Bamboo Island, Pileh Bay & Phi Phi Island Snorkeling Tour from Phuket

The Ultimate Phuket Snorkeling Adventure: Bamboo Island, Pileh Bay & Phi Phi Islands

If you’re looking for a full day of crystal-clear waters, dramatic limestone cliffs, and some of Thailand’s most iconic beaches, this tour from Phuket ticks all the boxes. For around $82, you’ll spend approximately 8 to 9 hours exploring Bamboo Island, Maya Beach, Pileh Bay, and more — all from a comfortable speedboat with hotel pickup included.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances guided sightseeing with free time: you get to snorkel at prime spots like Bamboo Island and Pileh Bay, enjoy a delicious Thai lunch with ocean views, and stroll along famous beaches like Maya Beach and Monkey Beach. The knowledgeable guides help bring the islands’ stories to life, making the experience both scenic and educational.

One aspect to consider is that this tour is quite popular, often booked around 35 days in advance, meaning it can be busy during peak season. If you’re after a more intimate experience or want to avoid crowds, this is something to keep in mind. It’s best suited for active travelers, snorkeling enthusiasts, and those eager to see the highlights of the Phi Phi archipelago in one day.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery with limestone cliffs, turquoise lagoons, and powdery beaches.
• Excellent snorkeling opportunities at Bamboo Island and Pileh Bay.
• Guided insights from knowledgeable tour guides.
• Convenient round-trip transfer from Phuket hotels.
• A mix of sightseeing and leisure, with plenty of time at each stop.
• Affordable value for a full day exploring iconic Thai islands.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Bamboo Island: The Perfect Start

Your day begins at Bamboo Island, also called Koh Pai, a favorite for its white sand beaches and shallow, warm waters ideal for snorkeling. This island offers a chance to float over vibrant coral and colorful fish, or simply lounge under the shade of palm trees. The reviews highlight how beautiful the beaches are and how the snorkeling was excellent, with Lana noting that her group received “lots of water” to stay refreshed in the heat.

The admission ticket is included, so no extra fuss there. We love that the island is just an hour here — enough time to enjoy the water or relax on the sand without feeling rushed.

Maya Bay: The Famous Filming Location

Next, you’ll visit Maya Beach, the scene of the film The Beach. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, this spot offers picture-perfect views and soft white sand. With only 45 minutes here, you’ll get a taste of its charm — enough for a quick stroll or a photo session. As one reviewer pointed out, the white beach and clear water create a “very popular” setting, so expect some crowds, especially during peak season.

Viking Cave and Snorkeling at Pileh Bay

A short sightseeing stop at the Viking Cave allows for photos of its ancient paintings and limestone formations. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but definitely worth snapping a few pictures.

The highlight for many is Pileh Bay, where you’ll spend about an hour snorkeling in emerald-green waters. The bay’s turquoise hues and limestone cliffs make it one of the most scenic spots. Snorkeling here offers a chance to see abundant coral and colorful fish — the reviews rave about the excellent snorkeling at this location.

Lunch Break at Phi Phi Don

A traditional Thai lunch at Phi Phi Don provides a well-deserved rest and fuel for the rest of the day. The buffet is included, and the setting offers breathtaking ocean views. With around two hours here, you can relax, explore the small town, or enjoy the scenery. Many travelers appreciate this break, as Lana noted, calling the lunch “good” with plenty of water.

Loh Samah Bay and Phi Phi Leh

Post-lunch, you’ll visit Loh Samah Bay for sightseeing and photos, followed by the stunning Pileh Lagoon. Surrounded by limestone cliffs, this lagoon is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or just daydreaming about the striking scenery. The abundant coral reefs and turquoise waters make it a photographer’s paradise. The reviews mention that the views are really incredible, and the coral reefs are still vibrant.

Monkey Beach: Playful Encounters & Snorkeling

Finally, Monkey Beach offers a fun yet cautious experience. It’s a short 30-minute stop, where playful monkeys roam near a powdery white beach. Be mindful of the monkeys’ curiosity, and avoid getting too close, as advised. The beach also offers good snorkeling spots, making it a great way to end your day with a splash.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Phuket, making it easy and stress-free. The small group size—max 30 travelers—helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, especially during crowded seasons.

Guides and Information

Tour guides are English-speaking and well-informed, providing interesting facts about each location. Lana praised her guide as “great,” noting that their knowledge added depth to their enjoyment.

Equipment and Safety

Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, so you don’t need to rent equipment separately. The travel insurance included adds peace of mind.

Cost and Value

For just over $82, you get a full day of sightseeing, snorkeling, lunch, and transfers. When you consider the cost of individual excursions or transportation, this package offers good value — especially since national park fees and other extras are clearly outlined.

Considerations & Tips

• Popularity means crowds: Be prepared for busy spots, especially Maya Beach and Monkey Beach, during high season.
• Weather dependency: The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled, you’ll be offered alternatives or a full refund.
• Physical activity: Expect some walking and swimming; it’s suitable for most active travelers but not recommended for pregnant guests or those with certain health conditions.
• Camera gear: Bring waterproof cameras or phones to capture the stunning scenery and underwater life.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive day of island-hopping and snorkeling with minimal hassle. It’s perfect if you want to see the most photogenic and iconic spots in the Phi Phi Islands without spending multiple days on tour. The included lunch, transfers, and guides make it a practical choice for those who value organized convenience with authentic scenery.

It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, relaxing, and underwater exploration. However, if you prefer a quieter experience or a private setting, you might find the crowds a bit overwhelming.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the beauty of the Phi Phi Islands. It combines spectacular scenery, snorkeling, and cultural sights into one full day. The knowledgeable guides and value for money make it a reliable choice for travelers staying in Phuket who want to make the most of their time on the water.

While the crowds can be sizable and some facilities basic, the overall experience is memorable. The stops at Bamboo Island, Maya Beach, and Pileh Bay are truly special, offering postcard-perfect views and vibrant underwater life. The well-planned itinerary keeps you moving efficiently from one highlight to the next, giving you a taste of Thailand’s island paradise.

If your goal is to see the best of the Phi Phi archipelago in a single day, enjoy snorkeling in warm waters, and indulge in delicious Thai food with a view, this tour will serve you well. Just pack your sense of adventure, your camera, and a spirit ready to soak up the sun and scenery.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers round-trip transfer from Phuket hotels including Patong, Kata, Karon, and more, making it very convenient for travelers.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning to the meeting point at the end of the day.

What are the main snorkeling spots?
You will snorkel at Bamboo Island, known for its shallow, warm waters and vibrant marine life, and at Pileh Bay, famous for its clear waters and coral reefs.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a national park fee of 400 THB per adult or 200 THB per child, payable at the entry point. Extra transfer charges may apply for private or remote pickup zones.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can participate with a child ticket. However, pregnant women and guests with certain health issues are advised not to join.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This comprehensive, balanced tour offers a fantastic way to see the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands — a trip filled with scenic beauty, underwater adventure, and memorable sights that suit travelers eager to experience Thailand’s famed marine landscapes.