The twin island of Phi Phi le and Phi Phi Don are famed for their stunning beauty. Indeed, they are often counted among the loveliest islands in the world Most visitors to Phuket have seen photos of Phi Phi’s rock walls rising from crystal waters long before arrival . Unfortunately, development has been largely uncontrolled, and the main beach area in ton Sai Bay is now crowned and unpleasant . The best way to experience it is not by daytripping from Phuket, but by spending the night and withnessing the grandeur after the hoards have left. Evening and early moring are magical times. Rent a longtail boat for a leisurely snorkeling tour over the extensive shallow reef just off Bamboo island. The placid, warm, strikingly clear water makes Phi Phi and excellent place to learn how to dive, and numerous interesting dive spots lie off Phi Phi Le. With a little effort to avoid the crowds, Phi Phi rewards the visitor with paradise.