[2026 Latest] 5 Must-Visit Phi Phi Island Tourist Spots! The Reality of Breathtaking Views and Hidden Beaches

Tonsai Pier

📍 Address: Moo 7, Phi Phi Island Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000 Thailand

This is the gateway to Phi Phi Island (Koh Phi Phi Don) and the main port where all boats from Phuket and Krabi arrive. As your boat approaches the pier, you’ll witness the dramatic change in the transparency of the Andaman Sea’s waters, instantly uplifting your spirits even before you set foot on land.

Upon arrival, a small island entry fee (for environmental conservation) of about 10 Baht is paid. Since there are no cars or motorbikes on the island, getting to your hotel is either by foot or by relying on the local ‘rickshaw brigade’ to carry your luggage – a unique sight. For those prone to seasickness, taking a ferry, which takes a little longer but is less affected by waves, is more comfortable and recommended than a speedboat.

The area around the pier is bustling with 7-Eleven stores, ATMs, cafes, massage shops, and diving centers, attracting numerous tourists during the day. At night, it transforms into a vibrant night market, with activity continuing non-stop from morning till evening. Start your Phi Phi adventure here and soak in the island’s unique energy.

Maya Bay

📍 Address: เกาะพีพีเล, Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000 Thailand

This is the undisputed highlight of Koh Phi Phi Leh, famous worldwide as the filming location for the Leonardo DiCaprio movie ‘The Beach.’ Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, the emerald-green sea is truly the last paradise on Earth. It was completely closed for several years for environmental protection, but the ecosystem has now made a miraculous recovery.

Since its reopening, access to the sea is strictly limited to ‘knee-deep’ to protect the coral reefs, and swimming is subject to fines. Furthermore, boats are prohibited from anchoring directly in the bay; visitors now access it by walking along a wooden boardwalk from the back of the island. Thanks to these measures, visibility has dramatically improved, so much so that you can see blacktip reef sharks swimming in the shallow waters with the naked eye.

The best time to visit, when the sea appears most beautiful, is ‘around noon on a clear day,’ when the sun is directly overhead. Mornings and evenings tend to be shaded or backlit, so even though it might be crowded with day-trippers from Phuket, visiting just before midday is the secret to capturing the most vivid blue sea in your photos.

Phi Phi Viewpoint 1

📍 Address: 163 Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi 81000 Thailand

This is the first gateway to a stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of Koh Phi Phi Don. From the Tonsai Pier area, follow the ‘Viewpoint’ signs, and you’ll gradually encounter a steep flight of stairs. Since you’ll be passing through private land, there’s an entrance fee of about 50 Baht; make sure to keep this ticket safe as you might be asked to show it at the upper viewpoints.

The stairs are quite steep, so it might feel a bit challenging for those not accustomed to exercise. Take your time, climb at your own pace, and let the many friendly cats you meet along the way soothe you. Be extra careful when descending after drinking or on rainy days, as it can be slippery.

While ‘Viewpoint 1’ has some trees and buildings in the foreground that might slightly obstruct the view of the pier area, you can still enjoy a sufficiently beautiful landscape here. After catching your breath, definitely aim for the higher viewpoints!

Phi Phi Viewpoint 3

📍 Address: 125/39 Moo 7 Phi Phi Island, ตำบล อ่าวนาง Meaung, กระบี่ 81210 Thailand

Located a further 10-15 minute climb along an unpaved path through the jungle from Viewpoint 2, this is the highest scenic point on the island. It’s a somewhat challenging hike, so comfortable shoes and insect repellent are essential, but the panoramic views awaiting you at the top will completely make up for the effort.

From here, you can clearly see Phi Phi Island’s distinctive ‘waist’ – the narrow landmass sandwiched between the emerald sea and white beaches on both sides (Tonsai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay). Many tourists are content with the lower viewpoints and turn back, making this a less crowded, tranquil spot to fully soak in the breathtaking scenery.

Since it’s on the opposite side of the sunrise, the best times to visit are during the day when the sea sparkles blue, or at sunset for dramatic views. There’s a shaded cafe at the summit where you can cool down your heated body with a cold mango smoothie or coconut juice, gazing at the magnificent panorama stretching out below – a truly blissful experience.

Lo Lana Bay

📍 Address: Andaman Sea, Tambon Ao Nang, Amphoe Mueang Krabi, Chang Wat Krabi, Thailand

This is a deep, hidden gem of a beach, perfect for travelers seeking tranquility and an escape from the crowds on Phi Phi Island. If you choose to go on foot from the Tonsai Pier area, it’s an adventurous route involving about a 45-minute walk through muddy jungle paths and steep slopes. With monkeys potentially overhead, it’s a wild journey that requires preparation for humidity and good stamina. Of course, you can also charter a longtail boat to access it by sea.

Unusually for Phi Phi Island, which is largely commercialized, this is a quiet place where you might find yourself completely alone. However, it also presents the ‘realities of environmental issues.’ Depending on ocean currents and the season (especially before high season), there can be a lot of washed-up plastic and other debris, and you might encounter locals burning trash in a corner of the beach.

During low tide (especially around 2 PM), the sea recedes considerably, requiring a walk of nearly 40 meters to reach swimming depth, so checking the tide chart is essential. While not ideal for snorkeling to see fish, the unique sand quality and the opportunity to have warm, clear seawater all to yourself are its greatest charms. It’s a place where you can confront the ‘real face of nature’ on Phi Phi Island, beyond just picturesque catalog photos.

Tips for Maximizing Your Phi Phi Island Trip

Phi Phi Island, though small, is a captivating destination packed with attractions. However, the strong sun and high humidity during the day can quickly drain your energy, so we recommend trekking to viewpoints in the early morning or late afternoon. Conversely, for spots like Maya Bay where you want to enjoy the ‘color of the sea,’ aim to visit around lunchtime when the sun is directly overhead to capture the best photos.

Also, since walking is the primary mode of transport on the island, in addition to flip-flops, it’s advisable to bring a pair of comfortable sneakers or water shoes. This will allow you to safely enjoy adventures on unpaved paths and coral-strewn beaches. While adhering to nature conservation rules (consideration for marine life and island entry etiquette), immerse yourself fully in the vibrant energy and breathtaking scenery of Phi Phi Island, a place where travelers from around the world fall in love.