When I first glided into Pi Leh Bay on a longtail boat, I felt like I’d stumbled into a secret corner of paradise. Tucked away on Koh Phi Phi Leh, a small, uninhabited island in Thailand’s Andaman Sea, Pi Leh Bay is a breathtaking lagoon surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and shimmering emerald waters. As someone who’s explored many of Thailand’s coastal gems, I can say that Pi Leh Bay stands out for its otherworldly beauty, serene seclusion, and sense of adventure. In this 1500-word review, I’ll share my experience of this magical lagoon, covering its stunning scenery, activities, quirks, and tips for making the most of your visit.
Getting There: A Scenic Voyage
My journey to Pi Leh Bay began on Koh Phi Phi Don, the larger, inhabited island in the Phi Phi archipelago. Since Pi Leh Bay is on Koh Phi Phi Leh, a protected island with no accommodations or permanent settlements, the only way to reach it is by boat. I opted for a half-day boat tour, which is a popular way to explore the area. The tour cost around 800 baht ($24 USD), including stops at other nearby spots like Maya Bay. Alternatively, private longtail boats or speedboats are available for a more personalized experience, though they’re pricier.
The 20-minute boat ride from Phi Phi Don was a feast for the eyes. The turquoise Andaman Sea sparkled under the morning sun, and as we approached Koh Phi Phi Leh, the limestone cliffs rose dramatically from the water, their jagged edges draped in lush greenery. The entrance to Pi Leh Bay is narrow, almost hidden, and as our boat slipped through the gap between the cliffs, I felt a thrill of anticipation. The lagoon opened up before us, and I was instantly captivated by its beauty.
The Lagoon: A Natural Masterpiece
Pi Leh Bay is a vision of paradise. The lagoon is a near-perfect crescent of emerald-green water, so clear that I could see fish darting beneath the surface. It’s surrounded on all sides by sheer limestone cliffs, some rising over 100 meters, their surfaces dotted with stalactites and patches of jungle. The cliffs create a natural enclosure, making the lagoon feel like a hidden sanctuary, sheltered from the open sea.
The water was the star of the show. Its vibrant green hue, caused by the reflection of the cliffs and the shallow sandy bottom, was unlike anything I’d seen before. I couldn’t resist dipping my hand into the water as we drifted, feeling its warm, silky texture. The lagoon is relatively shallow, with depths ranging from a few meters to about 10 meters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The surrounding cliffs gave the space an intimate, almost mystical vibe, as if the lagoon were a secret kept by the island itself.
One of the most striking features of Pi Leh Bay is its tranquility. Despite being a popular stop on Phi Phi boat tours, the lagoon’s size and shape make it feel serene, even with other boats around. I visited in the early morning, which helped avoid the midday crowds, and for a few moments, it felt like the lagoon was mine alone.
Activities: Adventure in a Secluded Paradise
Pi Leh Bay is a playground for water lovers, and I made the most of it. The calm, clear waters are perfect for swimming, and I dove in almost immediately after our boat anchored. Floating in the lagoon, surrounded by towering cliffs, was a surreal experience. The water was warm and buoyant, and I could see small fish flitting around me, their colors catching the sunlight.
Snorkeling is another highlight, and my tour provided basic gear. The lagoon’s underwater world isn’t as vibrant as coral reefs elsewhere, but I spotted schools of sergeant majors and parrotfish, their bright hues standing out against the sandy bottom. For those with their own gear, exploring the edges of the lagoon near the cliffs can reveal small caves and rock formations teeming with marine life.
Kayaking is also popular, and I saw several groups paddling through the lagoon, their kayaks gliding silently across the water. I didn’t rent one myself, but I wished I had—the idea of exploring the lagoon’s nooks and crannies at my own pace was tempting. Some tours offer stand-up paddleboarding, which would be another fun way to soak in the scenery.
For the more adventurous, cliff jumping is an option at certain spots where the rocks are accessible. I watched a few thrill-seekers leap from low ledges into the lagoon, their splashes echoing off the cliffs. I stuck to swimming, but the energy of the jumpers added a lively vibe to the scene.
If relaxation is your goal, Pi Leh Bay delivers. I spent time simply floating on my back, staring up at the cliffs and the sliver of blue sky above. The lagoon’s sheltered nature makes it feel like a natural infinity pool, and I could have stayed there for hours, letting the gentle current carry me.
The Vibe: Serene Yet Lively
Pi Leh Bay has a unique atmosphere that balances tranquility with bursts of energy. The lagoon’s natural beauty and seclusion create a sense of peace, but the presence of boat tours and adventurous travelers adds a touch of excitement. During my visit, there were a few other boats in the lagoon, but it never felt overcrowded. The cliffs seem to absorb sound, giving the space an almost sacred stillness, broken only by the occasional splash or laughter.
The crowd is diverse—backpackers, couples, and families all share the lagoon, each finding their own way to enjoy it. I struck up a conversation with a Canadian traveler who described Pi Leh as “like swimming in a painting,” and I couldn’t agree more. The lagoon has a way of making you feel connected to nature, even with others around.
Food and Drinks: Limited but Lovely
Pi Leh Bay itself has no food vendors or facilities, as Koh Phi Phi Leh is a protected national park. My boat tour included a small cooler with bottled water and fresh fruit, which was a welcome treat after swimming. I munched on juicy pineapple slices while lounging on the boat, the sweet flavor complementing the salty sea air.
For a proper meal, you’ll need to return to Phi Phi Don or visit nearby spots like Maya Bay, where some tours stop for lunch. Back on Phi Phi Don, I enjoyed a plate of pad thai at a beachside restaurant, costing about 100 baht ($3 USD). If you’re on a private tour, you can ask your boat driver to stop at a floating food stall in the area, where vendors sell snacks like grilled corn or coconut water.
Quirks and Tips
Pi Leh Bay is a dream destination, but a few quirks are worth noting. The lagoon can get busy during peak hours (midday, especially in high season from November to March), so I’d recommend visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience. My early morning tour was perfect, with only a handful of boats sharing the lagoon.
The boat ride to Pi Leh can be bumpy if the sea is rough, so those prone to seasickness might want to take precautions. Also, the lagoon’s entrance is narrow, and boats sometimes queue to enter, so patience is key. Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun reflects off the water and can be intense, even in the morning.
Since Koh Phi Phi Leh is part of a national park, there’s a small entry fee (around 400 baht, often included in tour prices). Respect the environment—no littering, and avoid touching marine life or the cliffs. I noticed a few bits of plastic floating in the water, a reminder to be mindful of our impact.
If you’re staying on Phi Phi Don, book your tour or boat in advance during peak season, as spots fill up fast. Cash is useful for small purchases like drinks or tips for boat drivers. Lastly, watch out for slippery rocks if you’re climbing or exploring near the cliffs—safety first!
Why Pi Leh Bay Stands Out
Pi Leh Bay is more than a pretty lagoon—it’s a place that feels alive with beauty and wonder. Compared to nearby Maya Bay, which is stunning but often crowded, Pi Leh offers a more intimate, almost mystical experience. The cliffs, the emerald water, and the sense of seclusion make it feel like a hidden treasure, even as part of a guided tour.
As my boat pulled away from the lagoon, I took one last look at the cliffs framing the water, their shadows dancing on the surface. Pi Leh Bay isn’t just a destination—it’s a moment of pure connection with nature, a place that leaves you in awe of the world’s beauty.
Final Thoughts
My visit to Pi Leh Bay was a highlight of my time in the Phi Phi Islands. Whether you’re swimming in its emerald waters, kayaking along the cliffs, or simply floating in its embrace, this lagoon has a way of capturing your heart. If you’re planning a trip to Thailand’s Andaman coast, make sure Pi Leh Bay is on your list—it’s a slice of paradise that will stay with you long after you’ve left its shores.
