Monkey Beach is the small monkey cove on Koh Phi Phi Don. A strip of sand, large rocks, and macaques that live there all year round. We warn you right away: these monkeys are wild, not stuffed animals.
We have lived on the island since 2019 and take travelers there almost every week. Here, without filter, is everything you need to know before going there.
Where exactly is Monkey Beach
Monkey Beach is hidden on the south coast of Koh Phi Phi Don. It borders the large bay of Ton Sai, to the west of the port where the ferries arrive. It's not an endless sandy beach: it's a cove wedged between limestone blocks. You quickly recognize it, by the monkeys sitting on the sand and the long-tails anchored in front. No path leads there. Here, we come by sea, period.
How to get to Monkey Beach
The easiest is the long tail from Ton Sai. The route runs along cliffs and turquoise water, it's already a postcard. If the sea is flat, you can also go there by kayak from the main beach. Most island tours include it in their loop. Our half-day long-tail in the morning spends peacefully there, and the real price is displayed live on the page.
Monkeys: the golden rule
These macaques look adorable. Don't let yourself be fooled. They bite, scratch and steal anything they can grab. We never feed them. Feeding a monkey makes it aggressive, dependent and sick. Keep your distance, don't extend your hand, avoid sudden movements. A bite here means a trip to the clinic for a rabies shot. It quickly ruins a vacation.
Snorkeling around the beach
The water around the rocks is clear and full of fish. A simple mask and snorkel are enough to see colorful schools. Stay close to the edge and watch the current, it may push out to sea. Visibility increases in high season, from November to April. If you want to go further underwater, we direct you to diving at Koh Phi Phi.
Best time to go
Our best advice: leave early, very early. The first long-tails arrive before the crowds and before the heat. At dawn, the light is soft and the monkeys are calmer. In the middle of the day, the boats pile up and the atmosphere changes. The high season is from November to April, calm sea and clear water. From February to April, it is the driest period. The water remains between 27 and 30°C all year round.
Safety: what you really need to know
Never put your bag or phone on the sand. Near the monkeys, everything disappears in a second. Store glasses, bottles and snacks out of sight. If a monkey approaches, back away slowly toward the water or boat. Avoid staring into his eyes, he reads that as a threat. With children, hold them close and keep an eye on them.
Is there an entrance fee
Good news: Monkey Beach is on Koh Phi Phi Don. There are no national park fees here, unlike Maya Bay. Maya Bay charges 400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child aged 3 to 14. Entrance is free for children under 3 years old, and you pay on site. Many outings combine both in the same day. For Maya Bay, read our complete guide before leaving.
What we advise you to bring
Travel light, with nothing valuable in hand. Bring a mask, water and reef-friendly sunscreen. Slip your phone into a tightly closed waterproof pouch. Leave food and plastic bags on the boat. A pair of sandals helps a lot on slippery rocks.
Is Monkey Beach worth a visit?
Let's be honest: it's not the most beautiful beach on the island. We come there for the monkeys and the snorkeling, not to sunbathe for hours. It combines very well with a long-tail island tour. If the monkeys stress you out, you can also admire them from the boat. This is often the best choice with young children.
