Koh Phi Phi Don is one of the most raved about islands in Thailand. Not only does it feature the most beautiful turquoise waters and gigantic limestone rocks that I have ever seen, the popularity for tourists makes it a great place to meet other travelers and get your party on along the many beach-front bars.
Only having visited the island for two days, Phi Phi was small enough for me to make the most out of this short excursion.
Below are my travel tips on things to do and where to stay in Koh Phi Phi Don:
Koh Phi Phi Ley
Join a Boat Party
My accommodation—Blanco Beach Bar (see post below), hosted a boat party packed with a full-itinerary of all the best water-related things to do in Phi Phi.
The tour included sailing around the waters on a Thai-style yacht, with a DJ who played a wide-range of music styles; visiting Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Koh Phi Phi Ley; making many stops to jump off the boat, snorkel, paddle board, and kayak; and ending with a buffet back at the hostel—all for around 1,200 Baht ($40 USD).
The staff of both Thai locals and foreigners partied with us, educated us about the different sites, and joined us as we swam with the tropical fish in the Straits of Malacca. The tour lasted for 6 hours and offered plenty of time for all the activities and stops included; and the people on the boat became your best friends by the end!
There are many tours you can take in Phi Phi via longtail boats, Tuk Tuks, etc.; but the activities included on this one is the best bang for your buck!
Hike Up to the Viewpoint
As I mentioned, the color of the water and the geography of this island are literally like nothing I have ever seen before—and there’s no better place to breathe this all in then at the highest point of the island.
There are two ways to get to the viewpoint: one by the concrete stairs made for tourists which can be found by following the signs located on the main walking street, and one through the steep hills of the jungle for the more-adventurous types.
The girls I was with and I (unknowingly) chose the hiking route, simply following the signs from our hostel. Though we were slightly out of breath once we got to the top, the rugged trail added to the adventurous side of this experience.
Going early enough in the morning is the best time to beat the heat and the crowds, and fully immerse in the panoramic view of the island. For only 30 Baht ($1 USD) to see the viewpoint, this hike is definitely worth the benefit.
See a Muay Thai Fight
Muay Thai fights are customary in Thailand, and you can find one in many of the touristy areas throughout the country—but you may not be able to find one quite like this…
Enjoy an evening at the Reggae Bar in Koh Phi Phi and you can not only see professionals duke it out in the ring, you can get in yourself!
Yes, believe it or not, this bar allows tourists to hop in the ring (providing padding and headgear), and box it out for a chance to win a medal and a free alcohol bucket. I was able to witness one of my hostel-mates get down in the ring after seeing an intense, real fight between two professional Muay Thai fighters.
This bar is a great place to start your night out, and make a group of friends to finish your night of fun in Phi Phi!
Blanco Beach Bar
The location and staff are what make Blanco Beach Bar my top recommendation for where to stay in Phi Phi.
Located literally right on the beach, you can wake up to the sound of the ocean and dance the night away to the music of the beach bars lined all along the water. The staff is super friendly, talkative, and consists of both Thai locals and foreigners. The outdoor bar transforms into a glow in the dark party at night; featuring beer pong tables, jump rope/limbo contests, and a dance floor nestled right between the sand and the ocean.
To the right of the hostel (at Stone’s Bar) you can catch an impressive fire show, and to the left of the hostel is another bar with music and activities.
The liveliness surrounding this accommodation makes it the perfect place to have fun without having to go far. The dorms and facilities are true to the backpacker style—outdoor showers, simple bunkbeds and mixed dormitories—but the price for this location and atmosphere make it a stay that you must experience (200 Baht/$7 USD).
