Phuket to Phi Phi — Key Facts 2026
Koh Phi Phi is the most visited island from Phuket — and for good reason. The twin-bay scenery and turquoise water are genuinely as spectacular as the photos. Getting there is straightforward once you know which pier to use and which departure time works for your day. After six years living in Phuket and dozens of trips to Phi Phi, here's exactly what you need to know.
Ferry Schedules — Rassada Pier to Phi Phi
Rassada Pier is in Phuket Town, approximately 4km south of the town centre. By Grab from common expat areas: Rawai (40–50 min, ฿150–200), Bang Tao (50–60 min, ฿200–280), Patong (35–45 min, ฿130–180), Kata (45–55 min, ฿160–220). Allow extra time for traffic.
🚢 Phuket → Phi Phi (Rassada Pier)
🚢 Phi Phi → Phuket (Return)
Ferry or Speedboat — Which Should You Choose?
| Option | Price | Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Ferry | ฿400–500 one way | 1.5–2 hr | Cheapest, stable in chop, island views | Fixed schedule, slower |
| Speedboat Tour | ฿1,800–2,800 return | 45–60 min | Includes snorkelling stops, Maya Bay | Expensive, crowded, rough ride |
| Private Speedboat | ฿15,000–22,000/boat | 45 min | Your schedule, all 4 Phi Phi sites | Very expensive unless group of 8+ |
| Overnight Package | ฿2,500–6,000 total | Stay 1–2 nights | See Maya Bay at sunrise, avoid crowds | Need more time |
If it's your first visit to Phi Phi, take the 8:30am scheduled ferry one way (฿400–500). You'll arrive around 10:30am, have most of the day on the island, and can take the 2:30–3pm ferry back. Or stay overnight and take the morning ferry back — this is significantly better as you get Maya Bay before the tour groups arrive and can hike to the viewpoint at sunset.
Koh Phi Phi Don — What to See and Do
Phi Phi Don is the main inhabited island. Phi Phi Leh (the smaller uninhabited island with Maya Bay) is a 15-minute long-tail ride from Tonsai Bay (฿600–800/boat).
Phi Phi Viewpoint — The twin-bay viewpoint is the most photographed spot in southern Thailand. 20-minute walk up from Tonsai Bay. Go at sunrise (5:30–6:30am) or just before sunset — at midday it's crowded and very hot. The climb is steep but accessible.
Maya Bay (Phi Phi Leh) — Reopened in 2022 after a 4-year closure for marine recovery. The beach and coral have improved significantly. Long-tail from Tonsai Bay or included in speedboat tours. Entry fee of ฿400 per person applies. Goes quickly from peaceful to crowded by 10am — arrive early.
Monkey Beach — Short long-tail trip from Tonsai Bay (฿400–600/boat). The macaques are entertaining but don't feed them or let them near your bags — they are persistent and will grab sunglasses, phones, and food.
Snorkelling — The water around Phi Phi Don and Leh is clear with decent coral. Hire snorkelling gear on the island (฿100–200) or bring your own from Phuket.
Where to Stay on Phi Phi Don
Phi Phi has a wide range of accommodation but book early November to March when the island is at capacity:
Tonsai Bay area — The main village with most restaurants, bars, and budget guesthouses. Loud at night (especially Tonsai nightlife strip). Good if you want to be in the middle of things.
Loh Dalum Bay — The other bay, quieter and more scenic. 10-minute walk through the village from the ferry pier. Phi Phi Palms Resort (฿2,500+) and similar mid-range options here.
Phi Phi Viewpoint Bungalows — Hillside bungalows with the best views on the island. Basic rooms from ฿1,800. Walk to both bays in 15 minutes. The least-known option and often has availability when beachfront is full.
Zeavola Resort (฿8,000+) — The luxury option on the quieter north end of the island. Genuinely peaceful and excellent if budget isn't the issue.