Just a short 45 minutes from Phuket, is the idyllic archipelago of islands in Krabi. Krabi in Southern Thailand is the ideal destination for those who want to avoid the crowds of Phuket.
Let’s have a look at the must see island destinations in Krabi Thailand – Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay, Monkey Cliff, Phi Phi Don and Bamboo Island.
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Phi Phi Leh
The crystal, clear turquoise, emerald water of Phi Phi Leh rivals the beauty of French Polynesia. This magnificent natural wonder of steep stone cliffs, with its untouched wilderness and remoteness, will leave you speechless.
The lagoons surrounding Phi Phi Leh can get a little crowded with tourists and boats, so try to arrive early to avoid the crowds.
Maya Bay
Another must see Phi Phi Leh island destination in Krabi is Maya Bay. Made famous by the Leonardo di Caprio film “The Beach”, it’s a tourist draw card on the west side of Phi Phi Leh.
The crescent moon shaped white sandy beach hidden in the huge limestone mountain is a popular destination for travellers from around the world.
The crowds can be a little overwhelming depending on what time of the year you’re visiting. I went in May and crowds were lower as it wasn’t high season.
Because of the damage caused by mass tourism, the area was temporarily closed in 2018. It reopened in 2022 and tourists have come back in droves.
This exquisite breath taking paradise is also a national park. Soak in the amazing scenery, savour the moment and do your part in conserving this gorgeous destination.
If you are looking for fresh, tasty fruit at really cheap prices, make sure you check out the sellers who are in the park in Maya Bay. I scored some pineapple and papaya that was so delicious. I was upset I didn’t buy more of it.
Want to book that once in a lifetime experience? Go with the experts GetYourGuide.
Monkey Cliff
On the way to Phi Phi Don, are the monkey cliffs. We were lucky to catch sight of a solo monkey on a cliff who was curious about the humans in the speed boat (us). The monkeys are macaques and are similar to those in Nagano, Japan. Just without the pink faces!
Phi Phi Don
The island of Phi Phi Don is where most tourists come to stay, eat or shop. Tourists who want to do more island hopping stay here in one of the many hotels and resorts.
If you’re a shopper, you’ll love the street side shops in Phi Phi Don that wind through the main street of the island. Shops sell beach clothes, souvenirs, accessories, technology and more. Make sure you haggle for the best price in the market area.
Many beach side seafood restaurants are here and are a popular hangout for tourists. Soak in the Phi Phi atmosphere with a relaxing meal or do some exploring to wear off all the calories.
Prices are a little higher here than Phuket, but part of the Phi Phi Island experience.
Bamboo Island
One of the most popular tourist attractions in the Andaman Sea is Bamboo Island. With a long curved beach with powdery white sand, it’s the place for swimming, relaxing or just admiring the view.
There are many bamboo rest huts which get popular when the sun is at its hottest. Or head to the café for a bite to eat and a reprieve from the heat.
How to visit the Krabi Islands
You can easily see the most popular Phi Phi Islands in a day if you go on a day tour from Phuket.
There are many tour companies that will take you there. I went with Love Andaman.
Day trip prices are about 3,500 Baht per person for adults, 2,800 Baht for children (4-11 years) and infants from 1 to 3 years old go free.
Want to book your tour of the Krabi Islands? Go with Viator.
Have you been to the Krabi Thailand Islands? Comment below.
Linda is an Amazon author, writer and travel blogger. Her website The Smart Travelista offers travel resources and tips via her blog, books, videos and more.
