Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) Pakbara ferry

Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) Guide

Koh Phi Phi (Tonsai Pier) Ferry Port

Koh Phi Phi consists of six smaller islands, with the port located on the largest and only inhabited island of Ko Phi Phi Don. The island group, known as the Ko Phi Phi archipelago, forms part of Thailand and is renowned for being the home to an abundance of beautiful white sand beaches next to limestone cliffs. Some film fans may know some of the shores of the islands from the film ‘The Beach’. Unsurprisingly, the island group’s incredible aesthetics have prompted the tag ‘Darling of the Andaman Coast’ and has become a haven for travellers looking to explore the isles of exotic lands. Infamous for the all night parties filled with travellers and backpackers from all over the globe – those looking for a fun filled holiday ensure they head to Koh Phi Phi. The largest island of Koh Phi Phi Don is practically two islands joined together by a narrow stretch of land. The port is located at Ao Ton Sai which is found near the peninsula; it is littered with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and is nearly always incredibly busy. This area of the island isn’t particularly picturesque, so visitors may be best served heading to the beautiful eastern coast as soon as they step off the boat. Crossings depart from the port several times per day, heading to the nearby islands and the Thailand mainland. Due to the close proximity of the islands, sailings are relatively short and cross rugged landscapes and endless seas making for a pleasant journey.

Pakbara Guide

Pakbara Ferry Port

Pakbara is a tiny, remote village on the south coast of Thailand, located around 60km northwest of Satun. The only ferry route departing the port is to the relatively popular tourist resort of Koh Lipe, with Bundhaya Speed Boat providing seven hour long crossings per week.

What is there to do in Pakbara?

Famed for its wonderfully delicious seafood, Pakbara is gradually growing into a more tourist focussed resort, though currently it is primarily used as a transportation hub between other popular resorts. Most of the action resides around the pier, where visitors will find restaurants, travel agencies and ambitious locals trying to sell authentic clothing or souvenirs. Due to the extremely transient nature of a visit to Pakbara, there is limited accommodation around the village; budget motels and guesthouses are the only places to sleep, and most of the time they aren’t worth staying in for more than a day.

How do visitors get around Pakbara?

Other than walking, the main form of transportation is a motorbike taxi; ask locals for a ‘Win taxi’ and they will point you in the right direction. It is worthwhile working out a fair price and negotiating a price before setting off.