In July 2015 my family and I escaped the Australian Winter and travelled to Thailand for three weeks. The last week of our trip was spent beachside in Khao Lak including a day tour of Phi Phi Islands AKA some of the most beautiful islands in the world.
Day tours of Phi Phi Islands are incredibly popular and peak season can prove to be too busy for some. I suggest travelling during low season (wet season), although there's a higher chance of rain the crowds are much more bearable and in my experience it didn't rain at all.
Tours can be booked at hotel receptions, online or at tour offices throughout town. Tour prices are always negotiable so practice your haggling skills!
Most day tours should include:
- Shuttle to Phuket Marina
- Speedboat for island hopping (Phi Phi Islands are a 45 minute speedboat trip from Phuket Marina)
- Life vests
- Lunch, drinks and snacks
- Optional seasickness tablets
THE ISLANDS
Six islands make up Phi Phi Islands..
KOH PHI PHI DON - The largest of the islands, this island hosts accommodation, dive centres, restaurants and nightlife.
KOH PHI PHI LEH - The second largest island is uninhabited and is known for experiencing Leonardo DiCaprio's presence during the filming of The Beach. Maya beach is beautiful although extremely crowded. A 100baht entry fee is required to step onto this island although it is usually included in tour fees. Most tour groups park the boat here for an hour or two.
KOH YUNG - Also known as Mosquito Island, Koh Yung is one of the more remote islands of Phi Phi Islands. And yes, as you guessed it, swarms of mosquitos hang around this island around sunset meaning most tour groups have left before dark, if they stop here at all. Many tour groups don't stop at this island at all in favour of spending more time at the other, more tourist-friendly islands.
KOH BIDA NOK & KOH BIDA NAI - The Bida Islands are popular amongst diving enthusiasts.
KOH PAI - Also known as Bamboo Island, this island is a popular diving and snorkelling destination.
WEATHER
Great weather really makes a tour of the Phi Phi Islands although in peak season lines can be so long that boatloads of tourists can't make it onto some islands or drastically lengthen the waiting time.
Dry Season - November to April
Wet Season - May to October
My family and I toured the Phi Phi Islands in July during the wet season. Luckily the day we booked our tour was clear and warm. I like visiting during the "rainy" season because it means less lines!
Overall, a day tour of Phi Phi Islands is a must-do if you're in the area. Although there may be an influx of tourists the islands, beaches and the boat ride is a surreal experience.
Overview
Overview
Best time to visit | Dry season for great weather or wet season for less crowds
Must do | Snorkel in the crystal clear water then enjoy an all you can eat feast before sun baking, with cocktails in hand
Vibe | Laid back, friendly and surreal
Rating | 4/5
Your beautiful photos make me want to book a flight over there straight away haha! It's freezing here currently, with sub zero temperatures!
ReplyDeleteHaha thanks Duni! I don't blame you, I can't deal with the cold. Think warm thoughts!
DeleteGorgeous photos as always. I hope I can come back to this and use this for a Thailand trip one day. :) I'm the same as you, hate the cold!
ReplyDeleteThanks so much V! :)
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