Phi Phi Islands: Speed Boat Day Trip with Snorkeling & Lunch

Summary

Speed boat to phi phi islands from ao nang for snorkeling swimming monkey beach lunch

You’ll race over turquoise water by speed boat from Ao Nang to explore Phi Phi’s famous beaches and lagoons with a local guide. Swim and snorkel around coral reefs, spot cheeky monkeys at Monkey Beach, enjoy a buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don—and maybe pick up a new Thai word or two along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll just say it: I almost missed the pickup. My phone alarm went off but I’d somehow convinced myself it was a dream—classic. The driver waited, though (bless him), and even joked about my “island time” when I hopped in. So that’s how my day trip to the Phi Phi Islands from Ao Nang started, a bit flustered but grinning anyway.

Our guide, Li, had this way of making everyone relax right away—she handed out masks and snacks as we sped across the water, spray cool on my face and that salty smell everywhere. First stop was Viking Cave; we didn’t go in, just drifted close while Li pointed out where locals collect birds’ nests for soup. She tried to teach us the Thai word for swiftlet but honestly, I mangled it so badly she laughed out loud. The cliffs looked ancient, streaked with dark lines like someone painted them in a hurry.

Maya Bay was closed for rehab (Li explained why—sounded important), so we anchored near another cove instead. The water there was almost unreal—clear enough to see every ripple of sand under our toes. I floated on my back listening to nothing but distant engines and someone’s laughter echoing off the rocks. Later at Monkey Beach, the monkeys were bold but not as cute up close as you’d think—one tried to grab my bag of chips and I nearly lost a finger (kidding… sort of). Lunch was a halal buffet at Phi Phi Don; not fancy but exactly what you want after swimming all morning—rice sticky from steam and sweet pineapple that tasted like sunshine.

I still think about Bamboo Island—the quiet there felt different than anywhere else on the tour. Just white sand underfoot, tiny waves lapping at your ankles, and nobody rushing you along. On the ride back to Krabi, sunburnt and tired in that good way, Li handed out cold drinks and asked if anyone had learned any Thai words today. Not sure “swiftlet” counts, but it made us all laugh again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phi Phi Islands speed boat tour

• Depart from accommodation at 9:00am
• Photo stop at Viking Cave
• Swim and take photos at Pileh Bay
• Snorkel around Phi Phi Leh
• Visit Monkey Beach on Phi Phi Don
• Snorkel around Phi Phi Don
• Relax and snorkel at Bamboo Island
• Buffet lunch at Halal restaurant
• Return to accommodation

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this Phi Phi Islands day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup from Ao Nang is included in the tour package.

What is included in the lunch during the tour?

The tour includes a buffet lunch at Phi Phi Don with halal food and vegetarian options available.

Can I snorkel during this day trip?

Yes, snorkeling equipment is provided and there are two snorkeling stops around Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don.

Is Maya Bay open year-round?

No, Maya Bay is closed from August 1 to October 1 each year for environmental rehabilitation.

How long do we spend at Monkey Beach?

You’ll have about 45–60 minutes to experience Monkey Beach during the tour.

Are national park fees included in the price?

No, national park fees are paid separately during check-in before departure.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are drinks provided on board?

Bottled drinking water, soft drinks, fruits, and snacks are provided on the boat.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Ao Nang or meeting point transfer back after sunset; all speed boat travel between islands; use of snorkeling gear; bottled water plus soft drinks and snacks on board; buffet lunch at a halal restaurant on Phi Phi Don with vegetarian options; travel insurance; plus an English-speaking local guide who keeps things running smoothly (and sometimes teaches you random Thai words).