Kop Pun Kap: Exploring the Vibrant Culture and Nightlife of Koh Phi Phi

Bernardo Faigenblat
Nov 21, 2022
4 min read

Updated: Mar 26, 2023

June 2022

Sawadee Ka! (Hello!) I recently had the pleasure of exploring the stunning Phi Phi Islands in Thailand, and what a trip it was! If you're planning a trip to Thailand, Phi Phi Islands should definitely be on your list. My journey began with a ferry ride from Phuket to Phi Phi Islands. As soon as I arrived, I was mesmerized by the crystal-clear turquoise waters and pristine white sand beaches. It was love at first sight!

After settling into our hotel room at Chaokoh Phi Phi Hotel & Resort, we set out to explore the island's narrow streets that felt more like alleys. Our first stop was Only Noodles, where we enjoyed the most delicious Pad Thai we had ever tasted in Thailand. The price was very affordable at just 100 Baht ($3.00) per plate.

As we continued to roam the island, we met two British girls, Estelle and Amber, who we ended up spending the next couple of days with. They approached us to break the ice by asking if we thought they were a couple, which we did! They were also looking to make new friends while enjoying the paradise. Together, we explored the island and stopped at the Irish Pub, where we enjoyed buckets of cocktails for just 200 Baht ($5.88) each. Estelle was kind enough to teach us a few Thai words she had picked up on her travels, and we quickly became great friends.

After leaving the pub, we parted ways with the girls and continued exploring the island. We noticed a lot of new infrastructure being built throughout the island, which was a promising sign of the island's growth. We also saw a group of Thai kids playing soccer and admired how this sport truly transcends borders.

Back at our hotel, we took a "short" nap before heading to the beach parties at night. One of the highlights from Koh Phi Phi was the amazing beach parties we attended. The vibrant atmosphere, energetic music, and friendly people created an incredible vibe that was hard to beat.

Our first stop was the Blanco Bar, located next to the Backpackers Hostel. This bar had a lively and sociable vibe, with people from all over the world mingling and having a great time. We even got to participate in a pong tournament, which was a lot of fun. We spent around 300 baht (approximately $10 USD) on drinks and snacks at this bar.

Next, we headed to The Cottage Bar, which had a huge dance floor and bar area. That night, they were hosting a mesmerizing fire show that added to the already incredible atmosphere. We met a group of locals at this bar who welcomed us with open arms and even taught us some Thai dance moves.

As the night wore on, the music continued to blast, and the party-goers kept the energy going until the early hours of the morning. At around 3 am, the music was turned off, signaling the end of the party. Most of us headed inland to other bars or grabbed some food before calling it a night.

As we woke up the next day in Phi Phi Islands, Thailand, we were disappointed to find that it was pouring rain. However, we decided to take it as an opportunity to have a chill day, as we had been on a high-paced schedule since our arrival in Southeast Asia.

At night, we met up with our new friends Amber and Estelle at the Kickboxing Reggae Bar, where they offer free buckets for people that volunteer to box each other with gloves and protective headgear. The fighting ring was located in the middle of the bar, with tables and bleacher-style seating. Although we didn't partake in the fighting, we enjoyed watching it and had sufficient drinks for the enjoyment of the continued entertainment for the night. The local fighters decided to battle with no protective gear, and we were amazed by the 360° kicks flying and punches being blocked and landed.

As the bar closed, we continued to Rolling Stones Bar, which we had briefly hung out the night before. This karaoke bar had an electric guitar for Jake to enjoy playing, while Alex, Amber, Estelle, and I rotated singing for different songs.

Afterward, we headed to the beach parties for the rest of the night. There were a lot more people filling the beach this night, and many people had their bodies painted in neon, while the bar had reflective lights creating a kind of music festival atmosphere. We met many new people, and the party went on until the early hours of the morning.

The following morning, we had Pad Thai for breakfast at the same place as the first day, which cost us 120 baht (approximately $3.60 USD) per person. We then boarded the 11 am ferry back to Phuket, but this time Patong, where we would be spending the following two nights.

Overall, Phi Phi Islands was unforgettable, as we got to witness some impressive fighting skills, sing our hearts out at a karaoke bar, and party on the beach with new friends. Even though it rained on our last day in Phi Phi Islands, it didn't stop us from having a good time and making the most out of our trip.

Thai Kids Playing Soccer