Traveling from Phuket to the Phi Phi Islands is not only about choosing between a ferry or speedboat—it is also an opportunity to enjoy some of southern Thailand’s most satisfying local food before you set sail. Knowing where and when to eat can make the journey smoother, tastier, and more authentic, especially around Phuket’s main departure piers.
This guide focuses on reliable, locally favored food options near Rassada Pier and Chalong Pier, along with realistic expectations for onboard meals and where to eat immediately upon arrival in Phi Phi.
Overview: Phuket to Phi Phi Transport & Timing
| Transport Type | Departure Piers | Travel Time | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry | Rassada Pier | ~2 hours | THB 450–600 |
| Speedboat | Chalong Pier / Rassada Pier | 45–60 minutes | THB 900–1,500 |
- Ferries offer stable crossings and basic onboard snacks.
- Speedboats are faster and often bundled with island tours, sometimes including lunch.
- Morning departures are most common, making pre-boarding meals especially important.
Main Departure Piers & Where to Eat
Rassada Pier (Phuket Town)
Best for: Ferry passengers and travelers seeking quick, affordable local food
Rassada Pier is the primary ferry hub for Phi Phi, with typical departures around 8:30 AM and 11:00 AM. Food options inside the pier are simple but practical.
At the pier:
- Small kiosks selling:
- Grilled chicken or pork skewers
- Fresh tropical fruit
- Thai sweets and packaged snacks
- Bottled drinks and coffee
Nearby local options (walk or short taxi ride):
- Small, unnamed local eateries around Phuket Town, often shared with tea or coffee stalls
- Expect made-to-order dishes such as:
- Stir-fried basil with rice
- Fried eggs with pork or chicken
- Simple noodle soups
Price range:
- Local meals: THB 50–100
- Pier snacks: THB 30–60
Local tip: Eat before entering the terminal for better quality and lower prices.
Chalong Pier
Best for: Speedboat travelers and seafood lovers
Chalong Pier handles many speedboats and day-tour departures. The surrounding area offers some of Phuket’s most respected local seafood restaurants, favored by residents rather than tour groups.
Notable nearby options:
- Kan Eang @ Pier
- Known for fresh seafood for over 50 years
- Popular dishes include:
- Tiger prawns in tom yum
- Stir-fried clams with curry paste
- Price range: THB 250–500 per dish
- Mor Mu Dong
- Rustic mangrove-side restaurant with bamboo huts
- Signature dishes:
- Mackerel stuffed with spicy curry paste
- Local vegetables with shrimp paste
- Price range: THB 150–300 per dish
Local tip: Allow extra time if dining here—these are sit-down meals best enjoyed before an afternoon departure.
Food Onboard: What to Expect
Ferries
- Small café counters typically sell:
- Instant noodles
- Fruit cups
- Soft drinks and water
- Quality is basic; prices slightly higher than on land (THB 50–80)
Speedboats (Tour-Based)
- Some speedboat tours include:
- Buffet-style lunches
- Dishes such as pad Thai, tom yum soup, rice, grilled chicken, or seafood
- Meals are functional rather than gourmet, but convenient during full-day excursions
Recommendation: Do not rely on onboard food as your main meal—eat well before departure.
Eating on Arrival: Phi Phi Don (Tonsai Pier)
Once you dock at Tonsai Pier, restaurants fill quickly, especially late morning.
Reliable local favorite:
- Garlic 1992
- Consistently praised for generous portions and fair pricing
- Popular dishes include:
- Khao soi
- Massaman curry
- Green papaya salad (som tam)
- Price range: THB 120–180
- Cash only
Local tip: Arrive early to avoid queues, especially during high season.
Practical Local Tips for Eating Well
- Eat before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and limited menus
- Prioritize pier-side or nearby local restaurants over onboard food
- Finish meals with mango sticky rice or fresh fruit for light travel digestion
- For eco-conscious travelers, Rawai and Chalong seafood areas often use locally sourced fish such as turmeric-seasoned sillago
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Which pier is better for food before traveling to Phi Phi?
Chalong Pier offers higher-quality seafood dining, while Rassada Pier is better for quick, inexpensive meals. - How long does the ferry from Phuket to Phi Phi take?
Approximately 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. - Are meals included on ferries?
No. Ferries usually offer only light snacks for purchase. - Do speedboats include lunch?
Some tour-based speedboats include a simple buffet-style meal, but not all services do. - What is the average cost of food near the piers?
Street food and local eateries range from THB 50–100, while seafood restaurants average THB 150–500 per dish. - Is it better to eat in Phuket or Phi Phi?
Phuket generally offers better value and wider choices, especially near Chalong. - Are there vegetarian options available?
Yes, most local Thai eateries can prepare vegetable stir-fries or tofu-based dishes. - What time should I eat before a morning departure?
Ideally before 8:00 AM to avoid crowds and limited food availability. - Is cash required at local restaurants?
Many local eateries, especially on Phi Phi, are cash-only. - Can I bring food onboard ferries or speedboats?
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is generally allowed and common.
For a Complete Travel Guide
For more detailed information on transportation options, booking tips, itinerary suggestions, and everything you need to know about planning your trip, visit our full guide:
