#southeastasia #thailand #kohphiphi #krabi #phiphiislands #solofemaletravel #travelsmart #soloadventure #islandhopping
After short 3 days in Ao Nang, Krabi, I was ready to experience a different vibe. My stay travels in Krabi were sweet and the perfect start for my island hopping journey in southeast Asia. Which island is closest to Krabi that is fun and beautiful? Ko Phi Phi, the island famously known for its vibrant nightlife and turquoise waters. Recommend by the locals, I was told its cheaper and quicker if I go from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi as opposed to from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi. Without hesitation I booked my speed boat ticket at the local ticketing office in the town. The boat ride was just under 2 hours and there were comfortable seats plus a WC. I traveled with Ao Nang Travel and Tour which also has a roof deck where you can enjoy the stunning limestone and ocean views along the way.
Currently there are 4 companies offering ferry and speedboat service from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi. I put in the timestable and departure ports in the table below just for reference. Times are subject to change depending on season and weather conditions.
Travel Company | Departure | Krabi | Koh Phi Phi | Price |
Phi Phi Kanichta Tour | Krabi River Marina | 09:15 | 10:15 | 930 TBH |
Ao Nang Travel and Tour | Nopparat Thara Pier | 09:30 | 11:30 | 472 TBH |
Ao Nang Travel and Tour | Floating Pier East Railay | 09:45 | 11:30 | 472 TBH |
Chaokoh Travel | Chaofar Pier | 10:00 | 10:50 | 1,045 TBH |
Koh Yao Sun Smile | Railay East | 11:40 | 12:30 | 1,045 TBH |
I met an awesome couple enroute on the speedboat. Neither of us had booked our accommodation and decided to stick together to roam around the town until we found a suitable space to sleep. I'm not a hostel type of traveler, was never my vibe as I need my privacy and silence. Along our stroll we passed by "Natacha Hotel", in the heart of the town, super close to shops, eateries, and entertainment. The receptionist confirmed there were 2 rooms available and we booked it for 2 nights. Do you want to know what to avoid in Thailand? Avoid booking accommodation with less than 4 star reviews! I did not check the reviews or walkthrough the property while I had the opportunity. Being that the price per night, 3,591 TBH, was more than what I was paying thus far in Thailand I assumed it would be a decent stay, to say the least. I would describe the accommodation as a run down motel, not hotel, with mold, and paper thin walls. Taking advantage of its location and nothing else, I spent almost no time in my room, aside from the 7 hours of sleep.
Very different from Krabi, Koh Phi Phi is a vibe! Tons of young tourists from all over the world. Loud music and parties promoted all over the island. Food options ranging from Asian to Middle Eastern cuisines. It almost feels like you're in an adult luna park on the island. During the day I explored one of the most beautiful beach in Thailand, the Maya Bay. Surrounded by limestones and luscious tropical plants this paradise blew me away. It was also the first time I ever saw big translucent crabs just casually walking along the shore. They were so many of them! Of course i'm not the only one who chases paradise, the beach was crowded with people and boats along the shoreline. I highly recommend planning your day early and arriving to Maya Bay before 11:00 so you can enjoy the waters before the crowds start pouring in.
Aside from Maya Bay, here are 10 beaches to explore in Koh Phi Phi.
Loh Dalum Bay
Bamboo Island
Monkey Beach
Long Beach
Laem Tong Beach
Phak Nam Bay
Tonsai Bay
Nui Beach
Loh Da Lum Bay
Wan Long Bay
My activities in Koh Phi Phi consisted of the beach, massages, and partying. As mentioned earlier, the party scene is Koh Phi Phi is a wild one. I would recommend this island for those who just graduated highschool and want to celebrate their last year of being a kid. The crowd is young and the vibe is very mainstream. From limbo contests to beer chugs, the beaches are lit from midday til well past midnight.