Phi Phi Islands

One of the most instantly recognizable tropical islands in the world, Phi Phi Don positively shines with beauty. With its azure-and-green-to-turquoise waters and its gorgeous flora, if there were an island beauty contest Phi Phi would be Miss World. See all Phi Phi Don photos.

Before 1999's The Beach Phi Phi Leh was an enigmatic and uninhabited island near to Phi Phi Don. Nowadays it carries a mystique that's hard to shake off. Such is the power of Hollywood but few stop to realize that it still is an outstandingly beautiful island with wonderful snorkeling opportunities and breathtaking views. Phi Phi Leh is a must-see for all ages. See all Phi Phi Leh photos.

From jewelry to beach toys to tie-dyed T-shirts to name brands; you'll find it all crammed together in between Loh Dalum and Ton Sai Bay. In these back streets bargains are to be had and shopping is a fun pastime. So let yourself go and shop Thai-style – with a happy grin on your face. See all Phi Phi shopping photos.

There's something about island nightlife – people let it all hang out and get wild and free, and nowhere more so than on Phi Phi. In the labyrinth of back streets that make up Ton Sai village you'll find that special place to party. The choice is so wide that it's impossible not to have a truly great evening out. From wild to chilled-out; it's all there waiting for you. See all Phi Phi nightlife photos.

Okay – so Phi Phi may seem like the stereotypical seafood lover's paradise but when it comes to dining out you'll find out that it's a whole lot more than that. For such a small location, the range of food available is just jaw dropping and the nicest part about it is that service on Phi Phi is super-friendly. Go Italian one night then try traditional Thai the next; there are enough choices here to keep you restaurant hopping for weeks on end. See all Phi Phi restaurants photos.

The sea around Phi Phi is teeming with hundreds of species of tropical fish but you won't see any unless you get out and check them out. The ferry tour will not only get you to Phi Phi; it introduces you to all the charms surrounding this magical island. Snorkel in Maya Bay, say hello to the macaques at Monkey Beach, have a great slap-up buffet at lunchtime and then wander around the shops. All this and more is included in the ferry tour. See all Phi Phi sightseeing by ferry photos.

Diving in Phi Phi is hard to beat, 50+ sites within 30 minutes boat ride, many of the sites are as shallow as 10-15m which make for nice long colourful dives. Stunning soft coral is plentiful as are moray eels, titan trigger fish and sharks – if you're lucky you might catch a glimpse of a whale shark or manta ray at certain sites. See all Phi Phi diving photos.