Diving in Koh Phi Phi

Koh Phi Phi is arguably Thailand’s most photogenic island group, and the underwater world matches the drama above the surface. The two main islands — Phi Phi Don (inhabited) and Phi Phi Ley (uninhabited, famous for Maya Bay) — sit at the centre of a cluster of impressive dive sites.

Diving Highlights

Koh Bida Nok and Koh Bida Nai sit just south of Phi Phi Ley and are among the finest dive sites in the Krabi region. The walls drop steeply from 3–5m depth to 30m and beyond, encrusted with sea fans, soft corals, and sponges. Resident leopard sharks rest in sandy gullies between coral heads — sightings are nearly guaranteed on most dives. Schools of barracuda, trevally, and batfish add to the spectacle.

Phi Phi Ley itself offers excellent diving around its dramatic cliff faces, particularly on its northwestern corner where sea fans and hard coral compete for space.

Day Trips to Premium Sites

Phi Phi is well-positioned for day trips to Hin Daeng and Hin Muang (around 1.5h south), bringing the famous manta ray and whale shark encounters within easy reach without a liveaboard commitment.

Dive Conditions

• Best season: November–May
• Water temperature: 27–29°C
• Visibility: 10–20m at local sites
• Currents: Generally mild; can increase at Koh Bida tips