Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lipe? Wondering which island to choose for your trip to Thailand? Here’s a guide on the features and attractions of these two southern Thai islands to help you decide.

Visiting Koh Phi Phi: What to expect?

Koh Phi Phi is actually an archipelago of six islands in the Andaman Sea, on Thailand’s southwest coast between Phuket and Krabi. The two main islands are Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley, while the other four are uninhabited and consist mostly of rock formations.

Known for its paradise beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, and lush scenery, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s natural gems. Since *The Beach* with Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here in 1999, Maya Bay has become one of the world’s most famous beaches.

Things to do in Koh Phi Phi

Visit Maya Bay, the World’s most famous beach

Popularized by *The Beach*, Maya Bay is a must-see, accessible only by boat, on the uninhabited island of Phi Phi Ley. After a period of closure due to ecological damage, the beach reopened in 2022 with restrictions to protect its ecosystem, including a cap on daily visitors and a ban on swimming.

Relax on the beaches

Koh Phi Phi has plenty of beaches ideal for relaxing. Some are accessible only by boat or trail and offer a secluded escape, while others are lively and vibrant.

Top beaches include:

• Loh Ba Kao Bay
• Loh Moo Dee Beach
• Long Beach
• Wang Long Bay
• Loh Dalum Beach
• Monkey Bay (known for its monkey inhabitants)
• Nui Beach
• Phak Nam Bay
• Ao Toh Ko
• Ao Rantee

Snorkeling and diving

Koh Phi Phi Marine Park has some of Thailand’s best dive sites, with options for beginners and experienced divers. The sites are varied, with caves, coral-covered drop-offs, and canyons. Marine life includes leopard sharks, reef sharks, barracudas, tuna, parrotfish, and seahorses. Wreck dives include the Kledkaeo and King Cruiser.

Take in the views from Koh Phi Phi Don’s viewpoints

For a panoramic view of Koh Phi Phi, visit the Phi Phi Viewpoint. Accessible from Tonsai village, the viewpoint offers a breathtaking look over the island and the archipelago.

Island-Hopping tours

For a day of exploring the uninhabited islands, try an island-hopping excursion. Top islands include Bamboo Island (also known as Koh Pai), Koh Bida Nok & Koh Bida Nai, and Mosquito Island, which offer great snorkeling spots.

Outdoor adventures

For the adventurous, Koh Phi Phi has many activities, from climbing the limestone cliffs to kayaking around the main islands’ beaches.

Nightlife

Phi Phi Don has quieter spots, but it’s also famous for its nightlife. Every evening, Tonsai village and Loh Dalum Beach come alive with international DJs and fire shows.

Koh Phi Phi: ideal for which travelers?

Koh Phi Phi attracts travelers who enjoy a variety of activities. The main island, Phi Phi Don, is popular among divers, nature lovers, and party-goers alike. However, Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s busiest tourist spots, so it’s not ideal for those looking to get off the beaten path.

Visiting Koh Lipe: What to expect?

Koh Lipe, also in the Andaman Sea, is located further south near the Malaysian border. Known as the “Maldives of Thailand,” it’s a tiny island at only 2 km². Koh Lipe is the only inhabited island in the Adang Archipelago.

Things to do in Koh Lipe

Relax on the beaches

Koh Lipe’s postcard-perfect beaches make it ideal for relaxation. The three main beaches are:

• Pattaya Beach: Lively and well-equipped, where boats arrive. Nearby Sanom Beach offers a quieter option.
• Sunrise Beach: Great for snorkeling. Kayak out to Patai Galah Beach, a secluded, beautiful spot.
• Sunset Beach: The place to watch the sunset.

Snorkeling and diving

Koh Lipe is part of the Tarutao Marine Park, which contains 25% of the world’s tropical fish species, making it one of Thailand’s top dive destinations. There are over 20 dive sites with rock formations, pinnacles, coral reefs, and more. Rare sightings include whale sharks, dolphins, and bioluminescent plankton.

Explore the island by foot

Due to its small size, Koh Lipe is easily walkable. With no vehicles (except a few moto-taxis), it’s a peaceful island to explore on foot. The island’s population includes the Chao Ley, a semi-nomadic ethnic minority known as the “sea gypsies.”

Island-Hopping Tours

For a day trip, you can explore the nearby islands of the Adang Rawi Archipelago, especially Koh Adang in Tarutao Marine Park. Activities include hiking, beach time, and snorkeling, with views from the Koh Adang viewpoint. Overnight stays are available through the national park office.

Kayaking adventures

Kayaks are available to rent from the main beaches, allowing you to explore Koh Lipe’s shores or paddle to nearby islands like Koh Kra and Koh Usen. Don’t forget snorkeling gear for underwater exploration.

Koh Lipe: ideal for which travelers?

Koh Lipe is perfect for scuba diving enthusiasts, beach lovers, and those looking for a more laid-back escape.

Koh Phi Phi or Koh Lipe: which island to choose?

Both islands are prime diving destinations. Choose Koh Phi Phi for a wide variety of activities, or Koh Lipe for relaxation and diving.

Or why not visit both?

It’s possible to travel between the two by ferry, with Tigerline Ferry, Satun Pakbara Speed Boat Club, and Bundhaya Speed Boat offering crossings of about 4 hours.

Florine Dergelet