Full-Day Phi Phi Islands Tour with Lunch from Krabi

Travelers looking for a mix of stunning scenery, snorkeling adventures, and a taste of Thailand’s famous islands will find this full-day Phi Phi Islands tour hard to beat. This experience, rated 5.0 out of 5 with over 1,200 reviews, promises a well-organized day that combines natural beauty with thoughtful touches like an early start and a hearty buffet lunch.

What we love about this tour? First, the early departure helps beat the crowds at the most popular spots, giving you a more intimate experience. Second, the comprehensive itinerary hits all the highlights—from Maya Bay to Monkey Beach—without feeling rushed. Lastly, the friendly, knowledgeable guides receive praise for their helpfulness and engaging commentary, making the entire trip enjoyable and informative.

One consideration? Since the tour depends on weather and sea conditions, snorkeling and additional stops might be affected, so flexibility is key. Still, for those seeking a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic scenery, this tour stays in the positive zone.

Perfect for anyone wanting a full day of island-hopping, snorkeling, and lounging, especially if avoiding large crowds and enjoying good value for money matter to you.

Key Points

• Early start allows access to Maya Bay before the crowds arrive
• Snorkeling spots are highlighted with expert guides showing you the best marine life
• Delicious buffet lunch on the beach, with vegetarian options available
• All-inclusive fees mean no hidden costs—park fees, water, soda, and coffee are covered
• Small group size ensures a more personal experience, capped at 17 travelers
• Weather-dependent activities mean some stops or snorkeling may be affected by sea conditions

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at the Dawn: Maya Bay Before the Crowds

The tour kicks off early at 8 am, a strategic move that makes all the difference. Reviews consistently praise this timing; one reviewer, Pamela, notes, “We got to Maya Bay so early that there were hardly any crowds,” allowing for photos free of selfie-sticks and a more peaceful experience. Maya Bay, made famous by “The Beach,” is incredibly photogenic with its towering limestone cliffs and clear waters. The fact that admission is free at this stop makes it even more appealing—you’re paying for the experience, not the beach fee.

Ko Phi Phi Lee and the Lagoon

Next, you’ll visit Ko Phi Phi Lee, an inhabited island renowned for its Lagoon and quiet beaches. Here, there’s plenty of opportunity for swimming and relaxing. The review from Lisa highlights that we spend “the right amount of time at each location,” ensuring you don’t feel rushed and have time to truly soak in the surroundings. The lagoon itself is a serene spot, perfect for a dip after snorkeling.

Snorkeling at Viking Bay and Monkey Beach

One of the tour’s highlights, as echoed in many reviews, is snorkeling at Viking Bay. The guides provide a briefing, making sure everyone knows what to look for—whether it’s colorful fish or marine coral. Many reviewers, like Sarah and Jason, mention seeing incredible wildlife and appreciating the guides’ help pointing out marine creatures.

Monkey Beach offers a quick stop to observe the energetic monkeys and walk along the white sands. The 30-minute stay is enough to snap some photos and enjoy the playful monkeys without feeling hurried.

Bamboo Island and the Private Beaches

Bamboo Island is the smallest stop, but one that leaves a good impression. Its pristine sands and calm waters make it ideal for a quick swim or just relaxing on soft sand. Tourists have raved about the chance to unwind here, with some mentioning the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful moment before heading back to the busier parts of the archipelago.

Visiting Viking Cave and Other Highlights

A short stop at Viking Cave reveals a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history and the famous bird nests inside—an expensive delicacy used in bird nest soup. The guide’s commentary, including insights about the bird nests and local culture, adds depth to the experience, according to reviews. The brief 5-minute visit keeps the schedule tight but informative.

The Scenic Journey and Expert Guides

Throughout the day, the guides—like Eggy, Stephane, and Harris—are praised for their professionalism and friendly demeanor. They provide on-board commentary, fish ID briefs, and safety instructions, making the experience both fun and secure. Reviewers often mention how guides “helped even non-swimmers snorkel,” showing their dedication to guest safety and enjoyment.

The Food and Comfort

The included buffet lunch on the beach is another highlight, with many reviews praising the quality. Vegetarian options are available upon request, and fresh fruits, water, soda, and coffee keep everyone energized. The lunch setting is casual but satisfying, offering a break to refuel before more swimming or relaxing.

The tour supplies life jackets, snorkeling gear, and a guiding book with island info, so you won’t need to bring much besides sunscreen and a swimsuit. The boat itself is described as clean and comfortable, with a small maximum group size of 17, promoting a more personal atmosphere.

Transportation and Convenience

The tour operates via speedboat, cutting down travel time and allowing more time at each site. Pickup is offered from various locations in Ao Nang, with specific meeting points, or you can opt for private transfers. The early start at 8 am is a plus for early risers wanting to maximize their day in paradise.

Reviewers appreciate the organized approach: one mentions that the guides ensure everyone makes it back safely and that the whole experience is smooth from start to finish. However, a note for travelers staying outside Ao Nang—additional transfer costs apply, so factor that into your budget.

Pricing and Value

At $118.04 per person, this tour offers a good value considering all inclusions: park fees, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary. Many reviews, such as Pamela’s, emphasize the quality of the experience and helpful guides, which justify the price.

When comparing this to local ticket prices or cheaper tours, the added benefits of early access, small group size, and expert guidance stand out as worth the extra investment. The tour balances cost with quality, making it suitable for those who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day with plenty of sights.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits travelers who want to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands without the chaos of crowded boats. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a well-organized day with plenty of snorkeling, photo opportunities, and a relaxing lunch. Families with children over 4 years old will find the pace manageable, especially since reviews note that guides help even non-swimmers enjoy the water.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it perfect for travelers who seek more personal attention and insider insight. If you’re keen to avoid long lines and enjoy a mix of adventure and downtime, this tour hits the sweet spot.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 8:00 am, with specific meeting points in Ao Nang or private transfers available earlier or later depending on your location.

Does the tour include park fees?
Yes, all national park fees are included in the price, so you won’t need to pay extra at the islands.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimsuit, towel, and perhaps waterproof camera or phone case. Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided.

Are vegetarian options available for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian meals can be requested in advance, and the buffet lunch is served on the beach.

Can children join?
Children aged 4 and above can participate, provided they are accompanied by an adult.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, guides help non-swimmers enjoy snorkeling with life jackets and support.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates only in good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 17 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience compared to larger boats.

What if I want a transfer from Krabi or other locations?
Round-trip transfers from Klong Muang, Krabi Town, or Tup Kaek can be arranged for additional fees.

This Full-Day Phi Phi Islands tour from Krabi offers a well-rounded experience that combines iconic sights, expert-guided activities, and good food. The early start means fewer crowds at Maya Bay, and the small group size fosters a relaxed, personalized vibe. Many reviewers appreciate the helpful guides and the chance to snorkel at prime spots, making it a top choice for travelers wanting a memorable day in paradise.

If you’re after a blend of adventure, relaxation, and the chance to capture stunning photos without the crowds, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember to bring your sunscreen and a sense of adventure—this day promises plenty of both.