1

I've always just showed up. I've never been left out in the heat. Yes, the online books are crazy expensive.

I was going to head to Phi Phi in the next couple of days but a branch ambushed me at Khao Sok. Now I have a big laceration on my head. Better to keep out of the water. I keep thinking I might need stitches. I'll see how well the duct tape holds.

2

Just showing up should be fine. When you're off the boat you'll be readily shown where you can book accommodation from-there's a range of quality and prices.
Perhaps try to decide quite quickly which hostel/guest house to go for because when we were there we were dithering between a few good options, but whilst we were deciding all those spaces were taken! We could still get a decent place though, just a bit further from the centre. In fact a bit further out suited us as it was no walk to the main beach but it meant we could get a good sleep when we wanted too.

3

If you can, get to Phi Phi early-ish in the morning. People checking out of guest houses have to do so by 10 or 11 in the morning, so if you start looking later in the day there'll be less choice.

4

i'm headed to phi phi tomorrow. I booked in advance as I expect crowds for songkran.

5

Thanks everyone for the advice. Soon after I posted this, I found a great deal on Agoda at a top rated inn. Agoda didn't have this deal a few days ago. I think I probably could have waited until I was there also. Looking forward to a nice day of diving too! Looks like there are some good options for beginners like me.

6

I find Agoda confusing. They "help" you by listing the taxes and fees separately so it makes the room look cheap, but once you add everything together, it's the same price as booking.com.