The best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi are Tonsai Bay, Long Beach, Laem Tong Beach, Loh Bagao Bay, and Ao Lo Dalam.
This might be an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Koh Phi Phi.
But don’t worry, as in this article, we cover what we believe are the best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi, no matter the type of traveler you are.
If you want to go straight to the recommendations, simply tap on the following button.
Or just continue reading if you want to know just a bit more about Koh Phi Phi.
Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea lies an idyllic paradise that has captured the hearts of travelers from around the world: Koh Phi Phi.
This small archipelago, located off the coast of Thailand, boasts stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, and towering limestone cliffs that create a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, beach parties, or a bit of all, Koh Phi Phi has something for everyone.
So, in this article, we’ve come up with the best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi so that you can make the most of your somewhat limited time.
Each of the recommended areas comes with its own advantages and disadvantages, which we all discuss per paragraph.
At the bottom of this article, you can find a map with all the recommended areas including the island’s highlights.
With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.
Overview of the best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi
Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.
You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.
| Best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi | What’s so special about the area? |
|---|---|
| 1. Thonsai Bay |
Main area on Koh Phi Phi and is the center of the island’s activity. It has a lot of shops, restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s also a popular spot for backpackers, as it has a range of budget-friendly accommodations. |
| 2. Long Beach |
Quieter area than Tonsai Bay and is perfect for those looking for a more laid-back and relaxing atmosphere. There are several resorts here that offer great views of the sea and the surrounding islands. |
|
Northern end of Koh Phi Phi, this area is relatively secluded and tranquil. It’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. |
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| 4. Loh Bagao Bay |
Another secluded area that’s perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle. There are a few upscale resorts here that offer luxurious accommodations and great views of the sea. |
| 5. Ao Lo Dalam | Located just a short walk from Tonsai Bay and is known for its beautiful beach and lively nightlife scene. It’s a great place to stay if you want to be close to the action and enjoy a beach party. |
How to get around in Koh Phi Phi?
Koh Phi Phi is a small island in Thailand, and most of the transportation options are limited to walking, biking, or taking a boat.
The best way to explore the island is on foot, as most of the attractions are within walking distance of each other.
The streets can be narrow and crowded, so be aware of your surroundings.
Renting a bike is also a great option if you want to explore the island at your own pace.
You can rent a bike for around 150-200 Baht per day, and it’s a fun way to explore the island’s hidden gems.
There are tuk-tuks available, although you won’t use them much.
Many resorts and hotels are located on a hill, and getting your bags and suitcases there is a bit of a hassle.
Tuk-tuks come in handy but be aware that the prices can be negotiable.
Long-tail boats are a popular mode of transportation for island hopping and exploring the nearby beaches.
Speedboats are a faster and more expensive option for island hopping and exploring the nearby attractions.
Lastly, ferries are also available to take you to the nearby islands and mainland destinations.
You can purchase tickets at the pier or through travel agencies on the island.
What is the best time of the year to visit Koh Phi Phi?
The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi is typically during the dry season, which spans from November to April.
Within this period, the peak tourist season is from December to March.
Here’s a breakdown of the seasons:
Dry Season (November to April):
Peak Season (December to March): This is when the weather is most pleasant, with dry and sunny conditions. The sea is calm and suitable for activities like snorkeling and diving. However, this is also the busiest time, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
Shoulder Season (November and April): The shoulder months offer a good compromise between decent weather and fewer crowds. November may still see some occasional rain, and April is the beginning of the transition to the wet season.
Wet Season (May to October):
The wet season brings more rainfall and rough seas.
Some businesses may close during this time, and transportation options may be limited.
However, prices are much lower, and the islands are less crowded.
If you don’t mind occasional rain and are looking for a more budget-friendly trip, this could be an option.
The best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi are:
1. Tonsai Bay
Tonsai Bay is one of the main areas on Koh Phi Phi.
It’s centrally located, making it a convenient base for exploring the entire island.
It’s within walking distance of the main pier, making it easy to access when arriving on the island.
The bay itself serves as a transportation hub with boats arriving and departing regularly.
This makes it convenient for island hopping and accessing various attractions and activities.
One of the main reasons why so many people choose to stay close to Tonsai Bay is because of its vibrant nightlife.
The area comes alive after dark with numerous bars, restaurants, and beach parties.
If you enjoy socializing and experiencing the lively atmosphere of Phi Phi’s nightlife, Tonsai Bay is an excellent choice.
The area around Tonsai Bay also offers a variety of shops and dining options.
From street food stalls to upscale restaurants, you’ll find a diverse range of culinary choices.
There are also shops selling souvenirs, clothing, and other items.
Tonsai Bay itself is surrounded by stunning limestone cliffs and clear turquoise waters.
The scenery is picturesque, and you can enjoy beautiful views right from the shore.
It’s also a hub for water-based activities.
You can easily find operators offering snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and boat tours.
The bay itself is suitable for swimming, and the nearby islands offer fantastic snorkeling and diving opportunities.
Tonsai Bay offers all sorts of accommodation options, from budget hostels to upscale resorts.
Whether you’re a backpacker or a traveler looking for more luxurious amenities, Tonsai Bay has choices for different preferences and budgets.
Just keep in mind that it’s an incredibly touristy part of the island.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Phi Phi in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Long Beach
Long Beach is known for its calm and tranquil atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a more relaxed and laid-back experience.
It offers a peaceful environment away from the bustling crowds and nightlife of Tonsai Bay.
Long Beach has a stunning stretch of white sand and clear blue waters.
The beach is less crowded than those in Tonsai Bay, providing you with a more secluded and intimate setting to enjoy the sun, sea, and sand.
The beach offers picturesque views of the surrounding cliffs and lush greenery.
It’s a great spot for enjoying breathtaking sunsets and taking in the natural beauty of the island.
While Long Beach is quieter, it still provides access to various water activities.
Snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming are popular here, and you can explore the underwater marine life around the area.
Long Beach has a good variety of accommodation options, including resorts and bungalows, catering to different budgets.
Many of these accommodations offer beachfront views and a more private and intimate setting, but those are pricier than others.
While Long Beach is quieter than Tonsai Bay, it still has a selection of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, as it mainly caters to tourists
The atmosphere overall is more relaxed, providing a nice balance for those looking for both quietude and some dining options.
For nightlife, you can easily reach Tonsai Bay from Long Beach, though.
Hiking enthusiasts should consider staying here as well as the area provides several nature trails that bring you to scenic viewpoints.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Phi Phi in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Laem Tong Beach
Laem Tong Beach is relatively secluded and less crowded compared to Tonsai Bay.
If you’re looking for a peaceful and serene environment away from the hustle and bustle, this beach is an excellent choice.
The beach offers breathtaking views of the Andaman Sea and surrounding islands.
The landscape is characterized by crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green hills, providing a picturesque setting for relaxation.
Laem Tong Beach features a range of accommodation options, including upscale resorts and beachfront bungalows.
Many of these accommodations provide stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach, allowing you to enjoy a more private and intimate experience.
The quiet atmosphere, combined with the stunning natural surroundings, creates a perfect setting for a romantic retreat.
Because of that, we believe couples and even families would enjoy a stay at Laem Tong Beach the most.
Laem Tong Beach serves as a departure point for boat tours to Phi Phi Leh, the smaller and equally stunning sister island.
Here, you can find Maya Bach, famous for the movie “The Beach”.
The waters around Laem Tong Beach are known for their clarity, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.
The coral reefs are home to diverse marine life, providing snorkelers with a chance to explore the underwater world.
There are some bars located around this beach and a decent amount of restaurants, although nothing compared to the more touristy parts of the island.
If you’re looking for a more vibrant nightlife scene, then definitely pick another area.
Laem Tong Beach is an excellent choice for those who prioritize tranquility, natural beauty, and a more secluded beach experience.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Phi Phi in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Loh Bagao Bay
This is another secluded area that’s perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle.
There are a few upscale resorts here that offer luxurious accommodations and great views of the sea.
There are many similarities between Loh Bagao Bay and the previously recommended area, but Loh Bagao Bay is more secluded.
Because of that, you need to rent a motorbike in order to get around the island.
In return, you’re staying at probably the quietest areas of the island.
That also means there are fewer amenities.
Make sure to stay in a somewhat upscale hotel if you enjoy a bit of comfort.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Phi Phi in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Ao Lo Dalam
Ao Lo Dalam is the exact opposite of the previously recommended area as it’s famous for its lively nightlife scene.
The beachfront is lined with bars and clubs where travelers can enjoy music, dancing, and socializing well into the night.
If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, this area is a prime choice.
You can also find several beach parties in this part of the island.
To be clear, Ao Lo Dalam is located centrally and close to Tongsai Bay.
Because it’s centrally located, you have great access to the rest of the island.
If you’re not into nightlife, then go for one of the previously recommended areas.
But if you’re a party-goer, then definitely stay as close as possible to this part of Koh Phi Phi.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Phi Phi in this area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
Map of the best areas to stay in Koh Phi Phi
The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Koh Phi Phi including its highlights. The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.
A map will follow soon.
There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Koh Phi Phi.
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