 The
Phi Phi Islands consist of 2 small islands, south of
Phuket, famous for their fine sandy beaches and limestone
cliffs which soar out the sea to form spectacular scenery.
Add crystal clear water, no traffic and a tropical
laid back lifestyle, and it's easy to see why Phi Phi
is one of southern Thailand's most popular destinations.
Although easy access from Phuket attracts hundreds
of visitors daily, by 3pm it's quiet and absolutely
gorgeous. At least an overnight stay is recommended
to really enjoy the islands, especially in the early
morning and evening when the magic of the place really
comes alive. Snorkelling around the many coral reefs
or climbing to one of the karst limestone lookouts
is an brilliant experience.
Phi Phi Don Island
The larger of the two islands. Most
of the budget and standard accommodation is located
around the main ferry port of Tonsai - also the place
for nightlife with films and music at the local bars.
Other beaches on the island can be reached by local
longtail boat, and accommodation tends to be more upmarket
with better quality hotels in the more secluded areas.
Diving at Laem Thong is excellent, and at Hua Rah Ket
to the extreme south. Local dive companies offer diving
and snorkelling trips with equipment for hire and breakfast
with the sharks is fast becoming a popular activity.
Phi Phi Ley Island
Consists of 90
% limestone cliffs dotted with caves and passages, surrounding
shallow blue-green
lagoons full of multi-coloured fish and shallow coral
gardens - ideal for snorkelling. Located south of Phi
Phi Don and uninhabited, the island also has 2 magnificent
beaches, Loh Samah and Maya Bay - used as a location
for the Hollywood film "The Beach."
Although it is not possible to stay on Phi Phi Ley which
has no accommodation, day tours leave every day from
Phi Phi Don offering snorkelling, kayaking, or diving
trips.
Neighboring Islands
Koh Yung Island
- (Mosquito Island) North of Phi Phi Don has some well
preserved offshore coral gardens.
Good for snorkelling. The island gets it's name from
the black clouds of mosquitoes at sunset.
Koh Phai Nok Island - (Bamboo Island) - A tiny island
700 metres surrounded by coral reef. Next to Koh Yoong.
Small beaches on the north and east side and coral gardens
off the south end.
Koh Pida Nai and Koh Pida Nok. Small islands visited
mainly by divers for their underwater scenery. Ko Pida
Nok is very good for both advanced and beginners with
both shallow and deep dive sites.
Weather
Phi Phi weather follows the same basic weather pattern
as Phuket.
October - March |
- Generally good weather, low rainfall and average
temperatures 30-32C(90F) |
April - May |
Very hot and humid. Temperatures reaching 38C(95F+) |
June - September |
Variable. Temperatures average 30C (90F) About
an 80% chance of rain in June and September, but
remember, it doesn't rain all the time! Also the
rain is warm and there are some excellent value hotel
rooms in this season. |
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