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A Guide to the Phi Phi Islands

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The Beautiful Islands of Koh Phi Phi

While Phuket has more than its fair share of magnificent beaches and beautiful scenery, many people are naturally interested in the islands nearby. Boasting the same sparkling seas and white beaches, the islands of Phuket are usually less crowded than Phuket's main beach resorts. The most popular islands in Phuket are the Phi Phi Islands, largely due to their extraordinary beauty.

Map of Koh Phi Phi

Phi Phi officially has six different islands, although four of these are rocky outcrops that are only really of interest to diving enthusiasts. The two main islands are called Koh Phi Phi (pronounced pee-pee) Don and Koh Phi Phi Ley, and both islands are very different in character.

Koh Phi Phi Ley

The smaller of the two islands, Phi Phi Ley, boasts one of the most famous and photogenic stretches of sand in the world. It was here that the box-office blockbuster "The Beach", starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed. For once the Hollywood magic does not exaggerate - the scenery here is truly awe-inspiring, with stunning white sands and a turquoise sea. This is framed by a wide horseshoe of verdant limestone cliffs jutting vertically from the water. Of course, its popularity brings many tourists, but since there are no hotels or major amenities on the island, most stay for only a short time. It is a magical place to visit, but do not expect to have The Beach to yourself!

Koh Phi Phi Don

The larger of the two islands, Phi Phi Don, is not huge, but development in recent years means that it has all the amenities that you will need for a dream holiday. Phuketbooknow.com has excellent prices for several of the best hotels on the island, ranging from great budget options to the ultimate in five star luxurious hotels and villas. The wide range of shops, restaurants and bars on the island do not detract from the sheer wonder of the glorious scenery that surrounds you here.

Tonsai Village

Tonsai Village is where most visitors to Phi Phi Don arrive, and is the liveliest part of the island if you like to be at the heart of the action - many excellent restaurants and shops can be found here. Traffic is non-existent, thanks to the complete lack of roads on the island. Footpaths are everywhere, however, and you can always hire a bicycle or a long-tail boat to help you travel around. One of the most beautiful areas of the island is Loh Dalum - the white soft sands and the placid, near-transparent seas make it a true sun-lovers paradise. Tonsai East boasts a similarly idyllic beach with a view overlooking the famous Phi Phi Ley Island.

How to get there?

It's easy to visit the Phi Phi Islands on a day trip - if you are staying in Phuket but wish to pay the islands a visit you have a number of options. Your hotel will often agree to arrange a trip, but you may end up paying a little more than you need to. The real bargains can be found at the local travel agents - it is best to go to one or two different agencies to secure the best possible deal. The day-long speedboat trips to Phi Phi usually include a visit to some of Phuket's other islands in their package, as well as a transfer to and from your hotel. You can expect to pay around $60 per person.

Whether you choose to stay at a hotel on Phi Phi Don or simply visit for the day, you will not be disappointed by the amazing scenery and the charming local people. If you have been to the Phi Phi Islands and would like to share your story, please let us know about it on our Facebook page - we'd love to hear from you!

Find out more about Koh Phi Phi

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  • aesta1 Jun 29, 2011 @ 1:28 pm | delete
    Just had great memories of Phi-phi. I had my first snorkeling there.
  • Wedding_Mom Jun 17, 2011 @ 8:33 pm | delete
    Wow Gorgeous indeed! Definetly one of my must-see places before I die. Thanks so much for sharng this beautiful lens of yours.=)
  • Spook Jun 17, 2011 @ 3:37 am | delete
    Had a lovely stay at Phi Phi not so long ago and have even written about it here as well. I envy you living in Phuket and its surrounds, beautiful.
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Hi everyone, thank you for your visit. I am presently living in Phuket, Thailand. Phuket is a beautiful place to live and to explore. I'm working for... more »

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