Tips on Avoiding Ko Phi Phi Don Tourist Traps

Ko Phi Phi is a beautiful and popular tourist destination. That being said, there are a number of places that should be avoided or ones that you need to be forewarned of prior to your arrival.

When you first arrive, you will probably find yourself besieged by local hawkers that try to entice you to let them procure rooms for you at a reduced rate. Other locals will offer to take your bags and luggage to your hotel for you at a price. Most hotels are within short walking distances, so it’s highly suggested that you just carry your own bags to the hotel.

Beaches on Phi Phi Island are obvious tourist attractions. Places like Maya Beach on Phi Phi Ley tend to get extremely crowded especially after the movie “The Beach” was filmed on location. It’s a place on many vacationers' “must-see” list, but it is not recommended that you do plan an extended stay there due to the overcrowding.

Boat tours are a big attraction but it is very easy to get stuck on an overcrowded, low-budget tour. There are tour companies that do not overcrowd their boats and provide a genuinely relaxing and fun experience, you just have to do a little research beforehand.

If you are staying at a guesthouse it is expected that you will “haggle” for a better rate. If the guesthouse owner knows you will be staying for an extended period, they are more willing to come down in price to secure your business.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about tourist traps in Ko Phi Phi Don.