Maya Bay, Monkey Bay and Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Tour from Koh Lanta

Traveling through Thailand’s Andaman Coast often feels like flipping through a postcard – stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush islands. If you’re pressed for time but want to see some of the most iconic spots, the Maya Bay, Monkey Bay, and Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Tour from Koh Lanta promises to hit all the main highlights in one jam-packed day. While it’s not perfect, it offers a solid way to tick off the Phi Phi Islands with the convenience of hotel transfers and a good mix of sightseeing and snorkeling.

What we like: The smooth logistics with hotel pickup, the chance to explore Maya Bay (even with restrictions), and the inclusion of a buffet lunch for refueling are definite pluses. However, some reviews point out issues with crowds and the professionalism of the crew, which is worth considering.

This tour suits travelers eager for a quick, comprehensive taste of Phi Phi’s top spots without the hassle of organizing multiple trips themselves. It’s perfect for those who want a guided day with plenty of photo opportunities and quality snorkeling.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines sightseeing, snorkeling, and a buffet lunch.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included.
• Limited time at each stop: Fast-paced, which might feel rushed for some.
• Crowds and noise: Popular spots can get crowded, especially Maya Bay.
• Price point: Around $68.58 per person, offering good value for the packed itinerary.
• Booking in advance: Most travelers book about 11 days ahead, indicating popularity.

Introduction

This tour from Koh Lanta offers a practical way to explore the Phi Phi Islands’ highlights within a single day. Instead of navigating boat schedules and transport logistics yourself, you’re whisked from your hotel straight to the boat, ready for a day of adventure.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the opportunity to visit Maya Bay, the famous beach of “The Beach” movie, even though the island itself is currently closed; the sightseeing and swimming opportunities are still worth the trip. Second, the snorkeling stops at Pileh Bay and Blacktip Reef Shark Point promise vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish, satisfying both casual swimmers and avid snorkelers. Lastly, the inclusion of a buffet lunch and drinks makes sure you’re well-fed and hydrated, critical when spending hours under the sun.

But, a point to consider is that the tour can feel quite busy. As reviews highlight, the spots tend to be crowded, especially Maya Bay, which can affect your experience. The professionalism of the crew and guides also varies, with some travelers mentioning unengaged staff and a sense of being just a number.

Who is this best suited for? If you’re someone who wants to maximize your time with a guided experience that covers main attractions, this tour offers good value. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, in-depth exploration or dislike crowds, you might want to consider alternative options.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Stop 1: Ko Phi Phi Le and Maya Bay

You’ll start early, with a pickup from your Koh Lanta hotel, and head to the Ban Sala Dan Pier. From there, your boat sets out for the first stop: Maya Bay, on Ko Phi Phi Le. This is arguably the star attraction of the day, thanks to its towering cliffs and pristine sands. The bay gained fame from the film “The Beach,” although the island itself is now closed to visitors for preservation. Nevertheless, the sightseeing and photo ops are impressive. Expect around 2 hours here, including time to take photos, swim, or just soak in the scenery.

One reviewer notes, “We loved the way the crew handled the sightseeing – they gave us enough time for photos and snorkeling without feeling rushed.” Still, others mention the crowds and the popularity of Maya Bay makes it a busy spot.

Stop 2: Pileh Bay

Next, the boat heads to Pileh Bay, a stunning lagoon with incredible turquoise waters and impressive limestone formations. Here, snorkeling is the focus, with coral reefs teeming with colorful fish. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to float above the reefs and enjoy the tranquility.

A reviewer appreciated this part, saying, “The snorkeling here was fantastic. The coral was vibrant, and we saw many fish swimming around us.” However, some noted that low tide can make snorkeling a bit tricky or dangerous, with the water level affecting visibility and safety.

Stop 3: Ko Phi Phi Lee

Afterward, you’ll spend another 30 minutes snorkeling around Ko Phi Phi Lee, taking in the lively underwater scene filled with fish and coral. The fact that this stop is free makes it appealing, and many find it a worthwhile snorkeling session.

Stop 4: Monkey Beach

Next on the agenda is Monkey Bay, where you can enjoy a quick stop for sightseeing and photos. Keep your camera ready because the monkeys often come close and are a favorite among visitors. Expect about 30 minutes here.

One guest shared, “The monkeys were adorable, and it’s fun to see them in their natural environment,” though it’s wise to keep a safe distance and not feed them.

Stop 5: Ao Ton Sai Pier

After a busy morning of sightseeing, it’s time for a leisurely 2-hour stop at Ao Ton Sai Pier. This includes a buffet lunch, often praised for its variety and quality, along with opportunities for shopping or just relaxing by the waterfront.

A reviewer remarked, “The buffet lunch was surprisingly good, and sitting by the water after snorkeling was the perfect way to recharge.” It’s a good chance to unwind, refresh, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the pier.

Stop 6: Blacktip Reef Shark Point

The final snorkeling stop is at Blacktip Reef Shark Point, where you might spot small sharks swimming near the reefs. The snorkeling here is generally safe but exciting, especially for those interested in marine life. Expect about 30 minutes at this stop.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the tour are hotel transfers, a buffet lunch with drinks and fruit, snorkeling gear, life jackets, a tour guide, and insurance. These inclusions contribute to the overall value, especially the convenience of hotel pickup and the peace of mind with safety gear and insurance.

Not included is the national park fee—400 THB per adult and 200 THB per child—which must be paid at the entrance. This fee is standard across many Thai parks and attractions, but worth factoring into your budget.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

The tour is capped at 30 travelers, which balances group size and intimacy. Most travelers will find the pace manageable, but the reviews reveal some mixed experiences regarding professionalism. While some found the crew friendly and accommodating, others felt the staff was unprofessional or disconnected.

One positive review from a traveler in February 2023 states, “The team was top-notch, friendly, and attentive, making the whole day enjoyable.” Conversely, a review from July 2024 criticizes the experience as “basically only transfer from one point to another,” with the feeling of being just a number.

This variance suggests that while the tour can be enjoyable, your experience might depend on the crew on the day of your trip.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended, with most travelers securing spots about 11 days beforehand.
• The tour starts at 9:00 am from the Ban Sala Dan Pier.
• Child tickets are available for ages 4-11, making it suitable for families.
• This experience isn’t recommended for guests with certain health issues, pregnant women, or those with high blood pressure, due to the physical nature of swimming and boat travel.
• The tour is not suitable for guests traveling on large boats or ferries.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, well-organized day with guided sightseeing, snorkeling, and a scenic lunch, this tour ticks plenty of boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want a convenient way to see the main Phi Phi highlights without the stress of planning each stop.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or dislike crowds, you might find this tour a bit overwhelming or rushed at times. The mixed reviews about crew professionalism suggest that some days will be better than others, so managing expectations is wise.

For those wanting to capture memorable photos, snorkel in vibrant reefs, and enjoy a day out on the water with ease, this experience offers a solid, if sometimes busy, adventure.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel transfers, making logistics easy.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

What are the main stops?
Highlights include Maya Bay, Pileh Bay, Monkey Beach, Ao Ton Sai Pier for lunch, and snorkeling at Blacktip Reef Shark Point.

Are meals provided?
Yes, a buffet lunch with drinks and fruit is included, and it’s generally well-received.

Do I need to pay a park fee?
Yes, the national park fee (400 THB per adult, 200 THB per child) is paid at entry.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and life jackets are included.

Can children join?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate with a child ticket.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, towel, hat, and waterproof camera. Beachwear and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, due to the physical nature and boat travel involved, it’s not recommended.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund or alternative date will be offered.

To sum it up, this tour offers a practical way to see the Phi Phi Islands’ main sights in one day, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos and snorkeling. While it’s not flawless and can get crowded, the convenience, good value, and scenic stops make it appealing for travelers eager for a guided adventure. Just go with flexible expectations and a love for adventure, and you’ll likely have a day to remember.