Recommended spots by locals in Phuket

I was so pleased with my Phi Phi Island Day Tour (LOVE❤️ANDAMAN) in May, guided by a local tour guide, that I'd like to share my travel report.

Departing from Panwa, southern Phuket:
Great value for money "Local Phi Phi Island Day Tour"

🌴 Recommended Spots

• Maya Bay Beach: A highlight of Phi Phi Island, a World Heritage Site. Famous as the setting for the movie "The Beach," this beach boasts crystal clear waters and stunning white sand. The tour includes approximately an hour of walking time, perfect for swimming or simply enjoying the view.

• Bamboo Island: A tranquil beach and snorkeling spot. Enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, coral reefs, and colorful fish.
• Monkey Beach: A unique spot where you can see wild monkeys. However, be careful not to get too close.
• Phi Phi Don Island: A lively area perfect for lunch breaks and shopping. Recommended for those looking to experience the local atmosphere.

🗺️ Fun Tips
• Tour Schedule: Your tour guide will pick you up at your hotel around 7:00 AM and you'll check in at Panwa Port.

The tour will take you around each spot by speedboat, returning to the hotel around 4:00 PM. The tour participants are from various countries, including Westerners and South Africans, with fewer Japanese and Thai visitors.
• What to Bring: Swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are essential. A waterproof bag is also useful for the speedboat ride and snorkeling.
• Tips for Snorkeling: Maya Bay can get crowded, so follow your guide's instructions and finish your photo shoots early.

📷 Photo Tips

❶ Maya Bay Beach: Capture photos of the emerald green of the ocean in the early morning light, with the cliffs at the back of the beach as a backdrop. Early morning, when there are fewer people, is the best time.
• Bamboo Island: Photograph fish and coral with an underwater camera while snorkeling. The high visibility ensures clear photos.
❷ On the speedboat: Take dynamic photos with the islands in the background. The wind can mess up your hair, so bring a hat or headband.
❸ Pro Tip: Your guide can take group photos for you. Using a waterproof phone case makes it easy to take photos underwater and on the beach.

🍜 Recommended Food
• Tour Lunch: A buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don Island is included in the tour. The menu features authentic Thai cuisine, including chicken curry, stir-fries, and fruit. Vegetarian options are also available.
• Local Food: We recommend trying the mango sticky rice and coconut juice at the food stalls on Phi Phi Don Island. If you have free time outside the tour, you can also enjoy seafood at the island's small cafes.
• What to Bring: While beverages (water and soft drinks) are provided during the tour, it's a good idea to bring your favorite snacks and energy bars.

🎫 Tickets
• Price: Tour price is approximately 2,500 baht per adult (rate as of May 2025)

• Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off, speedboat transfer, snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks, guide, and insurance.

🚗 Transportation
• Hotel Pick-up and Drop-off: Tours include hotel pickup and drop-off from Phuket hotels.
• Speedboat: The trip to Phi Phi Island takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour. The boat seats 20-30 people and is comfortable, but be aware of rocking on rougher days.

🕝 Operating Hours
• Tour Time: Departs from hotel around 7:00 AM and returns around 4:00 PM (approximately 9 hours).
• Phi Phi Island Attractions: Maya Bay is usually open between 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Visiting hours and number of participants are limited to protect the environment.

🏷️ Other Points

• International Atmosphere: Participants are diverse, including Westerners and South Africans, and English is the primary language of communication. Guides speak English and Thai, but Japanese is largely unavailable, so basic English skills will be sufficient.

• Environmental protection: To protect the environment, Maya Bay prohibits eating, drinking, and bringing trash onto the beach. Your guide will explain the rules, so it's important to follow them.

• Season: Mid-May marks the start of the rainy season, but there are also many sunny days, making it ideal for sightseeing. It is less crowded than the high season (November to April).

• Recommendation: This tour can be enjoyed by beginners and repeat visitors alike. It offers a great balance of the exhilaration of a speedboat ride, spectacular beach views, and the fun of snorkeling, making it a very satisfying experience!