Phi Phi Islands: Speedboat Day Trip, Maya Bay & Lunch

Summary

Speed across turquoise water to Maya Bay and Monkey Beach for snorkeling, laughter, and Thai food

You’ll race across clear water by speedboat from Phuket to the famous Phi Phi Islands—snorkel in Pileh Lagoon, spot monkeys from your boat at Monkey Beach, walk the white sands of Maya Bay (no swimming allowed), and refuel with a Thai buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don. Expect laughter, salty skin, and moments of quiet awe between island stops.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to feel the wind whip this hard as we pulled away from Phuket’s marina — my hair was everywhere, but it felt good. Our guide, Nok, handed out seasick pills with a grin (“just in case!”), and I sipped sweet coffee while trying not to overthink the speedboat part. The early light made everything look washed out at first, but then the colors started popping as we got closer to the Phi Phi Islands. There was this moment when the engine cut and all you could hear was water slapping against the hull — that’s when I realized how far we’d come from city noise.

Pileh Lagoon looked almost fake, honestly. Nok pointed out where you could paddleboard or just float for a bit — I tried both and ended up laughing at myself more than anything. Snorkeling here is wild; I kept swallowing saltwater because I couldn’t stop grinning at these electric blue fish darting around. Lunch happened on Phi Phi Don (buffet style, lots of options — they checked about allergies too). Sitting there with sand stuck to my legs and curry on my plate felt oddly perfect. There’s something about eating after swimming that makes every bite taste better.

Monkey Beach was next — but don’t get your hopes up about cuddling monkeys. We watched them from the boat (Nok kept reminding us they bite; apparently tourists forget). They really do just hang out like tiny beach bosses. Maya Bay came after that, with its movie-famous cliffs. You can’t swim there now (reef protection), but walking barefoot in that powdery sand was enough for me. The sun hit everything so bright it almost hurt my eyes.

I’m still thinking about that ride back: everyone kind of quiet, sunburned in patches, sharing fruit and stories while Phuket crept back into view. If you’re looking for a day trip to Phi Phi Islands from Phuket that gives you both chaos (in a fun way) and those weirdly peaceful moments where you just stare at blue water… yeah, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Phi Phi Island speedboat day trip

• Pickup from Phuket hotel at 7:30 AM
• Arrive at Marina for welcome and briefing
• Depart from Marina at 9:25 AM
• Visit Pi Leh Bay for swimming and snorkeling
• Stop at Monkey Beach for photos from boat
• Explore Maya Bay and walk to the beach
• Visit Loh Samah Bay for marine life viewing
• Lunch on Phi Phi Don island
• Relax and snorkel at Koh Khai Nok island
• Return to Marina around 5:30 PM
• Transfer back to Phuket hotel by 7:00 PM

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for the Phi Phi Islands speedboat tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most areas in Phuket.

Can I swim at Maya Bay during this day trip?

No, swimming is currently prohibited at Maya Bay to protect the reef ecosystem.

Are national park fees included in the tour price?

No, national park fees must be paid separately at the marina before departure.

Is lunch provided on this day trip?

Yes, a buffet lunch is served on Phi Phi Don with vegetarian options available.

Will we see monkeys up close at Monkey Beach?

You will observe monkeys from the boat for safety; landing is not permitted due to risk of bites.

What should I bring for the tour?

Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, towel, swimsuit under clothes, change of clothes if needed.

Are snorkeling masks provided?

Yes, snorkeling masks and tubes are provided during stops like Pileh Lagoon.

How long does the full tour take?

The tour lasts all day—pickup around 7:30 AM and return to your hotel between 6:45-7:00 PM.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup and drop-off from most Phuket hotels or villas by air-conditioned minibus; morning coffee or tea with Thai snacks at the marina; use of snorkeling equipment; paddleboards at Khai Island; fresh fruit and soft drinks onboard; plus a buffet Thai lunch with vegetarian choices served on Phi Phi Don before heading back in the evening.