Maya Bay Phuket Guide – Tickets, Rules, Best Time & How to Visit

Maya Bay was opened back to tourists on a strict conservation basis following a multi-year break to provide the same its coral reefs and sea life to recover. The bay is within Hat Noppharat Thara -Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, some 40 km northwest of Phuket and 25 km northwest of Krabi, and reached only by authorisation.

This has replaced the beach landings, where people now use the Loh Samah Bay pier and cross an elevated wooden walkway through the moist jungle to see the stunning white-sand beach. Protection of the ecosystem does not permit swimming, but a visitor is able to walk along the beach, take pictures of the landscape, and watch the movie scenery.

Fun Fact: Previously, the Maya Bay used to receive up to 10,000 tourists per day, but today the number of visitors is regulated to approximately 375 people per hour to maintain sustainability.
Seasonal Tip: June–November (dry season): The season is perfect as the waters are calm, and it is best to do boat tours during this period. Maya Bay can be closed during the monsoon (May- October) because of the unfriendly waters and environmental conservation requirements.

• A protected ecological paradise with powder-white sand and limestone cliffs rising 100 meters high.
• Dedicated boardwalk for safe access without disturbing natural habitats.
• Crystal-clear waters, ideal for photography and shoreline exploration.
• Viewpoints offering some of the best coastal scenery in Thailand.
• Proximity to famous spots like Pi Leh Lagoon and Viking Cave.

Location: Ko Phi Phi Leh, Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, Krabi Province, Thailand

Maya Bay Phuket Opening Hours 2026: Daily: 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM
(Subject to seasonal weather; closures possible during monsoon)

National Park Fee (Mandatory):

• Adults: THB 400 (approx. ₹940)
• Children: THB 200 (approx. ₹470)

Suggested Duration:
1–1.5 hours at Maya Bay itself; typically part of a 6–7 hour island tour.

Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM

Best Visiting Tips

• Morning tours (7–9 AM) offer the best light and fewer crowds.
• Peak season: November–April for calm seas.
• Avoid monsoon months (May–October) due to rough waters and potential closures.
• Book reputable operators with ecological certifications.
• Plan for a full-day Phi Phi Islands tour from Phuket or Krabi.

Extra Tip: Visit early to enjoy Maya Bay before day-trip crowds arrive.

Maya Bay is a protected natural attraction, so activities focus on sustainable interactions and scenic appreciation.

Nature Zone – Scenic & Ecological Experiences

1. Maya Bay Beach Access

Activity: Walk barefoot on the iconic white-sand beach.
 Experience: Enjoy panoramic views of turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and a quiet ambience due to restricted crowds.
 Conservation Note: Beach access is limited to designated zones to protect dunes and shore ecosystems.

2. Boardwalk Nature Trail

Feature: 250-meter elevated wooden boardwalk from Loh Samah Bay.
 Experience: Guided forest walk offering insights into local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
 Why Visit: Provides a safe and ecologically friendly approach to the bay.

3. Maya Bay Viewing Points

Experience: Multiple sandstone viewpoints for landscape photography.
 Tip: Morning sunlight illuminates the limestone cliffs beautifully.

Adventure Zone – Surrounding Attractions

4. Pi Leh Lagoon

Activity: Lagoon cruising and sightseeing.
 Experience: Calm emerald water surrounded by cliffs; often considered the highlight of Phi Phi Leh.
 Technical Insight: Lagoon access is regulated by tide levels and safety guidelines.

5. Viking Cave

Activity: Boat sightseeing only.
 Experience: View ancient paintings and swiftlet nesting areas.
 Conservation Note: No entry due to ongoing bird-nest farming and ecological protection.

Family & Cultural Zone – Relaxed Activities

6. Island Cruising

Family-friendly long-tail or speedboat trips suitable for all ages. Tours provide shaded seating, life jackets, and crew assistance.

7. Beachfront Photography

Ideal for families and casual travellers wanting memorable landscapes.

8. Eco-Education Sessions

Some tours include short talks about coral restoration and marine conservation.

• Pi Leh Lagoon: Emerald lagoon surrounded by cliffs; popular for photos and boat cruising.
• Viking Cave: Historical cave with ancient paintings.
• Monkey Beach (Phi Phi Don): Known for macaques; stay cautious.
• Bamboo Island: Ideal for snorkelling with shallow reefs.
• Phi Phi Don Viewpoint: One of Thailand’s best viewpoints.

Day-Trip Tip: Opt for full-day tours that combine Maya Bay, Pi Leh Lagoon, and Bamboo Island for the ultimate Andaman Sea experience.

Mandatory National Park Entry Fee:

• Adult: THB 400 (₹940)
• Child: THB 200 (₹470)

Additional Tour Costs:
Varies depending on operator and boat type.

Pro Tip: Fees are paid separately from tour prices; always confirm inclusions.

Where to Book: Official national park counters, Phuket tour agencies, or trusted online platforms like Pickyourtrail.

From Phuket

• Speedboat Tour: 45–60 minutes
• Ferry + Long-Tail Boat: 1.5 hours ferry to Phi Phi Don + 15 minutes to Phi Phi Leh
• Private Charter: Flexible timing and route

From Krabi

• Speedboat: 45 minutes
• Ferry + Long-Tail: 90 minutes ferry + 15 minutes boat

From Phi Phi Don

Long-Tail Boat: 10–15 minutes, popular for sunrise tours

• Swimming is prohibited to protect marine life.
• Barefoot walking on the beach is allowed; avoid disturbing wildlife.
• Bring lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and refillable bottles.
• Do not take sand, shells, or stones from the beach.
• Book morning tours in peak season to avoid wait times.
• Respect all ranger instructions—fines apply for violations.
• Drones are only allowed with pre-approved permits.

Maya Bay itself has no shops or restaurants due to conservation rules, but nearby Phi Phi Don offers:

Dining Options:

• Thai seafood restaurants
• Beach cafés
• Smoothie bars

Shopping:

• Souvenirs
• Snorkelling gear
• Local handicrafts

Morning:

• Depart Phuket/Krabi early
• Arrive at Maya Bay by 8:00 AM
• Walk the boardwalk and explore the beach.
• Capture photographs from the viewpoints.

Midday:

• Continue to Pi Leh Lagoon for scenic cruising
• Pass Viking Cave
• Snorkelling stop at Bamboo Island or Nui Bay

Afternoon:

• Lunch on Phi Phi Don
• Explore beaches or viewpoints.
• Return to Phuket/Krabi by late afternoon.

1. Walk the wooden boardwalk through lush forest.
2. Explore the shoreline of Maya Bay.
3. Visit Pi Leh Lagoon for emerald-water cruising.
4. Snorkel near Bamboo Island or Nui Bay.
5. Enjoy lunch and relaxation on Phi Phi Don.

Maya Bay Phuket continues to be one of the most remarkable natural features in Thailand, which is beautiful, safe, and well-managed to maintain its ecological beauty. Whether it's a honeymoon, family outing, filming vacation, or island hopping, Maya Bay offers an ideal blend of filmable scenery and responsible tourism, making it a must-visit destination on your Phuket or Krabi itinerary. It has fewer entry barriers that will provide a serene, high-end experience and the experience of closeness with nature, which is unparalleled in the Andaman Sea. Booking Phuket tour packages from Pickyourtrail can easily include Maya Bay and nearby Phi Phi highlights in a well-planned, eco-conscious itinerary.