Exclusive Small Group Phi Phi Islands Sunrise or Day Trip

Discover the Best of the Phi Phi Islands on a Small-Group Day Trip

If you’re visiting Phuket and want a taste of Thailand’s most iconic islands without the chaos of large tours, the Exclusive Small Group Phi Phi Islands Sunrise or Day Trip is a fantastic option. For around $110 per person, you get a 9-hour journey that whisks you from Phuket to some of the most stunning spots in the Andaman Sea — including Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Monkey Beach. With round-trip hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and a buffet lunch, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that balances adventure with comfort.

What we love most about this trip is its intimate small-group atmosphere, which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds — especially important at popular spots like Maya Bay. Also, the early morning sunrise option promises a serene, less crowded experience that many reviews praise as truly memorable. A potential consideration is the speedboat ride, which can be bumpy, especially if the sea is windy — so pack some seasickness remedies if you’re prone.

This tour is ideal for travelers short on time who want to see a variety of islands in one day, and for those who appreciate professional guides, good food, and the chance to snorkel in clear waters. If you value a small-group setting with attentive staff and are eager to explore the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands beyond the usual crowds, this trip is likely to delight.

Key Points

Small Group Comfort: The tour caps at 20 travelers, making it easier to enjoy a personalized experience.
Comprehensive Itinerary: Includes Maya Bay, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and a buffet lunch.
Snorkeling & Swimming: Plenty of time to enjoy the reefs and beaches.
Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the day seamless.
Value for Money: All major highlights, transport, food, and snorkeling gear included.
Potential Seasickness: The speedboat rides can be bumpy, especially in windy conditions.

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Detailed Review of the Phi Phi Islands Small Group Tour

Why Choose This Tour?

This trip from Phuket offers an excellent way to see the Phi Phi Islands in one day without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the highlights with a smaller crowd, thanks to its max group size of 20. The round-trip hotel pickup simplifies logistics, and the included snorkeling gear means you can dip into the vibrant underwater world without extra hassle.

What to Expect: An Itinerary Breakdown

Early Morning Pickup and Transfer

Most travelers start with an early hotel pickup, which ensures you beat some of the crowds and catch the spectacular sunrise. As one reviewer noted, “Sunny was our guide and he was SO AWESOME,” emphasizing the importance of a friendly, engaging guide to start the day on a positive note. The transfer by van to the marina takes about 20 minutes, giving you a quick scenic glimpse of Phuket’s coastline before heading out on the water.

Khai Island: White Sands and Relaxation

Your first stop is Khai Island, famous for its powdery white beaches and crystal-clear waters. Many reviews mention the beauty of this island, with some describing it as “a stunning spot to snorkel or lounge,” perfect for soaking up the sun and taking a dip.

Maya Bay: Iconic Filming Location

Next, you’ll cruise to Maya Bay, the world-famous beach featured in Leonardo DiCaprio’s “The Beach.” From reviews, we learn that the one-hour visit is a highlight, with travelers praising its breathtaking scenery. It’s worth noting that Maya Bay can be crowded later in the day, so visiting early or on the sunrise tour can make a significant difference.

Monkey Beach: Fun with Nature

A brief stop at Monkey Beach offers a chance to observe monkeys in their natural habitat. Reviewers comment on the monkeys jumping and swimming, describing it as a cute and lively experience. Just remember to keep your belongings secure!

Buffet Lunch at Phi Phi Don

Midday, everyone gathers at Phi Phi Don’s resort for a buffet lunch. Several travelers mention the delicious food and the convenience of having a comprehensive meal included. Dishes likely feature local Thai flavors, and vegetarian options are available if requested.

Viking Cave & Bamboo Island: Scenic and Snorkeling Adventures

After lunch, you’ll visit Viking Cave, known for its swallow bird nests and ancient paintings. Reviewers appreciate the quick stop, noting that it provides an interesting glimpse into local bird-nesting traditions.

Next, Bamboo Island offers ample time for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. Travelers like Kelly F commented, “Fabulous trip that gets you to some amazing sights before they get busy,” which highlights the value of visiting early or off-peak.

Snorkeling and Water Activities

The waters around Bamboo Island and Maya Bay are praised for their vivid marine life. Many reviewers raved about snorkeling, with one calling it “great reefs with lots of fish,” and others describing snorkeling as amazing. The snorkel gear provided makes it easy to hop in and explore.

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Crew and Guide Quality

From comments like “The crew was very kind and helpful,” and “Sunny was so awesome,” it’s clear that the staff plays a big role in making this trip memorable. Guides are often described as professional, friendly, and attentive, ensuring safety and comfort at every stop.

The Return Journey

In the late afternoon, the tour returns to Phuket via speedboat and van. Some reviews pointed out that the speedboat ride can be bumpy in windy conditions, so bringing seasickness remedies might be wise. However, most travelers agree that the overall experience outweighs the minor discomforts.

Is It Worth the Price?

Considering everything included—transportation, snorkeling gear, lunch, and expert guides—the price of about $110 is quite reasonable. Reviewers consistently mention that the value for money is high, especially given the small group size and the chance to visit several islands in one day, which would be challenging to do independently.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurers who love snorkeling and island scenery, as well as travelers seeking a more intimate experience with fewer travelers. It’s also ideal for families with children over 3 years old and those who appreciate well-organized logistics and friendly guide service. If you’re after the best chances of avoiding crowds or want to see Maya Bay in the early morning light, the sunrise option is particularly appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour offers convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Phuket, making the day seamless from start to finish.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring your swimsuit, light clothing, beach shoes, sunscreen, camera, sunglasses, and a towel. Snorkel gear is provided, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

How long is the speedboat ride?
The boat rides between islands take roughly an hour each way, which some reviewers found a bit bumpy, especially in windy weather.

Is there food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch is included at Phi Phi Don, with continuous water and snacks offered throughout the day. Vegetarian options are available if advised when booking.

What stops are included?
Stops include Khai Island, Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, Bamboo Island, and a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don.

Can I snorkel at the islands?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight the excellent snorkeling opportunities, with vibrant reefs and many fish species.

What is the group size?
Maximum 20 travelers, which keeps the experience intimate and allows more personalized attention from guides.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 and above can participate. The tour is generally family-friendly, but parents should consider seasickness potential on the speedboat.

Final Thoughts

The Small Group Phi Phi Islands Day Trip offers a well-balanced mix of sightseeing, aquatic adventure, and cultural interest, all wrapped in a comfortable, intimate setting. It’s particularly good for those who want to avoid the crowds of larger tours, enjoy professional guidance, and explore the most iconic spots in the Phi Phi archipelago.

Travelers will love the beautiful beaches, excellent snorkeling, and delicious Thai buffet. The guide’s helpfulness and the small group size make this trip stand out as a relaxing yet adventurous way to spend a day in Thailand’s stunning waters. The main caveat is the speedboat ride, which can be bumpy, so packing seasickness remedies and being prepared for some motion is wise. Overall, if you’re after a value-packed, authentic experience with a smaller crowd, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family craving a memorable day in paradise, this trip offers an authentic slice of Thailand’s island life, with just the right touch of comfort and adventure.