The islands of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Lek offer visitors wonderful opportunities for climbing, caving, kayaking and scuba diving in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
Overview
The two islands of Koh Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh are undoubtedly among Thailand's most beautiful and enchanting destinations. Although the islands ever-increasing popularity with tourists and the inevitable development that has followed now means that Phi Phi has lost most of its former tranquility, visitors can not fail to be impressed by the areas natural beauty and crystal clear waters. Set at the heart of a national park, the islands remain one of the country's most popular holiday destinations.
The larger of the two islands, Phi Phi Don consists of two massive limestone outcrops bridged by a strip of white sand and with beaches on both sides. The southern beach of Ao Ton Sai is the most developed and its beautifully calm bay is a popular spot for boats to drop anchor.
Attractions
The islands may not be as peaceful as they once were but excellent resort-style accommodation and top quality restaurants are now easy to find. The pretty northern beach of Ao Lo Dalam is less developed, has fewer bungalows than Ao Ton Sai and a more laid-back feel to it. The eastern side of the island, known as Koh Nai, also has several lovely beaches while to the north Laem Thong is home to a community of chao leh or sea gypsies, most of whom now make a living by supplying fish to local restaurants and ferrying visitors backwards and forwards in their boats. Koh Nai's beaches include Ao Lo Bakao, Hat Yao and Hat Lanti, the latter of which is particularly popular with surfers. The western portion of Phi Phi Don, Koh Nawk, is mostly uninhabited and has so far escaped development.
Activities
Phi Phi Leh lies 6 km south of Phi Phi Don and comprises mainly of limestone cliffs surrounding a beautiful lagoon. The islands Viking Cave is known for its prehistoric wall-paintings and as a place where daring men can be seen climbing flimsy bamboo scaffold to collect swallows nests from the cavern walls for birds nest soup.
Phi Phi Don offers a wide range of interesting activities including climbing, caving, diving, snorkeling. Fishing trips can also be arranged from Ton Sai and sea kayaks are available on Ao Lo Dalam. For the more adventurous, the island's cliffs offer climbers over 100 challenging routes.
Times to visit
The best time to visit Phi Phi Island is during the cool season, from November until February. However, as everybody has the same idea it can get very busy. If you can stand the heat try visiting between April and August as there will be fewer people. The rainy season is no the best time to visit as there are frequent storms and the water is not as clear. Be aware that some resorts do close during the low season so it is always worth checking in advance.
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