If you’re planning a trip to Thailand and have Phi Phi Islands on your radar (as you should!), get ready to flood your Instagram feed with some of the most jaw-dropping, tropical content imaginable. This little cluster of islands in the Andaman Sea is packed with turquoise water, dramatic cliffs, white-sand beaches, and vibrant marine life — it’s basically a real-life postcard.
But where exactly should you go to get those frame-worthy shots? Whether you’re a content creator, a casual traveler with an eye for beauty, or just someone who loves documenting adventures, this guide to the most Instagrammable spots in Phi Phi Islands is for you.
📍 1. Maya Bay – The Star of Phi Phi
You’ve probably seen Maya Bay even if you’ve never heard its name. This iconic beach, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio’s film The Beach, is hands-down one of the most photogenic places in Thailand.
After a long period of closure for environmental recovery, Maya Bay reopened with new visitor guidelines — which means fewer crowds and cleaner beaches, making your photos even more magical.
Best time to go: Early morning for soft lighting and fewer people.
Pro tip: Stand facing the bay with the towering cliffs behind you for the perfect wide-angle shot.
📍 2. Phi Phi Viewpoint – Sweeping Panoramas
Want that classic aerial-style shot of Phi Phi Don’s twin bays with emerald waters and lush greenery? Head up to the Phi Phi Viewpoint, one of the most famous overlooks on the island.
There are actually three viewpoints, with the third being the highest and most dramatic. The hike up takes about 20–30 minutes, and yes, you might sweat a bit — but the views are 100% worth it.
Best time to go: Sunset for golden hour glow and dramatic colors.
Instagram tip: Use a drone if you have one, or a wide lens to capture the whole stretch.
📍 3. Loh Samah Bay – Snorkel & Snap
Just around the corner from Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay is lesser-known but absolutely stunning. Its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear water, and limestone cliffs make it a perfect place for both underwater GoPro shots and tranquil surface photos.
Best time to go: Mid-morning when the water is calm and visibility is clear.
Photo idea: Float on your back in the turquoise water while someone captures you from above.
📍 4. Pileh Lagoon – Emerald Waters, No Filter Needed
Tucked into the cliffs of Phi Phi Leh, Pileh Lagoon is a must-visit for photographers and drone enthusiasts. The water here is so vividly green and clear that your photos will barely need editing.
Most longtail boat tours stop here for swimming and snorkeling, so have your camera ready!
Best time to go: Morning or early afternoon when the sun lights up the water.
Don’t miss: The view from above — the lagoon looks heart-shaped from a drone!
📍 5. Monkey Beach – Cute Chaos
If you want a photo with wildlife, head to Monkey Beach (Yong Kasem Bay). As the name suggests, it’s home to a colony of wild monkeys who love to chill on the sand or climb trees.
A few things to note: don’t feed them, don’t flash your camera in their faces, and definitely hold on to your belongings!
Best time to go: Earlier in the day before the beach gets busy.
Shot idea: Use a zoom lens to capture candid monkey moments without getting too close.
📍 6. Longtail Boats – Iconic Thai Vibes
You can’t go to Phi Phi and not take a photo with one of the traditional longtail boats. These charming, colorful boats are as iconic as the islands themselves and create the perfect foreground for your beach photos.
Try to frame your shot with the boats in the foreground and the cliffs or ocean in the background for maximum island aesthetic.
Top locations: Tonsai Bay, Maya Bay, and Monkey Beach.
Photo tip: Try low-angle shots from the waterline to make the boats look epic.
📍 7. Viking Cave – Hidden Gem with History
Located on the northeastern side of Phi Phi Leh, Viking Cave is a mysterious spot often included on boat tours. While tourists can’t go inside, the outside offers a dramatic contrast between limestone rock and blue sea — perfect for moody or dramatic photo styles.
Best time to go: Morning or golden hour when the sun hits the cave entrance.
Fun fact: The cave gets its name from ancient paintings found inside, believed to be of Viking ships!
📍 8. Bamboo Island – White Sands & Aqua Blues
A bit further out from Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island (Koh Pai) is a serene escape with blindingly white sand and shallow turquoise water. It’s like your private island fantasy come true — and a perfect place for clean, minimalist beach shots.
Best time to go: Early afternoon for bright colors.
What to bring: A flowy dress or beachwear in contrasting colors for that perfect pop!
📍 9. Tonsai Village – Street Style in Paradise
If you want some more casual, lifestyle-style shots to balance out all the nature photos, Tonsai Village is the place. Wander the little streets filled with food stalls, murals, beach bars, and colorful signs.
It’s also a great place to capture the backpacker vibe of Phi Phi: laid-back, fun, and full of character.
Best time to go: Late afternoon or early evening as the village lights come on.
Tip: Look for cute cafés or mural-covered walls for perfect backdrops.
📍 10. Sunset at Loh Dalum Bay
For golden hour lovers, there’s nothing like watching the sun dip behind the cliffs at Loh Dalum Bay. The beach itself is peaceful by late afternoon, and the colors reflecting off the water are simply magical.
Set up a tripod or grab your travel buddy for a silhouette shot against the glowing sky.
Best time to go: Sunset (around 6:30–7:00 PM depending on the season).
Mood: Romantic, calm, and perfect for ending your photo day.
Final Tips for Capturing the Best of Phi Phi:
- 📷 Go Early – Most spots get crowded by 10 AM, so aim for sunrise missions if you want clean backgrounds.
- 🐢 Respect Nature – Don’t touch coral, don’t feed wildlife, and always follow local guidelines.
- 🤳 Bring a Waterproof Case – For boat days, snorkeling, and beach shots.
- 🛶 Hire a Private Longtail Boat – It’s affordable and gives you more control over where and when you shoot.
- 💡 Lighting is Everything – Sunrise, sunset, and golden hours make everything look 10x better.
Whether you’re chasing that perfect drone shot over the lagoon or just want to fill your camera roll with vibrant beach scenes, Phi Phi is a content creator’s dream. Every corner is bursting with color, contrast, and tropical magic.
So pack your camera, charge your phone, and get ready to capture the most Instagrammable moments of your Thai island escape. 🌴📸✨