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Tackle the Trails on Thailand’s Coastal Islands
Published by Maya C. Robinson
Country: Thailand 
The Experience
There's no doubt that Thailand offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet. From around the world, tourists flock to Thailand to soak up the hot Thai sun and enjoy the pristine beaches and friendly culture. However, one of the best ways to experience the gorgeous blue waters and incredible views that Thailand has to offer—is by hiking; and one of the best places in Thailand to hike is on any of the many, many islands that adorn Thailand’s tranquil coast. On Thailand’s islands, the unsuspecting hiker will find trails off the beaten path that will entertain and thrill even world-travelled hikers, and provide a nice escape from the more popular Thai mainland destinations.
Of course, there are a few Thailand islands that are not new to tourism. Islands such as Koh Phangan attract Thailand travel tours from around the world to attend the monthly Half Moon and Full Moon party on Haad Rin beach, where upwards of 20,000 people could be in attendance. There is also Koh Samui, another Thailand Island that is highly developed, and even has its own international airport to service its visitors. For tourists wishing to avoid the tourist traps, the mountains and hiking trails on these islands are just minutes away, and due to transportation infrastructure (that is increasing yearly), very few islands require access by boat.
There are many different islands to enjoy while you are in Thailand, and in fact there are too many to mention here. Each Thai island has a unique beauty to it, and as tourists rarely come to many of the less popular Thailand islands, they usually also have kilometres of empty beaches. It is highly recommended to try and reach a few of them to fully appreciate the diversity and seclusion that Thailand has to offer. The perfect example of a Thai island experience is Koh Phi Phi Don.
Koh Phi Phi Don offers a fantastic trail which takes hikers to three different vantage points of the island. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a capable novice, anyone can tackle the hour-long trek through the jungles of this petite island; and there's truly no better way of appreciating stunning postcard beach views than seeing them with your own eyes.
The trail on Koh Phi Phi Don begins at the centre of the island, and if you want to beat the heat and catch the beautiful sunrise, wake up around 5 a.m.. The easiest way to get started is to follow the small wooden signs labelled "Viewpoint," with arrows pointing you in the right direction. Be aware that the heat is sweltering, even at early dawn, so be sure to bring along lots of water and dress lightly. The hike is minimally challenging, but be prepared to alternate from concrete paths to wooded areas as the hike changes course often. Keep your eye out for signs, as the path is quite curvy, and it is easy to get lost or veer from the trail. For this reason, it's a good idea to make the trip with others.
On all Thai islands, the scenery is spectacular, and at each of the three viewpoints on Koh Phi Phi Island, there are several photo opportunities, so be sure to pack your camera. Try to move quickly on the hike so that you can arrive at the top around 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m to witness the gorgeous sunrise over the Andaman Sea. When you arrive at the top of the third viewpoint, you will reach a small wooden building that looks like a tiny house, and there is a balcony attached with two wooden tables. Once you've arrived there, you are at your final destination and the optimal view for watching the sunrise. And what a spectacular view it will be!
Of course, there are a few Thailand islands that are not new to tourism. Islands such as Koh Phangan attract Thailand travel tours from around the world to attend the monthly Half Moon and Full Moon party on Haad Rin beach, where upwards of 20,000 people could be in attendance. There is also Koh Samui, another Thailand Island that is highly developed, and even has its own international airport to service its visitors. For tourists wishing to avoid the tourist traps, the mountains and hiking trails on these islands are just minutes away, and due to transportation infrastructure (that is increasing yearly), very few islands require access by boat.
There are many different islands to enjoy while you are in Thailand, and in fact there are too many to mention here. Each Thai island has a unique beauty to it, and as tourists rarely come to many of the less popular Thailand islands, they usually also have kilometres of empty beaches. It is highly recommended to try and reach a few of them to fully appreciate the diversity and seclusion that Thailand has to offer. The perfect example of a Thai island experience is Koh Phi Phi Don.
Koh Phi Phi Don offers a fantastic trail which takes hikers to three different vantage points of the island. Whether you are an experienced hiker or a capable novice, anyone can tackle the hour-long trek through the jungles of this petite island; and there's truly no better way of appreciating stunning postcard beach views than seeing them with your own eyes.
The trail on Koh Phi Phi Don begins at the centre of the island, and if you want to beat the heat and catch the beautiful sunrise, wake up around 5 a.m.. The easiest way to get started is to follow the small wooden signs labelled "Viewpoint," with arrows pointing you in the right direction. Be aware that the heat is sweltering, even at early dawn, so be sure to bring along lots of water and dress lightly. The hike is minimally challenging, but be prepared to alternate from concrete paths to wooded areas as the hike changes course often. Keep your eye out for signs, as the path is quite curvy, and it is easy to get lost or veer from the trail. For this reason, it's a good idea to make the trip with others.
On all Thai islands, the scenery is spectacular, and at each of the three viewpoints on Koh Phi Phi Island, there are several photo opportunities, so be sure to pack your camera. Try to move quickly on the hike so that you can arrive at the top around 6:00 a.m. to 6:30 a.m to witness the gorgeous sunrise over the Andaman Sea. When you arrive at the top of the third viewpoint, you will reach a small wooden building that looks like a tiny house, and there is a balcony attached with two wooden tables. Once you've arrived there, you are at your final destination and the optimal view for watching the sunrise. And what a spectacular view it will be!
When to Go
The best time to visit Thailand is during the Thai summer season, or simply when the weather is fair and sunny. This would fall anytime between November and April of the calendar year. Hiking the trails at dawn tends to be easier, as there are fewer travellers around and you can move at your own pace. A good time to visit the islands is during the New Year Songkran Festival, which takes place in mid-April.
The actual hiking trails are free of charge, but depending on which islands you plan to visit, if there are no roads and connecting bridges, it will cost you a ferry ride there and back. The easiest and most efficient way to get to Koh Phi Phi Don is by way of Phuket, and then taking the Phuket ferry from the eastern ferry terminal straight to Phi Phi Island. The ferries from Phuket to Phi Phi Island generally cost about 700–1000 baht, or US$22–US$30.
The actual hiking trails are free of charge, but depending on which islands you plan to visit, if there are no roads and connecting bridges, it will cost you a ferry ride there and back. The easiest and most efficient way to get to Koh Phi Phi Don is by way of Phuket, and then taking the Phuket ferry from the eastern ferry terminal straight to Phi Phi Island. The ferries from Phuket to Phi Phi Island generally cost about 700–1000 baht, or US$22–US$30.
Odds n' Ends
Since the weather is hot and humid in Thailand, bring lots of water to stay hydrated while you are hiking. Thais tend to frown upon public nudity, so it is probably not the best idea to wear bikinis or inappropriate, revealing clothing or swimwear while hiking. Finally, don't forget to pack mosquito spray or cream. They are out and about all year round!
Places to Eat
- Tonsai Seafood Restaurant
- Some of the best fresh seafood comes from restaurants that sit inches from the water, and this is indeed one of them. Ranging from an exotic menu of crab cake pizzas and fresh red snapper fish, this restaurant offers delicious seafood at affordable prices.
- PhiPhi Viewpoint Restaurant
- This delightful restaurant features a large menu, combining traditional Western meals with local Thai curries and dishes. The noodles are especially delicious, and as always, come at a cheap price in local Thai eateries. It is also set in the beautiful PhiPhi Viewpoint Resort, where you can enjoying a relaxing stay seconds from the beach.
Recommended Places to Stay
- Arayaburi Resort
- This stunning resort features white sandy beaches right outside its doors, along with a gorgeous pool in its backyard. This resort is designed for travelers who want to relax and reside in luxury, and rates generally range from $80-100 USD.
- Rhim Khao Guesthouse
- Staying in a guesthouse is the ideal plan for a backpacker or any traveler on a budget. Rooms are simple but pleasant, and this particular guesthouse sits right on the beach, which is any traveler's main attraction. Rates start as low as $10 USD for a standard room per night. This is just one of several guesthouses, located in the main Koh Phi Phi Don village.
Additional Places to Stay Nearby
Search over 900,000 global hotel deals from over 30 merchants. Book via Expedia, Travelocity, Hotels.com, Booking.com, Priceline and the websites of popular hotel chains.
The Phi Phi Palms Residence is perfectly located for both business and leisure guests to Koh Phi Phi (Krabi).All 9 rooms at the hotel have ... 0 miles away
$1450 THB+
Located in Loh Dalam Bay area of Phi Phi Islands, Parichat House Hotel allows its guests to explore the city's attractions such as Rantee Beach, ... 0 miles away
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While You're There - Tours and Trips Nearby
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