Phi Phi Island, located in Thailand, is a dream destination for travelers, with its crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and vibrant marine life.
Whether you’re an avid photographer or just want to fill your Instagram feed with breathtaking views,
this tropical paradise offers plenty of spots to capture the perfect shot. Below are some of the best Instagram-worthy places on Phi Phi Island to help you create stunning memories.
Introduction: Capturing the Beauty of Phi Phi Island
When it comes to natural beauty, Phi Phi Island ranks among the top destinations in the world. Known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant blue waters, this island provides the perfect backdrop for all types of photos—from panoramic landscapes to personal portraits. Whether you’re a nature lover, an underwater enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates a good view, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s explore the top spots where you can snap the best shots on this idyllic island.
Maya Bay
Perhaps the most famous location on Phi Phi Island, Maya Bay shot to fame after being featured in the movie The Beach. This stunning beach is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, making it an ideal location for panoramic shots or peaceful beach scenes. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid the crowds and capture the serenity of this iconic spot.
Viewpoint on Koh Phi Phi Don
For breathtaking aerial views of the island, head to the Phi Phi Viewpoint. After a short but steep hike, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view overlooking the entire island, including the beautiful sandbars that connect different parts of Phi Phi Don. The best time to visit is during sunset, where you’ll capture the golden hues reflecting off the water and the lush green landscape below.
Monkey Beach
If you’re looking for a playful and unique photo opportunity, head over to Monkey Beach. Here, you’ll not only find clear waters and white sand, but also the island’s famous monkeys! Capture candid shots of these mischievous creatures, or pose with them in the backdrop of one of Phi Phi’s most beautiful beaches. Just be careful with your belongings, as the monkeys are known for their curious and cheeky behavior.
Viking Cave
Located on the northeastern side of Phi Phi Ley, Viking Cave offers a unique photo opportunity with its rich history and stunning rock formations. The cave gets its name from the ancient paintings found inside, said to resemble Viking ships. Although visitors are not allowed inside, the exterior views of the cave from a boat make for an impressive photo. The dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters surrounding the cave create a perfect backdrop for capturing the island’s natural beauty.
Long Beach
For those who want to capture the quintessential tropical paradise shot, Long Beach is the perfect spot. With its soft, white sand, palm trees swaying in the breeze, and crystal-clear waters, this location is ideal for beach photography. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful sunset shot or a fun beach day photo, Long Beach offers a variety of angles and settings that will make your Instagram feed stand out.
Bamboo Island
A short boat ride away from the main Phi Phi islands, Bamboo Island offers pristine beaches and calm, shallow waters perfect for taking stunning beach and ocean shots. The island’s isolation and lack of development make it feel like a true hidden paradise. Drone photography is particularly popular here, as you can capture the island’s circular shape and vibrant blue waters from above.
Pileh Lagoon
If you want to capture the essence of Phi Phi’s stunning blue waters, Pileh Lagoon is a must-visit spot. The lagoon is surrounded by high cliffs, creating a sheltered area where the water turns a striking shade of emerald green. This is the perfect place to take a boat tour and snap some shots of the limestone cliffs reflected in the calm water. Morning visits are ideal, as the light creates a perfect glow on the lagoon’s surface.
Loh Samah Bay
Situated on the southern coast of Phi Phi Ley, Loh Samah Bay is a small, picturesque cove that’s perfect for snorkeling and underwater photography. The clear waters provide excellent visibility, making it easy to capture vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Whether you’re taking underwater shots or capturing the bay’s beautiful cliffs and waters from above, Loh Samah Bay is an Instagrammable gem.
Tonsai Village Street Art
For a change of pace from the natural beauty of Phi Phi, head to Tonsai Village where you’ll find a variety of colorful street art and murals. These vibrant works of art make for great backdrops to add some variety to your Instagram feed. The lively streets, combined with the local culture, provide plenty of unique angles and perspectives to capture.
Nui Bay
If you’re seeking a secluded spot away from the crowds, Nui Bay is a hidden gem on Phi Phi Don. The remote beach is surrounded by limestone cliffs, offering dramatic scenery that looks amazing in photos. Whether you’re snapping pictures of the cliffs, the beach, or the turquoise waters, Nui Bay is an off-the-beaten-path location perfect for stunning photography.
Tips for Taking the Best Photos on Phi Phi Island
- Golden Hour: For the best lighting, aim to take photos during the golden hour—either early in the morning or late afternoon. This will give your shots a warm glow and avoid the harsh shadows of midday.
- Drone Photography: Phi Phi’s unique landscape makes it ideal for drone photography. If you have a drone, use it to capture aerial views of the island’s cliffs, lagoons, and sandbars.
- Underwater Photography: Don’t miss the opportunity to capture the vibrant marine life around the island. Bring a waterproof camera or phone case to get those underwater shots of coral reefs and tropical fish.
- Avoid Crowds: To get the best, uninterrupted shots, visit popular spots early in the morning. This is especially true for places like Maya Bay and the Phi Phi Viewpoint, which can get crowded later in the day.
- Use a Wide-Angle Lens: Many of Phi Phi Island’s landscapes are vast and dramatic, so using a wide-angle lens can help you capture more of the scenery in your shots.
Conclusion: Making Your Phi Phi Island Trip Instagram-Worthy
With its stunning landscapes and iconic beaches, Phi Phi Island is a paradise for photographers and Instagrammers alike. From panoramic viewpoints to hidden beaches, the island offers a diverse range of photo opportunities that will make your feed stand out.
Don’t forget to explore both the popular and lesser-known spots, and remember to enjoy the beauty of the island as you capture your perfect shots.