Maya Bay Travel Guide

Maya Bay also known as Ao Maya is located on the uninhabited and beautiful Phi Phi Ley, this area of the Phi Phi Islands is where the movie “The Beach” was filmed starring Leonardo Di Caprio.

Since the movie and the devastating 2004 tsunami the Phi Phi Islands would have to be one of the most photographed and recognized places in the world.

Many visitors take day trips to Maya-Bay mainly out of curiosity to see “the beach” that was used as the backdrop for the movie. Only to discover that the area surrounding Maya-Bay and Phi Phi Ley is abound with natural beauty.

The Bay is stunning, protected on three sides by soaring limestone cliffs that rise vertically from the water. Many people think that Maya Bay only has one beach, however there are several beaches within the bay, most of which are small and are only visible on low tide.

The main beach at Maya-Bay is breathtaking, with pure white sand and turquoise coloured water. On low tide the bay is very shallow, so it is best to visit on high tide when the bay looks its absolute best.

The main activities at Maya-Bay include snorkeling, swimming, exploring and kayaking.

There are minimal facilities available at Maya-Bay, however there is a toilet and a small shack, just set back from the beach that sells drinks and snacks. From the beach there is a trail which provides access to the fabulous Loh Samah Bay, another ideal spot for snorkelers.

If you like the idea of watching the sunset and sleeping on the beach under the stars, one of the best ways to experience Maya-Bay is to stay overnight.

Maya Bay camping tour departs Phi Phi Don at 4.00pm and includes stopping at the Viking Cave, snorkeling and kayaking at Pileh Bay, Loh Samah Bay or Shark Point, before arriving at Maya-Bay in time for sunset.

This tour has limited numbers so it advisable to book ahead. For more information about camping at Maya Bay read reviews from fellow travellers on trip advisor.

Maya Bay Travel Tips

Throughout the high season and even in the low season there are lots and lots of day trippers and just as many speed boats moored within Maya-Bay.

To avoid the crowds the best time to go to Phi Phi Ley and Maya-Bay is early in the morning around 8.00 am or in the afternoon when the day trippers have gone back to Phuket or Krabi. By going at these times of the day you can really appreciate the natural beauty of Maya-Bay.

To get to Maya-Bay from Phi Phi Don hire a longtail boat or speedboat, check with the boat driver to ensure that the boat hire includes snorkeling gear as well as the National Park Fee before you leave Phi Phi Don.

Most do but it is best to check, you don’t want to get all the way to Phi Phi Ley only to find that you can’t go snorkeling or worse, gain access to the island because you have no cash on you to pay the fee.

There are a range of tours and day trips to Ko Phi Phi from Phuket or Krabi which include the beautiful Maya Bay. To make the most of your time on the island and not at sea, the quickest way to reach the Phi Phi islands is by speed boat.

You can book day trips with tour agents or at your hotel in Phuket or Krabi or you can compare prices, read reviews and book online using our secure online booking service.

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