Why should you go there and how do you do it right?

Phi Phi Leh is the smaller, uninhabited island south of Phi Phi Don. It is surrounded by steep limestone cliffs that enclose shallow bays and is home to most of the attractions associated with Phi Phi. Maya Bay, the bay featured in the restaurant "The Beach," lies on its west side; Pileh Lagoon, a green, cliff-fringed bay, stretches along the east coast; and Viking Cave is located on the route around the island. Since no one lives here and there is no accommodation, visits are only possible by boat trip from Phi Phi Don, Phuket, or Krabi.

The standard route takes half a day. Since boats can no longer enter Maya Bay, they dock at a pontoon in Loh Samah to the east. From there, a wooden walkway leads to the beach. Swimming in the bay is not permitted, and time on the beach is also limited. Pileh Lagoon is the ideal swimming spot: 20 to 30 minutes in calm, warm water below the cliffs. The Viking Cave is closed to visitors because swallows' nests are harvested there. Instead, boats cruise slowly outside to allow a view of the cave, which gets its name from the boat paintings on its walls. Loh Samah is usually the ideal spot for snorkeling.

From Phi Phi Don, a group tour by longtail boat costs approximately 1,200–1,500 baht, while a private tour costs 2,500–3,500 baht. The national park fee of 400 baht for adults and 200 baht for children must be paid separately in cash. Maya Bay is closed every year from August 1st to September 30th. Take the earliest possible boat before the day trips from Phuket and Krabi arrive.