Highlights of Phi Phi Islands
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 88 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Highlights of Phi Phi Islands worth booking?
Highlights of Phi Phi Islands is a 5-hour experience in Ko Phi Phi Don, Thailand, from $28 per person. It scores 84 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 88 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 84 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (88)
- Duration
- 5 hours
- From
- $28 per person
Pictured on many postcards with its sandy beaches, bays with crystal clear waters and towering limestone cliffs, the Phi Phi islands are among Thailand’s most famous destinations. Experience the barefoot lifestyle and tropical landscape of the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea on our half day sunset tour. Swim with colorful fish at Loh Samah and Monkey Bay and snorkel among coral gardens. NOTE 1: This tour starts and ends on Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai). It does NOT start from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket. Participants have to travel to Koh Phi Phi by themselves and need to stay at the island for at least one night because of the ferry schedule. NOTE 2: This tour is really about swimming, snorkeling and visiting beautiful spots around Koh Phi Phi, not about story-telling. NOTE 3: The Phi Phi Islands are part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. National Park fee of THB 400 per person is NOT included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
What you get
About this experience
Pictured on many postcards with its sandy beaches, bays with crystal clear waters and towering limestone cliffs, the Phi Phi islands are among Thailand’s most famous destinations. Experience the barefoot lifestyle and tropical landscape of the Phi Phi Islands in the Andaman Sea on our half day sunset tour. Swim with colorful fish at Loh Samah and Monkey Bay and snorkel among coral gardens. NOTE 1: This tour starts and ends on Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai). It does NOT start from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket. Participants have to travel to Koh Phi Phi by themselves and need to stay at the island for at least one night because of the ferry schedule. NOTE 2: This tour is really about swimming, snorkeling and visiting beautiful spots around Koh Phi Phi, not about story-telling. NOTE 3: The Phi Phi Islands are part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. National Park fee of THB 400 per person is NOT included and must be paid in cash on the day of the tour.
What's included
Included
- A bottle of drinking water
- Basic English speaking boat driver
- Snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel)
- Long-tail boat
Not included
- Food (you can bring some snacks by yourself) & soft drinks
- English speaking guide
- Admission fees
What you'll see and do
Meeting point is in front of the McDonalds, near the Tonsai pier on Koh Phi Phi Don. Board the boat and head to Monkey Bay, a small jungle fringed bay where snorkeling is excellent with clear water and a great variety of colourful fish. The fascinating Long-Tailed Macaques clamber down the rock face to come and greet the boats and tourists. Big chance you’ll see them, but of course we cannot guarantee. The sequence of the places we visit may differ from the description and the time we stop at each place during the tour is approximate and includes travel time. NOTE: National Park fee is not included in the tour price and has to be paid cash on day of the tour (THB 400 per person; price subject to changes).
60 minutes here
Viking Cave
Viking Cave is one of the most unique natural sites on Koh Phi Phi Leh. The cave was so named, due to the prehistoric drawings that were found on the cave walls that resemble ancient viking ships. It is believed that these drawings were made by sea gypsies or pirates who stopped here to shelter from the monsoon storms. When the boat stops in front of Viking Cave you can see one of the most profitable local industries: the harvesting of swiftlet birds’ nests. Within the cave there are lots of ledges which are inhabited by thousands of swiftlets. These birds make their nests out of their own saliva, the nests are harvested and later sold to make birds nest soup, a Chinese delicacy, and believed to promote good health, specifically for the skin. The sequence of the places we visit may differ from the description and the time we stop at each place during the tour is approximate and includes travel time.
60 minutes here
Ko Phi Phi Le
Pileh Lagoon or Phileh Bay is one of the most impressive sites on Koh Phi Phi Leh. The lagoon is surrounded by giant rocks and the water inside this beautiful lagoon is of the most crystal clear azure waters you may have ever seen. It’s very shallow and the bottom is made up of white fine sand that just slips between your toes. Pileh Lagoon is a wonderful place to snorkel. The sequence of the places we visit may differ from the description and the time we stop at each place during the tour is approximate and includes travel time.
60 minutes here
Maya Bay
We make our way to the next snorkeling spot, Maya Bay. With its sandy beach, jungle and steep limestone cliffs Maya Bay is Phi Phi’s most famous beach. It is the location where the 2000 adventure drama ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed. (NOTE: every now and then Maya Bay is closed due to government regulations to help the ecosystem and coral reefs recover from tourism, so in that case we will go past this area for a photo only.) The sequence of the places we visit may differ from the description and the time we stop at each place during the tour is approximate and includes travel time. PLEASE NOTE: Maya Bay might be closed 1-2 months every year as per a government regulation. If Maya Bay is closed we will spend more time at one of the other bays for snorkeling and swimming. Maya Bay closure in 2024: from 1 August 2024 to 30 September 2024.
60 minutes here
Loh Samah Bay
Loh Samah Bay is located in the southern part of Koh Phi Phi Leh island, precisely on the opposite side of Maya Bay. Dive into the shallow waters for some more snorkeling to explore the abundant marine life. The sequence of the places we visit may differ from the description and the time we stop at each place during the tour is approximate.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Ko Phi Phi Don
All participants need to come to the meeting point which is in front of the McDonalds at the Tonsai pier on Koh Phi Phi. We do NOT pick up from other beaches on Koh Phi Phi.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
All participants need to come to the meeting point which is in front of the McDonalds at the Tonsai pier on Koh Phi Phi. We do NOT pick up from other beaches on Koh Phi Phi.
Options you can book
Private Tour With Ticket
Private
Small Group Without Entry Fees
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- WanderSiam
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- National Park fee of THB 400 per person has to be paid cash on day of the tour
- Maximum number of participants per group is 10 persons.
- As per a government decision, Maya Bay will be closed annually from 1 August to 30 September to allow for natural rehabilitation of the area. During this period, all other locations on the itinerary remain accessible, and more time will be spent at those spots for swimming and snorkeling.
- Regarding the stop at Monkey Bay: You must always remember that, no matter what, monkeys are wild animals, not pets. Even though they may look cute, especially the young ones, we always recommend to keep your distance, not bring any food with you and keep all your belongings in your bag. You don't need to come close as it’s just as fun to watch the monkeys from a distance.
- This tour does NOT start from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket. If you want to join this tour from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket you have to arrange transport to Koh Phi Phi by yourself. Because of the ferry schedule you have to stay overnight at Koh Phi Phi for at least one night when coming from Ao Nang (Krabi) or Phuket.
- This tour is really about swimming, snorkeling and visiting beautiful spots around Koh Phi Phi, not about story-telling. No guide on this tour, only a local boat driver.
- All participants need to come to the meeting point which is in front of the McDonalds at the Tonsai pier on Koh Phi Phi. We do NOT pick up from other beaches on Koh Phi Phi.
- As our tours run on a group basis, we can wait a maximum of 10 minutes after the scheduled meeting time. After this grace period, the guide will begin the tour. If you cannot make it on time, please let us know before the tour starts. If possible, we’ll do our best to reschedule you for the next available time slot or day, though a rescheduling fee will apply. No refund will be provided in case of late arrival.
- Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour start time are eligible for a full refund. For cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance or in case of no-show, no refund will be issued.
- The tour operates rain or shine, as tropical rain showers in Thailand are usually short. During the rainy season, we recommend bringing a raincoat or poncho. Please note that cancellations due to weather conditions are not eligible for a refund. Only in the event that the boat driver determines it is unsafe to go out on the open sea will the tour be cancelled. In that case, a full refund will be provided.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 87 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
5 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Small groups
5 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Pace and timing
3 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
87 verified traveler reviews for Highlights of Phi Phi Islands. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing half day tour around phi phi lee.
Good boat and nice captain. We went solo in a private tour across main tourist points. There are 2 stops for snorkeling.
Response from the operator: Wow, five stars! We’re excited to hear you had a great experience with us. Thanks so much for the perfect rating!
via Viator
This was such a fun half...
This was such a fun half day trip visiting the highlights of Phi Phi Island! We saw several monkeys on Monkey Island, cruised through some beautiful scenery and finished with snorkeling in the beautiful and clear water! We also visited Maya Island but it was so crowded with long lines to walk to the beach on the other side, which you’re not allowed to get into the water at and also pay a National Park fee to visit so I would skip this part. Other than that, we had a great time!
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the highlights of Phi Phi. Regarding the National Park fee, we would like to clarify that this fee is always required, even when Maya Bay is not visited. The fee applies to the entire Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park area and is mandated by the authorities. We appreciate your feedback about Maya Bay and are glad that, overall, you had a great experience. Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you again on another tour in Thailand.
via Viator
Breath taking views
We really enjoyed this tour. The sights were breathtaking! The tour guide is helpful in assisting you on getting on and off the boat at the stops. Doesn’t give you a tour guide as such. It didn’t bother us as we were just so taken by the gorgeous sights.
Response from the operator: Sawadee kha Janine, Thank you so much for your kind words! We really appreciate your positive review and it was great to have you on our tour. We look forward to welcoming you again!
via Viator
Private tour at our own pace
The tour of the Phi Phi islands was great. It was just me and my daughter, so we had time to enjoy all of the sights without the crowds that we saw on the other boats. Manus, our tour guide, was really friendly and made sure that we knew where we were going and what to do when we got there. It had been raining that morning, so Maya Bay was empty. Definitely a good choice if you want to see the islands.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your incredibly kind words and for awarding us a 5-star rating! We’re thrilled to hear about your fantastic experience with us. Your glowing feedback truly brightens our day!
via Tripadvisor
Great way to see Phi Phi 👌
Me and my wife really enjoyed this experience as it was only us and another couple on the longtail which felt a lot more relaxed. Our guide was really nice and spoke a little English but took to us all the places on our itenary and let our small group tell him how long we wanted to stay rather than being given specific times as would be with a large boat tour of the Island. Phi Phi is stunning and would definitely recommend this tour for anyone looking for a 4-5hr tour of the islands and some amazing snorkelling!
Response from the operator: Sawadee kha Dean, Thank you so much for your kind review! We’re really happy to hear that you and your wife had such a great time. The smaller group size definitely makes for a more personal and flexible experience — and it sounds like the boat driver did a great job making sure everything went smoothly. Phi Phi truly is breathtaking, and we’re glad you got to enjoy it at your own pace, with some fantastic snorkeling to top it off! Thanks again for recommending the tour. We’d love to welcome you back for more adventures anytime!
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 5 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $28 to $7,120
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 31
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by WanderSiam, who run 46 experiences we rank across 5 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 64.9 and 4 in the 90+ Club.
See everything WanderSiam runsWhy this scores 84
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Highlights of Phi Phi Islands: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Ko Phi Phi Don.
How much does Highlights of Phi Phi Islands cost?
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Prices start at $28 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Ko Phi Phi Don usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Highlights of Phi Phi Islands take?
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Plan for about 5 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Ko Phi Phi Don is not rushed.
Is Highlights of Phi Phi Islands worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 84 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 88 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Ko Phi Phi Don, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Highlights of Phi Phi Islands suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 5-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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Around 31 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Ko Phi Phi Don can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Ko Phi Phi Don and add a light layer if any part of the 5-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Highlights of Phi Phi Islands start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Ko Phi Phi Don within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Ko Phi Phi Don?
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On Outty we rank every Ko Phi Phi Don experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Day Trip to James Bond (Canoeing & Kayaking Islands & Lunch), From Phi Phi: Sunrise & Beat The Crowds to Maya Bay by Speedboat, Best of Phi Phi Island Adventure Day Tour with Lunch from Phuket. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Ko Phi Phi Don?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Ko Phi Phi Don?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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Included: A bottle of drinking water; Basic English speaking boat driver; Snorkeling equipment (mask and snorkel); and Long-tail boat. Not included: Food (you can bring some snacks by yourself) & soft drinks; English speaking guide; and Admission fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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All participants need to come to the meeting point which is in front of the McDonalds at the Tonsai pier on Koh Phi Phi. We do NOT pick up from other beaches on Koh Phi Phi. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Highlights of Phi Phi Islands wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and As per a government decision, Maya Bay will be closed annually from 1 August to 30 Septemb. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Highlights of Phi Phi Islands if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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Across 88 reviews averaging 4.7 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, small groups, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
What booking options are available for Highlights of Phi Phi Islands?
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There are 2 options to choose from, including Private Tour With Ticket, Small Group Without Entry Fees. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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