Phi Phi Island is a beautiful island group located in the Andaman Sea, south of Krabi in southern Thailand. It is famous for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a popular destination for travelers visiting Krabi.

This guide explains how to travel from Krabi to Phi Phi Island using different transport options. You will learn about trains, buses, cars, and ferries, including travel times, costs, and useful tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Getting from Krabi to Phi Phi Island – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is not a direct option between Krabi and Phi Phi Island because Krabi does not have a railway station. However, you can use train services to reach nearby cities before continuing by road and ferry.

• Krabi has no railway station; the nearest station is Surat Thani, about 150 km away, reachable by bus or taxi in 3–4 hours.

• From Surat Thani railway station, you can take trains from Bangkok or other cities, but this adds extra travel time and complexity for reaching Phi Phi Island.

• Due to this, train travel is not popular or practical for this route; most travelers prefer road and ferry combinations.

• If you plan to include train travel, book tickets via the State Railway of Thailand website or IRCTC-like platforms for Thailand, and plan for overnight travel to Surat Thani.

Bus

Buses are a common and affordable way to travel from Krabi to the ferry piers that connect to Phi Phi Island. They are suitable for budget travelers and operate frequently.

• Regular buses and minivans depart from Krabi Bus Terminal to Klong Jilad Pier or Ao Nang Pier, where ferries to Phi Phi Island leave.

• The bus journey takes about 30–60 minutes depending on the pier, with fares ranging from 50 to 150 THB per person.

• Minivans are faster and more frequent but can be crowded and less comfortable than buses, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• During the monsoon season (May to October), road conditions may cause delays, so plan extra time for connections.

• Tickets can be booked at local travel agencies or bus terminals; some hotels also arrange combined bus and ferry tickets for convenience.

Car / Self-Drive

Driving from Krabi to the ferry piers is a flexible and comfortable option if you prefer to travel at your own pace. Rental cars and motorbikes are widely available.

• The drive from Krabi town to Klong Jilad Pier or Ao Nang Pier is about 15–25 km, taking 30–45 minutes via Route 4203 and local roads.

• Car rental prices start around 800 THB per day for small vehicles; motorbikes are cheaper but less safe for long distances.

• Parking is available near ferry piers but may be limited during high season; check with your rental agency about parking options.

• Driving allows you to stop at scenic spots or restaurants along the way, enhancing your travel experience.

• Be cautious of local traffic rules and road conditions, especially during rainy weather when roads can be slippery.

Flight

There are no direct flights from Krabi to Phi Phi Island as the island has no airport. The nearest airport is Krabi International Airport, which serves as the main entry point for travelers heading to Phi Phi.

• Fly into Krabi International Airport from major Thai cities or international destinations before continuing by road and ferry to Phi Phi Island.

• The airport is about 20 km from Krabi town and 30 km from Ao Nang, with taxis and shuttle buses available for transfers to ferry piers.

• Flight times vary depending on origin, but domestic flights from Bangkok take about 1.5 hours.

• Booking flights early can secure better fares, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• From the airport, you still need to take a combination of road transport and ferry to reach Phi Phi Island.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This step-by-step plan is designed for first-time travelers going from Krabi to Phi Phi Island, helping you navigate the journey smoothly.

• Step 1: Book your ferry ticket in advance online or through a local travel agent to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rush, especially during holidays.

• Step 2: Arrange transport from your accommodation in Krabi to the ferry pier (Klong Jilad or Ao Nang) by taxi, bus, or rental car to ensure timely arrival.

• Step 3: Arrive at the ferry pier at least 30 minutes before departure to complete ticket checks and boarding procedures without stress.

• Step 4: Board the ferry, which usually takes 1.5 to 2 hours to reach Phi Phi Island, and enjoy scenic views of the Andaman Sea during the trip.

• Step 5: Upon arrival at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Island, use local longtail boats or walk to your accommodation, as the island has no roads for cars.

• Step 6: Keep your ferry return ticket handy or book your return trip in advance to avoid availability issues, especially in peak season.

Practical Travel Tips

• Carry a small backpack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and a hat, as ferry trips can be hot and sunny, and water is limited onboard.

• Use prepaid taxi services or app-based cabs like Grab from Krabi town or airport to ferry piers for fair pricing and safety.

• Buy ferry tickets from authorized agents or official websites to avoid scams or overpriced tickets common at tourist spots.

• Keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large amounts of cash; use hotel safes when possible on Phi Phi Island.

• During monsoon season, check weather forecasts and ferry schedules as trips may be delayed or canceled due to rough seas.

• Wear comfortable shoes and carry light luggage since Phi Phi Island has no vehicles; you will walk or use boats to reach your hotel.

Best Time & Travel Conditions

The best time to travel from Krabi to Phi Phi Island is during the dry season when sea conditions are calm and ferry services operate smoothly. Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon months for safety and comfort.

Peak tourist seasons can cause crowded ferries and higher prices, so plan accordingly to have a pleasant journey.

• Avoid traveling during the monsoon season from May to October when heavy rains and rough seas can disrupt ferry services.

• Peak travel periods include December to March and Thai holidays, leading to crowded ferries and higher accommodation rates.

• Early morning ferry departures are less crowded and offer cooler temperatures for a comfortable trip.

• Late afternoon ferries may face delays due to changing weather or tides; plan your return trips accordingly.

Arrival at Phi Phi Island & What to Expect

When you arrive at Tonsai Pier on Phi Phi Island, you will find a small but busy harbor with local longtail boats and walking paths leading to accommodations and beaches. The island has no motorized vehicles, so expect to walk or use boats for transport.

Accommodations are concentrated near the pier and along the beaches, with many guesthouses, resorts, and restaurants within walking distance. Prepaid taxis are not available, but you can hire longtail boats for island tours or luggage transport.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Phi Phi Island from Krabi is by combining road transport to the ferry pier with a direct ferry ride to the island. This method balances cost, comfort, and travel time effectively for most travelers.

Plan your trip by booking ferry tickets in advance, choosing reliable transport to the pier, and considering seasonal weather conditions. With proper preparation, you can enjoy a smooth and scenic journey to one of Thailand’s most beautiful island destinations.