The Phi Phi Islands

One of the most gorgeous tropical destinations, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley, form part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Ko Phi Phi National Park.

Phi Phi Don Island

The larger of the two islands offers a backdrop of sheer limestone cliffs and a stage of sandy beaches dotted all around the island. In the centre along a broad sweep known as Tonsai Bay, you'll find most of the accommodation. There are no roads on the island so to get around you simply take a long tail boat, or walk along the pathways which criss cross the island. Other accommodation can be found at other more secluded beaches around the island. Phi Phi has some great offshore reefs and snorkeling trips (especially "Breakfast with the Sharks" are very popular.

Phi Phi Ley Island

Unlike its larger sister, Phi Phi Ley is uninhabited and entirely composed of steep limestone cliffs, caves and small rocky coves.
There are several beautiful bays ideal for shallow snorkeling, and on the northeast side, the famous Viking Cave, contains prehistoric paintings. The island is also a popular site for nesting swifts, and local people come there daily to collect the nests used to make Bird's Nest Soup, a Chinese gourmet delicacy.

To the north of Phi Phi Don lies Koh Yoong Island featuring 2 small beaches and well preserved coral gardens offshore. Next to Koh Yoong Koh Pai Island has small swimming beaches on the north and east side, and coral gardens off the south end.

The Lanta Island Group

About 53 islands are included in this group, which form the southern most district of Krabi Province.

Koh Lanta Yai

The largest of the islands, it was formerly known as Pulao Satak, its name in the Malay language, which means Long Beach Island. The island is a favourite spot for those seeking peace and solitude, and is the home of the District and National Park offices. Mountainous and rugged in some spots, especially near the southern tip; with a combination of gravely and fine white sandy beaches, the island is also home to a clan of Chao Ley, or Sea Gypsies - an ethnic group who preserve many of their ancient customs and ceremonies. In recent years accommodation has increased in Lanta with a range from basic bungalows to upmarket resorts now available. You can get to Lanta on the regular ferry from Jao Fah Pier in Krabi Town.

Koh Taleng Beng

Lies in the Lanta district and is similar in shape to Phi Phi Ley. Swallows also nest at this island which at low tide has a small beach and tunnel.

Mu Koh Hah

Still in the Lanta area, this is a group of 5 islands featuring coral gardens and good diving spots.

Koh Ngai, Koh Rock Nai and Koh Rock Nok

South of Lanta Island, these 3 islands are close to Trang Province. Koh Ngai is easily accessed via ferry from Pak Meng Beach, others are accessed by hired boat and feature both beaches and coral gardens.