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The Phi Phi Islands are by far the main attraction to Krabi, and are widely considered to be amongst the most beautiful places in the world.
There are six islands altogether: Phi Phi Don, Phi Phi Ley, Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Yung, and Phai; each of which offers some of the most unique topography on this
planet. Of these six islands, Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Ley are the largest, and most well known.
Phi Phi Don : This is the largest of the Phi Phi islands, and offers some of the most arresting scenery available anywhere in the world. Phi Phi
Don is comprised of two main sections, peculiarly connected by a narrow strip of glittering white sand. It was here, in the center, where the first settlement
of Ton Sai was established.
Since that time, Phi Phi Don has earned a reputation as one of the most alluring sights in the region, offering spectacular beaches, gleaming, turquoise seas, and remarkable landscapes. This reputation, however, has not come without a
cost.
Phi Phi Ley : The second largest of the Phi Phi Island chain, Phi Phi
Ley is extremely beautiful, and pristine.
Day trips to Phi Phi Ley are available, and one of the biggest attractions is Phaya Naak Cave, or Viking Cave, which has some bonafide prehistoric carvings.
Another attraction to Phi Phi Ley are the nests of the edible-nest swiftlet, which fetch up to US $2000 per kilogram. Armed guards stand watch over these
nests, to protect them against poachers. Overnight stays on Phi Phi Ley are forbidden.
Yao Beach, Phi Phi Don : This beach, also known as Long Beach, is one of the
most famous on the island. Not only does it offer a broad, sweeping beach and unbelievable scenery, it also is home to some of the best coral reefs in the
area.
Snorkeling and Scuba diving top the long list of things to do here, and accommodation is plentiful. The only complaint might be a little too much development. Hat
Yao can be reached on foot or by longtail boat from the pier at Ton Sai.
Lanti Beach: Phi Phi Don : This beach is in close proximity to Hat Yao, and is equal to it in nearly all respects. Once underdeveloped, Hat Lanti
has only recently given way to commercialism, and remains quite beautiful. Offshore coral reefs provide for some great snorkeling, and accommodation is cheap and
decent.
Hat Lanti is accessible on foot via the viewpoint trail. Boats to Hat Lanti are difficult to find, because bungalow owners refuse to pay commissions, but
boats can be arranged from Hat Lanti quite easily.
Hin Khao Beach, Phi Phi Don : This is one of the more isolated beaches on Phi Phi Don, accessible only on foot. This beach offers good views, and peace
and quiet.
Ao Ton Sai, Phi Phi Don : This is the oldest developed beach area on Phi Phi Don, and the most congested. Still, Ton Sai offers some rather good
views of the surrounding territory, and although lacking beauty, it is the most accessible and convenient place on the island.
Laem Tong, Phi Phi Don : This is one of the nicest beaches on Phi Phi
Don, offering spectacular views and a nice stretch of marvelous beach. Hat Laem
Tong has its own pier, and therefore is accessible. However, it is targeted at
the high-budget tourist.
Yung Island : lies to the north of Phi Phi Don. There is a rocky beach
on the east side, and a smaller strand of sand in a fold of the hill. Many beautiful
and various corals are found there.
Pai Island : lies also to the north of Phi Phi Don, not far from Koh
Yung. Sandy beaches are on the north and east sides of the island. Broad coral
reefs stretch away into the south.
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