Tucked away in the Andaman Sea, Koh Phi Phi Don is one of Thailand’s most jaw-dropping islands, and it’s sizzling at 29C in April. Perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike, the weather is gloriously hot with clear skies and postcard-worthy sunsets.
Unlike its uninhabited sister, Phi Phi Leh, this island is buzzing with life, from cosy beach bars to bustling markets. It’s also where The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed, and yes, it’s just as dreamy in real life.
The island has bounced back since the 2004 tsunami, which devastated the area, with sustainable rebuilding and a growing ecotourism scene. Today, it stands proud as a must-visit for anyone chasing nature, nightlife and a bit of spiritual soul-searching.
A boat ride over from Phuket or Krabi, the journey is all part of the experience, with turquoise waters and towering limestone cliffs. Once you arrive, no cars, no roads, just palm-fringed paths and longtail boats bobbing in the bay.
Culture vultures can take a hike (literally) up to Phi Phi Viewpoint, where the island’s famous twin bays create one of the most iconic panoramic views in Thailand. Sunrise is particularly magical, and worth the early wake-up call.
History meets spirituality at Wat Koh Phi Phi, a small but serene Buddhist temple nestled in the hills. Visitors are welcome to explore, light incense, and soak in the peaceful vibes.
For those after a thrill, there’s cliff jumping, snorkelling, and diving with blacktip reef sharks around Shark Point. Or take a kayak around the coast for a slower-paced, scenic adventure.
Loh Dalum Bay is your go-to for nightlife; think neon buckets, fire shows, and barefoot dancing until dawn. But head to the other side of the island, and you’ll find quiet coves and rustic beach bungalows perfect for a digital detox.
The food is out of this world too, like the traditional spicy green curry, mango sticky rice and grilled seafood eaten right on the sand. And with local beers like Chang and Leo setting you back just £2, it’s easy on the wallet as well.
Nature lovers should make a beeline for Monkey Beach, where wild macaques lounge on the rocks and occasionally steal snacks. Or head to Ao Nui for some of the island’s best snorkelling in crystal-clear water.
It’s easy to fall into the island rhythm here: lazy mornings, sunny swims, sunset cocktails, and starlit strolls. Time slows down on Koh Phi Phi Don, and that’s exactly the point.
Despite its popularity, it still holds onto a certain raw, untouched beauty, all tangled jungle, white sand and impossibly blue sea. It’s the kind of place you dream about long after you’ve left.
Whether you’re backpacking on a budget or treating yourself to a luxe escape, Koh Phi Phi Don delivers in every sense. Just pack light, bring sun cream, and prepare to never want to leave.
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