Parks — Krabi

A more remote Phi Phi beach that's good for snorkeling. It's easiest to reach by boat — about 300 baht from Tonsai Pier.

If you’re wintering here, it’s better to choose more remote areas — Ao Nam Mao Beach, Noppharat Thara Beach or Klong Muang. For comfortable living you’ll need a bike, but you can rent accommodation much cheaper — from 10,000 baht per month for a small house. You’ll find a basic selection of shops and Thai cafés everywhere, plus a more relaxed and quiet Thai-village atmosphere. Each of these areas has a decent local beach. For postcard 'bounty' beaches you still have to get out to the islands.

Of course many people come to Phi Phi mainly to see the legendary Maya Bay. Before you go, note a few important things. First, check the tide charts: it's crucial to visit the beach at high tide — otherwise the lagoon's limestone cliffs will be surrounded by sand and small puddles instead of turquoise water. Second, try to go in the morning or as close to sunset as possible — again, plan around the tides. Most day-trip groups arrive around or after midday, which is when the bay is most crowded and dozens of boats are moored at the pier. Third and most important: swimming in the bay is strictly prohibited to avoid damaging the unique reef. Another important detail: the bay is closed to visitors for a couple of months each year, usually in the summer, again to protect the reefs.