Hadnopparattara-Koh Phi Phi National Park is almost entirely dominated by the two Islands collectively known as ‘Koh Phi Phi’ - Koh Phi Phi Don (the larger of the two islands) and Koh Phi Phi Leh. Situated about 50 kilometres southeast of Phuket the islands are regarded by many as being the most attractive in the kingdom, if not the world.
The islands feature beaches and clear water that have had their natural beauty protected by National Park status. Once only a destination of day trippers, the islands are now some of the most popular destinations along Thailand’s Andaman coast, and during the tourism high season of December to March they can become extremely crowded. Because of its clear waters the area has become a destination of choice for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts keen to experience the areas splendid corals and marine life that includes sharks.
Koh Phi Phi Don
Koh Phi Phi Don features two bays – Ao Ton Sai and Ao Lo Dalam - both with long attractive beaches. Ao Ton Sai is where most accommodation can be found and the area offers a wide selection of bars and restaurants. This is probably the most developed part of the island. Hat Yao is likely the island’s best beach and the waters contain the island’s best coral. Hat Ranti beach and Ao Lo Bakao bay are also areas worthy of note, the latter offering a number of upscale resorts. Electricity and water supplies on the island don’t properly meet demand, so bear this in mind when planning a trip – on certain days you might not have a regular supply of either! Tonsai - the island’s main town – is like the main towns of many other islands. A myriad of travel agencies, internet establishments, restaurants and shops, it is here you can book various tours to sites in the vicinity and also arrange your hiking and diving. There are over 20 ‘dive shops’ on Koh Phi Phi Don and they arrange some of the best diving in the world. Popular destinations are some of the smaller uninhabited islands around Koh Phi Phi such as Koh Ha, Koh Yung and Koh Mai Phai. For around 2,000 Baht it is possible to arrange a boat trip with two dives. Other activities on the island include rock climbing, canoeing and fishing. Rock climbing courses are available for around 5,000 Baht for a three day course. Canoes are available at many places on the island and a single canoe costs around 800 Baht a day to rent. For 2,000 Baht you can arrange boats to take you out to some of the best fishing areas, tackle included.
Koh Phi Phi Leh
Koh Phi Phi Leh features spectacular cliffs faces, some caves and a lake. The island is a major source for the ingredients of ‘bird’s next soup’. The bird’s nests are nestled high in the islands caves and due to their popularity (especially in Chinese cuisine) they can reach good prices and offer locals a reasonable income. However, getting the nests requires shimmying up bamboo poles and frames often to absurd heights. Collectors are rarely killed or hurt in falls and the activity is about as enthralling and exotic as they come! Although not as attractive as key areas on the island’s big brother, Ao Maya Bay and Lo Sama are its most attractive destinations, especially for snorkeling. These days Ao Maya Bay is of course a major draw. The spot where the movie 'The Beach' was filmed is now a ‘must do’ item in it’s own right. There is no accommodation on Koh Phi Phi Leh and you cannot stay overnight.
Details: Although officially part of a National Park, there is no admission charge to either island.
How to get there: From Krabi boats leave for Koh Phi Phi 10:30 and 14:30. From Phuket boats leave 08:30, 13:30 and 14:30. Boats leave Koh Lanta 08:00 and 13:00 for Kho Phi Phi and leave Ao Nang 09:00.
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