If you’ve been following my adventures through Southeast Asia, you know I’m always on the hunt for those truly special spots that steal your heart. And let me tell you, the beaches of Phi Phi Don I’ve got you covered with this complete guide to finding your perfect beach on Phi Phi Don!

Phi Phi Don’s Beach Vibes: Something for Every Soul

What I adore about Phi Phi Don is the sheer variety it offers. It’s not just one long strip of sand; it’s a collection of unique beaches, each with its own personality. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away under the stars or escape to a hidden cove with just the sound of the waves, Phi Phi Don has a little piece of paradise waiting for you.

Where the Action Is: Central and Social Beaches

Sometimes, you just want to be in the heart of it all, right? These beaches are where the buzz is:

• Loh Dalum Beach: This is where the party’s at! Think lively nightlife, beach bars with fire shows, and energetic vibe. The water is shallow and calm, perfect for a daytime dip. But be warned, it gets crowded and can be noisy at night. And those picture-perfect white sands? They can reveal some mudflats at low tide.
• Ton Sai Beach: This is more of a hub than a pure relaxation spot, as it’s where the main pier is located. While the water right by the pier isn’t ideal for swimming due to boat traffic, there’s a stretch of sand to the far right, in front of Phi Phi Cliff Beach Resort, that’s actually quite nice. It’s super convenient for arrivals and accessing the town’s facilities. Think of it as your gateway to all the other beautiful spots on the island.

Finding Your Zen: Secluded Beaches for Ultimate Relaxation

Now, if you’re like me sometimes, you crave that escape, that feeling of having a little slice of heaven all to yourself. Phi Phi Don delivers on this front too!

• Laem Tong Beach: Ah, bliss! Located on the far northern tip of the island, Laem Tong is all about tranquility and peace. Picture powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a handful of lovely, often upscale resorts. The views of Bamboo and Mosquito Islands are just stunning. It’s ideal for couples and those seeking a quiet retreat. Just remember, it’s only accessible by boat or a long walk, and there aren’t many dining or entertainment options outside the resorts. But hey, sometimes that’s exactly what you need, right? Redditors agree, it “delivers solitude”.
• Loh Moo Dee Beach: This gem feels almost like a private beach! With its sandy shores and emerald waters, it’s incredibly peaceful and offers good snorkeling at both ends. It’s reachable by boat or a long walk (a short one from Long Beach). Don’t expect many amenities here, which adds to its quiet charm. It’s definitely one of the “quietest beach[es] you can easily access by foot”.
• Nui Beach: Okay, this one is a bit of an adventure to get to, but SO worth it! Imagine a remote cove with turquoise water and dramatic rock formations, perfect for snorkeling and photography. It’s often nearly empty, especially if you go early. You’ll need to get there by boat, kayak, or a challenging jungle trek. Keep in mind there are limited facilities, so pack your essentials. For me, the reward of that secluded beauty is totally worth the effort! Many call it their “absolute favorite”.
• Loh Lana Bay: For a truly rustic beach experience, head to Loh Lana Bay. This long, undeveloped beach has shallow waters great for snorkeling. It’s connected to Loh Bagao by a path. Be prepared for minimal infrastructure and perhaps a bit of an “abandoned” feel. It’s for the real adventurers seeking solitude.
• Phak Nam Bay (Relax Bay): As the name suggests, this place is all about chilling out! Located on the east side of Phi Phi Don, it’s home to only one resort, the Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort, which keeps it incredibly peaceful and uncrowded. Expect turquoise waters and stunning coral reefs. It’s accessible by boat or a hike. If you truly want to escape, this is your haven.
• Rantee Beach: Another gem on the east coast, Rantee Beach is a small, peaceful, and secluded cove. It boasts excellent snorkeling and has only one resort, The Cove Phi Phi. Access is best by longtail boat or a challenging hike, ensuring a quiet experience.
• Loh Bagao Bay: This long and tranquil beach on the east coast offers a quieter experience with fewer hotels and restaurants. It’s connected to Loh Lana and Nui Beach by paths, making it great for exploring multiple beaches. You can reach it by boat or hike.

Diving into Paradise: Top Beaches for Snorkeling

For those of us who love peeking into the underwater world, Phi Phi Don doesn’t disappoint!

• Long Beach (Shark Point): This is widely considered the best spot for snorkeling. You can regularly spot blacktip reef sharks (don’t worry, they’re generally harmless!), along with a vibrant array of other marine life. The water is clear and accessible even at low tide. Go early for the best chances of seeing sharks and fewer crowds.
• Nui Beach: As mentioned, the beauty above water is matched by what lies beneath! Expect vibrant coral, parrotfish, and maybe even a sea snake or two. The secluded setting makes the experience even more special.
• Loh Lana Bay: The shallow waters here are teeming with diverse coral and fish, and you might even get lucky and spot a leopard shark. The undeveloped nature of the bay adds to its charm.
• Loh Moo Dee Beach: Both ends of this bay offer pleasant snorkeling with colorful fish and coral. The quieter atmosphere makes it a relaxing place to explore underwater.
• Monkey Beach: While famous for its furry residents, Monkey Beach also offers clear waters with various fish and coral close to the shore. Just remember to be respectful of the monkeys – they are wild animals.

Planning Your Beach Hopping Adventure: My Tips for You

• Getting Around: Forget cars – Phi Phi Don is best explored on foot and by boat. Longtail boats are your main mode of transport for reaching many beaches. You can hire them privately or join shared rides. For Laem Tong, there’s a handy hop-on hop-off boat service. Some beaches are also connected by walking paths, like the one between Tonsai and Long Beach, or Loh Lana and Loh Bagao.
• Budgeting: Phi Phi can be a bit pricier than some other parts of Southeast Asia, so be mindful of your budget. Consider sharing longtail boats to save costs. Also, remember that there’s a National Park Fee for visiting places like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, so check if your tour includes it. Boat taxis between beaches like Tonsai and Long Beach are relatively affordable.
• Sustainable Travel: Let’s be conscious travelers, ladies! Phi Phi has faced issues with overcrowding and environmental impact. Opt for reef-safe sunscreen, minimize your plastic use, and support eco-friendly tours. It’s great to see efforts like the reopening of Maya Bay with stricter rules for sustainability. Note that Mosquito Island has been closed for preservation since 2016.
• Best Time to Visit: While Phi Phi is beautiful year-round, keep in mind peak season can mean more crowds. Visiting popular spots early morning or late afternoon is always a good idea to avoid the rush.
• Accessibility: Remember that some of the most beautiful, secluded beaches require a bit more effort to reach, either by boat or a hike. Factor this into your plans.

Beyond the Sand: Exploring More of Phi Phi Don

While the beaches are the main draw, don’t forget to explore other aspects of Phi Phi Don! Consider a hike to one of the viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic vistas. And of course, a day trip to Phi Phi Lee to see the iconic Maya Bay (even if you can’t swim there anymore, it’s still a sight!) and the stunning Pi Leh Lagoon is a must. Just be aware of the National Park Fee. Bamboo Island is another beauty worth a visit, though it can get crowded.

Until Next Time, Paradise Found!

Phi Phi Don, my dear travel companions, is a true gem in the Andaman Sea. With its diverse range of beaches, there’s a perfect spot for every kind of getaway. Whether you’re seeking vibrant energy or tranquil solitude, you’ll find your own slice of paradise here. So pack your bags, embrace the island life, and remember to travel responsibly, leaving only footprints behind. Until our next adventure!