Discovering Koh Phi Phi in 24 hours
The Islands of Koh Phi Phi, a group of six islands, gained fame in 2000 as the setting for the film “The Beach”. However, the 2004 tsunami left them devastated, and today, life has almost returned to a pre-Millennium state.
Visitors are essential to the islands, but this former paradise can no longer boast deserted beaches.
The two largest islands, Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, are the most popular, and a favorite among divers and snorkelers. Boat trips tour the islands daily, ranging from crowded motorboats to exclusive yachts for smaller groups and private tours.
Koh Phi Phi Leh has two beautiful beaches, with “Maya Bay” being the most popular, and the setting for the film “The Beach”. It’s a must-visit, but be prepared for crowds, as it’s far from empty.
Early morning is the best time to visit, when the beach is quiet, and you can take unspoiled photographs.
Koh Phi Phi is incredibly laid back, with no cars on the islands, just a few motorbikes, some with retro sidecars.
Nowhere is too far to walk or cycle, and most visitors hire bicycles and use water taxis to hop between the islands. Koh Phi Phi Don is the only populated island, with a small selection of resort-style hotels and shops.
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When visiting the villages, it’s respectful to cover up, as the main religion of the islands is Islam.
There are a few attractions for sightseers, including the shaded tsunami memorial gardens, and the viewpoint, which offers an extraordinary panoramic view of all of Koh Phi Phi.
Koh Phi Phi isn’t the easiest place to reach, with various bus/boat and train/bus/boat options available.
The quickest and easiest way is to fly to Phuket and take one of the high-speed boats, which take around half an hour from pier to beach.
Extending a trip from Bangkok is straightforward, with flights from Bangkok to Phuket taking under an hour, and multiple boats available.
In high season, there are 13 flights a day between Bangkok and Phuket with Bangkok Airways.