How to Visit Famous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand? – Detailed Guide and Review (2024)

Visiting Maya Bay is one of the top activities for tourists coming to Southern Thailand. This  stunning spot gained international fame after being featured in the 2000 movie “The Beach”, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Maya Bay’s scenery is truly unique, with its turquoise waters, white sand, and towering limestone rocks that make it a postcard-perfect destination.

However, my visit to Maya Bay felt far from authentic. I joined a one-day group tour, and while the views were breathtaking, being constantly surrounded by crowds made it harder to connect with nature.

That being said, there are better options of visiting Maya Bay. Consider booking a private boat and heading out early in the morning. This way, you can avoid my mistakes, skip the crowds,  and truly enjoy the beauty of this iconic spot.

Keep reading to find out how to visit famous Maya Bay, get my honest opinion on the experience, and plan the perfect trip for yourself!

Where is Maya Bay Located

Koh Phi Phi is a group of islands in the northern part of the Andaman Sea. Located in the Strait of Malacca, on Thailand’s west coast. It’s close to Koh Lanta, Phuket, and Krabi Town – within an hour long speedboat ride. 

Famous Maya Bay is located on Koh Phi Phi Leh, the second largest of the Phi Phi Islands. 

The biggest island in the group, and the only inhabited one, is Koh Phi Phi Don. The other islands include Koh Yung, Koh Mai Phai, Koh Pida Nok, and Koh Pida Nai.

Maya Bay is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. You can’t stay there overnight since it’s an uninhabited and protected area. The nearest place to find accommodation is on Phi Phi Don, just a short boat ride away.

Why is Maya Bay famous?

Maya Bay became famous for its unique, paradise-like scenery: crystal-clear turquoise waters, soft white sand and distinctive limestone cliffs guarding the bay.

This natural gem was also the filming location for the Hollywood movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio, which turned it into a globally recognized destination, attracting even more visitors.

Most tourists, including myself, haven’t seen the movie but know it was filmed there. Seeing all the day trips advertised everywhere on Koh Phi Phi Don, we felt obliged to visit this must-see spot.

Unfortunately, Maya Bay’s fame led to its decline. At its peak, hundreds of people would crowd the beach daily, causing significant damage to its natural environment.

Sunscreen pollution and boat activity damaged unique coral reefs. Overtourism also contributed to the disappearance of blacktip reef sharks residing in the area.

During the pandemic, Maya Bay was closed, and when it reopened, new rules were implemented to protect it.

Boats no longer have direct access to the bay; instead, a pier was built on the opposite side where visitors now arrive.

Swimming and flying drones is not allowed. Park rangers closely monitor the area, ensuring visitors don’t go too deep in the water and harm the fragile coral reefs.

How to Visit Maya Bay

Booking a Group Tour to Maya Bay

Koh Phi Phi Don is famous for its huge parties and lively nightlife, but you don’t need to stay there to visit Maya Bay.

The easiest way to visit Maya Bay is by booking an organized tour. These tours are available all along the Thai Andaman coast. You can find countless options for visiting Maya Bay from Phuket, Koh Lanta, Ao Nang, Krabi Town and other destinations.

Tours booked from these locations tend to be more expensive than those on Koh Phi Phi Don since it takes about an hour by speedboat to reach the island.

To find a tour, you can simply walk down one of the popular tourist streets, where you’ll see plenty of agencies offering their packages.

Another option is to book a trip online or ask your hotel for assistance. They often have brochures from tour operators they work with.

Prices and itineraries vary, so it’s worth comparing options available in different places to find the best deal.

Renting a private boat to visit Maya Bay

An alternative to a group tour is renting a private boat. The cheapest option is to get the boat on Koh Phi Phi Don, as it’s the closest to Maya Bay.

This is a great choice if you want flexibility, control over your itinerary, and an early start to beat the crowds.

Even if you arrive early in the morning (Maya Bay opens at 7 AM), you won’t be alone, but there will be fewer visitors, and the cooler morning temperatures will make it more comfortable.

The only downside to renting a private boat is the cost. You will need to pay for the boat rental and additional 400-baht fee to enter Maya Bay.

What to Expect from a Group Tour to Maya Bay

When booking a group tour to Maya Bay, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from. We wanted to see all the beautiful and famous destinations in the area and decided to book a full-day trip.

Our package, apart from Maya Bay included also: Viking Cave, Monkey Beach, Bamboo Island, and countless snorkeling and swimming spots.

Our day began early, around 8 AM. The pier was fairly empty, with only a few people on the streets, most of whom were waiting for their tours to start.

Our meeting point was McDonald’s, and from there, we were guided to a nearby beach restaurant where our speedboat was waiting.

Despite the crowds and multiple tours gathering in the area, everything ran smoothly. We were given wristbands to distinguish us as full-day tour participants, while people on half-day tours had different colors.

Our tour guide spoke English, but didn’t provide much information or guidance. His main role seemed to be ensuring our safety and keeping the group organized.

Expect around 15 other people from various countries on the boat. The tour provided snorkeling equipment, life jackets, and some snacks, including fruit, water, Coke, and watermelon.

Keep in mind that the ride can be bumpy, even if the sea appears calm near Koh Phi Phi. Small speedboats can have rough rides, so take sea sickness medicine beforehand if needed.

Once on board, be prepared for a busy day with multiple stops and sights. Maya Bay was the third stop on our itinerary, so unfortunately, we didn’t arrive early enough to avoid the crowds.

Experiencing Famous Maya Bay on Koh Phi Phi Leh

We arrived at the floating pier on Koh Phi Phi Leh and were directed by our tour guide toward Maya Bay.

Even before noon, the area was bustling with people. We had to follow the crowd carefully to avoid losing sight of our group members.

Our meeting point was the information area near the public toilets. The walk from the pier to Maya Bay is short but packed with people moving in both directions.

I must admit, Maya Bay is breathtaking. The sand is incredibly soft and white, and the water is a perfect shade of turquoise. The unique rock formations add to the stunning scenery, unlike anything else in the region.

However, aside from taking pictures, there isn’t much to do. Tourists from all over the world flock to Maya Bay, each trying to capture the perfect shot.

Navigating through people posing for photoshoots can be challenging. National park guards are vigilant, ensuring visitors don’t venture too deep into the water, as swimming and disturbing the coral reefs is prohibited. Flying drones is also not allowed in Maya Bay.

We spent no more than an hour at Maya Bay, strolling and soaking in the scenery, with a brief bathroom break on our way back.

For me, the experience was somewhat underwhelming due to the crowds and the intense heat. While the natural beauty of Maya Bay is undeniable, the sheer number of tourists made it less enjoyable.

Viking Beach and Monkey Bay

Other highlights of our trip included stops at Viking Cave and Monkey Beach. We visited these spots before Maya Bay, and I wish we had done it the other way around to avoid the crowds at Maya Bay.

Our first stop was Monkey Beach, located on the southern part of Koh Phi Phi Don.

Unfortunately, this was the worst experience I had in Thailand. It just felt wrong.

We arrived at the beach alongside numerous long-tail boats and speedboats, each packed with tourists visiting this small beach.

The beach, known for its population of monkeys, was overcrowded with tourists far outnumbering the monkeys. People chased the monkeys to take close-up pictures and pose with them.

The monkeys, now accustomed to humans, have developed bad habits. They search for food and items to steal, like glasses and phones. They can become aggressive, making it unsafe to interact with them.

I couldn’t understand why this is considered an attraction. It’s just a beach with monkeys and hundreds of tourists daily. There are more ethical destinations in Thailand to see monkeys, like kayaking in the mangrove forests of Koh Lanta, visiting the Buddhist temple near Koh Lanta Old Town, walking to Ao Nang Beach, or visiting Tiger Temple near Krabi.

Our second stop was Viking Cave, located on the east coast of Koh Phi Phi Leh. The boat stops near the cave, and the tour guide points it out. The old paintings inside the cave are fascinating, but you can’t get close as Viking Cave is closed to tourists. You can only view it from the boat.

Viking Cave is also famous for the white-nest swiftlet birds that reside there. Locals collect their nests to make traditional swift nest soup.

In conclusion, while Monkey Beach and Viking Cave are notable stops, they didn’t add much value to our trip. If I had to do it again, I would focus more on ethical and less crowded experiences.

Swimming and Snorkeling Spots

After visiting Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Maya Bay, our tour focused on stopping by scenic snorkeling spots around Koh Phi Phi Leh.

One of the most beautiful places to swim and snorkel is Pileh Lagoon. The water is clear, warm, and calm. The magnificent limestone cliffs surrounding the lagoon make it a picturesque destination.

Many group members jumped into the sea from the boat, enjoying swimming in the warm waters surrounded by stunning scenery.

Unfortunately, this part of the trip wasn’t perfect. The space to swim is quite limited due to the numerous boats. It’s advisable to wear a lifejacket to stay visible to other boats.

We also encountered many jellyfish in the water, making the swimming experience less enjoyable and somewhat dangerous. It was harder to focus on spotting marine life and blacktip reef sharks when avoiding jellyfish.

At this point, I was happy to leave the boat as I felt seasick and just wanted a break.

Midway through the trip, we returned to Koh Phi Phi Don for lunch. After that, we were supposed to visit Bamboo Island and other snorkeling spots.

However, we decided to end our journey here as one of our friends got seasick and couldn’t continue. I wasn’t feeling great either (forgot to take sea sickness medicine) and was happy to cut the trip short.

We took our packed lunches and finished our adventure at Maya Bay. I wasn’t impressed with the tour up to this point, although Bamboo Island was supposed to be a lovely spot for relaxing and snorkeling.

Some day trips also go to Shark Point at the end of Long Beach. However, stay cautious of jellyfish stings and the potential risks from boat traffic.

Is a Day Trip to Maya Bay Worth It?

Honestly, I wouldn’t book the same trip again. Seeing Maya Bay once was enough for me, and if I were to go back, it would be on a private boat, very early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

I didn’t enjoy the format of the group trip. It felt rushed, as we had to follow a strict schedule, and move quickly between popular spots. 

The tour guide mainly directed us from point A to B, without providing much insight into the wildlife or Thai culture. Compared to a private long-tail boat trip we took to visit Emerald Cave, this experience felt far more commercial.

Our group tour cost around $25 per person (half-day trips are cheaper). In contrast, private boat rentals are around $80 plus a 400-baht per person entry fee for Maya Bay. 

Although renting a private boat can be pricey, it’s definitely worth it. If you’re traveling solo, a group tour might be more economical, but if you can split the costs with others, a private boat usually offers a more authentic experience.

It’s also worth considering alternative types of tours to Maya Bay, like a sunset trip with bioluminescent plankton, or visiting Maiton Private Island with dolphin watching.

Overall, if you really want to visit Maya Bay, consider booking a private boat and, if possible, try skipping Monkey Beach.

Useful Tips for Visiting Maya Bay

Go Early – Consider a Sunrise Package

One of the best tips for visiting Maya Bay is to go early. Consider booking a sunrise package to enjoy Maya Bay’s stunning beauty before the crowds arrive. 

Plus, the temperature will be cooler, making it more comfortable to explore.

For More Flexibility, Book a Private Boat

For greater flexibility with your itinerary, consider booking a private boat. This option will give you a more personalized experience. 

To save money and support the local community, try hiring a local boat driver instead of going through an organized tour. 

Most tours start later in the morning, because many tourists party late into the night, so an early private boat trip can help you beat the crowds and enjoy the Maya Bay’s unique scenery in peace.

Prepare for Rough Seas

The journey to Maya Bay can be bumpy, especially on smaller (but fast) speedboats. If you are prone to seasickness, take your medication beforehand. It’s better to be prepared to enjoy the trip without unnecessary discomfort.

Be Aware of Jellyfish in Snorkeling Spots

Even in the most beautiful waters around Koh Phi Phi Leh, you might encounter jellyfish while snorkeling. We saw quite a lot of them during our trip.

Jellyfish can be hard to spot, so stay cautious before jumping into the sea. Wearing a full-body swimsuit or a rash guard can help protect against stings.

Alternative Day Tours to Maya Bay

• Emerald Cave – Visit the famous Emerald Cave on Koh Mook, where you’ll go through a dark tunnel to reach a hidden lagoon. While it can be crowded, this experience is much more adventurous than visiting Maya Bay.
• 7 Island Snorkeling – this tour includes visits to some of the most beautiful islands in the Andaman Sea. The full-day journey takes you to pristine beaches and fabulous snorkeling spots located in the National Marine Parks.
• James Bond Island – Explore James Bond Island, made famous by the movie “The Man with the Golden Gun.” The dramatic limestone cliffs and unique rock formations make it an unforgettable adventure
• Koh Tabalong – Discover the natural beauty of Koh Tabalong with its serene beaches, dark caves and vast mangrove forests. You will be exploring Thailand’s hidden gems by sailing on a long-tail boat, kayaking and swimming.

Other Things to Do on Koh Phi Phi

• Hiking – Explore the island’s stunning viewpoints, jungle trails and scenic coastal paths.
• Snorkeling and Diving – The waters surrounding Koh Phi Phi are perfect for snorkelers and divers. Head to the best sites like: Blacktip Reef Shark Point, Bida Nok, Bida Nai, or the King Cruiser Wreck.
• Kayaking – Rent a kayak and paddle around the island to discover remote beaches and maybe even some secluded snorkeling sites.
• Exploring Beaches – Spend your day beach-hopping to explore the pristine beaches of Koh Phi Phi Don. Each destination offers a unique atmosphere and stunning scenery.
• Visiting Mangrove Forest – Kayak through the mangrove forests near Loh Ba Kao Bay for a perfect nature escape. You might even spot wildlife up close, including massive monitor lizards that inhabit the mangroves. 
• Nightlife – Experience the rich nightlife of Koh Phi Phi Don. Choose from huge pool parties, lively beach bars and spectacular fire shows, just to name a few of the countless entertainment options.
• Relaxing in a massage parlor – Thailand is renowned for its high-quality, affordable massage parlors. Indulge in a spa day or simply pop in for a classic Thai massage to let your muscles relax.
• Getting a bamboo tattoo – Consider getting a traditional bamboo tattoo from one of the local tattoo studios. This ancient technique is supposed to be less painful and heal faster than machine tattoos.
• Fighting on a Muay Thai ring – Visit a popular Thai boxing bar, where you can watch how amateurs and professionals fight (but not each other). You might even join other tourists on a ring, if you’d like to experience Thailand’s national sport up close.

Support More Sustainable Initiatives in Southern Thailand

Ethical Elephant Sanctuary

Visit “Following Giants,” an ethical elephant sanctuary on Koh Lanta, where you won’t interact directly with rescued elephants. Instead, you’ll spend the day observing them in their natural habitat, following them as they roam through the jungle. 

This experience includes hiking, visiting waterfalls, and learning about Thailand’s wildlife and sustainability efforts.

Lanta Animal Welfare

Support Lanta Animal Welfare, a shelter dedicated to rescuing and caring for stray and abused animals on Koh Lanta and the surrounding islands. 

You can contribute to their mission by joining a guided tour, donating, volunteering, or even adopting a pet. Your involvement helps provide essential care for animals in need.

Engaging with the Urak Lawoi Community

The Urak Lawoi are an indigenous “sea people”, a tribe native to the Andaman coast. Due to the development of southern Thailand, this semi-nomadic group was resettled from their traditional beachfront villages.

Now, they live in communities on islands like Koh Lipe, Koh Mook, Koh Lanta, and Koh Phi Phi Don. When visiting these islands, consider exploring their villages to learn about their culture and history.

If you’re lucky, you might join their traditional celebrations or festivals.

Try support businesses that employ Urak Lawoi people, such as hiring them as boat drivers for guided fishing tours, is a meaningful way to contribute to their community.

Try finding places which work with or employ Urak Lawoi people. They are excellent boat drivers and can even take you on a guided fishing tour into the deep sea.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Famous Maya Bay

Maya Bay is undeniably beautiful, with its breathtaking scenery and unique nature. However, the reality of visiting it can be somehow underwhelming due to the crowds and its commercial feel.

While group tours are convenient, they can feel rushed and lack the flexibility. For a better experience, consider renting a private boat and going on a sunrise or sunset trip to avoid the crowds.

If you’re looking for more authentic and sustainable options, explore other stunning spots around Koh Phi Phi. 

Maya Bay is worth seeing, but planning ahead is key to a better trip.

Read My Other Posts about Koh Phi Phi:

• How to Trek Jungle Hike to Loh Ba Kao Bay on Koh Phi Phi – Detailed Guide (2024)
• How to Visit Famous Maya Bay in Koh Phi Phi, Thailand? – Detailed Guide and Review (2024)
• 17 Best Beaches on Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – Ultimate Guide (2024)
• 23 Pros and Cons of Visiting Koh Phi Phi, Thailand – 2024 Guide
• How to Travel to Koh Phi Phi from Bangkok and Other Places – 2024 Guide