Phi Phi Islands
The Phi Phi Islands are a world-renowned diving destination, celebrated for their dramatic underwater landscapes framed by towering limestone karsts. As a protected Marine National Park, the area boasts vibrant coral reefs and a dense population of marine life across its 17 dive sites. Divers of all levels are drawn to the variety, from shallow coral gardens perfect for beginners to exhilarating walls and swim-throughs that challenge the more experienced. The unique topography both above and below the water makes every dive a visually stunning adventure.
Diving conditions are generally excellent, with warm tropical waters averaging 29°C (84°F) and visibility often exceeding 20 meters. The accessibility from major hubs like Phuket and Krabi makes it an easy addition to any Thailand itinerary. Divers should visit for the reliable encounters with turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and the occasional leopard shark. The combination of beautiful scenery, rich biodiversity, and established dive infrastructure makes the Phi Phi Islands a must-visit destination for any ocean enthusiast exploring Southeast Asia.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
Bida Nok and Bida Nai are widely considered the premier dive sites. These two small limestone islands offer stunning diversity with walls, reefs, and small caves. They are popular for their incredibly rich marine life, including frequent sightings of leopard sharks, turtles, large schools of trevally, and vibrant soft corals. Their varied topography makes them suitable and exciting for divers of all experience levels.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
Well-known sites include the famous Bida Nok and Bida Nai, along with Shark Point, known for leopard sharks. For a less crowded experience, consider Hin Bida, a submerged reef often called 'Phi Phi's Shark Point' that attracts fewer boats but offers similar shark encounters. The Kled Gaeow Wreck is another fantastic, less-visited site, a 47-meter-long vessel sunk in 2014 that is now a thriving artificial reef.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
The water temperature in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand, is consistently warm and tropical year-round. Divers can expect temperatures ranging from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F). There is very little seasonal fluctuation, making it an ideal destination for comfortable diving any month of the year. The warmest water is typically found from March to May.
When is the best time to visit Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
The optimal diving season is from November to April. During this period, the weather is dry, and the sea conditions are calmest, offering the best underwater visibility. The monsoon season runs from May to October, which can bring rougher seas and rain. However, diving is still possible during these months, as operators can access sheltered dive sites on the islands' eastern side.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
During the high season (November to April), underwater visibility in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand is typically excellent, ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet). In the green season (May to October), visibility may be reduced to 10-15 meters due to plankton blooms. While this reduces clarity, the increased plankton can attract larger marine life like whale sharks and manta rays.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
Yes, while not guaranteed, the best chances for encountering whale sharks and manta rays are typically between February and May. This period coincides with plankton blooms, which attract these large filter feeders to the waters around the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand. Dive sites like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, accessible on longer day trips, are particularly famous for these sightings.
What marine life can I expect to see in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
The marine life is abundant and diverse. Common sightings include blacktip reef sharks, leopard sharks, hawksbill and green turtles, and large schools of snappers and fusiliers. You can also find moray eels, lionfish, scorpionfish, and countless anemonefish. For macro enthusiasts, seahorses, ghost pipefish, and a variety of nudibranchs can be found with a keen eye. The area is a designated Marine National Park, contributing to its healthy ecosystem.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
Given the warm water temperatures of 28-31°C (82-88°F), a wetsuit is often more for protection than warmth. A 3mm shorty is sufficient for most divers. Many people are comfortable in just a rash guard and board shorts to protect from the sun and potential jellyfish stings. A full 3mm suit is a good option if you tend to get cold easily or are planning multiple dives in one day.
How do I get to Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
The Phi Phi Islands are accessible only by boat. The most common route is to fly into either Phuket International Airport (HKT) or Krabi International Airport (KBV). From the airports, you can take a taxi to the main ferry piers (Rassada Pier in Phuket or Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi). Ferries to Phi Phi take approximately 2 hours and run multiple times daily.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand?
Most diving in the Phi Phi Islands, Thailand, is land-based, with dive shops on Koh Phi Phi Don running daily boat trips. This offers flexibility and the chance to enjoy the island's atmosphere. Liveaboards that visit Phi Phi typically include it as part of a longer Southern Andaman Sea itinerary, often combined with sites like Hin Daeng and Koh Haa. For a trip focused solely on Phi Phi, staying on shore is the most practical option.