Best Things to Do in Phi Phi Island in 2026-27: Complete Travel Guide

1. Hike to the Phi Phi Viewpoint

Few experiences capture the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands quite like the hike to the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint. The scenic trek offers sweeping panoramic views of turquoise bays, dramatic limestone cliffs, and the island’s twin coves. The trail is short yet moderately steep, making it an accessible adventure for most travellers looking to combine sightseeing and incredible photo opportunities in one memorable experience.

• Why It’s Worth It: One of the best photography spots in Thailand and a must-do for first-time visitors to Phi Phi.
• Best Time: Sunrise or early morning for cooler weather and fewer crowds.
• Cost: Around 30–50 THB entry fee.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate; steep stair climb in certain sections.
• Duration: 1–2 hours round trip.

TIP: If you are visiting between October and March (peak season) for sunset, the viewpoint gets packed. So, it is recommended to visit during sunrise for the best ocean views.

2. Go Island Hopping Around Phi Phi Islands 

The island is surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden tropical lagoons. A boat tour lets you explore some of the most breathtaking spots in the Andaman Sea in a single day. From snorkelling in vibrant coral reefs to relaxing on secluded beaches and visiting famous locations like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, island hopping offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

• Why It’s Worth It: The easiest way to experience multiple iconic Phi Phi attractions in a single day.
• Best Time: November to April for calmer seas and better visibility.
• Cost: Shared tours start from 500–1,200 THB per person; private longtail boats cost more.
• Difficulty Level: Easy; suitable for families and first-time travellers.

3. Snorkelling in Phi Phi Island’s Crystal-Clear Waters 

The waters around the Phi Phi islands rank among the top snorkelling spots in Thailand. The island is surrounded by vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish and limestone cliffs, which makes it feel peaceful, immersive and completely connected to nature.

• Why It’s Worth It: One of the most beginner-friendly underwater experiences in Thailand.
• Best Time: December to April for the clearest water visibility.
• Cost: Free at beaches like Long Beach; guided snorkelling tours start around 600–1,500 THB.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate, depending on currents.

4. Scuba Diving in Phi Phi Island 

Scuba diving around Phi Phi often includes encounters with reef sharks, vibrant coral gardens and dramatic underwater limestone formations and is one of the best things to do in Phi Phi. The island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs and colourful marine life, which makes diving experiences unforgettable for both beginners and certified divers. 

• Why It’s Worth It: Phi Phi offers some of the best diving conditions in Thailand for both beginners and experienced divers.
• Best Time: November to April during the dry season.
• Cost: Discover Scuba sessions start around 2,500–4,500 THB; certified dives cost more.
• Difficulty Level: Beginner-friendly with certified instructors available.

5. Kayaking to Hidden Lagoons and Coves 

Kayaking through its hidden coves and quiet lagoons is one of the most unforgettable things to do in the Phi Phi Islands. Paddling across the crystal-clear turquoise water presents you with a completely different perspective of the islands. As you glide along dramatic limestone cliffs, you can discover secluded spots like the tiny beaches, sea caves and peaceful inlets perfect for swimming or simply soaking in the scenery. 

• Why It’s Worth It: Perfect for couples and travellers looking for a quieter, more scenic island experience.
• Best Time: Early morning or sunset for calmer waters.
• Cost: Kayak rentals start from 150–300 THB per hour.
• Difficulty Level: Easy; suitable even for beginners.

TIP: Early morning or sunset kayaking trips are especially magical, with calm waters and stunning tropical views making the experience feel both adventurous and relaxing at the same time.

6. Rock Climbing the Limestone Cliffs 

Rock climbing along the island’s dramatic limestone cliffs rewards visitors with breathtaking ocean views. So, whether you wish to enjoy the sunrise or the sea breeze high above the Andaman coast, rock climbing in Phi Phi delivers the perfect mix of adrenaline, scenery, and tropical island charm.

• Why It’s Worth It: One of the best adventure activities in Phi Phi with rewarding coastal views.
• Best Time: The climbing is typically best between November and April when conditions are dry and grip on the limestone is optimal.
• Cost: Half-day guided climbing packages (including equipment and instruction) run from 1,500–2,500 THB. 
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to challenging, depending on route selection.

7. Hike to Long Beach 

A hike to Long Beach winds through tropical greenery and quiet coastal paths, offering stunning sea views along the way. Unlike the busier areas, this peaceful stretch feels far more relaxed and is perfect for swimming, snorkelling or simply enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere. 

• Why It’s Worth It: Ideal for travellers looking to escape the crowds near Tonsai.
• Best Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
• Cost: Free unless arriving by boat taxi.
• Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate with uneven paths in certain areas.

8. Join a Longtail Sunset Cruise 

One of the most unforgettable experiences in Phi Phi Islands is joining a traditional longtail sunset cruise. As the sky turns into shades of orange, pink, and purple, visitors can glide across crystal-clear waters surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves. Many cruises stop at snorkelling spots where you can swim alongside tropical fish before relaxing on deck. This peaceful atmosphere at sunset makes it one of the best things to do in Phi Phi Island.

• Why It’s Worth It: One of the most romantic experiences in Phi Phi Islands for couples and honeymooners.
• Best Time: Dry season evenings between November and April.
• Cost: Shared sunset cruises start around 700–1,500 THB per person.
• Difficulty Level: Easy and suitable for all travellers.

Nightlife on Phi Phi Islands is a mix of laid-back beach vibes and lively island energy. As the sun sets, Tonsai Village comes alive with beachfront bars, fire shows, live music, and buzzing night markets where travellers gather to enjoy cocktails, seafood, and the tropical atmosphere. For a more unique experience, many visitors book nighttime boat tours for bioluminescent plankton swimming or sunset cruises around the limestone cliffs. 

Best spots for Phi Phi Island nightlife:

• Slinky's Beach Bar: Famous for fire shows, beach parties, and cocktail buckets
• Ibiza Beach Club: Known for pool parties and beachfront DJ nights
• Hippie's Bar: Budget-friendly beach bar with a relaxed vibe
• Carlito's Bar: Popular for fire shows and dancing
• Reggae Bar: Unique Muay Thai boxing experience with tourist participation
• Apache Beach Bar: One of the liveliest late-night spots on Loh Dalum Bay
• Banana Rooftop Bar: Rooftop sunset views with a more laid-back atmosphere

Planning a trip to Phi Phi Island? You can check our fully customised Thailand Tour Packages for planning your island hopping tours and hotel bookings at the best prices.

When to visit: The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. These months offer calm seas, reliable boat tours, and excellent underwater visibility for snorkelling and diving.

How to Get to Phi Phi Island: Phuket is the most common starting point for travellers planning a visit to this part of Thailand. Check our detailed guide on how to get from Phuket to Phi Phi Island for a better understanding. 

Packing essentials: Reef-safe sunscreen, dry bag for boat trips, rash guard, waterproof phone case, and walking shoes for the viewpoint hike.

Whether you are chasing postcard-perfect beaches, thrilling boat adventures, vibrant nightlife, or peaceful island moments, the best things to do in the Phi Phi Islands feel unforgettable. The beauty of Phi Phi lies not just in its scenery, but also in its laid-back island energy that makes visitors want to stay longer than planned. So, if you are planning a trip to Thailand, Phi Phi Island deserves a top spot on your itinerary.