The Phi Phi islands lie near the mouth of Phang Nga bay at about an equal distance from Phuket and Krabi towns. Although technically part of a national park, the islands have been developed almost as long as Phuket. There are two main islands in the group. Only the largest, Phi Phi Don, is inhabited. The smaller island, Phi Phi Lay, is spectacular in its own right.

Phi Phi was renowned for the clearness of its water and the beauty of its corals. Unfortunately, it suffered somewhat from over development. The December 2004 tsunami wreaked havoc on the many poorly constructed cheap bungalows and small hotels that crowded the islands. Development since the tsunami has seen more up-scale resorts being built.

Getting There

Phi Phi is a small island, 30 to 40 kilometers from the nearest large body of land. There was a short-lived sea plane service from Phuket, but it died a rather costly death a few years ago. So, the only way to get to Phi Phi is by boat. There is regular ferry service from Phuket, Ao Nang in Krabi and Koh Lanta.

Phi Phi Accommodations

There's only one truly five-star resort on the island, the Zeavola, and it should be noted that it's far away from the center of things, on the northeastern point of the island.