Ko Phi Phi, Krabi

The Phi Phi archipelago is what dreams are made of.  As we stepped off the ferry onto Ko Phi Phi Don, we left reality behind and walked into paradise.  We literally dropped our bags and scrambled to the water, disappearing along the coastline on a kayak to explore secret beaches nestled at the base of the towering cliffs.  The compact town was a peaceful retreat when we returned to eat and sleep, it's tiny car and scooter free streets lined with restaurants and boat companies. A gibbon dressed in dungarees rode past us on a bicycle with his owner.  We were spoilt with beautiful views over the bay from our hillside bungalow.  

 

Longtail Boats, Ko Phi Phi Don

We rose early the next morning to catch our privately hired longtail boat to Ko Phi Phi Leh before the tourist crowds were even stirring.  Our excitement was palpable as we approached the sheer limestone cliffs.  

Ko Phi Phi Leh from Longtail Boat 

We were guided into the water by our guide Nu as we anchored in a small bay.  The famous Maya Bay we had come to see was just a short swim and climb away he promised us.  As soon as we jumped in we were blown away by the life under the water as we suddenly found ourselves swarmed by colorful fish. We climbed up onto the rocks with the help of a complex web of ropes, and stumbled eagerly through the camp site and along the sandy path to finally reach 'the beach' that we had been dreaming of for so long!

Maya Bay, 'The Beach'

We swam and took photos with barely anyone else around, in a private haven almost completed surrounded by limestone pillars.  When we finally returned to the boat Nu was relaxing and waiting to take us to his favorite snorkeling spots, including Shark point!

Snorkeling Paradise 

One of the Secluded Bays, Ko Phi Phi Leh

Six hours later after being in the water all morning, we headed back to Ko Phi Phi Don to catch our ferry back to Phuket, sunburnt and satisfied and feeling very privileged.

Fish Food 

We got some incredible underwater camera footage, we promise to follow this post with a video soon!