Phuket and Phi Phi, Thailand - A Travel Guide
Last Updated: November 17, 2025
BACKPACKING PHUKET, THAILAND? KHO PHI PHI TOO? HERE'S THE QUICK LINKS YOU NEED
HOW TO GET HERE | WHERE TO STAY | THINGS TO DO |ย WHERE TO EAT | WHERE TO PARTY | STAYING SAFE
Heads up:ย We sometimes work with companies to provide affiliate links and reviews - here's what that means. If it's here, we use it. We don't plug shit for profit.
Party in Phuket and Phi Phi
Since Danny Boyle's film; The Beach, hit our screens in 2000, Phuket and Phi Phi have become the number one destination for travellers.ย
Since then millions of us, including myself, have visited this tropical paradise all wanting a slice of the idyllic life and travel vibes.
However, tourism has changed Phi Phi more than anywhere else I've been. Nowadays, the local government are forced to close Maya Bay for two months of the year to allow the ecosystem to regenerate.
Nevertheless, there is far more to both Phuket and Phi Phi than Maya Bay.
You'll create memories of mad nights out in Phuket's Patong Beach and be enchanted by the picturesque rock formations around the coast whilst travelling around on traditional long boats.
Back on land, stunning uninhabited coves await your discovery and rainforests call you to uncover their natural beauty.
In this guide to Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand, you'll discover the best ways to get around, where to party and what to expect from these magical islands.
Join me on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure...
What's Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand Like?
In truth, the word that comes to mind is everchanging.
Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands are constantly changing and what you may have seen last year, isn't what you'd see now. Likewise, what you see now isn't how it will be next year.
Tourism is dramatically changing the area.
In 2013, Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands were at one with nature, with pristine beaches and widespread, lush green jungles. Nowadays, Phuket is too touristy, built-up and chaotic.
Not only is time and tourism changing Phuket and Phi Phi but each area within them is completely different.
For example, Patong is a fast-paced, cheap and cheeky town created for nightlife where rules are broken. Yet, Phuket City is, in parts, historic and charming and has a slower pace of life. Then, there are the beach resorts of Kata, Karon and Ra Waii, which are romantic, peaceful and naturally beautiful.
The Phi Phi Islands are far more beautiful with white sands, crystal clear blue seas and colourful coral reefs. The pace of life is slower and you are drawn to the islands like a moth to a flame.
How to Get to Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand
Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands are major tourist destinations within Thailand. Therefore, you won't be surprised to find there are numerous ways to get here.
You can choose the easy option or the cost-effective, ball-ache option. I guess, it depends on how much of a budget you have for Phuket and Phi Phi.
I will break this down into two sections: how to get to Phuket and how to get to Koh Phi Phi.
However, first, if you're staying in Phuket for a while, it might be worth getting the Phuket Rabbit Card, a reloadable transportation card you can use on buses and other transport types. I haven't used it, but it could save time and money.
How to get from Phuket Airport to Phuket
The international airport to the north of Phuket brings a constant stream of tourists. Destinations in and out of Phuket include major cities across Asia, Europe and Australasia.
Most flights into the airport are internal. Hence, if you're coming to Phuket from within Thailand, you're in luck. Flights to and from Khon Kaen, Chiang Rai, Hat Yai, Utapao, Chiang Mai, Koh Samui, Koh Pangan, or Bangkok are daily, in some cases numerous times a day. There are also weekly flights to and from Udon Thani.
Once you land at the airport you can cross Phuket easily using a swarm of vehicles including the Smart Bus, Airport Bus, taxis and minibuses.
I'm discounting taxis as I've heard stories of extortionate prices and deceitful behaviour. I just wanted to let you know there is an option.
The Phuket Smart Bus runs daily from 6am to 9pm, leaving the airport at the hour every hour. This is the cheapest option for locations on the west coast at 100เธฟ (ยฃ2.36) and runs from the airport to Rawai Beach (Phuket's most southern destination). Stop-offs include Surin, Kamala, Patong, Karon, and Kata. The journey to Rawai Beach will take around an hour and forty minutes.
The Airport (orange) Bus (8411), leaves the airport daily between 8:30am and 9pm from the bus service point and travels to Phuket City, at the Bus Terminal 1, platform 6 on the southeast coast. This is the cheapest way of getting to Phuket City costing 100เธฟ (ยฃ2.36). On route, it stops at numerous locations including Nai Yang, Saku, Makro Thalang, Koh Kaew, and Khao Rang. The journey will take roughly an hour and twenty minutes but often takes longer.
You'll find the ticket offices for the minibuses near entrance 3. They're smaller (usually eleven or twelve seaters), comfier and quicker than the buses. They will take you to all the main tourist areas and for only 180เธฟ (ยฃ4.26).
However, there's a catch, they only leave once all seats are taken. If you have a large group, this could be the best way to get to your destination.
How to get from Krabi to Phuket
The simplest way to get from Krabi to Phuket is by taking the once-daily speedboat with Anderman Wave Master.
Make your way to the Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi Town. The boat leaves at 1:30pm and takes an hour and a half to arrive at Rassada Pier in Phuket City, Phuket. A one-way ticket costs 1,100เธฟ (ยฃ26).
You'll need to arrive in plenty of time, ideally at least thirty minutes before departure, and for some unknown reason in Thailand, they still recommend having a paper ticket rather than relying on your phone.
Again, other companies are available, and most of them offer similar hotel pick-ups and onward journeys.
How to get from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi
From Rassada Pier Terminal, you can get the boat to Koh Phi Phi, and once there you can jump on a boat to explore the nearby islands, including the famous Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Lee.
Numerous boats leave the harbour daily to different islands and locations.
You'll find lots of companies make the journey, Andaman Wave Master costing 750เธฟ (ยฃ17.73), the larger Phi Phi Cruiser costing 515เธฟ (ยฃ12.18) and the Lanta Petpailin costing 500เธฟ (ยฃ11.82).
However, if you book early and online you might find big discounts. For example, I found the Andaman Wave Master for 500เธฟ (ยฃ11.82).
All three companies leave Rassada Pier at 8:30am and arrive at 10:30am on Koh Phi Phi.
Nevertheless, if two hours is too long to wait, you can take a speedboat which takes an hour with Satun Pakbara or Bundhaya or a super speed boat which takes forty-five minutes with Tigerline Hi Speed ferry.
All three cost 800เธฟ (ยฃ18.91) but again, if you book early and online, you find great savings. The best saving I found was with Bundhaya at 561เธฟ (ยฃ13.26).
Other companies do exist, so check them out. The above gives a rough guide on the price and time frame from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi.
How to get from Krabi to Koh Phi Phi
From Krabi on Thailand's mainland, you can take a boat from Klong Jilad Pier in Krabi Town.
Again, the main company is Andaman Wave Master, which runsย both slow boats and speedboats to Kho Phi Phi.
They run two ferries a day at 9am and 1:30pm. Both take two hours and arrive at Koh Phi Phi at 11am and 3:30pm, whilst the speed boats leave at 9am, midday and 1:30pm and arrive at Koh Phi Phi at 10am, 1pm and 2:30pm.
The ferry cost 450เธฟ (10.64) while the speed boats cost slightly more, but not much.
Timing Your Trip
How Long Should You Spend Visiting Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand?
In truth, there isn't a lot to do or see in the areas. Yes, there are insanely beautiful islands and gorgeous beaches, but honestly, don't hate me for saying this... there are better ones in Thailand.
Ultimately, you're probably in the area for one of two reasons. Maybe both. Firstly, the 2000 film; The Beach and secondly, to party very hard.
Both can be covered in a couple of days. However, if you have the time and enjoy blasting from island to island why not spend three days on the Phi Phi Islands and three days in Phuket, Thailand?
Just plan your time properly and in the area that best suits you. The regions of Phuket vary dramatically.
The Best Time Of The Year To Travel To Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand
Unsurprisingly, the best time of the year to visit these beachy destinations is after the monsoon season, so December to April.
However, if you're willing to trade a bit of wet weather for fewer tourists, the start and end of the monsoons are worth checking out. Try the months of May and October.
Finally, if you want to visit the famed Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Lee don't visit between August and September as the Thai government closes the area to allow the ecosystem to recover.
Where to Stay Whilst Backpacking Phuket and Phi Phi
As with most of Thailand, Phuket and Phi Phi have varying degrees of standards, styles and affordability when it comes to accommodation.
The area's built for holidaymakers, backpackers, honeymooners, and millionaires, so whatever you're looking for you will find it.
If you aren't fussy and only want somewhere to lay your head, you can leave it to the last minute. Although, I don't recommend that during the high season. Once you have your flights or transport to the area, get your preferred accommodation in Phuket and Phi Phi sorted to avoid disappointment.
Below is a brief look into where I stayed. Unsurprisingly, it's in Patong Beach and maybe more unsurprisingly, it's not a millionaire's luxury pad. Regardless of the price, it was perfect for me.
Days Inn, Patong Beach
- What:ย A friendly and clean hotel in the heart of the action in Patong, Phuket, Thailand.
- Where:ย Just around the corner from the night food market and main nightlife strip. (map)
- Why:ย It's in the perfect location for Patong Beach and the nightlife, whilst keeping under budget. Ohh and that pool.
- Why Not: You want something a little more stylish, comfortable, and out of the party zone.
As far as cheap one-bedroomed hotel apartments go, this is spacious, relaxing, quiet and in the action.
First things first. Since my stay, the hotel appears to have been renovated, and in a dramatic way.
Nevertheless, the one thing that hasn't changed is its banging location. It's so close to everything in Patong, yet you cannot hear a sound after you've stumbled back during the early hours.
In truth, the hotel was fantastic. It is basic, but as a traveller on a budget, it had everything we needed. The rooms were small but comfortable and came with their private toilet, shower etc. The staff at the hotel were helpful and even allowed us an extra bed. The room easily catered for the three of us.
Overall, the hotel was clean and tidy, but the piรจce de rรฉsistance was the rooftop pool. There were stunning views over the city, with a fantastic mountainous backdrop.
The only downfall was the tight restrictions on bringing guests back at the end of the night. I cannot blame them for this, but it was slightly annoying.
In February 2025, a double room for three nights, for two people will cost 13,197เธฟ (ยฃ312).
Further Accommodation
Accommodation is everywhere in Phi Phi and Phuket, which makes choosing one tricky. To complicate matters further, each area is very different.
Hence, before settling on a hostel, hotel or apartment, you have to choose an area. Patong isn't for everyone; if that's you, my suggestion wouldn't be for you.
So, to help with this, I've included my trusty trio of links so you can browse possible options.
Hostelworld is where you need to book to relax with like-minded people who want to spend as little as possible on accommodation and more on activities, food and nights out.
Booking.com is your best bet for comfy hotels if you're on holiday and not travelling, while Airbnb is worth checking out if you're away with a group of friends or family.
Phuket
Koh Phi Phi
Best Things To Do when Backpacking Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand
When it comes to Phuket's what to do' section, it varies depending on where you are on the island. For example, Patong is all about the nightlife, whilst further south, its viewpoints and the Big Buddha. Finally, in the island's capital, Phuket City, the main activities include the markets and staggering temples.
What you'll find in Phuket is that it's all or nothing. What I mean by this, is that you'll either be relaxing or going all out on adventures. There's no middle ground. One day will be chilling on a beach, beer in hand and a massage or two. All of which could be followed by lovely foods and a good night's sleep. The next could be zip-lining, elephant safaris, snorkelling and touring the islands that surround Phuket.
In other words, Phuket will be, whatever, you want it to be.
Nightlife on Patong Beach
Patong Beach is among the most well-known, and loved party areas in Thailand. Anything you have ever imagined or wanted on a night out is here on the strip.
In the first place, there are street performers, bars, shacks, clubs, and much more. All of which don the short strip ending at the beautiful beachfront. There is nothing else like it. In addition, it's lit with a neon glow, and music booming from all directions, there's a buzz of excitement in the air. Not to mention the drunkenness at ground level.
Five, of the six nights on the strip all easily make it into my top ten nights out ever. The only night that didn't make it was thanks to that dodgy rice and chicken we ate in Phi Phi. However, they were that good it's simply a case of, what happens on tour, stays on tour.
A few of the bars that stand out above all others include the Tiger Night Club and the Aussie Bar. There were a vast number of others that ran down the strip, spilling over to the smaller side alleys. But I will go into the nightlife further down the blog, in the 'where to party section.'
I'm sorry to say, that's pretty much all I did during my time in Phuket, get totally wasted.
Phi Phi
When it comes to the Phi Phi Islands, sadly we only had visited for the day. Ideally, a couple of nights would have been better, and that there is advice. Stay on the islands for a couple of nights, it just gives you time to explore the area properly.
Obviously, there are amazing options on the islands. Firstly, snorkelling the crystal clear waters, enjoying some of the most colourful fish, and beautiful seabeds.
Likewise, boat trips between the islands are also a good option. If you're feeling cheeky, pay a local to take you somewhere different and 'off the beaten track'. If you are looking to book a boat tour/trip with an official company, it's best to pre-book in advance.
Finally, once on the main island of Phi Phi Don, take a hike up to the lookout point. When the weather allows, you have uninterrupted views of the islands and beyond. It's a very special view indeed.
Where to Eat When Backpacking Phuket and Phi Phi
In summary, it's the return of street food!
When we think of these two stunning locations, we think of many things, natural beauty, wildlife, and lavish nightlife. However, top cuisines aren't something you would associate with Phuket or Phi Phi.
Unsurprisingly, seafood is massive in Phuket and Phi Phi, and it's straight out of the sea and onto your plate. It can't get any fresher.
This though, paves the way for great street foods, which I highly recommend trying.
Whilst it may not all look as appetising as a restaurant, it's far more tasty. Moreover, it can cost less than a quarter of the price.
Therefore, this section, like many of my Thailand blog's food sections, is short because I generally ate at little roadside places and street food vendors who moved around.
The only time I got food poisoning in Thailand was here, in Phi Phi. Again, it wasn't from street food. It was from a buffet at one of the fanciest hotel restaurants in central Phi Phi.
I've learnt the hard way not to eat at any buffet where cooked chicken and rice has been in the sun. You donโt want to end up in a similar situation! It's shit. (sorry not sorry for that pun).
Anyhoo, here's my recommendations for where to eat. Unfortunately, for those not in the area, they are all in and around Patong Beach.
Bangla Night Market (Patong Beach Night Market)
- What: A sea of street food, including a lot of seafood.
- Where: On Bangla Road and the side street of Soi Seadragon in Patong Beach, Phuket. (map)
- How much: It depends on how hungry you are. But it's super cheap.
I understand some peopleโs reluctance to try street food, but it is an important part of Thai and Asian culture.
In truth, it's the main reason I travel. Trying local dishes and diving into the local way of life is so important to get the most out of your travels.
Here in Phuket, there are many night food markets. Patong has a few on its own.
For me, the best is Bangla Night Market. Yes, there is a lot of seafood, of which, I'm not a fan. Nevertheless, there are plenty of other options.
Like at night, Bangla Night Market is a vibrant, busy, colourful and loud affair with delicious sounds, smells and tastes. Tables cover the street whilst the light and bright stalls run the length. People scurry like ants in anticipation of a tasty treat. It's exciting, fun and entertaining.
Live food in tanks is everywhere, whilst other foods are prepped and ready for cooking. The smells and sounds of fresh food blanket the street and it's one hell of a place to be.
Try new things and push yourself out of your comfort zone. There is nowhere safer to start than a night market, and here in Patong, you're in for a treat.
Savoey Restaurant
- What: Another seafood extravaganza.
- Where: At the end of Bangla Road, on the beachfront. (map)
- How much: Generally a main noodle dish will cost around 400เธฟ (ยฃ9.46), whilst a lobster will cost around 1,250เธฟ (ยฃ29.55). (menu)
To say nothing of the competition, it's the only 'proper' restaurant I'd shout out in Patong. Yet, if there's a group of you, and you all go for the lobster or more specialized seafood dishes, it will get expensive, especially for Thailand.
Again, the Savoey specialises in Thai and seafood, with pages of each on the menu. There are 'Western' options should you wish. I loved the Thai fried chicken, and fully recommend it to those, like me, who don't like seafood.
Compared to other restaurants in Patong, the Savoey is clean, sleek and has a superior vibe. Overall, the outside area is pretty, with trees and dangling lights, lovely decking and relaxed vibes.
The food was colourful and fresh. Those who had seafood were able to hand-select their meals from the array of options at the front of the restaurant.
Everything ran seamlessly and I enjoyed the vibes as much as the food, which was gorgeous.
Where to Party when Backpacking Phuket and Phi Phi
The Phi Phi Islands and Phuket are well known for their nightlife, and it's up there with the best Thailand has to offer.
Neither location can boast anything as large as Koh Phangan's Full Moon Party, but Phi Phi and Phuket offer any night you desire, including their version of the Full Moon.
Party areas such as Patong Beach, Phuket, and the central strip of Koh Phi Phi offer relaxing beach bars, reggae bars, live music, ping-pong shows, pole dancing, fancy cocktail bars with a view, and even Muay Thai nights.
Frankly, wherever you aim you will find nightlife to suit you.
However, both offer crazy concoctions of spirits in buckets for next to nothing. Likewise, there are drunken beach games, that include fire, for anyone daring enough.
I spent most of my time on the Patong Beach strip, which has the sort of nightlife fit for any stag or hen do. Some of the best nights of my life were on that strip.
I cannot wait to get back there.
Bangla Road, Patong Beach
- What:ย Party Strip.
- Where: On Patong Beach, Phuket. (map)
Bangla Street is Phuket's answer to Kohn San Road in Bangkok.
As night falls, the street markets give way to small food huts, street performers and the night clubs spill over to the street. Likewise, the daylight fades to neon lights as the sounds of music boom through the night sky.
Your eyes take a while to adjust as your ears twitch, and without any real plan, your feet stroll to which bar they like the look of.
Each bar is distinctive and random and takes a unique approach to everything, including bringing in clients, entertainment, style and cocktails.
The main bars on Bangla aka Patong Beach include Blue Lotus, kangaroo Bar, Illuzion and the beachy-styled Cocoon.
All of the above offer games, pole dancing, ping pong shows, live music and much much more.
There's so much going on it's hard to know where to go, or what to do. It's chaotic, mad, and just darn right hilarious.
Chaokoh Road
- What: Koh Phi Phi's Party Street
- Where: A short walk northeast of Ao Ton Sai Pier. (map)
The street is only a narrow tiled sandy stretch cutting through central Phi Phi, with wires buzzing overhead and shack-like buildings running along both sides. Food huts, mainly fast food, dominate the main strip day and night alongside mini marts, tourist shops, tattoo parlours and minibars.
Days turn to night, and Phi Phi comes alive. Buckets are served in every bar, large or small.
The bars and clubs on the Phi Phi Islands are basic and lack the magic and imagination of Patong Beach, but with so many in one place, it feels alive.
Plus, when you're downing buckets of cocktails, rums, whisky and whatnot for under ยฃ5 you won't care what the bar looks like.
If you've partied in Patong Beach, Khoa San Road and Koh Phangan, you'll wonder what all the fuss is about. Nevertheless, you'll have a blast.
A couple of stops to look out for are, Reggae Bar, with a vibe that isn't always reggae, more fight'y, but in a good way and Kongsiam for a bit of live music. However, if you want to take on the party scene at cheap prices try out Backpacker Bar.
Is Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand Safe
Overall, the answer is yes, both Phi Phi Island and Phuket are safe for tourists. However, for a more in-depth look, I'll break the section into two parts.
Is Koh Phi Phi and the Phi Phi Islands Safe?
Koh Phi Phi Island is about as safe as anywhere in Thailand. Despite numerous reports of Ph Phi being dangerous for tourists, it isn't.
Don't mix up the words disappointing and dangerous. Nowadays, whilst still beautiful, Phi Phi is over-touristy, loud and over-developed. But that doesn't make it dangerous.
Having read a few blogs and ramblings from tourists who think it's dangerous, I've concluded they meant disappointing or were being stupid and participating in drunken foolishness.
Drunken Behaviour in the Koh Phi Phi Islands
At this point, I don't have any sympathy. Would you dance and limbo under a rope set alight by petrol after ten pints back home?
No! No, you wouldn't. If the answer is yes, you would, does that mean your back garden is dangerous, or were you being a drunken knob?
If you're drunk anywhere in Thailand and take part in these events, guess what, you might get burnt. That isn't the Phi Phi Islands' fault.
Nonetheless, there are a couple of things that I would agree with.
Speedboat Safety in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand
Firstly, the seas between Phuket and the Koh Phi Phi islands are known to be rough, especially during the middle of the year. You can access the Phi Phi Islands via speedboats or larger ferries. If you opt for a speed boat over the larger ferries, they take more risks and crowd the boats. It's a question of risk versus time.
Likewise, when considering boat tours around the islands, look at reputable companies, and the condition of the boats. Google reviews are great for this.
Delicious Foods on Koh Phi Phi
Throughout the whole of Thailand, Koh Phi Phi is the only place where I got serious food poisoning.
Some hotels regularly have buffet-style foods which include chicken and rice. This food is left outside in large trays and gets topped up regularly. Do not risk it. The rice is deadly and I don't expect the chicken was much better. Three of us spent a good twenty-four hours in a terrible situation - I don't think I need to explain...
Is Phuket, Thailand Safe?
Despite being the only place in Thailand where any injury occurred (Craig'o, I'm looking at you), I have to say Phuket was safe.
If it wasn't safe, would thousands of backpackers, solo travellers and families visit Phuket?
Drunken Behaviour in Phuket, Thailand
As with Phi Phi, if you're drunk and participating in a fire game on the Patong Beach Strip or swimming drunk out to sea, then you will be in more danger than if you visit a nice Buddhist temple.
If you are here to party as I was, I found a safe environment with no concerns. Yes, broken glass is around, so be careful where you walk, but in reality, as long as you're sensible, a night out in Phuket is super safe.
Driving in Phuket, Thailand
Generally, the roads were in good condition, it was simply the standard of driving that was dangerous.
During my time in Phuket, I used public transport and coaches and frankly, other than if you're a 'bad drunk' this is where you're at most risk in Phuket, Thailand.
Our bus crashed four or five times in one journey and didn't stop once. Admittedly, they were minor crashes, but other near misses could have been worse. The standard of driving is appalling, so be careful if you hire a car and drive around. For more hilarity on this topic, check out my blog - travelling through Thailand.
Other than that, I had no concerns or worries about Phuket.
Leave a Comment
Thanks for checking out my guide to Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand.
Phuket and Phi Phi Island offer contrasting experiences of Thailand. Nevertheless, they're both worth visiting.
Since Leonardo DiCaprio's 'The Beach' first appeared on our screens in 2000, Koh Phi Phi has been a dream destination for travellers and backpackers worldwide.
Phi Phi and the surrounding islands are paradise whilst Phuket, Thailand is the wild dirty older brother. Wild nights, beach days and boat trips are what the area's about.
Hopefully, that sounds like something you'd enjoy, and I hope you have as much fun here as I did.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on Phuket and Phi Phi Island, and my guide in the comments below.
If you need further help in the area drop us a comment or contact us on our Instagram.
Thanks
If you're backpacking Koh Phi Phi and Phuket, Thailand,ย you may be interested in these nearby places...
Koh Samui, Thailand – A Travel Guide
Koh Samui will be a place of memories and stories for all those who visit. Where you at?
Bangkok, Thailand – A Travel Guide
Bangkok will have you jumping for joy or crying into a comfort blanket. You risking it?
Planning a trip with few of my friends, this has been helpful! Thanks a lot.
Thank you for writing such detailed guides to Phuket (and Koh Samui). Been to Phuket twice, but still found a lot of new information.
Cheers!
No worries at all. I’m glad you found it useful. Hopefully, you’ll be there a third time very soon.