Best Outdoor Seating Restaurants in Phi Phi Islands for Dining Under Open Skies

If you are looking for the best outdoor seating restaurants in Phi Phi Islands, you have come to the right place. I have spent years living on these islands, and I have eaten at nearly every open-air spot from the busy streets of Tonsai to the quieter corners of Phi Phi Don. There is something special about eating under the stars here, with the sound of the waves and the smell of the sea air. This guide will take you through my favorite places for al fresco dining Phi Phi Islands style, where the food is good, the views are better, and the atmosphere is exactly what you came here for.

The Heart of Tonsai: Where the Action Is

Tonsai Village is the center of life on Phi Phi Don, and it is where you will find the highest concentration of patio restaurants Phi Phi Islands visitors tend to gravitate toward. The streets here are narrow, packed with shops and guesthouses, but step a few meters off the main path and you will find open-air setups with plastic chairs, string lights, and the sizzle of a wok that will pull you in before you even look at the menu. This is where backpackers, long-term travelers, and locals all mix together, and the energy is something you feel in your chest before you even sit down.

Reggae Bar and Restaurant

Located right on the main walking street of Tonsai Village, Reggae Bar and Restaurant is one of the most well-known open air cafes Phi Phi Islands has to offer. I was there last Tuesday evening, sitting at one of the low wooden tables with my feet practically in the sand, watching the sun drop behind the limestone cliffs across the bay. The reggae music plays at a volume that is loud enough to set the mood but not so loud that you cannot have a conversation. Their pad thai is solid, but the real star is the grilled seafood platter, which comes loaded with prawns, squid, and a whole fish that was swimming in the Andaman Sea just hours before you ordered it.

Local Insider Tip: "Ask for the table at the far left corner near the back wall. It is the only spot where you can see both the sunset and the fire show that happens on the beach most nights. If you sit anywhere else, your view of the fire dancers is blocked by the palm tree trunk."

The best time to come is between 5:30 and 7 PM, right before the dinner rush fills every seat. On weekends, the place gets packed with tour groups, so a weekday visit is far more enjoyable. One thing most tourists do not know is that the owner, a Thai man named Lek, has been running this spot for over 15 years, and he sources his seafood directly from the local fishing boats that come in at dawn near Loh Dalum Bay. The connection between this restaurant and the fishing community is something you can taste in every bite.

Papaya Restaurant

Papaya Restaurant sits on the eastern side of Tonsai Village, just a short walk from the pier. I went there for lunch last Friday, and the open-air seating under the covered patio was exactly what I needed after a morning of snorkeling. The space is simple, no frills, just a roof over your head and open sides that let the breeze come through. Their green curry with chicken is one of the best I have had on the island, rich and creamy with just the right amount of heat. The mango sticky rice is also worth ordering, even if you are already full, because the mangoes here are picked from trees on the island itself.

Local Insider Tip: "Come before noon if you want the freshest batch of curry. The cook makes two big pots each day, one in the morning and one in the late afternoon. The morning batch has more flavor because the spices have had time to sit overnight. By 2 PM, the second batch is already being served, and it is noticeably blander."

What makes Papaya special is its role in the local community. It has been a gathering spot for island workers, boat operators, and dive instructors for years. You will often see groups of Thai staff sitting together during their breaks, eating family-style from shared plates. This is not a tourist trap. It is a working restaurant that happens to welcome visitors. The only complaint I have is that the Wi-Fi is practically nonexistent, so do not plan on getting any work done here. But that is kind of the point, is it not.

Loh Dalum Bay: Dining With Your Feet in the Sand

Loh Dalum Bay is the crescent-shaped beach on the western side of Phi Phi Don, and it is where the al fresco dining Phi Phi Islands experience reaches its peak. The restaurants here are set up right on the sand, with tables and cushions laid out so you can eat while the tide comes in and out just a few meters away. The sunsets from this beach are legendary, and eating dinner here while the sky turns orange and purple is one of those things you will remember long after you leave.

Phi Phi Coral Beach Restaurant

Phi Phi Coral Beach Restaurant is set up directly on the sand at Loh Dalum Bay, and it is one of the most atmospheric patio restaurants Phi Phi Islands visitors can find. I visited last Saturday evening, arriving just before 6 PM to claim a spot on the front row of tables. The setup is rustic, with wooden platforms, low tables, and cushions that sink into the sand. Their grilled prawns with garlic butter are outstanding, and the tom yum goong, the spicy shrimp soup, arrives in a hot pot that keeps it steaming throughout the meal. The sound of the waves is your background music here, and on a calm night, it is one of the most peaceful dining experiences on the island.

Local Insider Tip: "Bring a light sweater or long-sleeve shirt if you are planning to stay past 8 PM. The wind picks up off the water after dark, and the temperature drops more than you would expect for a tropical island. Also, ask the waiter to bring you the 'beach menu,' which is a separate sheet with grilled items that are not on the main menu. It has the best whole fried fish on the bay."

The restaurant has been here for over a decade, and it survived the 2004 tsunami, which reshaped much of the coastline around Loh Dalum Bay. The owner rebuilt the entire setup from scratch, and the current version is actually the third iteration. Most tourists do not realize that the sand you are sitting on is not the original beach. It was brought in and reshaped after the disaster. Knowing that adds a layer of meaning to the experience. One downside is that the service can be slow when the beach is crowded, especially on Saturday nights when fire shows and music events draw big crowds.

Bamboo Beach Restaurant

Bamboo Beach Restaurant is at the northern end of Loh Dalum Bay, slightly removed from the main cluster of beach restaurants. I was there on a Wednesday afternoon, and the quiet was a welcome change from the busier spots down the beach. The restaurant is built on a raised wooden platform with a thatched roof, and the open sides give you a full view of the bay. Their massaman curry is rich and deeply spiced, and the fried calamari comes out crispy and golden, served with a sweet chili dipping sauce that I could eat on its own. The fruit shakes here are also excellent, particularly the banana and peanut butter combination.

Local Insider Tip: "If you are here for lunch, sit on the right side of the platform. The left side gets direct sun from about 1 PM to 3 PM, and it becomes almost unbearable even with the thatch shade. The right side stays cool because of the breeze coming off the water. Also, the owner keeps a small charcoal grill going in the back after 4 PM for special orders. Ask for the charcoal-grilled corn. It is not on any menu, but it is the best snack on the beach."

Bamboo Beach Restaurant has a quieter reputation compared to the louder spots in the center of the bay, and that is exactly why I keep coming back. It attracts a mix of couples, solo travelers, and small groups who want to enjoy the beach without the party atmosphere. The staff are friendly and remember repeat visitors, which is rare on an island where most people only come once. The only real issue is that the path from the main road to the restaurant is uneven and poorly lit at night, so wear proper shoes if you are coming for dinner.

The Quiet Side: Phi Phi Don's Less Traveled Corners

Not all of the best outdoor seating restaurants in Phi Phi Islands are in the tourist hotspots. Some of the most memorable meals I have had were in the quieter parts of the island, where the pace slows down and the food feels more personal. These spots require a bit more effort to reach, but that is part of their appeal. You will not find tour groups here, and the experience feels more like eating at a friend's house than at a restaurant.

The Sandbox Bar and Restaurant

The Sandbox is located on the road between Tonsai Village and Long Beach, about a 10-minute walk from the main pier. I stopped by last Sunday morning for breakfast, and the open-air setup under the trees was exactly the kind of peaceful start to the day I needed. The restaurant has a laid-back, almost bohemian feel, with mismatched furniture, hammocks strung between posts, and a small garden area. Their eggs Benedict with smoked salmon is surprisingly good for a beach island, and the fresh coconut water comes straight from coconuts they crack open right in front of you. The smoothie bowls are also worth trying, topped with granola and tropical fruit.

Local Insider Tip: "The owner, a woman named Ploy, makes a special batch of homemade granola every Monday morning. If you come on a Monday or Tuesday, ask for it specifically. It is not listed on the menu, but she will bring it out if you ask. It has cashews, dried mango, and a hint of coconut sugar that you cannot get any other day of the week."

The Sandbox has become a favorite among long-term travelers and digital nomads who spend weeks or months on the island. It is one of the few places with reliable Wi-Fi and a calm enough atmosphere to actually get work done, though I would recommend just enjoying the space instead. The connection to the expat community here is strong, and you will often find flyers on the bulletin board for yoga classes, boat trips, and community events. One thing to note is that the restaurant closes early, usually by 3 PM, so do not plan on coming for dinner.

Long Beach Restaurant

Long Beach Restaurant is at the far end of Hat Yao, also known as Long Beach, on the eastern coast of Phi Phi Don. Getting here requires either a long walk through the jungle path from Tonsai or a short longtail boat ride. I took the jungle path last Thursday, and the walk itself, about 25 minutes through dense foliage and past a small local village, was half the experience. The restaurant is set up on the sand with a simple wooden structure and open sides. Their seafood fried rice is loaded with fresh crab meat and prawns, and the papaya salad, som tum, is made to order with your choice of spice level. I asked for "pet nit noi," which means a little spicy, and it was still more than enough to make my eyes water.

Local Insider Tip: "Bring reef shoes if you are walking from Tonsai. The jungle path is fine, but the last 200 meters to the beach involves walking over rocky, uneven ground that is tough on bare feet. Also, the restaurant does not accept cards, only cash. There is no ATM on this side of the island, so bring enough money with you before you leave Tonsai."

Long Beach Restaurant is about as far from the tourist center as you can get while still being on Phi Phi Don. The beach here is quieter, the water is clearer, and the restaurant feels like it exists in its own little world. The family that runs it has been here for generations, and they have a deep connection to the land and the sea. Most tourists who come to Phi Phi never make it to this side of the island, which is a shame because the experience is so much more authentic. The only real drawback is that the menu is limited compared to what you will find in Tonsai, but what they do, they do well.

The View From Above: Hillside and Rooftop Spots

For a different perspective on al fresco dining Phi Phi Islands style, head up. The hills of Phi Phi Don offer some of the most stunning views in all of southern Thailand, and a handful of restaurants have taken advantage of that elevation. Eating dinner while looking out over the entire bay, with the lights of Tonsai Village twinkling below, is an experience that rivals anything on the beach.

The Hill Seafood Restaurant

The Hill Seafood Restaurant is located on the hillside above Tonsai Village, accessible by a steep path that starts near the main pier. I made the climb last Monday evening, and I will be honest, the walk up is not easy. It takes about 15 minutes of steady uphill walking, and by the time you reach the top, you will be sweating. But the view from the open-air terrace is worth every step. The restaurant specializes in seafood, as the name suggests, and their steamed fish with lime and chili is a dish I think about regularly. The crab curry is also excellent, with a thick, creamy sauce that you will want to soak up with every grain of rice.

Local Insider Tip: "Do not wear flip-flops on the walk up. The path is steep and slippery, especially if it has rained recently. I have seen more than one tourist take a tumble on the way up. Wear proper sandals or sneakers. Also, bring a flashlight for the walk down after dark. There are no lights on the path, and it is genuinely dangerous at night."

The Hill Seafood Restaurant has been a local favorite for years, and it is one of the few places on the island where you will see as many Thai diners as foreign tourists. The prices are reasonable, the portions are generous, and the view is unmatched. The restaurant is part of a small cluster of hillside businesses that have developed organically over the years, and the sense of community up here is palpable. One thing to be aware of is that the restaurant does not have a liquor license, so you cannot buy alcohol here. You can bring your own, though, and many people do.

Phi Phi Viewpoint Restaurant

The Phi Phi Viewpoint Restaurant is located near the famous Phi Phi Viewpoint, the spot where everyone goes to take the iconic photo of the twin bays. I visited last Friday morning, arriving around 9 AM to beat the crowds that start arriving by 10. The restaurant is a simple open-air setup with wooden tables and a panoramic view that stretches from Loh Dalum Bay to Tonsai Bay and beyond. Their breakfast menu is the main draw, with fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit plates, and strong Thai coffee that will wake you up better than any alarm clock. The omelets are also well-made, stuffed with vegetables and served with toast that has a satisfying crunch.

Local Insider Tip: "Come before 9 AM if you want a table with the best view. The front row fills up fast once the tour groups arrive, and the back tables have a partially obstructed view because of the trees. Also, the walk up to the viewpoint is free before 8:30 AM. After that, they charge 30 baht at the entrance. If you are eating at the restaurant, ask your waiter about the discount. Sometimes they can get you in for free if you show your receipt."

The viewpoint restaurant is a relatively new addition compared to the other spots on this list, but it has quickly become a must-visit for anyone who wants to see the island from above. The connection to the viewpoint itself gives it a built-in audience, but the food is good enough to stand on its own. The staff are young and energetic, and they clearly take pride in the place. The only issue is that the restaurant is quite small, with only about 10 tables, so during peak season you may have to wait. But the view while you wait is not bad at all.

When to Go and What to Know

The best time for open air cafes Phi Phi Islands dining is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. The skies are clearer, the humidity is lower, and the chance of a sudden downpour ruining your meal is minimal. During the rainy season, from May to October, many of the beachside restaurants still operate, but the experience is less predictable. Afternoon storms can roll in quickly, and some places close entirely during the worst months.

Cash is king on Phi Phi Islands. Very few restaurants accept credit cards, and the ATMs in Tonsai Village frequently run out of money, especially toward the end of the month. Always carry enough cash for your meal plus a little extra. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated, and rounding up the bill or leaving 20 to 50 baht is standard practice.

Mosquitoes are a real concern, especially at beachside restaurants after sunset. Bring repellent or wear long sleeves if you are dining outdoors in the evening. The local brand of mosquito repellent sold in the 7-Eleven shops in Tonsai works well and costs about 60 baht.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Phi Phi Islands expensive to visit? Give a realistic daily budget breakdown for mid-tier travelers.

A mid-tier traveler should budget around 1,500 to 2,500 baht per day. This covers a guesthouse room for 600 to 1,000 baht, three meals at local restaurants for 500 to 800 baht, water and snacks for 100 to 200 baht, and a longtail boat trip or snorkeling tour for 300 to 500 baht. Alcohol and souvenirs are extra. Phi Phi is more expensive than mainland Thailand because almost everything has to be shipped in by boat.

Are there any specific dress codes or cultural etiquettes to keep in mind when visiting local spots in Phi Phi Islands?

There is no strict dress code at restaurants, but you should cover up when walking through the village, especially near the mosque on the eastern side of Tonsai. Swimwear is fine on the beach but not appropriate in shops or restaurants. Remove your shoes before entering any home or small family-run establishment. Pointing your feet at people or at food is considered rude in Thai culture.

Is the tap water in Phi Phi Islands safe to drink, or should travelers strictly rely on filtered water options?

Tap water on Phi Phi Islands is not safe to drink. The island's water supply comes from a combination of rainwater collection and desalinated seawater, and the piping infrastructure is old and unreliable. Always drink bottled or filtered water. Most restaurants provide free filtered water if you ask, and refill stations are available at several shops in Tonsai Village for around 10 baht per liter.

How easy is it to find pure vegetarian, vegan, or plant-based dining options in Phi Phi Islands?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available but not abundant. Most restaurants can prepare vegetable fried rice, tofu pad thai, or vegetable curry if you ask. A few places in Tonsai Village specifically cater to vegetarians and display the "jay" sign, which indicates food prepared without meat, fish, or animal products. During the annual Vegetarian Festival in October, usually held in the ninth lunar month, many restaurants across the island offer special plant-based menus.

What is the one must-try local specialty food or drink that Phi Phi Islands is famous for?

The must-try drink is fresh coconut water served straight from the coconut, available at virtually every beach restaurant for 50 to 80 baht. For food, the grilled seafood platter is the signature dish of the island, typically featuring prawns, squid, and a whole fish grilled over charcoal and served with seafood sauce and a wedge of lime. It is not unique to Phi Phi in a culinary sense, but eating it on the beach with the sound of the Andaman Sea makes it unforgettable.