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

A Day of Island Hopping and Snorkeling on the Phi Phi Islands from Koh Lanta

If you’re staying on Koh Lanta and craving a taste of the famous Phi Phi Islands, this 7 to 8-hour tour offers a practical way to see some of the most iconic spots without the hassle of organizing transport yourself. For $68.58 per person, you’ll be whisked away with a small group, visiting Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Pileh Bay, and more, with plenty of time for swimming, snorkeling, and snapping those social media shots.

One of the best parts? The hotel pickup and drop-off take the stress out of navigating busy piers or crowded boats. Plus, the included buffet lunch helps keep your energy up after a morning of splashing around. On the flip side, some travelers have noted the crowds and the high price compared to the experience, so it’s worth weighing what you want from your day at sea.

This tour is well-suited for families, first-time visitors to the Phi Phi Islands, or anyone who prefers a guided experience with all logistics taken care of. If you’re after an authentic, fun-filled day with some snorkeling and sightseeing, this could be a good choice—just keep in mind that it’s not perfect for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Key Points

• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save you the trouble of arranging transport.
• Highlights: Visits to Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, Pileh Bay, and Shark Point cover the most famous spots efficiently.
• Snorkeling: Equipment is provided, and the reefs are colorful with plenty of fish.
• Value: The tour includes lunch, drinks, and insurance, making it a straightforward package.
• Crowds and Price: Some reviews mention the tour feeling crowded, and the cost might seem high for what is essentially a sightseeing trip.
• Suitability: Best for those wanting a structured day with minimal planning, but less ideal if you seek solitude or a very personal experience.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out from Koh Lanta

The tour kicks off early at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, which is a real plus if you prefer to avoid confusing meeting points. Arriving at Ban Sala Dan Pier, you’ll join a group of up to 30 travelers, which keeps the vibe lively but not overly crowded. The transportation is on a comfortable boat, and the crew’s professionalism is noted as friendly and helpful, especially by those who appreciated the laid-back, accommodating attitude.

Maya Bay: The Star of the Show

The first stop is Maya Bay on Ko Phi Phi Le, rightfully famous for its stunning scenery. The tour promises 2 hours here, with the admission fee included—a relief since the park charges 400 THB at the entrance. You’ll get a chance to gaze at the beach made famous by the film “The Beach” and take some memorable pictures. Keep in mind that Maya Island is still closed, but the sightseeing and photo ops are still worthwhile.

Maya Bay: Short Stop for Photos and Swimming

Next, you’ll spend around an hour near the original Maya Bay—a chance to swim, snorkel, or just soak in the views. Some visitors, like Tracy G, mentioned that low tide can make snorkeling more dangerous or less scenic, with people sometimes cutting their feet on the coral. It’s wise to be cautious and follow guides’ advice here.

Pileh Bay: A Lagoon Paradise

The next stop is Pileh Bay, a beautiful lagoon known for its clear waters and striking cliffs. Here, your guide will suggest snorkeling to discover vibrant coral reefs and coral fish. This part lasts about 30 minutes, and many travelers enjoy the calm, scenic environment—a peaceful contrast to the busier Maya Bay.

Snorkeling with Fish at Ko Phi Phi Lee

Another 30-minute snorkeling session is scheduled at Ko Phi Phi Lee, focusing on colorful fish and coral reefs. This is often a highlight for snorkelers, especially those new to the activity. Snorkeling gear is provided, and many reviewers comment positively on the quality of the equipment and the beauty of the underwater environment.

Monkey Beach: Wildlife and Photos

A quick 30-minute stop at Monkey Beach offers a chance to see and photograph the local monkeys and enjoy the views. While some may find this stop a bit touristy, others appreciate the fun opportunity to observe wildlife up close. The admission is included, but the experience is more about sightseeing than wildlife interaction.

Lunch and Relaxation at Ao Ton Sai Pier

After a busy morning, you’ll arrive at Ao Ton Sai Pier for about 2 hours to relax, eat, and shop. The buffet lunch is described as delicious, offering a variety of dishes, drinks, and fruit. This break is essential for recharging before the afternoon’s snorkeling adventures.

Shark Spotting at Blacktip Reef

The final snorkeling stop is Blacktip Reef Shark Point, where you can swim and explore the reefs with a chance to see blacktip sharks—not dangerous, but exciting for many. The 30-minute session is often praised for giving a sense of adventure and discovery.

Ending the Day

The tour wraps up with a return to Koh Lanta around 4:00-5:00 pm, with drop-off at your hotel. It’s a long but fulfilling day, packed with sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback

While many travelers find the scenery breathtaking and the organized logistics convenient, some reviews raise valid concerns. Karla R. described her experience as disappointing, feeling like merely a number and noting the lack of explanation about the sites. She also pointed out the unprofessional attitude of the staff, which is worth considering if personalized attention is important to you.

On the other hand, Bndicte D. shared a glowing review, calling the team “top”, the lunch “great”, and mentioning how guides were friendly and helpful—even coming to find them when they got lost. This shows that experiences can vary based on group size, staff attitude, and individual expectations.

Practicality and Value

The cost of around $68.58 includes hotel transfer, lunch, snorkeling gear, guide, and insurance, making it a straightforward package. While some might feel the price is high for a day trip, remember that park entrance fees, lunch, and equipment costs are bundled in. For travelers who prefer all-in-one arrangements, this offers peace of mind.

Considerations

• The crowds can be noticeable, especially at popular spots like Maya Bay and Monkey Beach.
• The snorkeling conditions depend on the tide, and low tide might make the experience less enjoyable or more dangerous.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with certain health issues, as noted in the info.
• Booking in advance (around 11 days ahead) suggests high interest, but be aware of cancellation policies—full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to see the main highlights of the Phi Phi Islands without spending too much time planning. It’s perfect if you enjoy organized group activities, snorkeling, and want a full day of sightseeing with lunch included. However, if you’re seeking a quiet escape or a more personalized experience, you might find this tour a bit crowded and commercial.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For value-conscious travelers who want to tick off Maya Bay, Monkey Beach, and Blacktip Reef in a single day, this tour offers a convenient, well-organized option. The included lunch and snorkeling gear add to the feeling of getting a complete package, and the scenery is undeniably stunning.

That said, the large group size, crowded spots, and some mixed reviews about staff professionalism suggest it’s not the most intimate experience. If you’re flexible and want to see the iconic sights without extra hassle, it’s a solid choice. But if you crave a more relaxed, personal adventure, consider exploring smaller tours or private options.

This tour delivers beautiful views, good value, and a fun-filled day—just keep your expectations realistic and come ready to enjoy the natural beauty of the Phi Phi Islands.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers hotel transfer, buffet lunch, drinking water and fruit, snorkeling masks and life jackets, tour guide, first aid kit, and accident insurance.

Are there any extra fees?
Yes, you need to pay the national park fee of 400 THB per adult (or 200 THB per child) at the entrance.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks and life jackets are included, and many travelers find the equipment to be of good quality.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 4-11 can join with a child ticket. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t suitable for very young children or those with certain health conditions.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers enjoy the scenic views at Maya Bay and the opportunity to snorkel at Pileh Bay and Shark Point.

Is the tour crowded?
Some reviews mention crowds at Maya Bay and Monkey Beach, especially during peak times, which can affect the experience.

How is the food?
The buffet lunch is generally described as delicious, offering a variety of Thai dishes, fruit, and drinks.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and camera. Consider bringing water shoes if you’re concerned about coral or sharp rocks during snorkeling.

This Phi Phi Islands snorkeling tour balances convenience, beauty, and fun—yet, as with all group experiences, it’s best to go into it with realistic expectations. If you value efficiency and scenic highlights, this day trip offers a worthwhile escape to Thailand’s stunning coast.