Phi-Phi Islands
Regarded by travelers from all walks of life as being
among the most beautiful tropical islands of the world, Phi Phi Islands
have become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Thailand.
In addition, the islands are famous as the location where the movie
"The Beach" featuring Leonardo Di Caprio was shot. The islands,
together with the nearby Noppharat Thara Beach, a total area of 390
square kilometers, were recently established as a national park.
Phi Phi Islands are located just 40 kilometers away from both Krabi
and Phuket. Thus, despite the fact that both Noppharat Thara Beach
and Phi Phi administratively are a part of Krabi Province, most
tourists think that Ko Phi Phi is part of Phuket Province.
The islands and the coastal hills are composed mainly of limestone
and are an extension of the limestone mountain range in Phang-Nga
Province. The main characteristics of these mountains and islands
are their steep cliffs, large caves and dwarf trees growing out
of the rock crevices, like those in Phang-Nga Bay.
The island group is composed of two rocky, tree-covered islets
Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Le. Phi Phi Don, the larger islet to the
north, is well known for its fine beaches and coral formations.
Above average tourist facilities and accommodations are available
along two beautiful curved bays, namely Ton Sai Bay and Lodalam
Bay. Several shops at Ton Sai can arrange diving and snorkeling
trips around the island or the nearby islands - Ko Phi Phi Le, Ko
Yung and Ko Mai Phai.
About 2 kilometers to the south is Phi Phi Le. Contrary to Phi
Phi Don, this islet is uninhabited as there is no beach area as
the island descends abruptly into the sea on all sides and it is
prohibited by the administrative body. The main attraction is a
large cave about 3.2 square kilometers in size known as Viking Cave
derived from one of the numerous drawings on the wall which resembles
a Viking ship. The cave has a 10 to 15-metre high ceiling which
contains many ledges inhabited by thousands of swallows, thus a
bird's nest collection demonstration is a regular feature of guided
tours.
Ao Maya and Ao Lo Sama - Phi Phi Islands scenic coves are favorite
snorkeling places while the sea around the islands, especially the
southern part, which are deep and full of coral formations are popular
diving spots. With its emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain
cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi is a paradise
in the Andaman Sea. The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from
November to April, when the sea is calm.
Ko Yung, an island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don, has a stone
beach on the east and small sandy beaches amid valleys. In addition,
the island is teeming with diverse colorful coral reefs. Ko Phai,
another island to the north of Ko Phi Phi Don and not far from Ko
Yung, has spectacular beaches in the north and east of the island.
The bank of coral reefs comprised mainly of antler corals stretches
from the north to the south of the island.
Getting to Ko Phi Phi
Phi Phi Islands which are equidistant to Phuket and Krabi Provinces
can be reached by boat.
From Krabi
Chao Fa Pier:Passenger boats leave Chao Fa Pier twice daily at 10
a.m. and 2.30 p.m. The trip takes about 2.30 hours.
Ao Nang: There is one express boat trip leaving daily at 9 p.m.
taking 40 min.
From Phuket
Many tour companies in Phuket organize one-day trips to Phi Phi
Islands. Tickets can be obtained from any hotel.
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