Phi Phi Island Sunset + 4 Island Small Group Tour from Krabi

This tour promises a more relaxed way to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands, tailored for those who prefer avoiding the typical hustle and bustle. Rather than starting early, you’ll cruise from Ao Nang at midday, giving you a chance to linger a little longer in your hotel or enjoy a slow breakfast. With a small group size, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on authentic experiences, this trip offers more than just sightseeing — it’s about truly soaking in the natural beauty of Thailand’s iconic islands.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it balances scenic stops with the chance to snorkel, enjoy a Thai buffet lunch, and witness a breathtaking sunset. The emphasis on fewer crowds means you’re more likely to find those quiet, picture-perfect moments. That said, the tour does involve a packed schedule, so if you’re after a slow, relaxing day with minimal movement, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to see the highlights of Phi Phi without the overwhelming crowds, and who aren’t fussed about a full day of constant activity. If you’re up for a blend of sightseeing, snorkeling, and sunset views, all with a knowledgeable guide and a small group, this could fit the bill.

Key Points

• Fewer Crowds: The tour’s midday start helps you skip the busiest times at popular spots like Maya Bay.
• Expert Guides: The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the experience more enriching.
• Diverse Stops: From snorkeling at Monkey Beach to a Thai buffet, the itinerary covers scenic, cultural, and relaxing moments.
• Flexibility: The itinerary can adjust based on weather, maintaining safety and comfort.
• Value for Money: For $67, you get transportation, lunch, snorkeling gear, and multiple stunning stops, making this a good value.
• Sunset Finish: Watching the sunset at Poda Island caps off the day with a spectacular view.

The Pickup and Journey Begins

You’ll be picked up from your hotel lobby in Krabi, which is a welcome convenience. The transfer takes you to Nopparat Thara Pier in Ao Nang, where the boat crew awaits. The journey starts around 10 am, giving you a leisurely morning before setting out — a real perk if you prefer to avoid early mornings or want to savor your breakfast.

The boat itself is a fiberglass speedboat with just 28 seats, which means it’s a cozy setup compared to larger tour boats. This smaller group size helps keep the experience intimate, and the ride over the water offers some picturesque views of the coastline and islands. Be sure to wear your life jacket (which is supplied) and listen to the guide’s safety briefing for peace of mind.

Exploring Phi Phi Leh and the Four Islands

The first stop is Ko Phi Phi Le, passing by the famous Maya Bay (though you won’t get as long here as in some daytime tours). The guides, known for their friendliness and knowledge, give you a detailed rundown of each site, including the Viking Cave, where locals harvest bird nests. They’re also ready to answer questions about the islands’ history and geography, making the trip more educational.

A quick stop at Railay Beach to pick up other guests is part of the journey, adding to the small group feel. The boat rides between stops are smooth but can feel busy during peak season, especially if the weather is choppy — always worth considering if you’re prone to seasickness.

Snorkeling at Monkey Beach

The first snorkel stop is at Monkey Beach, known for its long stretch of white sand and clear waters. The shallow area is perfect for wading and snorkeling, with colorful fish darting beneath your feet. Reviewers note that the water can be a bit busy, but the guides do their best to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

It’s not just about swimming; the scenery here is striking — emerald waters framed by towering limestone cliffs. Remember, snorkeling equipment and life jackets are provided, but you might want to bring your own mask for better visibility. The guide’s commentary about the local marine life adds an educational layer to the activity.

Lunch and Exploring Phi Phi Don

Next, the group heads to Phi Phi Don for a Thai-style buffet lunch at Arida Restaurant. This is a highlight, especially since the lunch is included in the price. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, allowing you to fuel up before more sightseeing.

After lunch, you have about an hour to stroll along the promenade of Ton Sai. It’s a lively area with shops, cafes, and a laid-back island vibe. This is your chance to soak in some local atmosphere and maybe pick up a souvenir or two.

Marveling at Viking Cave and Pileh Bay

The Viking Cave is a quick fly-by, but it’s worth noting the cave’s famous wall paintings and the bird nests being harvested by locals. You won’t get long here, but the guide’s insights make it a memorable pass.

The next snorkel stop at Pileh Lagoon is a favorite — the water here is a stunning shade of turquoise, perfect for swimming and floating among colorful fish. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot feels, a real contrast to the sometimes crowded Maya Bay.

Loh Samah Bay and Maya Bay

Arriving at Loh Samah Bay, you’ll dock at a floating jetty and pay an entrance fee as part of the national park. The park rangers usually check tickets, so keep some cash handy.

Maya Bay, made famous by “The Beach,” is the pièce de résistance. Here, you’ll climb over rocks to reach a wooden trail leading to the sandy beach. You’ll have approximately an hour to touch the sand and see the famous turquoise water. The guide will remind you about the rules — no swimming, no drones, use reef-safe sunscreen, and avoid single-use plastics. These rules are crucial to keep Maya Bay pristine.

A tip from reviews: if you’re lucky, you might spot black tip reef sharks in the shallows, a thrilling sight for snorkelers.

The Sunsets and Bamboo Island

On the way back, a quick stop at Bamboo Island offers a tranquil escape with lush vegetation and a quieter beach. The shallow waters here are perfect for a relaxed swim.

Finally, the day wraps up at Poda Island, where the sunset paints the sky in dramatic colors over the Andaman Sea. It’s a picture-perfect moment, ideal for snapping photos or just soaking it all in.

Practicalities and Value

The tour is priced at $67.69 per person, which includes hotel transfers, drinks, seasonal fruits, and a buffet lunch. Snorkeling gear and basic accident insurance are also included, making it a convenient, all-in-one package.

Notably, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee to the national park at Loh Samah Bay, which isn’t included in the ticket price. This is standard and should be factored into your budget.

The tour operates with a maximum of 32 travelers, which is small enough to feel personal but large enough to share the experience. The flexibility to adapt the itinerary based on weather is a plus, although it does mean some stops can be shortened or modified.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer called it an “outstanding day out,” praising the “excellent and friendly guides” and the well-organized schedule. They also appreciated the variety of stops and the opportunity to snorkel multiple times throughout the day.

On the flip side, a reviewer mentioned feeling frustrated by the crowds, noise, and the rushed pace. They noted that “too many people” and “racing to every place” could detract from the relaxing experience some travelers seek. However, the small group size and timing do help mitigate these concerns.

This small-group sunset and island tour offers a great value for those wanting a balanced day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and sunset views without the chaos of large crowds. It’s perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace while still covering the must-see highlights of Phi Phi and surrounding islands. The knowledgeable guides, well-planned stops, and inclusion of lunch make it a convenient way to explore, especially if you want to avoid the early start of some full-day trips.

However, if you’re craving a slow, peaceful day with minimal movement or early mornings, this might feel a bit rushed or crowded, especially during peak season. The itinerary is quite packed, and the quick stops could be too brief for some, but the stunning scenery and small group vibe tend to make up for it.

This tour appeals most to those who value authentic experiences, scenic beauty, and good company. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a taste of Phi Phi’s highlights later in the day, topped with a spectacular sunset finale.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 10:00 am with hotel pickup, so you’ll be ready to start your island adventure around that time.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel round-trip transfers from Krabi hotels, which is a handy convenience.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 8.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to see multiple spots and enjoy each one without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get transfers, snorkeling gear, life jackets, drinks (water, soft drinks, fruits), a buffet lunch, a professional guide, and basic accident insurance.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay the entrance fee for Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park at Loh Samah Bay. This fee is paid on the spot.

Can I snorkel at Maya Bay?
While you can touch the water at Maya Bay, swimming or snorkeling here is generally not permitted, in line with environmental preservation rules.

How crowded does it get?
During peak season, it can be busy, especially at Maya Bay, but the timing of this tour helps you avoid the peak crowds since it departs later in the morning.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera or phone case to capture the views.

This Phi Phi Island Sunset + 4 Island Tour from Krabi is a well-rounded experience for those wanting a more relaxed exploration of the iconic islands, capped with a beautiful sunset. You’ll enjoy a good mix of snorkeling, scenic views, and local flavor without the overwhelming crowds typical of day trips at dawn. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a comfortable, informative journey, though the packed schedule might feel a bit hurried for some.

If you’re seeking a balance of adventure and tranquility, and you want to witness some of Thailand’s most stunning scenery in a single day, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer to visit later in the day, avoiding the rush and crowds while still soaking in the natural beauty of Phi Phi.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable snapshot of your trip, this tour offers a good dose of scenic wonder, cultural insight, and the chance to unwind with a sunset finale over the Andaman Sea.