Phi Phi Viewpoints Guide: How to Visit Viewpoints 1, 2 & 3

Linda Krones Linda Krones | Published | 5 min read | Updated
Phi Phi Viewpoints Guide: How to Visit Viewpoints 1, 2 & 3

The Phi Phi Viewpoints are among the most iconic attractions on Koh Phi Phi Don, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the island’s twin bays, lush hills, and turquoise Andaman Sea. Whether you’re visiting for the famous postcard photo, watching the sunrise, or simply enjoying the scenery, the hike to the viewpoints is one of the best things to do on the island.

There are three main viewpoints along the same trail, each offering a different perspective and experience. While most visitors stop at Viewpoint 2 for its world-famous view, continuing to Viewpoint 3 rewards you with a quieter atmosphere and even wider panoramas. In this guide, you’ll learn how to reach all three viewpoints, entrance fees, hiking times, what to expect at each stop, and the best time to visit for the most spectacular views.

Phi Phi Viewpoint 1

Phi Phi Viewpoint 1 is the first stop along the trail leading up the hillside above Tonsai Village. While it isn’t as famous as Viewpoint 2, it offers a pleasant place to take a break and enjoy your first elevated views over the island. You’ll also find a small café where you can buy drinks and snacks before continuing the climb.

To reach Viewpoint 1, start from the eastern end of Tonsai Village near the Phi Phi Viewpoint entrance. From there, follow the clearly marked uphill path, which consists of a mix of concrete walkways and stairs. The walk takes around 10–15 minutes at a comfortable pace, although it is fairly steep in places, so bringing water is recommended.

There is an entrance fee to access the viewpoints. As of 2026, the fee is 50 THB per person, which covers access to Viewpoint 1, Viewpoint 2, and Viewpoint 3. Once you’ve paid at the entrance, you can continue along the trail without any additional charges.

Although many visitors continue straight to Viewpoint 2, Viewpoint 1 is worth a short stop to catch your breath, enjoy the tropical surroundings, and take in the increasingly impressive views before heading higher up the mountain.

Phi Phi Viewpoint 2

Phi Phi Viewpoint 2 is the island’s most famous viewpoint and the one featured on countless postcards, travel guides, and social media posts. From here, you’ll enjoy the iconic panoramic view of Koh Phi Phi Don’s narrow isthmus, with Tonsai Bay on one side and Loh Dalum Bay on the other, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise water and lush green hills. It’s widely considered one of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of Thailand.

From Viewpoint 1, it’s another 5–10 minutes uphill to reach Viewpoint 2. The trail remains well-maintained with paved paths and steps, though it can be steep in sections. In total, the hike from Tonsai Village to Viewpoint 2 usually takes around 20–30 minutes, depending on your pace.

At the top, you’ll find spacious viewing platforms, seating areas, a café serving drinks and light snacks, and plenty of spots to relax while taking in the scenery. This is also where most visitors stop to capture the classic Phi Phi photograph, making it the busiest of the three viewpoints.

The best times to visit are early in the morning, when temperatures are cooler and there are fewer people, or in the late afternoon for sunset. Sunset is especially popular, so arriving 30–60 minutes beforehand will give you the best chance of finding a good viewing spot and enjoying the changing colors over the Andaman Sea.

Phi Phi Viewpoint 3

Phi Phi Viewpoint 3 is the highest and least-visited of the island’s three main viewpoints, making it an excellent choice for those looking to escape the crowds. While it doesn’t offer the same perfectly centered view of the twin bays as Viewpoint 2, it rewards hikers with a peaceful atmosphere and sweeping views across the surrounding jungle-covered hills, coastline, and the Andaman Sea.

From Viewpoint 2, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk to Viewpoint 3. The trail becomes narrower and more natural, with uneven ground, tree roots, and steeper sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain. In total, expect the hike from Tonsai Village to take around 35–50 minutes.

Unlike the lower viewpoints, Viewpoint 3 has very few facilities, which adds to its secluded feel. The viewpoint features a simple wooden platform with benches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery in relative peace. Because fewer visitors make the extra climb, it’s often much quieter than Viewpoint 2.

If you have the time and don’t mind a slightly more challenging hike, continuing to Viewpoint 3 is well worth the effort. The combination of fewer crowds, fresh mountain air, and expansive views makes it a rewarding finale to the Phi Phi Viewpoint trail.

Final Thoughts

The Phi Phi Viewpoints are a must-visit experience for anyone traveling to Koh Phi Phi. While Viewpoint 2 is the famous photo spot that showcases the island’s iconic shape, visiting all three viewpoints gives you a more complete experience and allows you to enjoy different perspectives of this beautiful island.

For most travelers, the hike is manageable and can easily be completed in a few hours, especially if you take your time, stop for photos, and enjoy the cafés along the way. Visiting early in the morning is ideal for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, while sunset offers some of the most unforgettable views over the Andaman Sea.

Whether you hike only to Viewpoint 2 or continue all the way to Viewpoint 3, the panoramic scenery from above is one of the highlights of any trip to Koh Phi Phi.

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About the author

Linda Krones

Linda Krones

3 published posts

Linda Krones is a seasoned travel writer and Southeast Asia specialist with over 12 years of experience exploring and documenting the region’s hidden gems. Originally from Austria, she first visited Phuket in 2012 and instantly fell in love with the island’s unique blend of turquoise waters, lush jungles, vibrant culture, and laid-back Thai hospitality. What began as a two-week holiday quickly turned into a lifelong passion - and eventually a new home.

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