Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
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What to expect when visiting Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a stunning group of islands off Thailand’s south coast. It’s quite famous too, because of Leonardo DiCaprio and his movie “The Beach.” This was filmed on Maya Beach, which you can find on one of the main islands — Koh Phi Phi Leh.
That means it can be quite touristy in Koh Phi Phi. But if you don’t mind that, you’ll be rewarded with turquoise waters, breathtaking beaches, an underwater world teeming with marine life, and viewpoints that will take your breath away.
2 ways to get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
There are two ways to travel the distance of 75 km (47 miles) from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi: by ferry (ton sai pier) (50m - 4h 30m) and ferry (laem tong pier) (1h 30m - 3h). The journey takes between 50m - 4h 30m and the quickest way is by ferry (ton sai pier). The lowest priced tickets start from 420 THB ($11.60) for the ferry (ton sai pier).Where to stay in Koh Phi Phi?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Koh Phi Phi at the bottom of this page.
Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by Ferry (Ton Sai Pier)
The only way to get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi is by ferry. If you book a speed boat ferry, the journey from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi will take around 1 hour. Meanwhile, the larger ferries normally take around 2 hours.
When travelling during the monsoon season (July to October), it’s best to take a large ferry for safety. In case the waves are too rough on the day of your trip, smaller speedboats may not be allowed to sail.
Because most travellers stay around Ton Sai Pier – in the south of Koh Phi Phi – we will first focus on ferries arriving at Ton Sai Pier.
The good news is that there are plenty of trips offered by a number of ferry companies departing daily from various piers in Phuket. The not-so-good news is that it doesn’t make it easy to decide which ferry to book. They depart from different ferry ports in Phuket.
Some ferry services include minivan transfer to the port and others don’t.
We suggest buying your ferry ticket from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi in advance online to save some money. Purchasing one at the pier tends to be more expensive. You can also buy a ferry ticket from your hotel or local tour operators.
Upon arriving at Koh Phi Phi, all travellers are required to pay a fee of 20 THB ($0.60) per person. These funds are used to keep the island clean and to cover waste management costs.
Ferries departing from Rassada Pier
Most boats heading from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi depart from Rassada Pier. The pier is only a 20-minute drive away from Phuket town centre.
Thanks to its close proximity, you can easily arrange your own transport to Rassada Pier if you stay in Phuket town. You can either go by songthaew, shared minivan, or taxi. Booking a Grab taxi from Phuket town to Rassada pier starts at 310 THB ($8.50).
If you’re not staying in Phuket Town, we recommend booking a ferry ticket that includes pick-up in the area you are staying. We’ve provided a list of pick-up areas for each ferry company below the schedule.
Other piers in Phuket
Aside from Rassada Pier, there are a few ferry companies that depart from Chean Vanich Pier, Bang Rong Pier, and Sea Angel Pier. Some ferries also used to depart from Yamu Pier before the pandemic.
Ferry schedules to Tonsai Pier (including pick-up)
Included pick-up areas:
- Phi Phi Cruiser: Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong, Phuket Town or Naiyang Beach
- Chureang Travel and Tour: Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong, Phuket Town or Nakalay Beach, Tri Trang beach, Sirey or Kamala Beach
- P.P. Sabai Marin: Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Patong or Phuket Town
- Seatran Travel and Tour: Phuket Airport
If you prefer to go with private transportation to the ferry port, you can also book one of the tickets shared below. These tickets don’t include pick-up. Ferry departure is from Rassada Pier.
Ferry schedules to Tonsai Pier (without pick-up service)
All-Inclusive Tours to Koh Phi Phi
Another option you have is to book an all-inclusive tour. Tours usually include transport (single or round trip), food, island fees, and the use of equipment for water activities.
Rates start from 1,600 THB ($44) when you book a day tour from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi with Klook.
Phuket to Koh Phi Phi by Ferry (Laem Tong Pier)
If you are staying in the north of Koh Phi Phi, you are better off booking a ferry to Laem Tong Pier.
There are 2 ferry operators which go from Phuket to Laem Tong Beach Pier: Andaman Wave and Phi Phi Logistic. They also depart from Rassada Pier, but they don’t include hotel pick-up.
The speedboats of Phi Phi Logistic and Tour and Andaman Wave can get you to the island in 1.5 hours. The larger Andaman Wave ferry takes a bit longer, but it provides a calmer ferry crossing compared to the speedboats.
If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend booking the Andaman Wave ferry and having motion-sickness pills ready in case you need them.
Ferry schedules from Rassada Pier to Laem Tong Beach Pier
Phi Phi Logistic offers only one type of seating, which is a quite luxurious one. The Andaman Wave ferry, on the other hand, offers different seatings with varying costs.
Different seating for Andaman Wave Ferry
Tickets come in different classes depending on the floor location inside the ferry:
- Standard (2nd) class: Bottom level of the ferry – 660 THB ($18.20)
- First Class: 2nd level of the ferry – 900 THB ($25)
- VIP Class: Top level of the ferry and passengers have access to the deck – 1,140 THB ($31)
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Phi Phi
Phi Phi Sunset Bay Resort - Mid Range
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of life, then book a room at Phi Phi Sunset Bay. Situated away from the main town, surrounded by forest, this hotel truly allows you to relax.
And when you want to go back to the action, it’s only a short walk away. Plus they offer a longboat service to and from Ton Sai Pier, so no need to worry about your baggage. The staff here will do anything they can to make your stay unforgettable!
- Surrounded by nature
- Private balcony
- On-site Thai restaurant
- Free longboat service
Private bungalows start from $35 per night.
P2 Wood Loft - Treating Yourself
Staying at P2 Wood Loft, you get all of the perks of staying on a paradise island, without having to compromise on comfort. After relaxing at the beach all day, you’ll only have to walk 200 metres to get back to your air-conditioned and luxurious room.
The hotel boasts a super modern design, with everything feeling brand new. The beds are exceptionally comfortable and huge! P2 Wood Loft is a luxury hotel, without the price tag.
- 200 metres from the beach
- Modern and clean rooms
- Air conditioning
- Friendly staff
Private rooms start from $64 per night.
Phi Phi Villa Resort - Treating Yourself
Phi Phi Villa Resort is one of the most popular places to stay on Koh Phi Phi. People can’t resist the large outdoor swimming pool, prime beach location and onsite gym. The place is the epitome of luxury.
The bungalows and villas are spacious, comfortable and come with a private terrace. The location is great, close to a lot of restaurants and only a 15-minute walk from the pier.
- Refreshing swimming pool
- Right on the beach
- Amazing staff
- Delicious free breakfast
Bungalows start at $87 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
Should I visit Koh Phi Phi or Krabi?
Both destinations are popular choices for travellers looking for sun and sand. Koh Phi Phi is an island group in the Andaman Sea with lots of gorgeous islands and fine beaches surrounded by clear blue water.
At night, the central area of Koh Phi Phi Don turns into a party haven for backpackers with parties going on till sunrise. The northern part of Koh Phi Phi Don (around Laem Tong Pier) is more secluded and lets you enjoy the more tranquil side of Koh Phi Phi.
Krabi is a perfect balance of the two. Along the coastline, you’ll find stunning beaches bordered by high limestone cliffs. You can visit several of these beaches without having to leave the mainland, but you can also book a boat trip to explore nearby islands or more remote beaches. For more stunning views, you can hike up a mountain or a hill and see Krabi in all its beauty.
What are the best things to do in Koh Phi Phi?
Boat tour: Koh Phi Phi is not just one island, but an archipelago of six islands. Therefore, a boat tour is recommended to explore them all — most especially the breathtaking Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh. This white beach backdropped by a lush jungle is a sight to behold.
Diving and snorkelling: You’ll find here beautiful coral reefs and different kinds of fish. Some of the most popular diving sites are Koh Bida Nai and Koh Bida Nok.
Rock climbing: There are plenty of cliff options available on Koh Phi Phi — all of which will reward you with amazing views of nature.
Party at the beach: Koh Phi Phi is known for its vibrant nightlife. Head to the beach at Koh Phi Phi Don for live music and fire shows.
For more information, check out our Ultimate Travel Guide for Koh Phi Phi.
When is the best time to visit Koh Phi Phi?
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Koh Phi Phi Travel Guides
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7 Best Things to Do in Koh Phi Phi
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Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
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