Maya Bay

Maya Bay

Highlights: Filming location of the movie *The Beach*: The coconut trees and houses in the film were built specifically for shooting, but the azure sea shimmering with sparkling waves is just as crystal-clear as in the movie. Through the strong sunlight, you can even see fish swimming freely underwater.

Introduction: Maya Bay is located on the southwestern side of Phi Phi Leh, the smaller of the Phi Phi Islands. The entire Phi Phi Leh is characterized by steep cliffs and has very few beaches, making Maya Bay’s sandy shore particularly surprising. Though small, the beach is snow-white, surrounded by towering cliffs hundreds of meters high that create an extraordinary atmosphere, as if a giant hand is protecting the bay. The sea is a brilliant blue, and the shore is dotted with delicate palm trees, giving off a classic tropical island vibe—perfect for sightseeing and diving. This small bay is enclosed by cliffs over 100 meters high on three sides, with only a narrow entrance, offering a sense of seclusion. The movie *The Beach*, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed here, which brought fame to this once-hidden paradise.

Tips: The sand at Maya Bay is mixed with coral and shells, so be careful not to get scratched when walking barefoot. It’s recommended to wear soft-soled slippers to enjoy your time safely.

Admission & Opening Hours: Entrance fee to Phi Phi Leh is 200 THB per person; nearby snorkeling activities are included and free of charge.

Transportation: Maya Bay is located on Phi Phi Leh, a small island about 2 km south of Phi Phi Don (the larger island). A chartered boat trip from Phi Phi Don for snorkeling takes about 2–3 hours, with prices for boats accommodating 2–4 people ranging from 700–900 THB.

Dining · Accommodation · Shopping: Phi Phi Leh remains an uninhabited island to this day.

Phi Phi Islands