Updated 18 October 2026 · Best Versions team · اقرأ بالعربية
From Phuket or from Krabi?
- From Krabi (Ao Nang): the closest; a speedboat takes about an hour. An excellent choice if you're staying in Krabi.
- From Phuket: a slightly longer ride, with a huge choice of tours that usually include hotel pick-up.
Types of tour
| Type | Pros | Watch out |
|---|---|---|
| Shared speedboat | Faster and cheaper, visiting several spots in a day | Sometimes crowded, and the sea can be tiring for anyone prone to seasickness |
| Private boat | You set the timings and avoid the crowds; excellent for families and honeymoons | Much more expensive |
| Large ferry | Steadier on the sea and cheaper | Slower, and only reaches the main island, not the tour of the bays |
| Sunset or early-morning tour | Fewer crowds and better light | Needs booking early |
Maya Bay: what you need to know
- Maya Bay closes every year to let the marine environment recover. In 2026 it was closed from 1 August to 30 September and reopened on 1 October. The dates can shift slightly each year.
- Swimming inside Maya Bay has been banned since it reopened; visits are on foot along the beach and the boardwalk. Swimming and snorkelling happen at other stops on the tour.
- The national park entrance fee is usually paid in cash and may be included in the tour price or separate, so ask when you book.
A day trip or an overnight stay?
A day trip is enough for most travellers. A night on Phi Phi Don suits those who want to see Pileh Lagoon and Maya Bay early in the morning before the boats arrive, but the main island is crowded and loud at night in some areas, so choose a hotel away from its centre.
What to bring
- Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.
- Seasickness tablets half an hour before boarding, if you're prone to it.
- A waterproof phone pouch, a small towel and modest swimwear if you prefer.
- Small cash for the park fee or drinks.
Book your tour
Compare Phi Phi tours from Phuket and Krabi with traveller reviews and cancellation policies: Phi Phi Islands tours on Klook. For a private boat for your family, ask our team for a quote on WhatsApp.
Still choosing where to stay? See the best hotels in Krabi and the best hotels in Phuket.
Book for your trip to the Phi Phi Islands:
Hotels: Agoda
Flights: Search flights · Activities: Klook · Tiqets
eSIM data: Airalo · Saily · Airport transfers: Welcome Pickups · Kiwitaxi
Partner links: booking, payment and cancellations are handled by the partner directly.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit the Phi Phi Islands?
November to April, when the sea is calmer. Maya Bay closes every year for about two months (1 August to 30 September in 2026).
Can you swim in Maya Bay?
No; swimming inside the bay has been banned since it reopened, and swimming and snorkelling happen at other stops on the tour.
Is it better to go from Phuket or Krabi?
Krabi is closer and quicker; Phuket has more tours. Choose based on where you're staying.
Is a Phi Phi tour suitable for children?
Yes, on a comfortable boat with life jackets; a private boat or the ferry is better for anyone prone to seasickness.
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Start planning my trip Ask an expert for a quotePrices and timings in this article are estimates and change with the season. Check the visa rules for your nationality with official sources before you travel.