Phuket: Phi Phi Islands, Bamboo Island and Pileh Lagoon Trip

Discover the Phi Phi Islands on a Speedboat Adventure from Phuket

Travelers seeking a day of sunshine, stunning scenery, and memorable sea activity will find this Phi Phi Islands tour a compelling option. Although it’s a full-day affair, the mix of natural beauty, fun water activities, and cultural sights makes it a worthwhile experience. We love how this trip combines iconic sights like Maya Bay with quieter, picture-perfect spots like Bamboo Island and Pileh Lagoon.

It’s particularly appealing for those who want a fast-paced itinerary packed with snorkeling, swimming, and sightseeing, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide. On the flip side, the experience might feel too rushed for travelers who prefer relaxing or exploring at a more leisurely pace. Perfect for adventure-seekers and first-time visitors eager to tick off major highlights in a single day.

If you’re after a day of striking views, ocean activities, and a taste of local island life, this tour offers great value for the price. Just keep in mind that some aspects, like the Maya Bay closure in 2024, could influence your experience, so it’s good to stay updated.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Highlights include Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Pileh Lagoon—three must-see spots in the Phi Phi Archipelago.
• Speedboat transfer means quick, exciting travel between islands with opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and photos.
• Lunch by the beach provides a relaxed break amid the stunning surroundings.
• The tour includes live English guides, ensuring you get informative commentary about each location.
• Early pickup and drop-off at various Phuket locations make the trip accessible and convenient.
• Some reviews warn about strict cancellation policies, so plan accordingly if your plans change.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

This tour kicks off early in the morning with pickup from a wide selection of Phuket locations. Once onboard the speedboat, you’ll feel the thrill of speeding across the water, with the wind in your hair and anticipation building for the day ahead.

Bamboo Island: Your First Stop

Expect a roughly one-hour visit to Bamboo Island—an absolute highlight. Known for its white sands and turquoise waters, this spot is perfect for a quick swim, snorkeling, or just basking in the sun. Reviewers mention enjoying walks around the island and swimming in the clear waters, making it an ideal spot to stretch your legs after the boat ride.

Monkey Beach and Viking Cave

Next, you’ll hit Monkey Beach and Viking Cave—both quick stops for sightseeing and photos. While you won’t be allowed on Monkey Beach itself for safety reasons (and because of government restrictions), it’s still fun to observe the monkeys and take pictures from the boat. The Viking Cave, famous for its ancient paintings and bird nests, offers a quick look but no beach access, so don’t expect to explore inside.

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Lunch Break on Phi Phi Don

The tour then moves to Ko Phi Phi Don, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a beachside restaurant. This is a calmer, more relaxed part of the day, giving you time to refuel and soak in the island vibes. The setting is usually tropical and inviting, with plenty of opportunities to take coastal photos or just relax on the sand.

Pileh Lagoon: Emerald Waters

Post-lunch, the highlight is Pileh Lagoon—a truly mesmerizing spot. The emerald waters here are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or just floating around. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and beautiful this lagoon is, making it a favorite for capturing scenic photos. Optional water activities like paddleboarding can be booked at extra cost, adding a bit of adventure.

Maya Bay: Famous and Limited

The next stop is Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach.” However, due to the Maya Bay closure from August to October 2024 for conservation, access might be limited to sightseeing from afar or swimming behind the ropes. Reviewers note that while you can’t set foot on the beach during these times, the views from the boat and the chance to swim in the bay’s waters still offer a memorable experience. Guides are often knowledgeable about the park rules and conservation efforts, which adds a respectful touch to the visit.

Additional Sightseeing and Return

The final part of the trip includes passing outside Viking Cave and Monkey Beach once again, with the journey back to Phuket taking around 45 minutes. The boat ride is a fun, exhilarating way to finish your day, especially if you take in the views and snap last-minute photos.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The tour’s 8-hour duration is packed with activities, beginning with pickup around 16 different locations in Phuket—making it accessible for most travelers. The speedboat ensures quick transit, letting you maximize your time at each site, but it also means some might get a little seasick if prone to motion sickness. The group size tends to be moderate, which helps keep the experience intimate enough for personalized attention from guides.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring sunglasses, a hat, towel, and camera to capture all the scenic moments.
• Be prepared for early mornings—pickup can start as early as 6 or 7 am.
• The lunch is usually straightforward, but bringing a small snack or extra water isn’t a bad idea.
• The tour is suitable for those comfortable with water activities, as snorkeling and swimming are central parts of the day.

The Experience Guide and Review Insights

Our review of comments shows guides are generally knowledgeable and friendly, providing insights about the islands, the local environment, and conservation efforts. One reviewer from Germany appreciated the “tolle Natur, tolle Landschaft,” highlighting how well the tour showcases the natural beauty of the islands.

However, some travelers have expressed frustrations about strict cancellation policies—noting that cancellations within 24 hours may not be refunded, so it’s wise to confirm plans beforehand.

Price and Value

Given the inclusion of transport, lunch, snorkeling gear, and guided commentary, this tour offers a good balance of value. It’s a comprehensive way to experience the major highlights of the Phi Phi Islands without the hassle of planning transport or activities independently.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors to Phuket who want a snapshot of the Phi Phi Islands’ most famous sights. It suits adventurers eager for water activities and sightseeing, as well as photographers looking to capture iconic landscapes.

It’s also a practical choice for travelers short on time, as it condenses a multi-island experience into just one day. However, those seeking total relaxation or a less hurried pace may find it a bit packed for their taste.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour from Phuket delivers a high-energy day full of stunning vistas, fun water activities, and memorable moments. With knowledgeable guides and a well-organized itinerary, you’ll get to see the best of Maya Bay, Bamboo Island, and Pileh Lagoon—all in just one day.

While the busy schedule might not suit everyone, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of your time in the area. Expect gorgeous scenery, lively boat rides, and plenty of photo opportunities, all wrapped up in a tour designed for those eager to explore and enjoy.

If you value a mix of adventure and sightseeing, this trip offers a practical and rewarding way to discover the iconic Phi Phi Islands. Just keep an eye on the Maya Bay closure dates if visiting in 2024, and prepare for a fun, action-packed day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from over 16 locations in Phuket is included, and you’ll be transported to the pier by van before heading out on the speedboat.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes around 8 hours, from pickup to return to your hotel.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, towel, camera, and some extra water or snacks if you wish.

Are water activities available?
Yes, snorkeling and paddleboarding are available, with optional activities at extra cost.

Can I visit Maya Bay?
In 2024, Maya Bay will be closed from August 1st to October 1st for conservation. During this time, you’ll be able to view it from the boat and swim in the waters but not set foot on the beach.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a delicious lunch at a beachside restaurant on Phi Phi Don Island is part of the package.

What’s the group size?
Group sizes are moderate, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Are guides provided in English?
Yes, the tour includes live English-speaking guides who provide insights during the stops.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Be aware that cancellations within 24 hours are generally non-refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most water activities are suitable for children, but always check with the tour provider if you have very young kids or special needs.

This tour is a fantastic, action-packed way to tick off the major sights of the Phi Phi Islands in just one day. Expect stunning views, lively boat rides, and plenty of opportunities to swim and take photos. Perfect for adventure lovers and first-time visitors alike, it offers a memorable slice of island life—just be prepared for a busy day with plenty of fun in the sun.

You can check availability for your dates here: