From Phi Phi: Half-Day Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay

If you’re visiting Koh Phi Phi and dreaming of those iconic tropical island vistas, this half-day longtail boat tour offers a solid taste of the best spots around Maya Bay. For just around $23 per person, you’ll spend roughly four hours exploring famous sites like Viking Cave, Loh Samah Bay, and Monkey Beach. The tour departs from the lively Tonsai Bay, promising an authentic, small-group experience with a maximum of 20 travelers — ideal if you prefer a more personal touch rather than a large, crowded excursion.

What we love about this tour is the chance to see the stunning limestone formations and turquoise waters aboard a traditional longtail boat, which adds that classic Thailand vibe. Plus, snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon is a real highlight, giving you a peek into the vibrant marine life that makes this region so special. The second thing we appreciate is the opportunity to relax on Maya Bay’s pristine sands, even if, due to conservation efforts, you can’t walk on the beach during certain times of the year.

One consideration to keep in mind is that Maya Bay can be crowded — especially during peak seasons — and access is limited when the bay is closed from August 1 to September 30, 2025. Also, the tour involves some basic logistics, such as meeting at the front of the Marlin Statue in Tonsai Bay, which requires you to make your own arrangements to get there. This experience also suits those who enjoy authentic, less commercialized outings, as the focus remains on natural beauty and straightforward adventure.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures a more personalized experience.
• Classic longtail boats offer an authentic Thailand island adventure.
• Snorkeling at Pileh Lagoon reveals vibrant marine life in clear waters.
• Visit Viking Cave and observe ancient drawings and limestone formations.
• Relax on beaches like Maya Bay and Loh Samah, soaking in stunning views.
• Limited access during certain months due to conservation efforts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Longtail Boat Tour to Maya Bay

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Travelers

For those who want a snapshot of Phi Phi’s most famous spots without committing to an all-day or multi-day itinerary, this half-day tour hits many of the highlights efficiently. It’s perfect if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more relaxed pace, yet still want to see the iconic landscapes and enjoy some snorkeling.

The price point of $23 makes it accessible, especially considering that snorkeling gear, water, and a light snack are included. For travelers seeking an authentic experience aboard a traditional longtail boat, this tour delivers a sense of adventure and charm that larger, more commercial tours often lack.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The adventure begins around 9:00 AM, with pickups or meetups in front of the Marlin Statue in Tonsai Bay (the main hub of Phi Phi). From there, the boat glides out to your first stop: Monkey Beach. Here, you’ll get a chance to see the lively monkeys in their natural habitat and perhaps snap some memorable photos.

Next, the boat heads to Viking Cave. This limestone cavern is not just visually striking but also historically intriguing, with its ancient drawings on the walls. While you won’t be able to get inside, seeing it from the boat is enough to appreciate its significance and unique appearance.

The journey then continues to Pileh Lagoon, a true highlight. The lagoon’s calm, crystal-clear waters are perfect for a swim or snorkeling. As you float among colorful fish and coral, you’ll understand why many describe this as one of the most beautiful spots in the area. The lagoon’s natural beauty makes it a favorite for capturing stunning photographs.

From there, the boat sails to Loh Samah Bay, a quieter, more secluded area where you can relax and take in the views. A short ride from there takes you to Maya Bay, the world-famous beach made famous by the movie “The Beach.” Though you can’t set foot on the sand during the bay’s closure, the view from the boat is still breathtaking, and you can enjoy the tranquility from afar.

What Travelers Say

Reviews highlight the stunning scenery and the authentic charm of the longtail boats. One traveler noted, “We loved the way the boat navigated through the limestone formations — it felt like stepping back in time.” Others appreciate the small group size, which makes for a more relaxed experience; one reviewer mentioned, “It felt like we had the whole bay to ourselves, even if just for a moment.”

However, some reviews mention crowds at Pileh Lagoon, especially during busy seasons. This is typical in such popular spots, and early or late in the season tends to be quieter. Rain can also be an issue — one traveler reported an unexpected rainstorm that cut their trip short, which is worth considering if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

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Practical Details and Tips

The tour runs four times a day—at 9:00 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, and 2:00 PM—allowing flexibility. It’s limited to 20 people, so booking ahead is recommended. Remember that the National Park fee of 400 THB (cash only) is payable at Maya Bay, and is an additional cost not included in the tour price.

Bring comfortable shoes and sun protection, as you’ll be exposed to the sun for several hours. Light snacks and water are provided, but it’s smart to carry extra cash for souvenirs or souvenirs.

Considerations and Limitations

While this tour offers a good overview, keep in mind that Maya Bay remains closed from August 1 to September 30, 2025, so the boat view might be your only option during those months. On top of that, self-arranged transport to the meeting point is necessary, and the tour isn’t suitable for everyone — notably pregnant women, wheelchair users, or travelers with certain weight or age restrictions.

Weather conditions can also influence the experience — tours might be canceled or rescheduled if the seas are too rough, though brief rainstorms typically don’t ruin the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travellers seeking a quick but memorable snapshot of Phi Phi’s most famous sites. If you enjoy authentic boat rides — especially on traditional longtail boats — and prefer small group adventures over large crowds, you’ll find this appealing. It’s especially suitable for those who want to snorkel, relax on beaches, and see the classic limestone formations without spending a full day on the water.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, and enjoy flexible, guided experiences with a focus on natural beauty, this tour hits the mark. Just remember, if you’re planning your trip around the Maya Bay closure, you’ll still enjoy the scenic boat ride and other stunning sights.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour itself is family-friendly, children should be comfortable on a boat for about four hours, and safety precautions like life jackets are provided.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is included, so you can simply enjoy exploring the underwater world without extra hassle.

What should I wear on the tour?
Bring swimwear, a towel, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water shoes, and comfortable clothes. An extra layer or raincoat might be useful during rainy seasons.

Can I join the tour if I have limited mobility?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility restrictions, as it involves boat transfers and walking on uneven surfaces.

Will I get to walk on Maya Bay’s beach?
During the closure period (August 1 – September 30, 2025), you can only view the bay from the boat. Outside that, the beach is open for walking and relaxing.

Is there any extra fee I should be aware of?
Yes, the 400 THB National Park entry fee is cash only and payable at Maya Bay.

What happens in bad weather?
Tours may be canceled or rescheduled for safety. If rain occurs during the tour, it might be brief, but safety takes precedence.

Can I book this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in your planning.

Final Thoughts

This half-day longtail boat tour to Maya Bay offers a straightforward, authentic way to enjoy Phi Phi’s most iconic sights. It balances beautiful scenery, light adventure, and cultural authenticity, making it a fantastic choice for travelers who want a compact tour experience without sacrificing the essentials.

While it might not include walking on Maya Bay during the closure periods, the boat views and snorkeling opportunities make it worthwhile. The small group size and inclusion of snacks and gear mean you’ll feel more like a guest rather than just a passenger, which adds to the overall value.

Perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time, this tour delivers a genuine taste of the island’s natural splendor without breaking the bank — just remember to book ahead and prepare for weather variability.

Enjoy your trip to Phi Phi, and may your boat glide smoothly through those limestone giants into unforgettable memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: