Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Koh Phi Phi's iconic beaches are arguably the No. 1 reason people come to the Andaman islands. Ao Toh Koh, Ao Lo Moo Dee and the simian-friendly Monkey Beach are top spots on Koh Phi Phi Don, but head off the main island for pristine beaches with less commercial development. For those desiring more seclusion, Koh Mai Phai (Bamboo Island) is an hour north by long-tail boat, and its white sands pair nicely with its transparent turquoise waters. Of course, few tourists come to the islands without visiting Koh Phi Phi Leh's Maya Bay, which Hollywood immortalized in Leonardo DiCaprio's film "The Beach."
Ao Poh, Secret Beach and Yung Island have colorful coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling, while adventure seekers on Long Beach can swim out to Hin Bida (Shark Point) to snorkel with blacktip reef sharks. Diving, however, is the best way to see all that the islands have to offer. Leopard sharks and moray eels are commonly seen around Ko Bida Nok, and experienced divers can explore the underwater caves near Wang Long. The King Cruiser car ferry, which sank in 1997 after hitting the Anemone Reef, is a good dive site for those who like underwater wrecks. An abundance of dive shops are located at Ton Sai Bay on Phi Phi Don.
Steep cliffs and rugged limestone formations make Koh Phi Phi an appealing destination for rock climbers of all experience levels, including beginners. Several schools are set up on Phi Phi Don, where the rock climbing activity primarily takes place. "Lonely Planet" singles out the main climbing spots as the Ton Sai Tower and Hin Taak on the western side of Ton Sai Bay. In recent years, the bay has also become popular with cliff jumpers who risk the 20- to 50-foot drops into the water below.
Phi Phi Don is essentially two hill mounds separated by a narrow strip of sand, and the best place to admire the island's shape is from a famous viewpoint about 600 feet above sea level. The steep hike can take up to up to 30 minutes, and a small admission is charged on the way up. The sweeping views are especially vivid during sunrise and sunset, but make sure to bring a flashlight.