Oh Phi Phi Island… the party paradise of Thailand. Famously known for its epic booze cruises and pristine beaches, Phi Phi Island is a wild time! This is the ultimate backpackers guide to Phi Phi. Don’t let the word ‘island’ trick you… as this island can be far from just relaxation. It is a backpackers paradise and any young travellers dream. Think Spring Break on steroids and you have Phi Phi.
If you are looking for relaxation on Phi Phi, we recommend you come to visit with family, and or, splurge on one of the nicer resorts. There you can find time for a little extra relaxation!
HOW TO GET THERE
The only way to get onto phi phi is by ferry, either from Krabi, koh Lanta or Phuket. The journey its self does not take too long, however, your milage may vary depending on where you are leaving from.
Ultimate Backpackers Guide To Phi Phi
What To Do
Boat Tours
On every corner of the island you will find people offering boat tours. Some go to private islands, such as Bamboo Island, others will take you snorkelling. Whatever the adventure, you will be sure to find some sort of tour to take you! Our personal favourite was in fact Bamboo Island. Although a bit pricy to get to, this island is home to some of the clearest water and whitest sand we have seen. We were lucky enough to visit while George’s parents were in town.
Booze Cruise
The island has a variety of booze cruises to choose from. All are essentially the same and take you through to some of the most popular destinations. Monkey Island, Maya Bay, Caves, and Snorkelling… although I have no idea why they think promoting snorkelling whist drunk is a good idea, but hey I am guilty of doing it back in the day. The only one we have done and enjoyed was the booze cruise offered by Blanco Hostel. They have speed boats that get you there fast and offer all you can drink!
Long Beach
Our favourite beach in all of Phi Phi. On the island itself you will find the main beach to be a bit grim. Shallow, hot water with tons of algae. However, if you take a cheap boat taxi over to long beach you will not be disappointed! It has water clear as day, white sand, shade, and an amazing restaurant where you can grab a bite for lunch. Not to mention there is some great snorkelling right off the beach, so bring your gear!
Viewpoint
The Phi Phi viewpoint is another famous spot! Most popular during sunset, dozens of people flock to the top to catch the beautiful sun set over the mountains. The hike itself is not too strenuous and it is better to do in the late afternoon when temperatures have had a chance to cool.
Maya Bay
The movie The Beach was filmed here. It is honestly one of the most gorgeous destinations in Thailand. The rules on visitation vary from year to year, sometimes it is closed off due to the influx of tourism and the damage on the ecosystem. Now, if you visit the time you get on the beach itself is limited. So while it is a sight to see, it may not be worth the money for only a few hours on a beach!
Ultimate Backpackers Guide To Phi Phi
Where To Eat
P.P. Wang Ta Fu
If you know anything about me, (Hanna), you know I love sushi! I ate here practically every single day for lunch and they made some of the best sushi rolls I have had since traveling. I am pretty basic and love the salmon avocado rolls!
Ciao Bella
Yummiest bruschetta around! Located right on the beach front which makes for a great ambiance. Serves up all the classic Italian dishes and we really enjoy it! It was our favourite spot, so we were pleased to find that it was still there two years later.
Papaya Restaurant
We were sad we found this one on the last night there, however the food was pretty killer. The menu was massive and they actually had some Mexican food which I was thrilled about. We would definitely recommend grabbing dinner here!
Basil Bistro
Really tasty cafe that had a great curry deal! They also had a killer greek salad with feta cheese that hit the spot!
Cosmic
Popular amongst backpackers this joint is always packed. We remembered it being a bit better two years ago when we visited, but the food was still pretty decent! They are known for their Italian pastas and pizzas! Good lasagna too.
Patcharee French Bakery
This small bakery located near the peer has some of the best panini’s the island has to offer. Along with a great selection of french toast and Nutella, croissant’s and much more. If you walk past, stop by and try some of there baked goods! you will not regret it.
Ultimate backpackers Guide to Phi Phi
NIGHT LIFE
Boxing Bar
The boxing bar in Phi Phi is an iconic must stop on a night out. Essentially its a large bar with a giant boxing ring in the center. Tourists from the crowd can volunteer and fight among one another in three rounds. Sometimes they are easy little fights and other times you get to witness full brawls. Each person who participates gets a free bucket. Boxing is also open to both boys and girls. Fighting is not for us, but we did have a laugh watching for a little bit!
Slinkys
Slinkys is the crazy beach bar. Located right on the sand you can often times find fire dancers and a fire limbo out front. This bar has been there for years and it is fun to drink on the sand.
Kongsiam Live Music Bar
This live music bar has an intimate setting with a really fun vibe. The music is really great and they have good deals on drinks for happy hour! Be sure to arrive early since seating is limited.
Ultimate Backpackers Guide To Phi Phi
Where To Stay
Phi Phi Inn
This is the spot to go for any budget travellers who are a couple, or pair. Decent prices and great big rooms, we really enjoyed our stay. We also had a large balcony off our room where we could listen to music and play cards. Book your stay here.
Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel
We stayed here two years ago with Georges parents. Great hotel with big rooms and an awesome swimming pool. A bit more on the expensive side, this hotel offers a great buffet breakfast for guests as well. Book Here.
Blanco Hostel
Popular backpackers hostel that we stayed in back in the day. This is the party hostel so just be aware that there will be loud music blasting at all times. The vibe is fun though and you will be sure to make friends! Book Here.
O2 Hostel
This is a super cheap 14 bed dorm hostel, the air conditioning is strong and the location of the hostel is very central. If you’re looking for cheap and easy then this is a great place to stay. you can find it on agoda or google maps.
Over all we love Phi Phi, both of us have been here several times and it never disappoints. There is an abundance of amazing beaches, great food and entertainment. The atmosphere is on phi phi is electric which is why we find our selfs coming back over and over again.
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