Updated: September 2024
When the weather turns moody, it’s not an ideal vacation, especially on a small island. But don’t lose your good spirit and make the most of it.
Get out your rain poncho and explore the island, and I’m sure you will make some great memories even in the rain.
Here are some ideas for you on what to do in Koh Phi Phi when it rains.
1 Go Swimming
Unless there is the end-of-the-world and stormy weather outside, you can still enjoy swimming and snorkeling the bays of the main island of Koh Phi Phi Don. You are wet from the rain already, so why not? The sea is around 29C and will be warmer than the air during the rainy day. Please stay out of the sea during storms, heavy rain, or strong wind.
2 Hike to the Viewpoint
Take a hike to the top of the island. On rainy days, wear a raincoat and some non-slippery shoes, and enjoy the fresh air during the hike. You can find all you need to know about phi phi viewpoint here.
3 Enjoy a massage
What better way of spending a rainy day, than treating yourself to a relaxing oil massage? Check out the Anita massage for the best experience.
4 Walk to Long Beach
Enjoy a nice stroll from the town along the coastline, which will lead you to Long Beach and Loh Modee Beach. You can stop here for lunch or drinks, and if the weaves are not too big, you can swim in the sea.
Do not swim out to Shark Point on a rough sea day. There can be a strong current.
5 Taste local food
Explore the local restaurants and enjoy some interesting food on the island. Check out Patchery Bakery for breakfast. The restaurants have a huge menu to choose from, from croissants and bagels to acai bowls and toasties.
For lunch and local Thai food and the best papaya salad on the island head to Ae Fishh BBQ restaurant, or explore the local market. The best atmosphere for dinner is at Acqua restaurant, with defined dining and sophisticated cocktails.
6 Get fit in the gym
For sporty types, you can head to the gym. There is a large fitness center in the Banyan Villa or a smaller cozy gym on the top of Earth Tone restaurant (Phi Phi Princess Resort). Both offer daily passes. Don’t forget to bring sports shoes.
7 Scuba Diving
Unless the sea is too rough, you can still enjoy Phi Phi Island underwater. Scuba diving trips go out even during rainy weather. Ask for the sea condition and visibility at the dive shop. Check out Dive Tribe, Adventure Club, PKT, or Princess Divers for the best experience.
8 Cocktails & bar games
When the weather turns ugly, try a couple of pinacoladas to lift your spirits up. The town bars are always open, and you can have some fun here, watching sports games, playing pool, and meeting new people. Irish bar, Dojo Bar, and Relax bar are your safe bets.
9 Explore local cafes
Try some local coffee and desserts at some of the nicest Phi Phi cafes. Patchery Bakery, Qoori Qoori Cafe, 23°Roasters Coffee Phi Phi Island, and Mango Garden have the best sweets.
10 Cooking classes
Learn to cook some Thai classics and get to taste it too.
Check out the availability at CHAO Koh restaurant. If you are staying in the north part of the island, Zeavola in Leam Tong beach has also cooking classes.
11 Get A Tattoo
A rainy day is the perfect time to get the ink you’ve always wanted. There are many tattoo shops in the heart of the Phi Phi town to choose from. Check out the reviews online before committing.
Things NOT to do in the bad weather:
Don’t go out on a boat trip (especially a small long-tail boat).
The weather can change suddenly and it’s not worth risking your safety.Most importantly don’t be miserable. Make the most of it, and enjoy the experience. We can’t affect the weather, and the nature needs its rain from time to time 💙
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