Phi Phi + 4 Islands Avoid the Crowds Tour From Krabi

Exploring Phi Phi and the Four Islands from Krabi: An Insider’s Review of the Early Bird Tour

Taking a boat tour around Krabi’s famed islands is a rite of passage for many travelers, but this “Phi Phi + 4 Islands Avoid the Crowds” experience promises something a little different. Designed to beat the crowds, it starts early—at 6:00 am—giving you a head start on the day’s adventures. For those who prefer avoiding the tourist throngs and soaking up more authentic, peaceful scenery, this tour offers a compelling option.

What we really love about this trip is the attention to timing—by beginning before the major crowds arrive, you gain access to iconic spots like Maya Bay and Poda Island with fewer people blocking your view or splashing around your photos. The inclusion of local guides, snorkeling gear, and lunch all add to the feeling of a well-organized, value-packed day. One consideration is that the tour requires a minimum of 10 travelers to run, so if you’re traveling solo or in a small group during off-peak times, it’s worth checking availability.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to experience Krabi’s highlights in a more relaxed setting, enjoying the scenery without the overwhelming crowds. It’s perfect for those who love snorkeling, scenic beaches, and exploring multiple islands in a single day, especially if you’re after a more authentic, less commercialized experience.

Key Points

• Early start benefits: You get a head start to beat the crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay.
• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers five islands, including renowned spots like Bamboo Island and Monkey Beach.
• Snorkeling gear included: Equipped with life jackets and snorkeling equipment for underwater fun.
• All-day value: Lunch, fruits, drinks, and accident insurance are included, making it a good deal.
• Hotel pickup available: Free pickup from Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek simplifies logistics.
• Group size: Max 30 travelers, maintaining a balance between social atmosphere and personal space.

The Full Experience: What To Expect

Starting Early and Getting There

We love that this tour kicks off at 6:00 am, a smart move for avoiding the crowds — especially at hotspots like Maya Bay, which can get pretty congested later in the day. The pickup is straightforward if you’re staying in Ao Nang, Klong Muang, or Tub Kaek, making the entire process hassle-free. If you’re in Krabi town, there’s an extra round-trip fee, but the convenience of hotel pickup generally outweighs the small charge.

First Stops: Chicken, Tub, and Mor Islands

The journey begins with a visit to Chicken Island, famous for its distinctive rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. Here, you’ll have about an hour to relax, explore, or snorkel. Reviewers like Vladislav praised the “awesome crew” and the “beaches,” noting the relaxed vibe compared to more crowded tours. You’ll also visit Tub and Mor Islands, where the calm waters and vibrant marine life make for excellent snorkel spots. Expect crystal-clear water and abundant tropical fish, with the guide often sharing insightful tips about marine ecology—something many guests found helpful and engaging.

Koh Poda and Maya Bay

Next is Koh Poda, where you can enjoy a light breakfast and admire the sunrise—if you’re an early riser. Poda’s gentle sandy beaches and shallow waters are great for relaxing or taking a quick dip. Then, the tour heads to Maya Bay, made famous by the film The Beach. While the bay can be crowded during peak hours, arriving early means you’re more likely to enjoy its stunning cliffs and turquoise waters in a more peaceful setting. Reviewers like Sylwiusz loved the “punctual and well-organized” nature of the trip, emphasizing how smoothly everything runs.

Bamboo Island: Swimming and Snorkeling Paradise

Bamboo Island is one of the highlights, especially for snorkelers. Its shallow waters and coral reefs draw colorful tropical fish. We appreciated the freedom to swim, relax, and take photos without the usual crowds. The beach here is pristine, and many travelers raved about the quality of snorkeling gear provided—making underwater exploration accessible for all skill levels.

Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Bay

After lunch, the boat visits Loh Samah Bay and Pileh Bay, both famous for their clear waters and impressive rock formations. Pileh Lagoon, in particular, offers a peaceful spot for swimming and snorkeling, with some reviewers describing it as “crystal-clear” and “perfect for exploring underwater.” The guides often point out marine life and explain the geology, making the experience both fun and educational.

Monkey Beach: A Fun Photo Stop

The final stop is Monkey Beach, a popular spot to observe monkeys in their natural habitat and snap some quick photos. It’s a brief 30-minute visit, but plenty of travelers enjoy the opportunity to see wildlife and get those memorable shots.

Practical Details and Value

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes snorkeling equipment, life jackets, a delicious lunch, fruits, soft drinks, and drinking water—all of which add up to excellent value. The accident insurance provides peace of mind, especially when swimming or snorkeling in unfamiliar waters.

However, there is a national park fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child), payable at the entrance, which is standard across Thai parks. Also, if you’re staying outside the pickup zone, there’s a round-trip transfer fee of 100 THB per person from Krabi town.

Group Size and Timing

With a maximum of 30 travelers, the tour strikes a balance between socializing and avoiding overcrowding. The long day (9 to 10 hours) means you get plenty of time at each stop, but it also requires a good level of energy and patience. Reviewers noted that the pacing was well-managed, and the guides kept everyone informed and engaged.

Guides and Customer Service

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, highlighting how they shared interesting insights about the islands, marine life, and local culture. The guides’ professionalism and punctuality were frequently mentioned, making the experience smooth and pleasant.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In our opinion, this tour offers remarkable value for its price of around $109 per person, considering everything included: transport, food, snorkeling gear, and insurance. The early start and limited group size make it particularly attractive for travelers wanting to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more relaxed, intimate experience.

The itinerary covers the most iconic spots while providing enough variety—beaches, snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and scenic viewpoints—to keep everyone entertained. The presence of experienced guides adds an educational layer, enriching your understanding of these beautiful islands.

However, it’s important to remember that this tour requires decent mobility and an appreciation for early mornings. For families with young children or travelers with health concerns, the physical demands and timing might require some consideration.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to experience Krabi’s most famous islands without the usual throngs of travelers. It’s perfect for those who value snorkeling and beach time, and who appreciate a well-organized trip with a local guide. If you’re a photo enthusiast, arriving early means you’ll catch the best light and fewer people in your shots.

It’s also well-suited for active travelers comfortable with boat rides and snorkeling, but less so for those seeking a very relaxed, slow-paced day. Families with older children and couples looking for a quiet adventure will find it suits their needs nicely.

Final Thoughts

This “Phi Phi + 4 Islands Avoid the Crowds” tour from Krabi delivers a thoughtfully curated experience, balancing scenic beauty with practical details that ensure your day runs smoothly. You get to see the highlights, snorkel in vibrant waters, and enjoy some of the most iconic beaches in peace.

The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive amenities make it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s an opportunity to connect with Krabi’s natural beauty and enjoy it without being elbow-to-elbow with other travelers.

If you’re after a full day of stunning vistas, underwater discovery, and peaceful island vibes, this tour is a sound choice. Just remember to bring your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and an early alarm clock.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free pickup is available for Ao Nang, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek. If you’re in Krabi town, there’s a small extra fee.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a towel. Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, but you can also bring your own if preferred.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting early at 6:00 am.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a national park entry fee of 400 THB per adult (200 THB per child) is payable at the entrance. There’s also a round-trip transfer fee of 100 THB if you’re outside the pickup zones.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, and the guides are experienced in assisting all skill levels.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or those with health issues?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or travelers with high blood pressure, heart, or bone issues due to the physical nature of the trip and boat rides.

This tour offers a fantastic way to see some of Krabi’s most gorgeous islands with fewer crowds and more personal space. If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging day out with incredible scenery and underwater life, it’s definitely worth considering.