The Phi Phi Islands are located in Thailand between the larger island of Phuket and the mainland. They are politically part of Krabi province, most of which is on the mainland, which is located at 802 8?02?30?N, 98?48?39?E. Phi Phi Don is located at It is located at 7?44?00?N, 98?46?00?E
Phi Phi Don ("koh" meaning "island" in the Thai) is the largest island of the group, and is the only island with permanent inhabitants, although the beaches of the second largest island, Koh Phi Phi Leh, are visited by many people as well. There are no accommodation facilities on this island, but it is just a short boat ride from Koh Phi Phi Don. The rest of the islands in the group, including Bida Nok, Bida Noi, and Bamboo Island, are not much more than large limestone rocks jutting out of the sea.
Phi Phi Don was initially populated by Muslim fishermen during the late 1940s, and later became a coconut plantation. The Thai population of Phi Phi Don remains more than 80% Muslim.
About 2 kilometers to the south is Phi Phi Ley. Contrary to Phi Phi Don, this islet is uninhabited as there is no beach area as the island descends abruptly into the sea on all sides and it is prohibited by the administrative body. The main attraction is a large cave about 3.2 square kilometers in size known as Viking Cave derived from one of the numerous drawings on the wall which resembles a Viking ship.
The cave has a 10 to 15-metre high ceiling which contains many ledges inhabited by thousands of swallows, thus a bird's nest collection demonstration is a regular feature of guided tours. Phi Phi Ley was the backdrop for the 2000 movie The Beach.
Ao Maya and Ao Lo Sama - Phi Phi Islands scenic coves are favorite snorkeling places while the sea around the islands, especially the southern part, which are deep and full of coral formations are popular diving spots. With its emerald crystal sea, secluded beaches, mountain cliffs, colorful coral reefs and undersea life, Phi Phi is a paradise in the Andaman Sea.
Koh Yung, an island to the north of Koh Phi Phi Don, has a stone beach on the east and small sandy beaches amid valleys. In addition, the island is teeming with diverse colorful coral reefs. Koh Phai, another island to the north of Koh Phi Phi Don and not far from Koh Yung, has spectacular beaches in the north and east of the island. The bank of coral reefs comprised mainly of antler corals stretches from the north to the south of the island.
The best time to visit Phi Phi Islands is from November to April, when the sea is calm. From October 20th to April 15th Thailand island is dominated by the light dry North Easterly winds. This gifts dry blue skies and starry nights. The sea stays at a warm 29 degrees Celsius all year round. No cold swimming, kayaking or diving.
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