Bamboo Island, Maya Beach and Phi Phi Islands One Day Tour from Krabi

Discover the Beauty of the Phi Phi Islands and Beyond with a One-Day Tour from Krabi

Starting with a morning pickup from Krabi Town, Ao Nang, or nearby areas, this eight-hour adventure whisks you away to some of the most iconic and hidden gems in the region. From the heart-shaped Bamboo Island with its lush bamboo groves to the legendary Maya Bay—famous for the movie “The Beach”—this tour packs a lot into a compact day. For $62.33 per person, it includes not just transportation and guided sightseeing but also a buffet lunch, snorkeling gear, fruit, and water, making it a solid package for those wanting a hassle-free experience.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the relaxed pace at Bamboo Island, where you can truly unwind without the crowds, and the variety of stops, from snorkeling with colorful fish to exploring limestone caves. These provide a well-rounded snapshot of the region’s natural beauty. However, it’s worth noting that additional fees—like the 400 THB national park entrance, and an extra 100 THB transfer fee from certain pickup points—might catch some travelers off guard if they’re not prepared.

This tour is especially suitable for those who love beach lounging, snorkeling, and scenic photography. If you seek a comprehensive day of island-hopping with good value for money, this trip delivers. It’s also a good pick for travelers who prefer guided tours with hotel transfers—saving time and effort—and aren’t fussed about minor extra costs.

Key Points

• Stunning Destinations: Includes Bamboo Island, Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Bay.
• All-Inclusive: Lunch, snacks, snorkeling gear, life jackets, and insurance are provided.
• Flexible Schedule: Ample time to relax and explore at each stop, especially Bamboo Island.
• Professional Guidance: Led by a knowledgeable guide to enrich your experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 30 travelers for a more personal feel.
• Consider Extra Fees: National park entry costs and remote pickup charges apply.

In-Depth Review of the Krabi to Phi Phi Islands Tour

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Journey

The day kicks off early, with pickup times between 7:45am and 8:20am depending on your location. This early start ensures you’ll beat some of the crowds at key spots, though it also means an early wake-up call. Once aboard the boat, the first stop is Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)—a highlight for many. Its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply soaking in the scenery. The fact that the island gets its name from the massive bamboo groves adds a lush, tropical feel that’s different from more crowded beaches.

The next notable site is Viking Cave, which offers interesting photo opportunities of a limestone cave where bird nests are harvested and wall paintings are seen—very photogenic and intriguing. Following that, you’ll visit Pileh Lagoon, a quiet, hidden gem with crystal waters and dramatic cliffs—perfect for a peaceful swim or just taking in the views from the boat.

Lohsamah Bay is another snorkel hotspot—expect to see colorful fish darting among coral reefs, a real treat for underwater enthusiasts. Then, you’ll arrive at Maya Bay, the famous filming location from “The Beach.” Here, you’ll have some time for photos and sightseeing, though the area is popular, so it can be crowded. Finally, a lunch break on Phi Phi Don Island offers a chance to relax, refuel, and enjoy the island’s lively atmosphere.

The tour wraps up with Monkey Bay, where you can enjoy snorkeling and relaxing with the playful monkeys. Returning to Krabi by late afternoon, you’ll arrive back at your hotel around 4:00 pm.

What We Love About the Experience

One of the best aspects is the balance of activities and free time. You’re not rushed through the sights; instead, you get to linger at places like Bamboo Island and Monkey Bay, which allows for genuine relaxation. The snorkeling gear and life jackets provided are especially helpful, making underwater exploration accessible even for beginners.

The lunch buffet on Phi Phi Don is another highlight—reviews mention it as being “top-notch” and “spacious enough” to enjoy at your own pace. The guide, who is described as attentive, helps make the experience smooth, especially when navigating the logistics of multiple stops.

Possible Drawbacks or Considerations

Some travelers have noted paying additional fees—most notably the 400 THB national park fee—which is common in Thailand but can be surprising if you’re not expecting it. Also, the extra 100 THB transfer fee for remote pickup points like Klong Muang or Tub Kaek means some may need to budget extra cash.

Another point to keep in mind is that, despite the tour’s name and itinerary, spots like Maya Bay can get crowded, especially later in the day. If you’re seeking complete solitude, this might be a minor disappointment. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant guests or those with certain health issues, which is important to note for some travelers.

Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Group Dynamics

Transportation is smooth, with hotel pickups included from Krabi Town and Ao Nang, and the round-trip transfer means you don’t have to worry about logistics. The boat is generally comfortable, and the group size is capped at 30 travelers, helping keep things manageable and less chaotic.

Timing-wise, the early start ensures you maximize your day, but be prepared for an early wake-up. The 8-hour duration covers all major sites comfortably without feeling rushed, provided you’re okay with a full day of activity.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its value for money. For just over $60, you get multiple stops, snorkeling equipment, a buffet lunch, and guide service. Though additional costs exist, these are typical for tours in the area and often unavoidable with park fees.

From reviews, we see a mixed picture—some travelers have expressed satisfaction with the scenic views and good organization, while others mention unexpected costs. Overall, most agree that it’s an excellent way to see some of the region’s highlights in one day without the hassle of self-planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for first-time visitors to Krabi wanting a rundown of the Phi Phi Islands and nearby attractions. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours that include transfers and equipment, saving time and effort.

If you enjoy snorkeling and scenic beaches, and don’t mind sharing the experience with a group, this tour offers solid value. However, if you’re a solo traveler or seeking seclusion, you might find the spots crowded, especially Maya Bay. Also, those with health concerns should consider the physical demands and note the restrictions about pregnancy or certain medical conditions.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Worth It?

For those wanting an accessible, well-organized day exploring Krabi’s most iconic islands, this tour provides a lot of value. The combination of stunning scenery, snorkeling opportunities, and the chance to relax on quiet beaches makes it a great fit for travelers eager to see the highlights without the stress of planning every detail.

The included meals and equipment make it a practical choice, while the guided aspect adds confidence, especially for first-time visitors. It’s best suited for active travelers who enjoy a busy schedule but still want some downtime at beautiful beaches.

If your goal is to capture photos, snorkel with colorful fish, or simply bask in the sun, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for some additional costs, and keep expectations realistic regarding crowds at Maya Bay. This is a strong option for a memorable day in the Phi Phi Islands.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free round-trip hotel transfer from Krabi Town and Ao Nang. Additional remote pickup points like Klong Muang and Tub Kaek have a small extra fee.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting early in the morning and returning around 4:00 pm.

Are snorkeling masks and life jackets provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are included, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the underwater sights.

Do I need to pay the national park fee?
Yes, the 400 THB per adult fee must be paid at the entrance. It’s a standard charge for most island visits in the area.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children aged 4-11 are eligible for a child ticket, but pregnant guests and those with certain health conditions are advised against joining.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, water-resistant camera, and a towel. The tour provides water, fruit, and lunch, so you don’t need to carry much else.

What are the main highlights?
Expect to see Bamboo Island’s lush bamboo groves, snorkel in Lohsamah Bay, explore Viking Cave, and enjoy photographs at Maya Bay. The buffet lunch on Phi Phi Don is also a major perk.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, adventure, and relaxation—perfect for those eager to see the best of Krabi’s nearby islands without the hassle. With some planning for extra fees and crowds, you’ll find it a rewarding way to spend a day in Thailand’s treasured marine landscape.