Slogan

'''''The province of coal mines, Fossil shell beach, towering mountains, beautiful streams, an abundance of islands, palm plantations, sandy beaches, wonderful sea world, Emerald of Andaman, and heavenly Phi Phi Islands.'''''

Understand

'''Ko Phi Phi''' (????????????) is a small archipelago in Krabi Province.

The named islands are:

  • '''Ko Phi Phi Don''', the largest and only populated island.
  • '''Ko Phi Phi Leh''' (also known as Ko Phi Phi Lai), a smaller island to the south, popularised when parts of the movie "The Beach" were filmed there. Uninhabited apart from bird nest harvesters and a few Maya Bay wardens; expect plenty of tourists during daylight hours, especially in Maya Bay, the beach of the eponymous movie.
  • '''Ko Phai''' ('Bamboo Island'), a small low-lying islet to the north of Phi Phi Don with several good beaches.
  • '''Ko Yung''' (Yung Island) is north of Ko Phi Phi Don. The island has a stone beach in the east and small sandy beaches at the foot of the hills. It is teeming with various kinds of colourful coral reefs.
  • '''Bida Nok''' and '''Bida Nai''', two small adjacent limestone karsts to the south of Phi Phi Leh, with near-vertical cliff walls rising from the sea.
  • Although rapidly becoming less and less attractive due to the masses of tourists as well as the construction on the island, it's still a very beautiful place to visit, and is one of those places everybody should go at least once in their lifetime. Although the beaches are not the best in Thailand, the place has a good vibe and nightlife and there are 18 dive shops to choose from.

    Most of the (over)development of Phi Phi Don is situated in or around Tonsai village, which is on the low, sandy isthmus that joins the two hilly spurs that comprise the rest of the island. There are also other, quieter resorts on Long Beach, Laem Thong, and at other less accessible areas of the island.

    Ko Phi Phi was devastated by the Indian Ocean tsunami of December 2004, when nearly all of the island's infrastructure was wiped out. Redevelopment has, however, been swift, and services like electricity, water, Internet access and ATMs are up and running again, but waste handling has been slower to come back online.

    It should be noted that, while very laid back, many of the local islanders are Muslim. You will lose considerable respect if you walk around town in your skimpies (this applies to Buddhist areas of Thailand too!). While many tourists do in fact parade down Main Street in their Speedos or thong bikinis, to avoid offending your hosts, it's usually best just to throw on a pair of shorts or a sarong; similarly, topless on the beaches, while grudgingly tolerated by most locals, is also probably best avoided.

    Climate

    Weather in the region is tropical - there are only two seasons: the hot season from January to April, and the rainy season from May to December. Temperatures during the year average 25oC to 32oC (77oF to 89.6oF) and the yearly rainfall averages 2568.5mm. Unlike in say Europe, the rain in this region comes down heavily over short periods.

    History

    From archaeological discoveries, it is believed that the area was one of the oldest communities in Thailand dating back to the prehistoric period. It is believed that this province may have taken its name after the meaning of Krabi, which means sword. This may have stemmed from a legend that an ancient sword was unearthed prior to the city_fs founding.

    The name Phi Phi (pronounced _epee pee_f) originates from Malay, the original name for the islands were _ePulao Pi ah Pi. The name refers to the mangrove wood found there.

    Geography

    Ko Phi Phi is considered to be one of the most naturally beautiful islands in the world (in fact, there are six islands in Phi Phi). They lie 50km south-east of Phuket and are part of Had Nopparattara - Koh Phi Phi National Park which is home to an abundance of corals and amazing marine life. There are limestone mountains with cliffs, caves and long white sandy beaches. The national park covers a total area of 242,437 Rai.

    Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le are the largest and most well-known islands.

    Administration

    There are two villages on Koh Phi Phi under administration of Ao Nang sub-district, Muang district, Krabi Province.

    Boundary

    Koh Phi Phi comprises of 6 islands, 2 of them main ? Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. The islands are surrounded by the Andaman Sea.

    Getting there

    By air

    [http://www.destinationair.com Destination Air Shuttle] - direct seaplane transfers from/to Phuket International Airport and other popular Andaman coast destinations. They often run a low season promotion for transfer from Phi Phi to Phuket Airport for only 2000 baht (high season is 6000 baht), and land at Laem Thong near the northern tip of the island - transport to Tonsai, if required, is about 30 minutes by longtail boat. This is a fairly good deal considering the ferry (400 baht) plus taxi (700 baht) to Phuket's airport will run you around 1200 baht.

    '''Krabi International Airport (KBV)''' is about 10 km from the city limits, 15 km from the city centre, 40km from Ao Nang and 23km from Had Yao. Thai Airways operates daily direct flights to/from Bangkok, likewise Air Asia from Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. Bangkok Airway flies direct to/from Krabi and Ko Samui nearly every day of the week and to/from. Nok Air operates daily flights to Krabi from Bangkok (Don Muang). Destination Air Shuttle, Thailand's only Seaplane service also routinely flies in and out of Krabi (Lanta) from Phuket and to the numerous outer islands.

    For more information, contact:

  • Thai Airways International Public Company Limited: Tel. 1566, 0 2280 0060, 0 2628 2000, 0 2356 1111, 0 7570 1591 ? 93 or visit http://www.thaiairways.com.
  • Krabi International Airport, Tel. 0 7563 6541- 2
  • Air Asia Airlines: Tel. 0 2515 9999 or visit http://www.airasia.com.
  • Nok Air: Tel. 0 2627 2000 or 1318 or visit http://www.nokair.com,
  • Bangkok Airway 0 2655 5555, 0 2265 5678 http://www.bangkokair.com.
  • The international departure tax surcharge is 700 baht but is included in most tickets now; domestic departure tax is included in the price of the flight.

    National Car Rental and Budget Car Rental have a branch at the airport; motorcycle taxi rides are available outside the terminal.

    Krabi Limousine (tel. +66-75692073) has a desk inside the terminal and provides "limousine taxi" (using large air-conditioned sedans) transport to Krabi for 500 baht; Phuket for 2500 baht. Krabi.com offers taxi and minibus (minivans) for less however travellers have to make deposit payment of 200 baht online via credit card.

    An air-conditioned Airport Bus service started in 2007, fares are 90baht to Krabi. The bus service meets all incoming flights and serves most outgoing flights (note: it is not possible to catch the first 1-2-go plane in the morning with the new airport bus service) A songthaew to Krabi town is 40 baht from the road outside. Going to the airport they will drop you right at the departure terminal.

    By boat

    Ferries leave from Phuket and Krabi daily (from Krabi two ferries a day : 10 a.m and 03.00 p.m. and from Phuket several times a day during high season). Tickets are 350 baht to/from Phuket, Krabi (450 baht) or Ko Lanta (300 baht). They can be purchased at the dock or from tourist offices, most local guesthouses and hotels. From Krabi Town, the normal passenger ferry does not leave from the center of town anymore, but from a new passenger port (Klong Jilard Pier Tel. 0 7562 0052) about 3 km outside Krabi Town . Free taxi transfer to the pier should be included in the price of your ticket. Many times they'll take you to a travel agent near the Chao Fah Pier and sell you additional accommodations or services. Only ever buy the ticket you need. They add additional ferries during peak season.

    Not all ferries are of equal quality. You can often take your ticket from a travel agent and apply it to a nicer ferry. Talk to the locals and find out what is the best ferry to take. The ferries run by Chao Ko group, particularly the smallest "Pichamon IV" are often overcrowded and appear to be very poorly maintaned, which does not inspire confidence, particuarly in heavy seas. In April 2007, a ferry operated by Andaman Wave Master caught fire and sank, and all aboard were forced to jump into the sea. Fortunately, nearby vessels were quickly able to rescue all the passengers, and no casualties occurred. The ferries run by PP Family are larger and seem more suited to the task.

    Other tour vessels visit the island from several Phuket-based resorts, usually on day trips, the price for a speadboat from Rawai Beach was quoted at 15,000 baht return(or one way) for up to 6 people(Dec 6 2007). There are many speedboats operating directly from the beach but it may be best to book the day before as most seem to be on away on trips during the day. Speedboats can also be chartered from other nearby locations, but at a very high price (in July 2007, the starting price for a speedboat to Phi Phi Don from Ko Yao was quoted at 20,000 baht).

    Bus

    Buses from Bangkok's Southern Bus Terminal (tel. +66-24351199) to Krabi take about 12 hours and depart as follows:

  • VIP bus - 07:20 - 1,055 baht
  • First class bus - 19:00 - 680 baht
  • Second class bus - 07:30, 19:00, 19:30, 21:00 - 378 baht
  • Shuttle buses run between Krabi airport and Phuket airport several times a day. There are also regular buses that make the 2 hour run. There are buses to Krabi from every provincial town in the south.

    Car

    From Bangkok: #Proceed along Highway No. 4, passing Phetchaburi ? Prachuap Khiri Khan ? Chumphon ? Ranong ? Phang-nga, to Krabi. The total distance is 946 kilometers. #Travel along Highway No. 4 onto Highway No. 41 at Chumphon via Amphoe Lang Suan and Amphoe Chaiya, Surat Thani. Proceed towards Amphoe Wiang Sa, change to Highway No. 4035 for Amphoe Ao Luek, and switch back to Highway No. 4 again to Krabi. This route is 814 kilometers.

    From Phuket: Proceed along Highways No. 402 and No. 4. The total distance is 176 kilometers.

    Train

    The nearest train station to Krabi is in Trang province which is just south of Krabi.

    Getting around

    Phi Phi officially has no motorised transport, though there are a few motorcycles with truck sidecars, usually used for goods and construction material transport. Transport on land is by foot or bicycle, but in the populated areas of Tonsai, nowhere is more than about ten minutes' walk from anywhere else. Long-tail taxi-boats ply between all beaches; on Phi Phi Don, you can also walk to any beach. From Ton Sai to Long Beach, expect to pay 40 baht/person in the afternoon, at least 80 baht at night. To have a complete boat to yourself, expect to pay at least 100 baht.

    Wheelbarrows are used to transport goods, including your luggage if you like. Expect free "transport" from the pier to your room, but not necessarily in the opposite direction.

    Tourism

    Tourism on Ko Phi Phi, like the rest of Krabi province, has exploded only very recently. In the early 1990s only the most adventurous travelers visited the island, staying in only the most basic accommodation costing the likes of 50-100baht a night. Nowadays, however, the place has turned into one of the major destinations for visitors to Krabi. The development however, is still nothing on a par with the likes of Phuket or Ko Samui. Even _etil this day however, budget backpackers can still get a cheap room away from the beach, up the hill a bit (safe from any Tsunami too!). Then, for those with plenty of spare cash on their credit cards, they can enjoy all the comforts of a 5-star hotel. Ko Phi Phi has plenty of nightlife to drink and dance but if that isn_ft your cup-of-tea, then there are lots of really quiet places to chill out and take it easy.

    Culture

    Lifestyle

    Krabi is a melting pot of Buddhists, Thai-Chinese, Muslims and even sea gypsies. The majority of the population in the rural areas is Muslim. Krabi however, does not suffer from any religious tension and the folk live in peace and harmony. Outside of the provincial town, the rural folk speak with a thick Southern dialect which is difficult for even other Thais to understand.

    With this kind of mixture, Krabi is always celebrating something be it part of Thai Buddhist, Thai-Chinese or Thai-Islamic tradition. Visitors can also enjoy the annual boat-launching ceremonies of the sea gypsies and various long-tail boat races.

    Art

    Even though it is Malay in origin, the art of batik has embedded itself within the local culture. There are also a lot of Krabi handicrafts such as pineapple paper.

    Events and Festivals

    '''Krabi Boek Fa Andaman Festival (????????????????????????)''' This is annually held in November to inaugurate the province_fs tourist season. Water sports competitions, cultural shows, and good-natured fun are the schedule.

    '''Laanta Lanta Festival (??????????? ?????)''' The festival is usually held in March every year at the Old Community in Ko Lanta called Ban Sanga-Au, which has a very old history of more than 100 years. Ancient Chinese style houses can still be seen here. In this festival, tourists can see the traditional culture, previously unseen ceremonial demonstrations, Southern local performances, folk games, water sports competitions and enjoy the tastes from various kinds of food booths which are provided by prestigious hotels on the island.

    '''Sat Duean Sip Festival or Festival of the Tenth Lunar Month (??????????????????????)''' This is the southern traditional merit making occasion to honour one's ancestors. Food offerings such as Khanom La, Khanom Chohu, Khanom Phong, Khanom Ba, and Khanom Kong or Khai Pla, are made offer to Buddhist monks.

    '''Chak Phra Festival (????????????????)''' The original waterborne procession, where Buddha images are put on elaborately decorated pulpits on boats are pulled along on the river, has been replaced by a land procession. The festival was formerly accompanied with a performance of traditional boat songs. However, the traditional waterborne songs have since disappeared.

    '''Loi Ruea Chao Le Festival (???????????????????)''' This old ritualistic tradition takes place on Ko Lanta during the full moon of the sixth and eleventh month in the lunar calendar. This is a religious rite performed by the sea gypsies of Ko Lanta, as well as, from other neighbouring areas, who gather on the beach near Sala Dan Village. They dance their famous "rong ngeng" round the boats of misfortune to be set adrift. Ceremonies feature singing and dancing. This festival is expected to bring prosperity and happiness to the participants.

    See

    '''Viewpoint''' - walk up to the Viewpoint, 186 metres above sea level (a very steep walk of between 10-25 minutes, depending on fitness), to get a breathtaking view of the entire island - particularly at dawn or sunset (bring a flashlight). You will be surprised at how narrow the sand strip is between the two main parts of the island.

    '''Monkey Beach''' - accessible on foot or by renting a canoe, or be lazy and charter a longtail boat. Don't forget to take some bananas for the monkeys! Be careful as they can sometimes be aggressive.

    '''Fireshow''' - there are several highly skilled and entertaining fireshows held nightly in several venues on the island, including at Carlito's, Apache Bar, Hippies, Carpe Diem, and The Tia and Millie Sunflower Bar on Lohdalum.

    '''Tsunami Memorial Garden''' - by the Tia and Millie Sunflower Bar; a beautiful place for quiet contemplation and paying one's respects to the victims of the recent tragedy.

    '''Phi Phi Don''' This island is the largest of the 6 Phi Phi islands and consists of two main sections. It is on Ton Sai where the original inhabitants settled and is now the home of the main accommodation area. Phi Phi Don is quite stunning and has earned the title of one of the most fantastic islands in the world. Nowadays though, with development, the beaches have had to pay a cost and so they_fre not quite as spectacular as they were in the days of yesteryear. The landscape however, can never be ruined.

    '''Phi Phi Le''' The second largest of the Phi Phi Islands is extremely beautiful, and pristine, but authorities in charge do not allow visitors to stay overnight. Besides the beach, other attractions include the Phaya Naak Cave with its prehistoric paintings and edible-nest swiftlets.

    '''Yao Beach - Phi Phi Don''' Yao Beach, just south of Ton Sai, offers visitors some fantastic views, scenery and coral reefs for snorkeling and scuba diving. This small place is packed out however, with places to stay and so some people do complain that the vicinity has been rather over developed. You can get there either by walking from Ton Sai or taking a long-tail boat.

    '''Lanti Beach - Phi Phi Don''' Next door to Yao Beach, Lanti Beach is very similar in many regards with its great scenery and coral reefs. You can get there on foot.

    '''Hin Khao Beach - Phi Phi Don''' This beach is extremely quiet and can only be reached on foot.

    '''Ton Sai Bay - Phi Phi Don''' Ao Ton Sai is where most of the action is; be it restaurants, bars, hotels or guesthouses. Most tourists stay at Ton Sai Bay because of the convenience. Even though it isn_ft the most beautiful place on Phi Phi, it is still impressive.

    '''Laem Tong, Phi Phi Don''' Laem Thong, located at the very north of the island offers visitors and lovely quite beach with exhilarating scenery. Accommodation on Laem Thong is aimed at higher spending tourists.

    '''Yung Island''' This island just north of Phi Phi Don has a rocky beach and some coral.

    '''Pai Island''' Not far from Yung Island is Pai Island. On the northern and eastern sides of the island are sandy beaches.

    '''Other Attractions'''

    '''Ko Pida Nok''' Besides an abundance of pretty coral, this island is home to plentiful marine life including: leopard sharks, turtles and moray eels. This island is popular with divers.

    '''Ko Pida Nai''' Just up from Pida Nok is Pida Nai. Like its sister island, it is a good place for diving.

    '''Shark Point (Hin Bida)''' Shark Point is a marine sanctuary with a reef that comprises of three pinnacles. The largest of which actually breaks the surface appearing as a barren rock outcropping. The reef is home to a delightful abundance of tropical, colorful soft corals and vibrant sea fans that decorate the limestone pinnacles.

    '''Garang Heng''' Garang Heng is a small submerged reef just east of Phi Phi Le. It offers healthy reef with anemones, soft corals and even sharks.

    '''Maya Bay''' Maya Bay has arguably Phi Phi_fs most fantastic beach and was the location for the movie The Beach (Leonardo DiCaprio) in 1998. The bay also has superb marine life and is a favourite spot for experienced divers.

    '''Wang Long''' This site is well known for its underwater cave systems and is only recommended for experienced divers. The caves tunnel into the rock face in two places and open out into a larger cave where surfacing is possible.

    '''King Cruiser Wreck''' A popular and perhaps the best dive site off Ko Phi Phi is King Cruiser which claim remnants of a passenger ship which sunk in 1997 after it hit the Anemone reef. The Anemone reef is in itself a unique dive site with a massive limestone pinnacle which soars 30 meters from the seabed to just 4 meters beneath the surface. The site is well-known for its abundance of sea anemones that cling to every surface while attracting enormous schools of fish. Different types of fish to be seen include: tropicals, snappers, groupers and colorful clown fish, along with larger game-fish like tuna and barracuda as well as the occasional leopard shark.

    '''Hin Dot''' These submerged pinnacles, often called Chimney Rock, are located just to the south of Phi Phi Don. The formation drops to a depth of 30 meters and has several coral shelves for exploration upon your gradual ascent. Nurse sharks can occasionally be found here.

    '''Lohsamah Bay''' The bay is popular for night-time divers. It has a sandy bottom with oysters and clams and patches of brain coral for nocturnal reef critters to hide amongst.. There is a spectacular 15 meter deep canyon just wide enough for single file swimming on the eastern side.

    '''Hin Pae''' This is a relatively shallow dive site - 10 to 15 meters deep. Its shallow depth offers excellent snorkeling. Its soft and hard coral provide shelter for a rich variety of coral fish. Crabs, lobsters, angelfish, groupers, snappers and surgeonfish are also residents of this area.

    Do

  • '''Ko Phi Phi Leh''' - take a longtail boat and visit Maya Bay - the "secret beach" where the movie "The Beach" was filmed. Water directly around the island is sometimes disappointingly murky and not so good for diving. The beach on the other side of the island, across from where the boats land, is slightly nicer. It is highly recommended to arrive at Maya Bay before 8am, when the place can still be enjoyed in solitude. As from 9am hoards of speedboats with tourists on package tours arrive from Phuket. Another thing to think about when coming to Maya Bay is the time of year. During the high season (October - May) you will feel like you are at Disneyland, but during the off season and you shouldn't be surprised if you are one of only two or three small groups on the beach, or even alone. NOTE: Park Rangers have begun enforcement of a National Park entry fee of 200 baht/person, though if you are traveling in a tour group, they will typically include it in the price of your trip.
  • '''Snorkeling''' - there are two rocks within swimming distance of Long Beach known as 'Shark Point' where harmless blacktip reef sharks can be seen. [http://www.phi-phi-adventures.com/ The Adventure Club] dive shop runs 'Shark Watch' snorkeling trips to Shark Point that 'guarantee' a sighting of sharks. Many dive schools take snorkelers on their dive boats, but expect to see only a hint of the underwater marvel visible to scuba divers. The snorkeling off Bamboo and Mosqito Islands is quite good although the reefs are a long way below you at high tide. For an excellent chance to see sharks, visit [http://www.divethailand.com Paradise Diving] on Longbeach who will point you in the right direction of the Black Tip Reef Shark's habitat metres from the sandy shore. Paradise Diving is located on [http://www.paradiseresort.co.th The Paradise Resort] in the middle of Longbeach.
  • '''Scuba diving''' - Even though the island was struck badly by the Tsunami disaster in 2004, the area has recovered impressively and divers are coming back in flocks.
  • There are many dive shops, and some very good dive locations. Prices are regulated, so expect to pay the same everywhere. Shops on the island do a few different trips. The typical trip offered is a two tank local dive within the Phi Phi Marine park which will run about 2500 baht, 2000 baht if you bring your own gear. They also do 2 -3 tank trips to the King Cruiser wreck with your follow up dives at both Shark Point and Anemone Reef, this trip usually runs between 3200 -3900 depending on the number of dives you do. No diving trip to Phi Phi would be complete if you didn't head down to Hin Daeng. Hin Daeng has some of the stepest drops in Thailand (60m+) as well as being the place you are most likely to see Manta Rays and Whale Sharks. This trip usually runs around 4500 baht. The town centre is crammed with [http://www.krabidivers.com dive shops] and is fiercly competitive. For a more relaxed experience there are several dive shops also available on Longbeach. Check out [http://www.divethailand.com DiveThailand.com]for more information. (The original UK ran [http://www.longbeachdivers.com/ Long Beach Divers] are located on the beach opposite the main reef - Feel free to use our hammock!.) Koh Phi Phi Krabi Dive Sites:

  • *Anemone Reef
  • *Bida Islands
  • *Gareng Heng
  • *Koh Ha
  • *Shark Point-Hin Musang
  • *Shark Point-Hin Bida
  • *Southern Sites
  • '''Dive shops'''

  • *Adventure Club (??????????? ????) Tel: 08 1895 1334
  • *Barakuda Dive Center (????????? ???? ?????????) Tel: 0 7560 1006
  • *Harlequin Scuba (?????????? ?????) Tel: 0 7560 1074
  • *Hippo Divers (????? ??????????)
  • *Island Divers (????????? ?????????)
  • *P.P. Scuba (???? ?????) Tel: 0 7561 2665
  • *Phi Phi Scuba Diving (???? ????? ????????)
  • *Viking Divers (?????? ?????????) Tel: 08 1970 3644, 08 1895 8429
  • *Visa Diving Center (????? ???????? ?????????) Tel: 0 7560 1157
  • '''Rock Climbing''' - there are opportunities for rock climbing on Ko Phi Phi, and a few climbing shops to rent equipment, find a guide or take basic lessons. ([http://www.spidermonkeyclimbing.com/ Spider Monkey] can be recommended). [http://www.andamanadventures.com/ Andaman Adventures] offers climbing holidays that include Koh Phi Phi as one of the four destinations. While not as famous as Rai Leh beach, nor with as many routes, the climbing is on similar limestone cliffs, and similarly beautiful. The climbing here also tends to be less crowded than at Rai leh. There are about four walls that are used with some frequency.
  • '''Kayaking'''
  • Phi Phi with its dramatic scenery is an ideal location for kayaking. You can either go it alone or with an organized package. Kayaks can be hired either per hour or per day.

  • '''Cliff Jumping'''
  • Cliff jumping is fairly new to Tonsai Bay. There are cliffs from 6 to 16m that are ideal for cliff jumping due to the depth of water below. Organized tours can be found at Ton Sai.

  • '''Spa'''
  • Spas in Hotels/Resorts
  • *Spa at Zevola Resort & Spa
  • *Spa at Phi Phi Island Village, Beach Resort & Spa
  • *Spa at PP Princess Diving & Spa Resort
  • '''Bird Watching'''
  • The best time of the year for bird watching has to be from January to April. Many rare birds are to be seen there: Gurneys, Finfoots, Bigwinged Brown Kingfishers, Egrets, Bitterns, Herons and more.

  • '''Sailing & Cruising'''
  • Krabi has plenty of anchorages, usually deserted and all so beautiful. There are many charter sailing boats available and some even offer "join-in" day trips for two or more people.

  • '''Fishing'''
  • Wanna-be fishers can catch the likes of marlin, sailfish barracuda and tuna.

  • '''Shopping'''
  • Most stuff is brought in by boat, so most things are less original and more expensive than on the mainland. However, there are a few shops that manufacture their goods on the island. Prices for commodities vary widely between shops.

    D's Books, with two locations on Ko Phi Phi and many others throughout Southern Thailand, is a well respected book store.

    Most of the items sold here are either made by local fishermen or they are brought to the island from Phuket town. Rising commercialization and inflow of tourists throughout the year seems to be a big bonus for these locals. Prices told may exactly not be worth the item, but if you are a good talker, you can bargain for a good price.

  • *Chao Koh Minimart (??????? ?????????)
  • *Clothes Shops (???? ????)
  • *Daranee's Clothing/Gifts (?????? ????????/?????)
  • *J Long Clothes Shop (?? ??? ???? ????)
  • *Kach St supermarket (??? ????? ????????????????)
  • *Kloy Jai Clothes Shop & Amenities (?????? ???? ???? ????? ??????????)
  • *Krisna Wung Leather/Clothes Shop (????? ??? ???????/???? ????)
  • *Kunstone Silver & Jewelry* (??????? ???????? ????? ?????????)
  • *Lung Saew Supermarket (?????? ????????????????)
  • *Glass Blower (???? ?????????)
  • *Matika Clothing (?????? ????????)
  • *Minimart (?????????)
  • *Off-License Alcohol Store (???? ??????? ???????? ?????)
  • *P P Art Centre (???? ????? ????????)
  • *Pee Pee Don Chougit Supermarket (???? ??? ???????? ????????????????)
  • *Pimpisa Clothes (??????? ????)
  • *Pisit Clothing (????? ????)
  • *Sai Ngern Clothing (??????? ????????)
  • *The Beach Gifts (???? ??? ?????)
  • *The Lovely L Shop (???? ??????? ??? ????)
  • *Traisea General Store (????? ???????? ?????)
  • *Underwater Camera (Fuji Gifts/Clothing Shop) (???????????? ???????)
  • *YA Clothing (????? ????????)
  • '''Spa, Pharmacy, and Other Service'''

  • *Chao Koh Phi Phi Tour & Travel Internet
  • *Christmas Thai Massage
  • *Fatima Massage
  • *Kornpuch Massage
  • *Mayha Thai Massage
  • *Multiple Internet Cafes
  • *Numngern Thai Massage 125/24 Mu 2, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, E-mail: numngernkb@yahoo.com
  • *P P Pharmacy
  • *Paradise Thai Massage
  • *Phi Phi Andaman Massage
  • *Phi Phi Father/Internet/IDD Centre
  • *Phi Phi Garden Massage
  • *Phi Phi Tsunami Pharmacy
  • *Pom Massage
  • *Tonsai Thai Massage 8 Mu 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, Tel: 0 7563 1630 Mobile: 08 9587 1629, 08 1894 6511, E-mail: tonsaithaimassage@yahoo.com
  • Learn

    '''Rock Climbing'''

    Krabi with its specific landscape is ideal for learning rock climbing, there are lots of different courses for beginners ? advanced. The courses available range from just half a day to three whole days in length. All instructors are properly qualified and well-experienced. There are at least ten rock climbing schools in Railay and Ton Sai, and several more in Ko Phi Phi.

    In regards to advanced rock climbing - over the years, many Thai and foreign rock climbing experts have blazed routes up the many rock faces both on the mainland and Koh Phi Phi. There are now more than 600 routes.

    '''Diving'''

    With its crystal clear water, colourful coral and huge diversity of marine life, Krabi is a must-go for all those interested in diving. There are courses for anyone, regardless to whether they are near-on experts or complete beginners. PADI Open Water courses take around three to four days to complete and their instructors are a totally world-class standard.

    Eat

    In general, Southern Thai food is renowned for its spiciness. Much of the cuisine has its origins in Malay, Indonesian and Indian food. Favourite dishes from the south include Indian-style Muslim curry (massaman), rice noodles in fish curry sauce (Khanom Jeen) and chicken birayani.

    Food on Ko Phi Phi is extremely varied, given the diminutive size of the island, but is not as spectacular as it generally is in Thailand, because most ingredients have to be brought in by boat from the mainland. Nevertheless there are some restaurants that manage to serve surprisingly tasty food:

  • '''Cosmic''' - Italian restaurant that deserves the name - has two outlets on the island and serves very good pizza. Aside from the pizza, the Thai food at this restaurant is good and reasonably priced.
  • '''CALAMARO RESTO''' - The usual suspect are served in this simple yet quality restaurant. A wide selection of breakfast, fresh pasta, pizza, thai food, sandwiches and more is complemented by fruit shakes, liqueurs and evening cocktails. And the best "fried ice-cream". All food is clean, good, cheap as reasonably priced.
  • '''Hibachi''' - all you can eat Japanese-style buffet near Carlito's Bar. Excellent sushi selection for the price (200 baht). Two outlets very close together. The grilled selections and Thai food on their buffet is not very good.
  • '''Little Britain''' - If you are looking for a good traditional English breakfast with eggs, Heinz Baked Beans, sausage, bacon, potatoes, mushrooms and black pudding this is the place to go. English tea also comes with your breakfast.
  • '''Mr. Tee's''' - When you come off the ferry, veer slightly left and you find yourself on an alley covered by tarps, with small Thai restaurants. You'll notice a lot of locals eating in this alley. The first booth on your left is Mr. Tee's. They tend to be forgetful but the food is good, cheap, and spicy!
  • right|thumb|130px|Khun Nod's cat
  • '''Papaya''' - one of the first restaurants rebuilt after the tsunami. A small green 'shop' restaurant opposite the Reggae Bar and next door to Tiger Bar, run by the enthusiastic and friendly Mr Nod. Don't let the unprepossessing looks of the restaurant put you off - the food here is incredibly good and very good value. Serves authentic Thai food, hot and spicy as it should be, but the staff helpfully allow you to express the spiciness in percentile terms, with 100% being 'Thai spicy'. Among local expats living on the island, this place is known as the place to get good cheap Thai food. If you are looking for a personal sized portion with rice at a cheaper price ask for your food to be "On Rice". Help yourself to the drinks in the fridge (you will pay for them when getting the cheque) and check out the cat which lives in there.
  • '''Sports Bar''' - For some great English-style meat pies Sports Bar is the place to go. It is also the only place on the island where you can buy a Pint of Chang and get Pitchers of beer.
  • '''Tuk's BBQ''' - Located next to apache, its basically a street vendor, but it has the absolute best BBQ on the island, with most items costing 30 baht.
  • As for Ko Phi Phi, reasonable priced and tasty seafood is obviously what most tourists long for when visiting a coastal province like Krabi. In this connection, the wing shell (?????????) is Krabi_fs famous cuisine and is eaten with a spicy dip. In addition, stirred fried Spotted Babylon (???????), which is found in mangrove forests, with chilies and basil is also famous. This cuisine is common in Krabi_fs restaurants. Another great Krabi taste is, of course, seafood.

  • Chao Koh Restaurant/Bar & BBQ (??????? ???????????/???? ????? ?????????)
  • Chao Koh See View Restaurant (??????? ????? ???????????)
  • Cosmic Pizza House (?????? ?????? ??????) Central Tonsai (Pizza)
  • Dang Dang Thai Restaurant (?????? ??? ???????????)
  • Don Chugit Resort & Restaurant (??????????? ??????? ????? ???????????)
  • Garden Home Restaurant (?????????? ??? ???????????)
  • H.C. Andersen Restaurant (???.??. ??????????? ???????????) Central Tonsai (International food)
  • Hippies BBQ Restaurant (???????? ????????? ???????????)
  • Kaimuk Restaurant (?????? ???????????)
  • Madam Resto Restaurant (????? ?????? ???????????) Central Tonsai
  • Oasis Restaurant (??????? ???????????)
  • Panda Restaurant (?????? ???????????)*
  • Papaya Restaurant (??????? ???????????)
  • Pee Pee Bakery (?? ?? ???????????) Central Tonsai (Bekery)
  • Pum Restaurant (???????????????) Central Tonsia (Thai food)
  • Restaurant - Thai food (???????????-???????)
  • Roti /Pancake Stalls (???? ??????? ??????)
  • Sakana Japanese Restaurant (?????? ???????? ???????????)
  • Siam Garden Kitchen Restaurant (???? ?????????? ??????? ???????????)
  • Thai Restaurant (??? ???????????)
  • The Monsoon's Dream Restaurant (???? ???????? ???? ???????????)
  • Tonsai Seafood Restaurant (?????? ?????? ???????????) main street, Central Tonsai
  • Took BBQ & Minimart (???? ????????? ????? ?????????)
  • Top Ten Burger (???? ??? ??????????)
  • Wood House Drink & Food (???? ?????? ??????? ????? ????)
  • Drink

    Drinks prices are quite high (cocktails 180 baht). Many bars offer similar entertainment, cabarets and striking fire shows - performed by the same people, advertised by posters and flyers apparently drawn by the same person...

  • '''Apache Bar''' - a multi-story bar overlooking Ton Sai. And the home of the weekly transvestite shows. Was damaged in a fire in the early parts of 2007 but is now up and running again. Good place for dancing on Saturdays. Get a cheap "bucket" right next to the Apache Bar before entering.
  • '''Beach Bar''' - located right in the tsunami wastelands and a good choice for those looking to have a quiet drink.
  • '''Carlitos Bar''' - relaxed drinks on the beach served by amiable waitresses. During the winter months this place is full of Scandinavian party goers. Most of the service staff this time of year is over on extended holiday from Sweden so expect a lot of beautiful tanned blonds to be walking around.
  • '''Hippies Bar''' - nice but rowdy place at the beach with a lot of fire shows and full/half/quarter moon parties on a weekly basis.
  • '''JJ Pub/Cafe (???? ???/?????)''' (Quiet Jazz and blues bar)
  • '''JP Stairs Bar (???? ?????? ????)'''
  • '''Carpe Diem''' - Similar bar next to Hippies - best avoided as the staff have been known to steal from customers and beat them up when they raise a fuss. Local police don't seem to care.
  • '''Reggae Bar''' - popular place that organizes mock Muay Thai fights most nights. If you are there at the right time you can even join in with the Muay Thai fights. They invite tourist, usually drunk, to get into the ring geared up and to beat on each other for a few rounds for a couple of FREE buckets.
  • '''Rolling Stoned Bar''' - Great rock music with a live band during high season and at other times of the year. They also have four pool tables and is a one of the more popular bars on the island.
  • '''Sports Bar (??????? ????)'''
  • '''Sunset Bar (?????? ????)'''
  • '''Tia and Millie Sunflower Bar''' - on Lohdalum Bay, a nautically-themed beach bar with 'ark' and longtail-bar, pool table and laid-back beach seating. A great place to watch the often spectacular sunsets.
  • '''Tiger Bar''' - The local expat's hangout. Located next to Papaya Restaurant and Rolling Stoned Bar this small multi level bar is a favorite with the local dive community. The bar typically gives out FREE buckets from 12:00 - 12:15.
  • '''Woodys Bar''' is basically just a walk up liquor store, but they have a few tables out front. Its close to Apache. The staff are funny and the Beatles are always playing. Nice place to get a 180 baht bucket to walk around on the beach with.
  • '''Viewpoint Bar (???????? ????)'''
  • Sleep

    Accommodation is relatively expensive - doubles range from 400 baht up into the 1000s the closer you get to the beach front. If you are a budget traveler expect to work hard to find a decent price. If you get really desperate a couple of places rent out tents for about 200?300 baht - mind your valuables! One thing to note, prices are double during the high season which runs from October/November until May. Other time of year you can find relatively cheap accommodation in the 200 -300 range.

    To have the best choice for accommodation, arrive in Phi Phi just before the time of the full moon party, when most people will be on Ko Pha Ngan. Since a lot of people move from Pha Ngan to Phi Phi after the party, accommodation may be very hard to find on Phi Phi around this time. It is not uncommon to see people arrive on the morning ferry only to leave on the afternoon one because they have been unsuccessful in aquiring accommodation.

  • Phi Phi Don Chukit Resort. onsai Bay. Moo 7, Tonsai Koh Phi Phi Krabi Thailand. nfo@phiphidonchukit.com. ttp://www.phiphidonchukit.com. Located on the beach, in quiet landscaped surroundings but just a 4 minutes stroll from the ferry pier.

  • Holiday Inn Resort. Claims to be the most peaceful resort on the island. Expensive (by Thai standards)

  • Phi Phi Rimlay. Very nice air conditioned rooms near the beach for 800 baht.(25-28 januari 2009 = 1800 bath/night )

  • PP Island Resort. ttp://www.ppisland.com/. round 4,700 baht. A good place for honeymooners.

  • PP Viewpoint. ttp://www.phiphiviewpoint.com. Wide variety of rooms from bungalows with fans to air-con with minibar, all with awesome views of the bay. Pool, full service dining, two bars, kayak rentals, diving lessons and a private trail to the viewpoint. Poor food quality, check might be higher than offered in menu.

  • The Rock Backpacker. 075) 612402. ptherockbackpacker@hotmail.com. Clean and friendly place and excellent for meeting up with other travellers, with 150 baht dorm beds, 250 baht singles and a few 300 baht doubles (prices double up during high season).

  • View Garden Resort. Rooms with bathroom, double bed, and shared balcony for 300 baht.

    Ton Sai Village

  • [http://www.phitharompp.com Phitharom PP Resort (????????? ???? ???????)] Mu 7, Lo Dalam Bay, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, 28 rooms
  • [http://www.ppandamanlegacy.com/ PP Andaman Legacy ???? ?????????????? ???????)] 1/2 Moo 7 Phi Phi Island -Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi, rate: 2500-8500 Thai Baht
  • Andaman Beach Resort (???????? ??? ???????) 65 Mu 7, Tel: 075-621427,075601074Fax: 0 7560 1078 Mobile: 08 1895 7217, Email: rooms@andamanbeachresort.com, 62 rooms: 850-5,650 baht
  • '''Banyan Villa (?????? ??????)''' 129 Moo 7, 62 rooms: 1,700-3,300 baht
  • Bay View Resort (???? ??? ???????) 69 Mu 7, Tel:075-618196,075-601126, 70 rooms: 1,200-4,000 baht
  • [http://www.chaokohphiphilodge.com Chao Koh Phi Phi Lodge (??????? ?? ?? ?????)] 157 Mu 7, 47 rooms: 900-5,200 baht Tel:+662-6730966,+662-2119654, +662-6733322 Fax:+662-2119656
  • Garden Inn Bungalow (?????????? ????? ???????) 161 Mu 7, Tel: 0 7560 1071 Mobile: 08 9651 7194, E-mail: info@gardeninnbungalow.com, 9 rooms: 400-1,300 baht
  • [http://www.ppislandcabana.com Phi Phi Island Cabana (???? ????????? ???????)] 58 Mu 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi
  • Long Beach

  • Araya Buri Resort (????? ???? ???????) Tel: 0 7562 1223 Fax: 0 7561 8195, 38 rooms: 1,600-4,400 baht
  • Paradise Pearl Resort (???????? ?????? ???????) 138 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7562 2100 Fax: 0 7561 8050, 50 rooms: 400-900 baht
  • P P Long Beach (???? ??? ???) Tel: 0 7561 2217, 88 rooms: 400-800 baht
  • Phi Phi The Beach Resort (???? ???? ??? ???????) Tel: 08 6120 2112, 17 rooms: 1,500-3,200 baht
  • Ao Lo Ba Kao (????????????)

  • Phi Phi Island Village (?? ?? ????????? ??????) 49 Mu 8, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7562 8900, 0 7561 2915, Fax: 0 7562 8955, Phuket Office Tel: 0 7621 5014, 0 7622 2784, Bangkok Office Tel: 0 2541 5722 ? 4, Fax: 0 2541 5394, www.ppisland.com, 104 rooms: 3,900 ? 27,000 baht
  • Sea Gypsy Bay (Laem Thong)

  • '''Erawan Palms (??????? ?????)''' Tel: 0 7562 7500-23, 18 rooms: 2,100-3,500 baht
  • Holiday Inn Phi Phi Island (???????? ????? ???? ?????????) Tel: 0 7562 1334, 77 rooms: 2,500-4,000 baht
  • Holiday Inn Resort (???????? ????? ???????) 54 Mu 8, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7562 7300 ? 99, Fax: 0 7562 7397, www.holiday-inn.com, 77 rooms: 4,696 ? 10,593 baht.
  • P. P. Erawan Palm Resort (?? ?? ??????? ????? ???????) 45/9 Mu 9, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7562 7500 ? 23, Fax: 0 7562 7524, www.pperawanpalms.com, 20 rooms: 3,800 ? 8,000 baht.
  • Phi Phi Natural Resort (???? ???????? ???????) Tel: 0 7561 3010-1 Fax: 0 7561 3000, 70 rooms: 1,235-10,590 baht
  • Zeavola Resort (??????? ???????) 111 Mu 8 Tel: 0 7562 7000 Fax: 0 7562 7023, E-mail: reservation@zeavola.com
  • Ao Lo Da Lam (????????????)

  • [http://www.kinnareehouse.com Kinnaree House (????? ?????)] 125/84 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 08 1854 5187, 08 1899 1691, 0 7560 1139, Fax: 0 7560 1138, 20 rooms: 1,200 ? 2,400 baht.
  • Phi Phi View Point (?? ?? ??? ?????) 107 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel/Fax: 0 7562 2351, 0 7561 8111 ? 2, www.phiphiviewpoint.com, 50 rooms: 800 ? 5,400 baht.
  • [http://www.ppcasitaresort.com PP Casita Resort] 129 Moo 7 T.Aonang A.Muang Krabi 81000
  • Tara Inn (???? ?????) 121 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7561 2402, 12 rooms: 200 ? 1,800 baht.
  • Tropical Garden Bungalow (???????? ??????? ???????) 18/1 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 08 9729 1436, 08 1968 1436, Fax: 0 7560 1024, www.thailandphiphitravel.com, 28 rooms: 450 ? 1,600 baht.
  • [http://www.pppalmtreeresort.com PP Palm Tree], 129 Moo 7 T.Aonang A.Muang Krabi 81000
  • Hat Phak Nam (??????????)

  • Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort (?? ?? ??????? ??? ???????) Mu 8, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7566 0513 ? 4, 08 1083 0194, www.phiphirelaxbeach.com, 18 rooms: 1,400 ? 2,500 baht.
  • Hat Laem Hin (??????????)

  • Bay View Resort (??????? ???????) 69 Mu 7, Tambon Ao Nang, Tel: 0 7562 1223, 0 7561 8196, 0 7560 1127 ? 8, 08 1892 7510, Fax: 0 7561 8195, Phuket Office Tel: 0 7628 1362 ? 4, www.phiphibayview.com, 110 rooms: 1,600 ? 5,590 baht.
  • Bakhao Bay

  • Phi Phi Island Village (???? ????????? ??????) Tel: 0 7681 5014, 0 7622 2784 Fax: 0 7621 4918, 104 rooms: 3,720-12,000 baht
  • Phak Nam Bay

  • Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort (???? ??????? ??? ???????) Tel: 08 1083 0194, 16 rooms: 400-1,200 baht
  • Other

  • [http://www.ppcasita.com P.P Casita Resort (???? ?????? ???????)] 129 Mu 7, Ao Nang, Koh Phi Phi,
  • Nightlife

    Ton Sai Bay has a variety of nightlife; something for everyone_fs taste. Jazz, Blues and Classics can be found at the leading hotels. Or, if it_fs romance you are after, you and your loved one can relax in one of the outside hotel bars and sip a cocktail under the stars.

    If 5-star hotel service isn_ft within your budget, then never mind; there are some bars on Ton Sai set on the beach where you can order a beer and lay back in one of their hammocks or sit back on the beach and enjoy the company of friends. The Karma Bar is one of these popular _ehippy_f hang-outs. For those however, who love nothing more than a dance to compliment their drinks then they won_ft be disappointed. Phi Phi has a collection of bars where visitors can boogy away to the latest dance tunes while having the chance to savor a breath-taking variety of cocktails. Top bars in Phi Phi include the Reggae Bar and Tin-Tin Bar. The law-enforcers usually allow, if there is no trouble, bars to open until the last customers go home.

    Health and Medical Centers

    '''Medical Facilities'''

    Ko Phi Phi has a couple of pharmacies. For any bad illnesses, go back to Krabi Town or better still, Phuket.

    Retirement

    There are currently more than 1,000 foreigners living in Krabi, many of them retirees. Ko Phi Phi however, since it is very tourist-orientated is not a retiree_fs favorite destination.

    There are some other retirees though, who reside in extremely quiet locations well away from the tourist scene. Of course, the cost of living off the beaten track is far cheaper.

    In the author_fs opinion here, costs in Krabi have shot up over the past decade and it is now one of the land_fs more expensive retirement destinations (tourist areas).

    Media/Contact

    Nationwide television, cable TVs, local cable TV channels are available in Krabi province especially in tourist spots. International newspapers and magazines are available at some bookstores in downtown and tourist spots.

    Landline telephones, satellite phones, all mobile phone systems, high-speed internet (ADSL), post offices and parcel services are available in some parts of Ko Phi Phi.

    Local Tips

    The best time to visit Ko Phi Phi is between the months November to April when the area_fs climate is less hot than usual. During this period the island gets a lot of dry North Easterly winds, so giving dry blue skies and starry nights. Then, down on the beaches one can enjoy nice sea breezes. From May to October the area gets a lot of rainfall, more on average than the rest of the country. During this period the island gets a lot of moist South Westerly winds, so giving a mixture of dry days and wet ones. The sea stays at a warm 29 degrees Celsius all year round. Visitors however, coming in this period will find it cheaper.

    '''Do's'''

  • Do make sure that any boat you take has enough life-jackets for everyone on board.
  • Do bargain the price of the room in the low season.
  • Do bargain with vendors.
  • Do be careful of over-charging drivers.
  • Do carry around small change.
  • Do try the local seafood.
  • Do, if you hire a motorbike, make sure the owners have a trustworthy reputation.
  • Do, if you go canoeing in the mangroves, go with a friend.
  • Do make sure your scuba diving instructor is fully accredited.
  • '''Don_fts'''

  • Don_ft take any boat unless it has life jackets.
  • Don_ft go into the jungle alone.
  • Don_ft go to the beach at night either to walk or swim.
  • Don_ft get involved with any narcotics.
  • Don_ft, as a woman, go topless on the beach.
  • Don_ft, as a man, walk around shirtless, other than at the beach.
  • Don_ft drink the tap water.
  • Suggested Itinerary

    '''Phi Phi 3 Days / 2 Nights'''

  • Day 1 Leave for Phi Phi Don in the morning from either Phuket or Krabi. Enjoy the afternoon sunbathing and swimming on Tonsai Bay. In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner.
  • Day 2 Take a long-tail boat to Phi Phi Ley and go snorkeling. In the afternoon try some rock climbing and take long-tail boat ride around the island. In the evening have a cocktail and dance in one of the boats.
  • Day 3 In the morning, go kayaking before doing a bit more sunbathing. In the afternoon, take the boat back.
  • '''Tour & activity operators'''

  • Andaman Legacy Tours (???????? ??????? ?????)
  • Chao Koh Phi Phi Tours & Internet Branch 1 (??????? ???? ????? ????? ???????????? ??????1) Tel: 0 7561 1313
  • Chao Koh Travel Center (??????? ?????? ?????????) Tel: 0 7563 0290, 0 7563 0129
  • Harmony Tour 3 (????????? ?????3) Tel: 0 7561 2406
  • Infinity Tour (?????????? ?????) Tel: 0 7561 2548
  • K E Hang Out Climbing (?? ?? ????? ?????? ????????) Tel: 0 7979 2642
  • Krabi P.P. Don Tour (?????? ???? ??? ?????)*
  • PeePee Siam Travel & Tour (???? ???? ?????? ????? ?????)
  • Phi Phi Paragon Travel & Tour (???? ??????? ?????? ????? ?????)
  • Phi Phi Tour 1998 (???? ????? 1998)*
  • Siam UK Travel & Tours (???? ???? ?????? ????? ?????) Tel: 0 7561 2260*
  • Sun Smile Tours (??? ???? ?????)
  • Thai Travel Zone (??? ?????? ???)
  • Useful Contacts

    The area code for Ko Phi Phi is 075

  • Tourist Information Office 622163
  • Krabi International Airport 636541 - 2
  • Thai Airway (Krabi Offie) 701591 - 93
  • Tourist Police 637208
  • Customs Office: 611350
  • Post and Telegraph Office: 611050
  • Provincial Land Office: 620573
  • Provincial Forest Office: 611396
  • Fire Brigade: 611111
  • Immigration Office: 611097
  • Provincial Administration Centre: 611825
  • Provincial Police Station: 611222, 611177