northeast extremity of the island is a sure serene choice, although it’ll be a long way from the action that’s happening in Ton Sai Bay, and hotels can indeed be pricey. Long Beach is a famous strip of powdery sand; however, going there needs more scrambling or a quick boat ride.

7. “How can I get there?”

Although Koh Phi Phi is too tiny to have its airport, you can fly into Krabi Town. It is a small city located west coast of Thailand. It is a central hub for people heading to nearby destinations such as Ko Lanta, Ao Nang, Railay, or some other islands in the Andaman Sea—or Phuket by taking a boat to the island.

Daily, some ferries run from Krabi Town, Phuket, Koh Lanta, Railay, and Ao Nang. Trip schedules change depending on the time of year. Expect fewer boats braving the waves during the low season and stormy months of June and October. You’ll need to ask about other options when you’re in a travel agency or a booking office.

8. “What are some of the culture and customs in Koh Phi Phi?”

Being polite to the locals and dressing well can go a long way. You’ll get used to a slower pace than you might be used to eventually, keeping calm when things don’t happen as planned. Thais are very calm and well-mannered and will often greet you with the “Wai,” the gesture of putting hands together in front of the chest. Be gracious and return the gesture by responding with a resounding friendly smile and a nod that shows respect.

Although not expected, they will very much appreciate it after experiencing an excellent meal or service when it comes to tipping. It may also depend on your location, as it’s become customary to round up, leaving the change as a tip in restaurants or cafes. Meanwhile, you generally wouldn’t tip those food vendors on the streets. But try always to show your appreciation and tip people, especially when they’ve done an excellent job.

The Phi Phi Islands are as safe as the other islands in Thailand, but inevitably, more drunk people will be scouring the busy streets during nighttime. Travelers of all sexes and genders should always be mindful of their drinks, as druggings occasionally occur without notice. Small hospitals on the island can handle minor ailments, but you’re better off rushing over to Phuket or back to Krabi for something serious diagnosed and treated.

9. “Any money-saving tips?”

You can save money on tours by sticking to those that use traditional long-tail boats instead of speedboats. Keep in mind that cheaper boat rides tend to be more crowded because guides will try to fill the ship with as many people as possible. Though not necessarily a bad thing, it may hinder the most peaceful day on the water when you have that in mind.

You can pick up freshly cooked street food, visit the market, and eat at local Thai restaurants that can save you a lot of money. In addition, you can also pay close attention to specials at local beach bars, with some offering buy-one-get-one-free deals or complimentary covers when you buy a drink.

Shopping in the Phi Phi Islands is limited to only a handful of convenience shops and stalls that sell sunglasses, T-shirts, beach sarongs, and souvenirs. Items like sunscreen can invariably be higher and a bit pricey than those on the mainland, where there will be fewer choices. Save a lot of money by packing smart, only bringing the essential items for beach survival with you.

Final Thoughts

After your perusal of this guide we’ve come up with, we hope that you can now enjoy and make the most out of the vacation you’ll eventually experience once you arrive in Koh Phi Phi. Start planning your trip to the Phi Phi Islands and have the time of your life ready and hassle-free, only filled with fun and excitement.