Discover the Highlights of Phi Phi Islands: A Practical Review
If you’re short on time but eager to see some of Thailand’s most iconic island scenery, the Highlights of Phi Phi Islands tour might just be your best bet. For about $29 per person, this 5-hour excursion takes you from Krabi or Ao Nang to some of the most celebrated spots around Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh, including Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon. It’s a compact trip, but one packed with memorable views, swimming, and snorkeling opportunities.
What we love about this tour is the flexibility it offers — there’s no guide talking your ear off, just local boatmen who let you enjoy the scenery at your own pace. Plus, the price includes all the essentials like snorkel gear and drinking water, making it an affordable way to tick off multiple highlights in one go. On the downside, it’s not a guided tour, so if you’re hungry for detailed history or cultural insights, you might find it a bit light. But if you’re after beautiful landscapes and snorkeling rather than storytelling, this trip is well-suited for those wanting a relaxed, authentic experience of the islands.
This tour appeals especially to budget travelers, small groups, or even solo adventurers who want to explore without the noise and crowds of larger tours. It’s ideal for those seeking personal freedom — as some reviews mention, you might even find yourself with a private boat experience if luck is on your side. If your priority is stunning scenery, snorkeling, and value for money, then this tour fits the bill perfectly.
Key Points
- Affordable price with options for private experiences.
- No guide on board—a good thing if you prefer freedom or a quiet trip.
- Snorkeling and swimming are the main activities, with stops at famous sites like Maya Bay.
- Flexible itinerary that might vary depending on weather, crowd, or boat availability.
- Park fees not included — cash payment required for entrance.
- Suitable for small groups or solo travelers, with a maximum of 10 people per boat.
- Timing is tight — about 5 hours, so plan ahead for food and rest.
- Maya Bay closure during some periods (August-September) may affect your plans.
A Deep Dive into the Phi Phi Experience
When we think about visiting the Phi Phi Islands, what comes to mind are stunning limestone cliffs, clear turquoise waters, and the chance to see marine life in their natural environment. This tour hits many of those high points, but it’s important to note that it’s designed for quick, scenic, and snorkeling-focused visits rather than in-depth exploration.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Start Point and Meeting
The adventure begins in front of the McDonald’s near Tonsai Pier on Koh Phi Phi Don. From here, the boat is just a short hop to the first stop, Monkey Bay. It’s a lively start, as the Long-Tailed Macaques often come down to greet boats, providing excellent photo opportunities. But remember, monkeys are wild animals — no food, no petting, and keep your belongings secure.
Monkey Bay
This small bay is fringed by jungle and rocks, with crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling. Visitors often rave about the variety of colorful fish swimming around. Several reviews mention having the boat to themselves, making it feel more like a personalized trip. Some travelers, however, note that monkeys are unpredictable, so keeping your distance is wise.
Viking Cave
Next, the boat stops near the Viking Cave, famous for its prehistoric drawings that resemble Viking ships. The cave has historical intrigue, believed to be shelters for sea gypsies or pirates. It’s also the site where swiftlet bird nests are harvested, which is an interesting sight if you’re curious about local industries. The cave’s walls are inhabited by thousands of swiftlets, and harvesting their nests is a lucrative business.
Koh Phi Phi Leh and Pileh Lagoon
Many consider Pileh Lagoon to be one of the most breathtaking spots — a shallow, calm bay surrounded by towering rocks, with water so clear you can see the white sand beneath. It’s a perfect place for snorkeling and relaxing. Here, you’ll see fish and coral gardens that make snorkeling a delight.
Maya Bay
Arguably the most famous site, Maya Bay is where the movie The Beach was filmed. Its steep limestone cliffs and white sandy beach are something to see, but it’s vital to note that Maya Bay is often closed for environmental reasons, sometimes from August to September. When open, it’s often crowded, which some reviews mention as a downside, but the scenery remains impressive. If the bay is closed, the boat will just cruise by for a quick photo.
Loh Samah Bay
The last stop is Loh Samah Bay, on the opposite side of Maya Bay. Here, the water is shallow and perfect for more snorkeling, offering a chance to see tropical fish and marine life. Many travelers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere compared to Maya Bay’s busier vibe.
What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t
The price covers snorkeling gear, water, and the boat ride. It does not include food, so bringing snacks is a good idea. The National Park fee (around THB 400) is paid separately in cash, which some reviews find inconvenient but necessary for visiting the protected areas.
There’s no guide explaining the sites, just a local boat driver who keeps you moving between stops. This can be a plus or minus: some travelers enjoy the freedom to explore at their own pace, while others may miss the background stories.
The Experience in Practice
Many reviewers describe their trip as peaceful and relaxing, especially when they ended up being the only ones on the boat — a treat that some call a private tour. Others note that timing can vary, especially if Maya Bay is closed, but overall, the experience is smooth and well-organized.
For those who prefer small groups or solo trips, the maximum of 10 participants makes it feel more personal than large tours. The local boatmen are often praised for their friendly attitude and professionalism — even if they don’t speak much English.
Snorkeling and Marine Life
The snorkeling stops are the highlights for many. The water is described as crystal clear, with many reviews mentioning seeing colorful fish, baby sharks, and sea turtles. The coral gardens are well worth the effort, especially given how easy it is to float along in calm waters.
The Caveats
A key consideration is the timing and weather. Since the tour depends on sea conditions and crowd levels, some days may be more crowded or less ideal for snorkeling or photography. The Maya Bay closure is another factor to check before booking, as it can impact your plans.
The lack of a guide means you’ll need to do your own research or be content with just enjoying the scenery. For many, this is a positive feature, but it might not be ideal if you want in-depth information.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want a lot of scenery and snorkeling without the hefty price tag of private charters. It’s perfect for small groups or solo explorers who value freedom and flexibility over guided commentary. If you’re short on time, but still want to see the essential sights of Phi Phi, this trip hits the highlights efficiently.
It’s also a great choice for those who prefer a relaxed pace, with the option to spend more time swimming or relaxing at each stop. However, if you’re looking for a guided experience with detailed stories about each site, this tour might feel a little too barebones.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
For the price, this half-day Phi Phi Islands tour offers stunning views, excellent snorkeling, and the chance to tick off the best-known spots in a manageable timeframe. It’s especially suitable for adventurers on a budget, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a personalized, stress-free day on the water.
You’ll love the flexibility, the quality of snorkeling, and the spectacular scenery. Keep in mind the park fees and potential crowds at Maya Bay — these are minor hiccups in an otherwise well-regarded experience. For those wanting authentic, scenic, and affordable, this tour hits the mark.
Whether you’re after a quick island fix, a peaceful escape, or a chance to see marine life up close, this trip offers genuine value. Just remember to bring snacks, sun protection, and your sense of adventure — and you’ll be rewarded with some of the most beautiful spots Thailand has to offer.
FAQ
Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes long-tail boat transportation from the meeting point in front of McDonald’s near Tonsai Pier.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the meeting point in front of McDonald’s and ends back there too — so plan your arrival and departure accordingly.
What should I bring on the trip?
Bring snacks, sun protection, and your own snorkeling gear if preferred. You’ll receive masks and snorkels but may want your own for comfort or hygiene.
Are guides available on this tour?
No, the tour does not include a guide. It’s driven by a local boat operator who takes you from site to site.
How much does the park fee cost?
The National Park fee is THB 400 per person, payable in cash on the day of the tour.
Can I expect a private experience?
Depending on your luck, you might find yourself with only a small group or even solo, making it feel like a private tour.
What if Maya Bay is closed?
If Maya Bay is closed (often from August to September), the boat will skip it or just pass by for a quick photo, but you’ll still see other beautiful spots.
Is this tour suitable for families?
Most definitely, especially if your family enjoys snorkeling and scenic boat rides. Keep in mind the timing and the sea conditions when planning for young children.
In all, for a cost-effective, scenic, and relaxed way to experience the Phi Phi Islands, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck—especially if you’re happy to skip the guide and focus on the scenery and marine life.