Imagine a secluded bay surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, with a white sandy beach and a turquoise lagoon teeming with colorful fish and coral. This is Maya Bay, a slice of paradise on Phi Phi Island in Thailand. Maya Bay is famous for being the filming location of the movie The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, which showcased its breathtaking beauty to the world. Since then, millions of tourists have flocked to Maya Bay, making it one of the most visited and photographed places in Thailand.
In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about visiting Maya Bay in 2024, including how to get there, what to do there, where to stay near there, and some tips and tricks for making the most of your trip. So, are you ready to discover Maya Bay, Thailand’s paradise beach? Let’s get started!
How to Visit Maya Bay
The first thing you need to know about visiting Maya Bay in 2024 is that it will not be easy. You will have to follow some strict rules and regulations, which are designed to protect and preserve the bay and its environment. Here are some of the main rules and regulations that you need to be aware of:
You will have to book your visit in advance, through an official website or app, which will be launched soon. You will not be able to just show up and enter the bay, as there will be no walk-in tickets available.
You will have to pay a fee, which will vary depending on the season, the time of the day, and the type of transport you use. The fee will be used to fund the conservation and management of the bay and its surroundings.
You will have to limit your visit to a maximum of 2 hours, and follow a designated route and schedule. You will not be able to wander around the bay freely, or stay longer than the allotted time.
You will have to respect the environment and the wildlife, and follow some basic rules of conduct. You will not be allowed to touch, feed, or disturb the animals, or collect any shells, rocks, or plants. You will also have to dispose of your trash properly, and avoid using any plastic or chemical products.
These rules and regulations may seem strict and inconvenient, but they are necessary to ensure the sustainability and survival of Maya Bay and its ecosystem. By following these rules and regulations, you will be contributing to the conservation and restoration of the bay, and helping it to recover and flourish.
How to get to Maya Bay in 2024.
The answer is by boat. There are three main options for reaching Maya Bay by boat, depending on where you are coming from, how much time and money you have, and how adventurous you are. Here are the three main options:
Option 1: Longtail Boat. This is the cheapest and most authentic option, as you will be riding a traditional wooden boat with a long propeller, which is commonly used by the local fishermen and villagers. You can hire a longtail boat from Krabi, Phuket, or Koh Phi Phi, and enjoy a scenic and relaxing ride to Maya Bay, which will take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. You can also customize your itinerary, and stop at some other nearby islands and attractions, such as Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave. The cost of hiring a longtail boat will vary depending on the season, the duration, and the number of people, but it will be around 2,000 to 4,000 baht ($60 to $120) per boat, which can fit up to 6 people.
Option 2: Speedboat. This is the fastest and most convenient option, as you will be riding a modern and comfortable boat with a powerful engine, which can reach Maya Bay in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the weather and sea conditions. You can book a speedboat from Krabi, Phuket, or Koh Phi Phi, and enjoy a smooth and swift ride to Maya Bay, which will also include some other nearby islands and attractions, such as Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave. The cost of booking a speedboat will vary depending on the season, the duration, and the number of people, but it will be around 3,000 to 6,000 baht ($90 to $180) per boat, which can fit up to 10 people.
Option 3: Ferry. This is the cheapest and most eco-friendly option, as you will be riding a large and low-emission boat, which can carry hundreds of passengers, and has a minimal impact on the environment. You can take a ferry from Krabi, Phuket, or Koh Phi Phi, and enjoy a leisurely and comfortable ride to Maya Bay, which will take about 2 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. You can also enjoy some amenities and facilities on board, such as snacks, drinks, toilets, and Wi-Fi. The cost of taking a ferry will vary depending on the season, the time of the day, and the type of ticket, but it will be around 300 to 600 baht ($9 to $18) per person.
These are the three main options for getting to Maya Bay by boat, but there are also some other alternatives, such as kayaking, sailing, or flying. However, these alternatives are more expensive, more challenging, or more restricted, and may not be suitable for everyone. Therefore, we recommend choosing one of the three main options, depending on your preferences and budget.
Here are some tips and tricks for visiting Maya Bay by boat:
1. Book your boat and your visit in advance, as there will be a limited number of slots and tickets available, and they may sell out quickly, especially during the peak season and the peak hours.2.
Choose the best time to visit Maya Bay, which is usually early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the sun is not too harsh, the water is not too choppy, and the crowds are not too large.
3. Carry the essentials, such as sunscreen, water, hat, sunglasses, camera, and cash, as there will be no shops or ATMs in Maya Bay, and you may need to pay some extra fees or tips along the way.
4. Respect the environment and the wildlife, and follow the rules and regulations, as they are there for your safety and enjoyment, as well as for the protection and preservation of the bay and its ecosystem.
What to Do in Maya Bay
Once you reach Maya Bay, you will be amazed by its beauty and charm. You will see a pristine white sandy beach, a turquoise lagoon, and a lush green backdrop. You will also see a variety of marine life, such as fish, turtles, sharks, and dolphins. You will have 2 hours to explore and enjoy the bay, and there are plenty of things to do and see. Here are some of the main attractions and activities in and around Maya Bay:
1. Swimming
This is the simplest and most enjoyable activity in Maya Bay, as you can just dip into the clear and warm water, and feel the soft sand under your feet. You can swim along the shore, or venture deeper into the lagoon, and admire the underwater scenery. You can also swim to the other side of the bay, where there is a smaller and quieter beach, called Loh Samah Bay, which is also worth visiting.
2. Snorkelling
This is the best way to see the marine life in Maya Bay, as you can get closer and interact with the colorful fish and coral. You can bring your own snorkelling gear, or rent it from the boat or the bay. You can snorkel anywhere in the bay, but the best spots are near the rocks and the cliffs, where the water is deeper and the coral is richer. You may also spot some turtles, sharks, and dolphins, if you are lucky.
3. Diving
This is the most adventurous and thrilling activity in Maya Bay, as you can dive deeper and explore the hidden wonders of the bay. You can join a diving tour, or hire a diving instructor, who will guide you and provide you with the necessary equipment and safety measures. You can dive to various depths and sites, such as the coral garden, the wall, and the cave, where you will see a diverse and spectacular array of marine life, such as barracudas, moray eels, stingrays, and octopuses.
4. Kayaking
This is the most fun and relaxing activity in Maya Bay, as you can paddle around the bay and enjoy the views and the breeze. You can rent a kayak from the boat or the bay, and choose your own pace and route. You can kayak along the beach, or circle around the bay, and see the cliffs and the caves from a different angle. You can also kayak to the nearby islands and attractions, such as Bamboo Island, Monkey Beach, and Viking Cave, which are also worth visiting.
5. Hiking
This is the most challenging and rewarding activity in Maya Bay, as you can climb up the cliffs and see the bay from a higher perspective. You can follow a marked trail, or hire a guide, who will lead you and assist you with the climb. You will need to wear proper shoes and clothes, and carry some water and snacks, as the hike can be steep and strenuous. You will also need to be careful and respectful, as the cliffs are sacred and protected by the locals. Once you reach the top, you will be rewarded with a stunning and panoramic view of the bay and the island, which will take your breath away.
6. Camping
This is the most exclusive and memorable activity in Maya Bay, as you can spend the night in the bay and experience its magic and tranquility. You will need to book your camping spot in advance, as there will be a limited number of tents and sleeping bags available, and they will be in high demand. You will also need to pay an extra fee, which will include the camping equipment, the food, and the security. You will be able to enjoy the sunset and the sunrise in the bay, as well as the starry sky and the fireflies at night. You will also be able to mingle and bond with the other campers, and share your stories and experiences.
These are some of the main things to do in Maya Bay, but there are also some other options, such as yoga, meditation, photography, or just relaxing and sunbathing. You can choose whatever suits your mood and preference, and make the most of your time in the bay. However, you should also remember to respect the environment and the wildlife, and follow the rules and regulations, as they are there for your safety and enjoyment, as well as for the protection and preservation of the bay and its ecosystem.
Where to Stay Near Maya Bay
If you want to visit Maya Bay in 2024, you will need to find a place to stay near the bay, as it will not be possible to visit the bay and return to your original destination on the same day. Fortunately, there are plenty of accommodation options near Maya Bay, ranging from budget to luxury, and catering to different tastes and needs. Here are some of the best accommodation options near Maya Bay:
1. Phi Phi Island Village Beach Resort
This is one of the most luxurious and exclusive resorts near Maya Bay, located on the east coast of Phi Phi Island, about 30 minutes by boat from the bay. This resort offers spacious and elegant bungalows and villas, with private balconies, outdoor jacuzzis, and stunning views of the sea and the mountains. The resort also features a private beach, a large swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort also provides various activities and services, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and island hopping. The cost of staying at this resort will vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the number of people, but it will be around 10,000 to 20,000 baht ($300 to $600) per night, including breakfast and taxes.
2. Phi Phi The Beach Resort
This is another luxurious and exclusive resort near Maya Bay, located on the south coast of Phi Phi Island, about 20 minutes by boat from the bay. This resort offers cozy and comfortable bungalows and villas, with private terraces, outdoor showers, and panoramic views of the sea and the cliffs. The resort also features a private beach, a swimming pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a restaurant and bar. The resort also provides various activities and services, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and island hopping. The cost of staying at this resort will vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the number of people, but it will be around 8,000 to 16,000 baht ($240 to $480) per night, including breakfast and taxes.
3. Phi Phi Relax Beach Resort
This is a more affordable and eco-friendly resort near Maya Bay, located on the east coast of Phi Phi Island, about 40 minutes by boat from the bay. This resort offers simple and rustic bungalows and huts, with private balconies, fans, and mosquito nets. The resort also features a private beach, a restaurant and bar, and a massage service. The resort also provides various activities and services, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and island hopping. The cost of staying at this resort will vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the number of people, but it will be around 2,000 to 4,000 baht ($60 to $120) per night, including breakfast and taxes.
4. Phi Phi View Point Resort
This is another affordable and eco-friendly resort near Maya Bay, located on the south coast of Phi Phi Island, about 15 minutes by boat from the bay. This resort offers basic and clean bungalows and rooms, with private balconies, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The resort also features a swimming pool, a restaurant and bar, and a laundry service. The resort also provides various activities and services, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and island hopping. The cost of staying at this resort will vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the number of people, but it will be around 1,500 to 3,000 baht ($45 to $90) per night, including breakfast and taxes.
5. Phi Phi Backpacker Hostel
This is the cheapest and most social option near Maya Bay, located on the west coast of Phi Phi Island, about 10 minutes by boat from the bay. This hostel offers dormitory and private rooms, with shared bathrooms, lockers, and Wi-Fi. The hostel also features a common area, a kitchen, a library, and a tour desk. The hostel also provides various activities and services, such as snorkelling, diving, kayaking, hiking, and island hopping. The cost of staying at this hostel will vary depending on the season, the type of room, and the number of people, but it will be around 300 to 600 baht ($9 to $18) per night, including breakfast and taxes.
These are some of the best accommodation options near Maya Bay, but there are also some other alternatives, such as camping, homestays, or Airbnb. You can choose whatever suits your budget and preference, and enjoy your stay near the bay. However, you should also remember to book your accommodation in advance, as there will be a high demand and a low supply of rooms near the bay, especially during the peak season and the peak hours.
Conclusion
We hope you have enjoyed reading this article, and found it useful and informative. If you have any feedback, questions, or experiences about Maya Bay, please feel free to share them in the comments section below, or on our social media platforms. We would love to hear from you, and help you with your travel plans. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter, follow our blog, and check out our other related articles, where we will share more insights and tips about traveling in Thailand and beyond. Thank you for reading, and happy travels!
