From Phuket Or Khao Lak: Phi Phi Islands Early Bird Tour

Planning a trip to Thailand and dreaming of those picture-perfect island scenes? The Phi Phi Islands Early Bird Tour promises an experience free from the crowds, starting at dawn and taking you to the most iconic spots before the day-trippers arrive. While we haven’t done it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-structured, value-packed day filled with memorable sights, tasty food, and expert guides.

What really catches our attention are the early start advantages, the unique view from the Phi Phi Don viewpoint, and the quality of the boat experience. Plus, you get longer beach and snorkeling stops than most mainstream tours. But keep in mind, the early wake-up (around 4:15am for pickup) might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer sleeping in. This tour is perfect for travelers craving an authentic, less crowded look at the islands, and who don’t mind an early start to beat the crowds.

Key Points

• Less Crowded Experience: Arriving early means fewer travelers, giving you better photo opportunities and a more relaxed vibe.
• Exclusive Access: The only tour to include the Phi Phi Don viewpoint, offering panoramic vistas you won’t get elsewhere.
• Longer Stopovers: Extended beach, snorkel, and swim sessions at prime locations like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island.
• High-Quality Speedboats: Comfortable, fast, and well-maintained vessels that make the journey enjoyable.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides (English, Spanish, French, German, Italian) make the experience more engaging.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: Breakfast, lunch, and plentiful drinks ensure you stay energized throughout the day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Early Pickup and Speedboat Ride

Starting early from either Phuket or Khao Lak, you’ll be picked up in a comfortable mini-van, with many reviews mentioning punctual and courteous drivers. The one-hour speedboat ride to the islands is quick and exhilarating, with most travelers noting the boat’s smooth ride and good condition. Expect to be on the water before sunrise, which means safely watching the sky change colors as you head toward your first stop.

Maya Bay – The Iconic Scene

Maya Bay, made world-famous by “The Beach,” is the first major stop. Our sources confirm that arriving early means you get to see Maya Bay with fewer people, making for fantastic photos. Though some reviews mention Maya Bay can still be quite busy, arriving before noon means you’ll avoid the worst crowds. You’ll have around 20 minutes here, enough for photos, a quick walk, and just soaking in the scenery.

Pileh Lagoon – A Refreshing Swim

Next, the tour heads to Pileh Lagoon, renowned for its clear, calm waters. One reviewer described it as a “swimming break in the lagoon,” highlighting its serenity and beauty. With around 40 minutes here, you’ll have ample time to float, snap photos, or just relax on the boat’s deck while soaking in the views of towering limestone cliffs.

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Monkey Beach and Viking Cave

The tour continues with a visit to Monkey Beach, where you can observe playful macaques from the boat. Reviewers mention spotting monkeys from afar, sometimes with a quick swim or just sightseeing. Viking Cave, another quick stop, is best known for its historical significance and bird nests (not for climbing or exploring inside). It’s a quick sightseeing stop, but some reviews mention they appreciated the chance to see the cave from the boat despite it being briefly closed during certain trips.

Hiking to Phi Phi Don Viewpoint

The highlight for many is the hike up to the Phi Phi Don viewpoint. Reviews rave about this climb, describing it as a “must-do” for panoramic views over the islands and town. The ascent takes about 1 hour, but most find it worth every step. One reviewer noted, “The view from the top is totally worth the climb,” and it offers a different perspective compared to the usual beach photos.

Snorkeling and Beach Time

Following the viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a long snorkeling session around the island. Many reviews emphasize the abundance of fish and the chance to see baby sharks, starfish, and coral. Guides often jump in with you, which is a huge plus for those who might be hesitant about swimming in open water. The boat provides snorkel gear, but some reviews suggest bringing your own mask for a better fit.

The last stop is Bamboo Island, where a picnic lunch awaits. The beach here is described as “paradise,” with reviewers mentioning the soft sand, clear waters, and plenty of space to relax or swim. The extended time (about an hour) allows for a leisurely lunch, optional swimming, and beach lounging. It’s a perfect way to wind down the day.

Return Trip

The return journey is another hour on the speedboat, with most reviews describing it as a fun, high-speed ride across the waves, sometimes choppy but exhilarating. The crew is often praised for their professionalism, ensuring safety and comfort, even in rougher conditions.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unique Early Start Advantage

Most tours to the Phi Phi Islands start later in the day, meaning you share the beaches with dozens or hundreds of other visitors. This tour’s early departure allows you to enjoy the islands in relative peace, with some reviewers claiming they had the beaches nearly to themselves during the first hours.

Exclusive Access to Phi Phi Don Viewpoint

Only this tour offers the chance to hike up to the Phi Phi Don viewpoint, which offers sweeping views over the islands and the city below. Enthusiasts praised the climb as both challenging and rewarding, with some saying it was a “must-do” for photography and sightseeing.

Longer, More Relaxed Stops

Compared to standard tours, you’ll notice the extra time allocated for snorkeling and beach breaks. As one reviewer put it, “The snorkeling stop was long enough to see a variety of fish and even baby sharks,” while lunch on Bamboo Island felt more like a genuine picnic rather than a rushed meal.

High-Quality Speedboats

Guests generally agree that the boats are modern and fast, making the journey comfortable. The speed and stability of the boats contribute significantly to the overall enjoyment, especially when heading back in choppy seas.

Knowledgeable Guides and Friendly Crew

Multiple reviews highlight guides like Lucky, Lily, and Yaya for their friendliness, humor, and local knowledge. They are praised for making everyone feel safe and included, often jumping in to help less confident swimmers or answer questions.

Good Food and Drinks

Breakfast and lunch are frequently described as tasty and plentiful, with some reviewers mentioning the wide choice of vegetarian options. Drinks aboard are generous, and branded sodas are a plus, making the day feel more upscale.

Practical Considerations

Timing and Group Size

Most travelers appreciate the group size—around 20-38 people—in keeping the experience intimate but lively. The early start means the day begins around 4:15am for pickup, with the tour lasting 8-9 hours. While an early wake-up might be a challenge for some, reviews confirm the effort is well worth the quieter, more relaxed experience.

Transportation and Comfort

Pickup from either Phuket or Khao Lak is included. The mini-van is comfortable, with some reviewers noting the punctuality and courteous drivers. The speedboats are described as clean and fast, though the return trip can be bumpy if seas are rough.

Cost and Value

While not cheap, reviews consistently mention good value for money—particularly when considering the fewer crowds, exclusive viewpoints, and long stops. The all-day adventure, guided commentary, meals, and drinks included make this a comprehensive package.

What to Bring

Travelers should come prepared with sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sandals, sunscreen, and a camera. Cash is recommended for extra purchases or souvenirs in the islands.

Restrictions

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, children under 2, or those over 75. People with back or heart problems should consider their health before booking.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviewers mention guides by name, such as Lucky, Yaya, and Lilly, praising their humor and knowledge. One said, “Yaya made the trip memorable with her care and fun stories,” while others appreciated the crew’s professionalism in rough seas. Some found the beach at Bamboo Island getting crowded later in the day, but the early start kept the experience peaceful. Several guests raved about the snorkeling, describing it as “fish-filled and magical,” while others appreciated the opportunity to feed fish with bananas, a highlight for many.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This early bird Phi Phi Islands tour is perfect for travelers who want a quieter, more scenic, and authentic experience. If beating the crowds, hiking the island viewpoint, and taking longer breaks sound appealing, this trip won’t disappoint. It’s suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, relaxation, and fantastic scenery, and who don’t mind an early morning start.

However, if you’re after a laid-back, lazy vacation or traveling with very young children or people with health issues, this might not be the best choice. The shorter, more crowded alternatives could suit you better.

In short, for the adventurous at heart and those seeking a memorable, less commercialized day, this tour offers great value and authentic experiences — a clean and fun way to see the iconic Phi Phi Islands before everyone else arrives.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 2 years old, and activities like hiking may be too strenuous for very young kids. Always check with the operator if you have concerns.

What is the pickup time?
Pickup is generally around 4:15am, depending on your location, so be prepared for an early start.

How long is the boat ride?
The speedboat ride to the islands takes approximately 1 hour each way, offering an exciting start and finish to the day.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast at the start and a picnic lunch on Bamboo Island. Drinks aboard are also provided throughout the day.

Can I snorkel if I can’t swim?
Snorkel gear is available, and guides often assist beginners. Some reviews mention snorkeling with a life jacket, so even non-swimmers can enjoy the underwater world safely.

Is Maya Bay always open?
Not necessarily; Maya Bay can be closed during certain times, but the early start allows you to visit when it’s less crowded. Always check current conditions.

How crowded are the beaches later in the day?
Most travelers agree that arriving early means fewer people, especially at Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, which can be very crowded in the afternoon.

Are the boats comfortable?
Guests describe the boats as modern, fast, and well-maintained, though the return trip can be choppy in rough seas.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, swimwear, towels, sandals, sunscreen, camera, cash, and any personal snacks or medications.

Is there a bathroom on board?
This detail isn’t explicitly mentioned, but given the tour length and nature, it’s advisable to bring any essentials you might need.

In summary, this early morning tour offers a rare chance to explore the Phi Phi Islands with fewer people, including access to exclusive viewpoints and longer snorkeling stops. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, boat quality is high, and the overall experience is packed with stunning scenery and memorable moments. It’s an excellent pick for travelers seeking a more authentic and peaceful island adventure in Thailand.

You can check availability for your dates here: