Rising dramatically from the turquoise Andaman Sea, the Phi Phi Islands are a group of six islands renowned for their towering limestone cliffs, powder-white beaches, and vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life. Phi Phi Don, the larger island, serves as the main hub with its lively Tonsai village, while uninhabited Phi Phi Leh is home to the legendary Maya Bay — a crescent of pristine sand enclosed by 100-meter vertical cliffs that gained worldwide fame as a filming location. After years of ecological restoration, Maya Bay has reopened with strict visitor limits that have allowed its coral reefs and marine ecosystems to make a remarkable recovery. Between the islands, crystal-clear waters invite snorkeling among blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles, and schools of neon-colored fish.

Pro tip: Stay overnight on Phi Phi Don to experience the islands after the day-trippers leave — the sunset from the viewpoint hike (a steep 30-minute climb) is worth every drop of sweat.