
Krabo Bay
Iconic Thai bay famed for its stunning cliffs and turquoise waters, now a model for sustainable tourism.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoids peak crowds & weather

Krabo Bay
Best Time
Avoids peak crowds & weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Thai bay famed for its stunning cliffs and turquoise waters, now a model for sustainable tourism.
"It's paradise on earth, a must-see gem with the clearest turquoise waters you could imagine. "

Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours to Maya Bay sell out quickly, especially during high season. Book ahead! :admission_tickets:
Respect No-Swimming Rule
Swimming is prohibited to protect the environment. Enjoy the views from the boat! :noentrysign:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Maya Bay's Iconic Beach
Koh Phi Phi Leh
The legendary white sand beach framed by towering limestone cliffs, famous from 'The Beach'.

Pi Leh Lagoon
Koh Phi Phi Leh
Crystal-clear turquoise waters within a stunning lagoon, perfect for admiring the scenery.

Baby Sharks in the Bay
Maya Bay
Witness the return of baby sharks in the bay, a sign of the ecosystem's recovery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Maya Bay
Respecting the Environment
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours to Maya Bay sell out quickly, especially during high season. Book ahead! :admission_tickets:
Respect No-Swimming Rule
Swimming is prohibited to protect the environment. Enjoy the views from the boat! :noentrysign:
National Park Fee
A 400 THB fee is required for entry, which often includes access to other nearby islands. :moneybag:
Go Off-Season
Consider visiting just before or after the peak season for a less crowded experience. :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours in Advance
Popular tours to Maya Bay sell out quickly, especially during high season. Book ahead! :admission_tickets:
Respect No-Swimming Rule
Swimming is prohibited to protect the environment. Enjoy the views from the boat! :noentrysign:
National Park Fee
A 400 THB fee is required for entry, which often includes access to other nearby islands. :moneybag:
Go Off-Season
Consider visiting just before or after the peak season for a less crowded experience. :calendar:
Watch for Sharks
Baby sharks are back in the bay! Admire them from a safe distance. :shark:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Maya Bay's breathtaking beauty, describing it as paradise on earth with stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The return of marine life, like baby sharks, is a positive sign of successful conservation. However, some find it can be crowded, and the no-swimming rule is a significant change from its past.
"This is my favorite beach in the Athens Riviera. You can swim as soon as you get in the water, the towels are clean, and the sun loungers are comfortable. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. The food is absolutely delicious; the kitchen is amazing. You just don't want the day to end. Highly recommend!"
cem patpat
"There was seven of us and they accommodated us really nicely. We had drinks, lunch, hung out in the water and had more drinks. The music was great but the speaker was directly in front of us, so it was a little loud for us to talk. Definitely worth the trip and the money we spent."
Tank
"One of the best places I enjoyed in Athens. It has a great view, nice secluded beach and great food. Overall a great atmosphere to spend a complete day on the beach."
Shereif Osman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Maya Bay is by taking a boat tour from Krabi or Koh Phi Phi Don. Many tours depart from Ao Nang or Railay Beach. You can also hire a private longtail boat for a more customized experience.
While it's possible to hire a private boat, most visitors opt for organized tours that include transportation and often stops at other nearby islands like Pi Leh Lagoon.
Ferries and speedboats operate regularly from Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Lanta to Koh Phi Phi Don. From there, you'll need to arrange a boat to Maya Bay.
No, there is no direct public transport to Maya Bay. Access is exclusively by boat, typically through organized tours or private charters.
Travel time varies depending on your departure point. From Krabi, it can take around 1.5 to 2 hours by speedboat. From Koh Phi Phi Don, it's a shorter boat ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a national park fee of 400 THB per person for Maya Bay. This fee helps fund conservation efforts.
Maya Bay typically reopens on October 1st after its annual closure for environmental recovery, usually from August to September. Always check current opening status before your visit.
Yes, swimming is no longer allowed in Maya Bay to protect the marine life and coral. Visitors must stay on designated paths and viewing areas.
Tickets are usually purchased as part of a tour package or at the pier before boarding. It's advisable to book tours in advance, especially during peak season.
The 400 THB national park fee generally covers entry to Maya Bay and sometimes includes access to other nearby attractions within the Phi Phi Islands National Park.
📸 📸 Photography
The iconic viewpoint overlooking the bay offers the most famous photo opportunity. The beach itself, with its dramatic cliffs, is also stunning.
Drone usage is generally prohibited in national parks in Thailand to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Check local regulations before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and potentially fewer crowds, leading to more picturesque shots.
While general photography is allowed, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive behavior. Stick to designated areas.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive scenery. Waterproof protection for your camera is advisable due to the marine environment.
🎫 🐠 Wildlife & Environment
You might spot baby sharks in the bay, a positive sign of the ecosystem's health. Monkeys can also be found on nearby beaches like Monkey Beach.
Swimming was banned to allow the marine ecosystem to recover. This helps protect the coral reefs and marine life, including the returning baby sharks.
The bay is a protected national park, with seasonal closures and restrictions on activities like swimming to aid environmental recovery and sustainability.
Yes, the closure and no-swimming policy are part of ongoing conservation efforts to restore the bay's natural beauty and biodiversity.
Past over-tourism led to significant environmental damage, prompting the closure and subsequent conservation measures to ensure its long-term preservation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the journey involves boat travel, so consider your children's comfort with being on the water. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and snacks. While the focus is on viewing, the sheer beauty of the landscape can captivate younger minds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While the main Maya Bay beach is the star, don't miss opportunities to capture the unique beauty of Pi Leh Lagoon. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to encompass the grandeur of the landscape. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and the environment while seeking the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rebirth of Maya Bay
Visitors can now admire the bay's breathtaking beauty from designated viewing areas and boats. The focus has shifted from active recreation to passive appreciation, ensuring that the natural splendor of Maya Bay is preserved for future generations. The 400 THB national park fee directly contributes to these ongoing conservation initiatives, making every visitor a stakeholder in the bay's protection.
While the iconic beach remains a draw, the surrounding Phi Phi Leh island also offers other gems like Pi Leh Lagoon, known for its incredibly clear turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs. These efforts highlight a growing trend in responsible tourism, where the preservation of natural wonders takes precedence.
Navigating the Phi Phi Islands
When planning your island hopping adventure, consider visiting Pi Leh Lagoon, a breathtakingly beautiful spot with calm, clear waters perfect for admiring the scenery. Nearby Monkey Beach is another popular stop, though it's advisable to keep a safe distance from the resident monkeys. Many tours also include snorkeling opportunities in the vibrant waters surrounding the islands.
When choosing a tour, look for operators who emphasize responsible tourism and adhere to environmental guidelines. Understanding the best times to visit, like avoiding peak season or opting for early morning departures, can significantly enhance your experience by minimizing crowds and maximizing your enjoyment of these natural wonders.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit