The bay's ecosystem was closed to tourism for over three years starting in 2018 to allow for the recovery of coral reefs damaged by excessive boat traffic.
Reintroduction efforts have successfully brought back coral colonies that were previously thought to be destroyed.
Blacktip reef sharks are native to the bay and can often be observed from the shoreline boardwalk.
The island of Koh Phi Phi Leh is part of a protected National Park, meaning there are no hotels or residential infrastructure on the island.
The sediment on the beach is composed of pulverized limestone and fine quartz, contributing to its distinct white appearance.
Maya Bay is a world-renowned cove located on the uninhabited island of Koh Phi Phi Leh within the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. The bay is famous for its sheltered turquoise waters and high limestone cliffs that reach over 100 meters in height. Following extensive environmental rehabilitation, strict conservation protocols now prohibit swimming and boat anchoring directly inside the bay to protect restored coral reefs. Visitors access the area via a floating pier located on the opposite side of the island, followed by a short wooden boardwalk trek. Marine wildlife, including blacktip reef sharks, are frequently sighted in the shallow, protected waters near the shore. The bay gained international prominence as the primary filming location for the 2000 film 'The Beach'. It remains a strictly managed protected marine area under the jurisdiction of Thai authorities.
The elevated viewing platform along the wooden boardwalk that overlooks the entire cove and limestone cliffs.
Use high-quality polarized sunglasses to better view the marine life in the clear water from the shoreline.
Bring biodegradable sunscreen to comply with national park environmental regulations and protect the coral ecosystem.
Carry all trash back with you to the mainland, as there are no waste disposal facilities on the island.
Attempting to enter the water for a swim, which is heavily monitored by park rangers and subject to significant fines.
May be subject to temporary closures during the monsoon season for ecological rest or if national park authorities deem it necessary for environmental conservation.
Swimming and wading in the water are strictly prohibited to protect the coral; stay strictly on designated wooden walkways.
