I have to confess—I’m guilty of making many classic first-timer mistakes when I first came to Thailand years ago. But the good news is, you don’t have to! I’m here to make your trip smoother with some honest “I wish I knew then” tips for visiting Phi Phi Island (and Thailand in general).
10 MISTAKES TO AVOID WHEN COMING TO KOH PHI PHI:
- Don’t wear the wrong clothes
- Don’t overpack
- Explore
- Don’t assume everything is cheap
- Don’t feed and pet wild monkeys
- Keep your drinking under control
- Don’t choose a crappy boat trip
- Don’t buy souvenirs from teeth and shells
- Don’t support animal abuse
- Don’t underestimate the sun
1. WHAT (NOT) TO WEAR
Phi Phi Island has a super chilled vibe, and the dress code is much more relaxed compared to the mainland.
It’s totally acceptable to walk around in swimsuits, bikinis, and shorts during the day. However, sunbathing topless is a big no-no, as the island has a large Muslim community. It’s also frowned upon to sit shirtless in restaurants—especially in the evening.
Another thing to be aware of is the no-shoes policy in many shops, clinics, some restaurants, and hotels. If you see a pile of shoes outside—yep, it’s your cue to take yours off too.
Need to know: When visiting any Buddhist temples, memorials, or official buildings, proper clothing is a must. There’s nothing worse than seeing clueless tourists in tank tops and hot pants at a temple. If you want to avoid embarrassment—or being turned away—pack at least one top with sleeves and a pair of long pants or a skirt.
2. OVERPACKING
As mentioned above, Phi Phi Island has a very relaxed and informal vibe. Koh Phi Phi is essentially a small village of fishermen and local sea gypsies, and life here moves at a laid-back pace.
You’ll likely spend most of your days in swimsuits and sarongs, so don’t go overboard with your packing.
Save the high heels, evening gowns, and hair straighteners for your trip to Paris. Chances are, you’ll end up walking around barefoot in an “I ❤️ Phi Phi” T-shirt anyway.
3. EXPLORE
There are plenty of stunning, quiet spots within walking distance from the main town, and some beautiful secluded bungalows tucked away on peaceful beaches.
Don’t just settle on the first stretch of sand you see—go and explore the island! DO YOUR RESEARCH on the different areas of Phi Phi before you book, especially if you’re after peace and tranquility.
Here’s a tip: don’t book a 400 THB-a-night hostel room in the middle of the party zone and then expect a restful night’s sleep.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH PHI PHI?
My pick of the best hotels in Phi Phi Island in all price categories.
4. ASSUMING EVERYTHING IS CHEAP
OK, so it’s not the 90s anymore—don’t expect prices to be the same as they were 30 years ago. Thailand has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, and for good reason.
Compared to places like Europe, the Caribbean, or Mexico, Thailand is still incredibly affordable. But keep things in perspective: don’t haggle with a local shop owner over 100 baht. For you, it’s just small change, but for them, it’s part of their livelihood.
5. PETTING WILD MONKEYS
The monkeys here are cute and fascinating, but remember—they are wild animals. If you don’t want to end up in a clinic getting a rabies vaccination, just admire them from a safe distance and watch others who didn’t follow that advice get attacked.
Respect the warning signs and don’t feed the monkeys. Feeding them harms their natural behavior—once they rely on humans for food, they stop hunting and start coming into town. This can be tragic, especially with so many exposed electric wires around.
6. KNOWING WHAT YOU DRINK
Phi Phi is famous for its nightlife and beach parties, and with that comes cheap booze and buckets. It’s all fun and games until the morning after, when you wake up with no memory of the night before—and one big hangover.
Try to avoid the super cheap buckets and instead pay a little more for a decent drink, or just stick to a beer. Your future self will thank you!
7. DON’T CHOOSE A CRAPPY BOAT TRIP
I’ve heard and read hundreds of awful reviews from tourists about bad tour experiences. When booking your trip, make sure you speak to someone who really knows what they’re talking about.
Always arrange your tours through a licensed agency, like our office visatravelphiphi. Look out for the TAT license sign—this means you don’t have to worry about cancellations, refund issues, and your travel insurance will cover you if anything goes wrong.
There are hundreds of travel shops all over Phi Phi village, and trust me—the cheapest option is usually the worst. I always say: it’s worth paying a little more to have the best experience possible, rather than saving 200 baht and ending up with another bad review to write.
8. SOUVENIRS
When buying souvenirs, please make sure you don’t purchase items made from seashells, coral, shark teeth, or similar materials—these are all forbidden to export. Such items will be confiscated at customs, and you could face hefty fines. The same goes for collecting shells and stones from the beach to bring home. I know it’s tempting to bring a little shell for your mum, but let’s try to preserve nature and leave these treasures where they belong.
Also, not many people know that it’s illegal to import pictures, paintings, or posters of Buddha images, as well as Buddha statues, without a special permit. Of course, the shop sellers won’t tell you this, but you can get into serious trouble trying to bring these items home, as Thai people take these rules very seriously.
MORE ABOUT SOUVENIRS AND THAI CULTURE HERE: What (Not) To Do In Thailand
9. ANIMAL “SANCTUARIES”
This point isn’t specific to Phi Phi, but it’s important for anyone visiting Thailand. PLEASE do not support businesses offering elephant rides, tiger “sanctuaries,” dolphin shows, zoos, or similar attractions—unless you want to be part of animal cruelty. If you truly want to see elephants, do your research and find a genuine sanctuary that cares for retired and rescued animals.
Here is my list of Ethical Elephants Sanctuaries in Thailand. But please also do your own research to ensure you’re supporting the right place.
10. SUN-KISSED, NOT TRIPLE BAKED
Always keep a generous layer of SPF 50 sunscreen on your body and face—unless you want to end up looking like a freshly cooked lobster. Sometimes just 20 minutes in the midday sun is enough to ruin the rest of your holiday.
