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The Phi Phi Islands are by far the main attraction to Krabi, and
are widely considered to be amongst the most beautiful places in
the world.
There are six islands altogether: Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Ley, Bida
Nok, Bida Nai, Yung, and Phai; each of which offers some of the
most unique topography on this planet. Of these six islands, Phi
Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley are the largest, and most well known.
 Phi
Phi Don
This is the largest of the Phi Phi islands, and offers some of the
most arresting scenery available anywhere in the world. Phi Phi
Don is comprised of two main sections, peculiarly connected by a
narrow strip of glittering white sand. It was here, in the center,
where the first settlement of Ton Sai was established.
Since that time, Phi Phi Don has earned a reputation as one of
the most alluring sights in the region, offering spectacular beaches,
gleaming, turquoise seas, and remarkable landscapes. This reputation,
however, has not come without a cost.
Phi Phi Ley
The second largest of the Phi Phi Island chain, Phi Phi Ley is extremely
beautiful, and pristine.
Day trips to Phi Phi Ley are available, and one of the biggest
attractions is Phaya Naak Cave, or Viking Cave, which has some bonafide
prehistoric carvings.
Another attraction to Phi Phi Ley are the nests of the edible-nest
swiftlet, which fetch up to US $2000 per kilogram. Armed guards
stand watch over these nests, to protect them against poachers.
Overnight stays on Phi Phi Ley are forbidden.
Yao Beach, Phi Phi Don
This beach, also known as Long Beach, is one of the most famous
on the island. Not only does it offer a broad, sweeping beach and
unbelievable scenery, it also is home to some of the best coral
reefs in the area.
Snorkeling and Scuba diving top the long list of things to do here,
and accommodation is plentiful. The only complaint might be a little
too much development. Hat Yao can be reached on foot or by longtail
boat from the pier at Ton Sai.
Lanti Beach: Phi Phi Don
This beach is in close proximity to Hat Yao, and is equal to it
in nearly all respects. Once underdeveloped, Hat Lanti has only
recently given way to commercialism, and remains quite beautiful.
Offshore coral reefs provide for some great snorkeling, and accommodation
is cheap and decent.
Hat Lanti is accessible on foot via the viewpoint trail. Boats to
Hat Lanti are difficult to find, because bungalow owners refuse
to pay commissions, but boats can be arranged from Hat Lanti quite
easily.
Hin Khao Beach, Phi Phi Don
This is one of the more isolated beaches on Phi Phi Don, accessible
only on foot. This beach offers good views, and peace and quiet.
Ao Ton Sai, Phi Phi Don
This is the oldest developed beach area on Phi Phi Don, and the
most congested. Still, Ton Sai offers some rather good views of
the surrounding territory, and although lacking beauty, it is the
most accessible and convenient place on the island.
Laem Tong, Phi Phi Don
This is one of the nicest beaches on Phi Phi Don, offering spectacular
views and a nice stretch of marvelous beach.
Hat Laem Tong has its own pier, and therefore is accessible. However,
it is targeted at the high-budget tourist.
Yung Island
lies to the north of Phi Phi Don. There is a rocky beach on the
east side, and a smaller strand of sand in a fold of the hill. Many
beautiful and various corals are found there.
Pai Island
lies also to the north of Phi Phi Don, not far from Koh Yung. Sandy
beaches are on the north and east sides of the island. Broad coral
reefs stretch away into the south.
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