Phi Phi Islands
Lying off the coast of Krabi, the twin Phi Phi islands, made famous as the location for the movie "The Beach", more than match the scenic wonder of the mainland. The larger, Phi Phi Don, is shaped like a lopsided butterfly with a thin strand joining the two 'wings', the left side is a sheer scrub-covered cliff soaring hundreds of feet above the sea, while the right-hand span is formed by a jungle-clad spine flanked on either side by palm-fringed beaches. The centre of the island and main access point, Tonsai Bay, has been considerably developed in recent years, sprouting a cluster of bungalow accommodation, restaurants and souvenir shops. The smaller Phi Phi Le island, however, is different in every way, uninhabited and more rugged. Aside from its exceptional beauty, the attraction lies in its ability to surprise. A survey by boat leads to serendipitous discoveries of picturesque coves, secret little spots that widen out from half-hidden openings into sizable bays, indescribably beautiful expanses of shallow, placid turquoise water walled in by high cliffs.

Getting There
The Phi Phi islands are roughly equidistant from Phuket and Krabi. Both tour and charter boats from Phuket depart from various piers on the island, while in Krabi ferry boats and charters are available from Chao Fah Pier and from Ao Nang.