Written by Mathew Stirland
Posted, 4th February 2021
With it’s wild nightlife, epic sunsets and crystal clear waters it’s easy to see why Koh Phi Phi sits at the top of every travellers bucket-list. Made famous by the Leonardo himself in the movie ‘The Beach’, this tropical backpacker haven has heaps to offer.
Here’s 11 things to keep you busy during your time on Koh Phi Phi;
Party on the Beach 💃
Thailand’s party scene was made famous by the legendary ‘Full Moon Party’ back in the 80’s. It all started with a few backpackers inviting their buddies to party until the sun came up. Over time Thailand has become the beach party capital of the world. By night Koh Phi Phi is buzzing with bars and beach parties. Grab yourself a bucket and dance like nobody is watching!
Take a boat trip 🚤
You haven’t been to Phi Phi unless you’ve island hopped around the many hidden beaches only accessible by boat. This experience is up there with my favourite days on our Thailand tour…’boats & hoes’ 🤣
Learn to dive 🤿
Thailand is one of the cheapest and easiest places in the world to get your diving certification. It’s also one of the safest with many of the diving centres being PADI accredited and the waters around the islands being generally pretty calm. Diving on Phi Phi is a little more expensive than some of the other alternatives in Thailand but 100% worth the extra $$$
Tip: Be sure to check out Koh Bida Nok (Phi Phi’s premier dive site)
Snorkel with reef sharks 🦈
If diving isn’t your thing, don’t worry! Phi Phi has shallow waters in and around the bays with an abundance of tropical marine life. Be sure to find a good captain that speaks english to increase your chances of seeing black tip Reef sharks in the shallows. Last time we went I saw at least 10…was INSANE!
Chill with monkeys 🐵
Easily one of the most unique and intimate experiences in all of Thailand. Monkey beach is everything you read on the tin plus a little chaos if you push your luck. These hairy cheeky little trouble makers are smarter than you might think. But trust me when I say ‘it’s the cutest thing in the world seeing a baby one!’
Kayak at sunset 🛶
What better way to enjoy a bit of freedom than grabbing a kayak and going for a paddle. Loh Dalum Bay is the perfect place for it with it’s calm waters. If you are feeling strong than you could even try and get to Nui Beach (not recommended if the waters are choppy).
Trek to the viewpoint ⛰
When I say trek I use the term very loosely as it’s more of a walk that’s followed by some stairs. It is 100% doable with only a basic level of fitness so don’t talk yourself out of it. When you get to the top you are greeted by some pretty epic views!
Update your Instagram 📸
We all get that urge when we are on our travels to update our profile picture or make a cheeky IG story of our adventures so far. Well Tonsai Beach is the perfect place for updating that IG…the waters edge is littered with traditional long-tail boats with the colourful ribbons hanging from the nose. Grab your best bikini and get yourself down to Tonsai for a photoshoot!
Wander the yellow brick road 💸
If shopping and massages is more your thing than head to the yellow brick road that paves it’s way through the heart of the island. Starting from the pier it branches off in lots of directions but rest assured which ever way you go, you won’t be far from a local souvenir store or massage/beauty parlour.
Attend a fire show 🔥
There isn’t many countries in the world where you can get away with spinning fire around unregulated! Thailand luckily for us crazy travellers is one of those places. Head down to ‘Carlitos’ at 9pm, grab a seat and be amazed by the skills of these performers!
Watch some Muay Thai 🥊
There is no better evening entertainment than watching young and dumb backpackers trying their skills in the ancient combat of Muay Thai. The evenings action is reliant on the crowd picking up the gloves and taking to the ring. The winner takes all when it comes to pride, but both competitors walk away with a free cocktail bucket for taking part. While the drinks begin the flow and the confidence levels increase you’ll find real local fighters showing you their stuff before the main fight cards take place…
In summary…
In a nutshell Koh Phi Phi is packaged full of energy and things do. We would recommend 2-3 nights here minimum with you staying longer if you’re looking to get your PADI Certification.
Checkout our ‘Ultimate Backpackers Guide to Island Hopping in Thailand’ for more inspo
