Things to do
Snorkelling
Warm, clear water and reefs a few metres from the shore make Phi Phi one of the best snorkelling destinations in Thailand. You will see parrotfish and clownfish on almost every trip, and with luck turtles and blacktip reef sharks.
Best snorkelling spots
| Spot | Access | What you see |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach & Shark Point | Shore or short boat | Reef fish, blacktip reef sharks early morning |
| Bamboo Island | Boat | Shallow reef, colourful fish |
| Mosquito Island | Boat | Corals, giant clams, schooling fish |
| Phi Phi Leh walls | Boat | Coral walls, sometimes turtles |
| Ranti Bay | Hike or boat | Hard corals close to shore |
| Monkey Beach & Nui Bay | Kayak or boat | Rocky reefs, fish |
Book Snorkelling Trips to Bamboo Island & Shark Point
Join half-day and full-day guided snorkelling trips to Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island and the Phi Phi Leh cliffs. Snorkel gear and park fees included on select tours.
- Mask, snorkel & life vests provided
- Stops at Shark Point & Bamboo Island
- Small group & private longtail options
Shore or boat?
Shore snorkelling at Long Beach or Ranti is free and relaxed; go at mid to high tide. Boat trips reach the best reefs around the outer islands and Phi Phi Leh, and the crew knows where the current is gentle. See Boat tours.
Reef-friendly snorkelling
- Do not touch, kick or stand on coral; it is a living animal and dies when damaged.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen, or better, a long-sleeved rash guard.
- Do not feed fish; it changes their behaviour and harms the reef.
- Wear a life jacket or snorkel vest if you are not a confident swimmer.
- Stay away from boat lanes and use a bright buoy if possible.
Gear
Masks, snorkels and fins are included on tours and can be rented in Tonsai. If you snorkel a lot, bring your own mask for a better fit.