From Ao Nang: Phi Phi Islands, 4 Islands Tour w/ Sunset BBQ

Travelers seeking a full-day adventure around Krabi’s most iconic islands will find this tour offers a lively mix of sightseeing, swimming, and delicious food. While it might not be perfect for everyone—especially those wary of crowds or looking for a more relaxed pace—it’s a solid choice for those craving a taste of Thailand’s stunning marine scenery and vibrant island life.

We particularly like how the tour combines classic highlights like Maya Bay and Pileh Lagoon with enjoyable activities such as snorkeling, walking across the famous sandbank, and ending the day with a sunset BBQ on Poda Island. The small group arrangement and the guide’s local insights add a touch of authenticity. However, some might find the schedule quite packed, with little time for lingering in one spot.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a dynamic day out, love photography, and want to tick off several top sights in one go. If you’re after a laid-back day or are sensitive to long boat rides, you might want to consider alternatives. Overall, it’s a fun, action-packed way to explore the Phi Phi and nearby islands.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Numerous photo opportunities at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and the sandbank.
• Diverse Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, exploring caves, and walking across a sandbar.
• Authentic Experience: BBQ dinner on the beach at sunset, offering a genuine tropical dinner setting.
• Efficient Itinerary: Visits to multiple islands and bays packed into one day.
• Small Group: More personalized experience compared to large tour buses.
• Potential Crowds: Popular spots like Maya Bay can be busy, especially during peak season.

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What to Expect from This Tour

This full-day tour begins with a hotel pickup, generally from Krabi Town, Ao Nang, Railay, or nearby areas. Expect a convenient start around 8:10 am, with the exact timing depending on your pickup point. The transportation involves a speedboat, which gets you quickly to the islands—and it’s a lively ride, so brace yourself for some spray and sun.

Exploring Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay

Maya Bay is the star of the show, famous for its appearance in The Beach. We loved the way the guide described it as “the iconic limestone cliffs framing a perfect sandy cove,” and it’s easy to see why so many photos are taken here. Be prepared for crowds, but the beauty of the surroundings makes it worthwhile. A common comment from past travelers is that while Maya Bay is crowded, it’s still breathtaking.

Loh Samah Bay offers a quieter, more scenic spot to admire the towering cliffs and emerald waters. It’s a great place to snap some photos or take a quick swim. The guide points out interesting features like the Viking Cave, known for ancient paintings and bird’s nests harvesting, providing a bit of cultural context amid the natural beauty.

Pileh Lagoon and Monkey Bay

Next, the boat takes you to Pileh Lagoon, where the water’s color is truly mesmerizing—deep green and crystal clear. Swimmers love this spot, and the cliffs surrounding it give it a dramatic, postcard-worthy backdrop. We appreciated how the guide emphasized respecting the environment and keeping noise levels down to preserve the peace.

Monkey Bay is a brief stop where playful monkeys entertain travelers along the shoreline. Some reviews mention that the monkeys can be quite bold, so keep your belongings close. It’s a fun photo op but not a place to feed or get too close.

Lunch on Phi Phi Don and Island Hopping

After these scenic stops, you’ll land on Phi Phi Don for a buffet lunch at a beachfront restaurant. Reviewers say the food is decent, with plenty of options, but it’s not gourmet by any means—expect simple, tasty, Thai-style fare. You’ll have some free time here to explore shops or relax on the beach before heading to Bamboo Island.

Bamboo Island is a highlight, with soft white sand and turquoise waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling. The shallow reefs are great for beginners, and the natural beauty makes it a perfect spot to unwind or take photos.

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Limestone Rock at Chicken Island and Tup Island

Next, the tour visits Chicken Island, distinguished by its limestone rock formation resembling a chicken’s head. It’s a brief stop, but the view is quirky and fun for photos. Then, you’ll stroll across the sandbank connecting Tup Island to neighboring islands at low tide—a favorite for many reviewers who describe it as “magical and surreal.”

Sunset BBQ on Poda Island

As the day winds down, you’ll arrive at Poda Island for a sunset BBQ, a moment many reviewers find to be the tour’s highlight. You’ll dine with your toes in the sand, enjoying freshly grilled seafood, meats, and local dishes as the sky transitions into shades of orange and pink. The guide notes that other boats return to the mainland while you settle into this peaceful setting, making it feel exclusive despite the popularity.

The sunset views are spectacular, with the limestone karsts of Krabi silhouetted against the colorful sky. It’s the perfect end to a busy day—time to relax, take photos, or just soak in the natural beauty.

Transportation, Duration, and Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 8 to 10 hours, with pickup times starting around 8:10 am, depending on your location. The use of a speedboat means quick access to the islands and a lively ride across the water. The option for small groups means more personalized attention, and some travelers noted that guides like “Nop” or “Lek” added valuable local insights.

While the tour is packed with stops, the schedule is designed to maximize highlights, so expect a fast-paced day. The dinner on Poda Island is included, giving you a chance to enjoy both the scenery and a hearty meal.

Is This Tour Worth It?

In terms of value, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that hits many must-see spots in a single day. The boat ride, multiple island visits, buffet lunch, and sunset BBQ create a full package. Reviewers mention that the guide’s local knowledge and the small group size significantly enhance the experience, making it more intimate and less rushed.

However, note that the popularity of spots like Maya Bay can mean dealing with crowds, especially in high season. The schedule is tight, which might be tiring for some, but it’s perfect if you want a high-energy day with lots of photo opportunities and activities.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who:

• Want to see multiple iconic islands and beaches in one day
• Appreciate photography and stunning scenery
• Enjoy active days with swimming, snorkeling, and walking
• Don’t mind a busy schedule and small group tours
• Are looking for a combination of adventure, food, and scenic relaxation

It might be less suitable for those seeking a slow-paced, relaxing day or travelers sensitive to large crowds. If you prioritize more time on each location, consider alternative options.

The Sum Up

This Phi Phi Islands and 4 Islands tour offers a lively, all-in-one experience that captures the essence of Thailand’s stunning marine landscapes. The mix of iconic sights like Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and the sandbank, combined with a sunset BBQ, delivers both adventure and a taste of tropical paradise. While the day can feel a bit hectic—especially at popular spots—the personalized small-group approach helps make it memorable.

For travelers eager to tick multiple boxes in one trip, enjoy plenty of photo ops, and end the day with a beautiful sunset, this tour offers excellent value. Keep in mind that it’s best suited for those who love energetic excursions and don’t mind sharing the scenery with other visitors.

Overall, it’s a fantastic way to experience the highlights of Krabi’s islands without spending multiple days on the water, making it a practical choice for a well-rounded island-hopping adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the small group setup makes it friendly for solo travelers, and you’ll likely meet others during the day.

How long is the boat ride between islands?
The speedboat quickly covers the distances, but exact times vary depending on the location of your pickup and the specific stops; expect some short, lively rides.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, sunscreen, and cash for optional purchases or tips.

Is the BBQ dinner on Poda Island included?
Yes, the sunset BBQ dinner on Poda Island is part of this tour, giving you a relaxed dining experience right on the beach.

Are there opportunities for snorkeling?
While snorkeling is not explicitly highlighted, the clear waters around Bamboo Island and other stops suggest good conditions for swimming and snorkeling.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift.

This tour strikes a balance between sightseeing, activity, and relaxation, making it a solid choice for those eager to experience Thailand’s best islands in a single memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby