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Scuba Diving at the Phi Phi Islands

There's a popular destination for diving and snorkeling in the Andaman Sea that's teeming with colourful reef fish and pristine coral formations.

This section contains essential information about the dive sites at Koh Phi Phi, including the depth limits and what kind of marine life scuba divers and snorkelers can see.

When is the Best Season to Dive at Phi Phi?

Koh Phi Phi is an archipelago of six islands in Krabi Province, southern Thailand. The top locations for scuba diving and snorkeling are:

They are all first-rate destinations for divers. But, Phi Phi Don is the only inhabited island in the group, and it has a total land mass of twelve (12) square kilometres.

A combination of stunning scenery, pristine white sand beaches, and cobalt blue water has transformed Koh Phi Phi Islands into one of the top landing places for diving holidays in Thailand.

Here's the thing:

Koh Phi Phi dive sites get around three hundred days of sunshine per year and the water temperature rarely drops below 29° Celsius (84° Fahrenheit).

As a consequence of that, it's fair to say diving in Phi Phi is an annual activity. But, divers need to be mindful that the southwest monsoons usually arrive towards the end of May and continue through to the end of October.

At certain times of the year, the Andaman Sea can produce thirty (30) metres of underwater visibility. So, the best months for divers to enjoy clear water dives are January, February, and March.

Pro Tip: Check out our sea life section for interesting facts about whale sharks and manta rays that often make an appearance around the islands during the plankton-rich months between June and October.

Marine Life at Koh Phi Phi Islands

Imagine a topside characterised by breathtaking landscapes and rugged limestone walls. Then, the combination of huge rock formations and various types of soft corals create a stunning backdrop of underwater topography.

Phi Phi diving spots are great places to see big fishes (e.g. pelagics). Plus, divers should expect to catch sightings of macro marine life as well, including:

Some of the southern islands have become key breeding grounds for large marine reptiles (e.g. turtles). In fact, there are regular events to reintroduce juvenile turtles back into the vibrant ecosystems and help stimulate the growth of colourful coral reefs.

List of Phi Phi Dive Sites

Ao Maya Beach

The idyllic beach on the south-west side of Phi Phi Leh is best remembered as the paradise location chosen for the famous movie called "The Beach".

As a consequence of that, if you go diving and snorkeling at Ao Maya Bay you'll be swimming in a stunning lagoon surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs.


Bida Nai

Bida Nai


Bida Nok

Bida Nok


Hin Bida

Hin Bida


Hin Daeng

Hin Daeng


Hin Dot

Hin Dot


Hin Muang

Hin Muang


Loh Samah Bay

The sandy areas inside the shallow turquoise cove are popular with snorkelers and novice divers who want to see colourful tropical fishes - while avoiding strong water currents and choppy seas.

So, diving and snorkeling at Loh Samah Bay in Phi Phi takes place near the southern coastline at the base of towering limestone walls and pinnacles.


Related Information and Help Guides

Getting to Koh Phi Phi Island

The Phi Phi Islands are situated in the Andaman Sea around 45 kilometres from the popular holiday resort of Phuket, Thailand.

In general, international travelers choose to fly into Bangkok Airport (BKK) and then get a ninety minute connecting flight, either to Krabi or Phuket. The public ferry from Phuket to Koh Phi Phi takes around three (3) hours.

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