Koh Phi Phi (Laemtong Beach) is a quiet, boat-access beach on the northeast coast of Phi Phi Don, addressed as Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand. Far from the busy Tonsai pier, this pale-sand shoreline faces the Andaman Sea and the islands around Bamboo Island, drawing travelers for longtail-boat outings, snorkeling, diving, resort dining, and a slower side of the Phi Phi archipelago. Laem Tong has long been associated with Phi Phi Don’s small fishing-community coast and its resort enclave rather than a conventional road-linked ferry terminal.
What to Expect at Koh Phi Phi (Laemtong Beach)
Laem Tong is a broad, gently shelving beach with calm-looking water in favorable weather, framed by low forested slopes and a line of small resorts rather than the dense village streets of Tonsai. Its principal arrival point is a sandy longtail landing: boats pull in close to shore, so passengers may need to step into shallow water. The offshore view is part of the appeal, with Bamboo Island and the waters of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park within easy reach by charter boat.
The beach is a practical base for private longtail trips to Bamboo Island, snorkeling stops, and dive departures, while local operators and resort desks can arrange equipment and excursions according to sea conditions. Expect a small-scale waterfront routine: breakfast and Thai seafood at resort restaurants, swimmers and kayaks in the daytime, then a notably quiet evening once day boats have returned toward Tonsai. There is no public promenade, shopping district, or road traffic here; the setting is defined by sand paths, beachfront properties, and marine transport.
- Longtail landing: The beach functions as a boat-transfer point for arrivals from Tonsai Pier and private charters around Phi Phi’s northern waters.
- Bamboo Island outings: This nearby white-sand island is a frequent half-day destination for swimming, reef viewing, and picnic-style boat excursions.
- Snorkeling and diving: Local boat and dive trips use the Andaman waters around Phi Phi Don and neighboring islands, with conditions varying by wind and season.
- Waterfront dining: Resort restaurants along Laem Tong provide Thai dishes, seafood, cold drinks, and sea-facing tables without leaving the beach.
- Quiet Phi Phi Don: Laem Tong offers a far less built-up atmosphere than Tonsai Bay, especially after late afternoon boat traffic eases.
Koh Phi Phi (Laemtong Beach) at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Laem Tong Beach, Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand; no numbered street address. |
| Neighborhood / Area | Laem Tong, northeast Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Islands. |
| Operating Hours | Beach access is open daily; longtail transfers, tours, and resort facilities operate in daylight and weather permitting. |
| Admission / Price Range | Free public beach access; boat transfers, national-park visits, dining, and water activities are paid separately. |
| Recommended Visit Duration | Half day for the beach; one full day with a private boat trip or dive excursion. |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Reach Phi Phi by ferry to Tonsai Pier, then take a longtail boat to Laem Tong; there is no public car parking on the beach. |
| Official Website & Phone | Tourism Authority of Thailand: Krabi; TAT travel information 1672. |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrange the Tonsai-to-Laem Tong longtail transfer before arriving on a late ferry, particularly during the southwest-monsoon months when wind and wave conditions can alter routes. Morning is the best time for calmer-looking water and an unhurried start to snorkeling or a Bamboo Island trip; confirm return timing directly with the boat captain. Bring cash for boats and small purchases, reef-safe sun protection, drinking water, and a dry bag. There is no ticket office for the beach itself, but national-park fees may apply when visiting protected islands.
Laem Tong has no road connection or public bus stop: Tonsai Pier is the essential transit hub, reached by scheduled ferries from Phuket and the Krabi/Ao Nang area. Parking is irrelevant once on Phi Phi Don; private cars do not reach this coast. Accessibility is limited by the journey itself, including uneven sand, shoreline boat boarding, and shallow-water disembarkation. Travelers who need step-free transfers should ask their hotel or charter operator about boat type, crew assistance, tides, and luggage handling in advance. Nearby pairings include Bamboo Island by boat, the snorkeling waters around Mosquito Island when conditions and access rules allow, and the restaurants and services of Tonsai Bay, generally about 30 minutes away by longtail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hours to visit Laem Tong Beach?
The beach is accessible daily, but boat transfers and excursions are primarily daytime activities. Arrive in the morning for a full beach day or to depart early for Bamboo Island before heat and afternoon boat traffic build; always check marine conditions before setting out.
Is there an entrance fee or do I need to reserve?
Laem Tong Beach itself is free to access and has no general admission gate. Reserve accommodation, dive trips, or private longtail charters ahead in high season, while restaurant and activity prices are set individually by the resorts and operators.
How much time should I allow for Laem Tong?
Allow at least half a day to swim, eat, and enjoy the shoreline. A full day suits travelers combining the beach with a snorkeling charter, Bamboo Island stop, or a scuba-diving departure.
Is Laem Tong Beach suitable for families or wheelchair users?
Families who are comfortable with boat travel will find a quieter beach environment than central Phi Phi, though children need close supervision around boats and open water. The sandy surface and wet boat landings make independent wheelchair access difficult; arrange assistance and confirm accommodation access before travel.
When planning your Koh Phi Phi travel guide or browsing verified attractions in Koh Phi Phi, pair this stop with standout local spots including Phi Phi Nice Beach Resort, Ao Ton Sai Pier, Dow Restaurant, and Laem Tong Beach Koh Phi Phi (0.1 km away).
