Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)
Bamboo Island, also known as Koh Mai Phai, is one of the most beautiful islands in the Phi Phi archipelago. Despite its name, the island has very little bamboo today. Instead, visitors come for its powdery white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, excellent snorkeling, and peaceful atmosphere. If you’re looking for a tropical island that feels less crowded than Maya Bay, Bamboo Island is an excellent choice.
Located around 5 km northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island is part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Most visitors arrive as part of a day trip from Phuket, Krabi, or Phi Phi Don, often combined with stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave, and Monkey Beach.
How to Get to Bamboo Island
There are no scheduled ferry services directly to Bamboo Island. The easiest way to visit is by joining a guided island-hopping tour or hiring a private longtail boat from Koh Phi Phi Don.
From Phuket
- Speedboat tours (45-60 minutes depending on weather)
- Luxury catamaran day trips
- Private speedboat charters
From Koh Phi Phi Don
- Longtail boat (approximately 20-30 minutes)
- Private speedboat
- Island-hopping snorkeling tours
Morning departures are recommended, as the island is generally quieter before the larger tour groups arrive around midday.
What Makes Bamboo Island Special?
Unlike many other islands in the Phi Phi group, Bamboo Island is relatively flat and surrounded by an almost continuous stretch of soft white sand. The water is shallow, calm, and incredibly clear, making it ideal for families, casual swimmers, and anyone looking to relax in a postcard-perfect setting.
The island itself is small enough to explore on foot within an hour, but most visitors spend their time swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing under the shade of the trees lining the beach.
Best Things to Do
Relax on the Beach
The beach is undoubtedly the main attraction. The sand is soft and bright white, while the water ranges from turquoise to deep blue depending on the sunlight. Even during the busy season, it’s usually possible to find a quieter section of beach away from the main landing area.
Snorkeling
Bamboo Island offers some of the best beginner-friendly snorkeling in the Phi Phi Islands. Coral reefs surround much of the island, where you can spot colorful tropical fish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, and occasionally small reef sharks in deeper waters.
Visibility is often excellent during the dry season, making it one of the highlights of most snorkeling tours.
Swimming
Calm, shallow water makes Bamboo Island perfect for swimming. The gentle slope into the sea is especially suitable for families with children and visitors who simply want to enjoy the warm Andaman Sea.
Photography
The island’s white sand, crystal-clear water, and tropical scenery make it one of the most photogenic destinations near Phuket. Early mornings provide the softest light and the fewest crowds for photos.
National Park Entrance Fee
Bamboo Island is located inside Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Visitors who are not already covered by their tour package usually need to pay the national park entrance fee.
- Adults: approximately 400 THB
- Children: approximately 200 THB
Always check with your tour operator whether the entrance fee is included in the price before booking.
Facilities on Bamboo Island
Bamboo Island remains largely undeveloped, which is part of its charm. However, visitors should be aware that facilities are limited.
- Basic toilets
- Small ranger station
- Picnic areas
- Limited seasonal snack and drink vendors
- No hotels or permanent accommodation
- No ATMs
Bringing drinking water, sunscreen, and any personal essentials is highly recommended.
Can You Stay Overnight?
No. There are currently no hotels, resorts, or guesthouses on Bamboo Island. Nearly all visitors come as part of a day trip before returning to Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phi Phi Don.
If you want to spend more time exploring the Phi Phi Islands, staying on Koh Phi Phi Don is the best option, as it offers accommodation ranging from budget hostels to luxury beachfront resorts.
Best Time to Visit
The best months to visit Bamboo Island are between November and April, when the Andaman Sea is generally calm, visibility for snorkeling is excellent, and rainfall is at its lowest.
During the green season (May to October), tours still operate, but weather conditions can change quickly, with stronger winds and rougher seas occasionally affecting boat schedules.
For the best experience, aim to arrive before 10:00 AM or later in the afternoon when many tour groups have already departed.
Helpful Tips Before You Visit
- Wear reef-safe sunscreen to help protect marine life.
- Bring cash if you plan to purchase drinks or snacks.
- Pack your own snorkeling equipment if your tour doesn’t include it.
- Take all rubbish with you and help preserve the island.
- Bring a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables.
- Wear sandals or water shoes if you plan to explore rocky snorkeling areas.
Is Bamboo Island Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful beaches near Phuket, Bamboo Island deserves a place on your itinerary. While Maya Bay is famous for its dramatic cliffs and movie history, Bamboo Island offers a completely different experience with wide sandy beaches, calm swimming conditions, and excellent snorkeling.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as a family, Bamboo Island is one of the highlights of the Phi Phi Islands and a fantastic destination for anyone wanting to experience Thailand’s stunning tropical coastline.
Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai) Location & Map
FAQ about Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)
Where is Bamboo Island located?
Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai) is located about 5 km northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don in Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, between Phuket and Krabi.
How do you get to Bamboo Island?
The easiest way to visit Bamboo Island is by joining a speedboat or island-hopping tour from Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phi Phi Don. Private longtail boats and speedboats are also available from Phi Phi Don.
Can you stay overnight on Bamboo Island?
No. There are no hotels, resorts, or guesthouses on Bamboo Island. It is only visited as a day-trip destination.
Is Bamboo Island good for snorkeling?
Yes. Bamboo Island is one of the best snorkeling spots in the Phi Phi Islands thanks to its clear water, shallow coral reefs, and colorful tropical fish.
Is there an entrance fee for Bamboo Island?
Yes. Bamboo Island is part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. Visitors usually pay a national park fee unless it is already included in their tour package.
Can you swim at Bamboo Island?
Yes. The island has calm, shallow, crystal-clear water that is perfect for swimming, especially during the dry season from November to April.
Are there restaurants on Bamboo Island?
There are no full-service restaurants. Depending on the season, small vendors may sell drinks and light snacks, but visitors should bring water and essentials.
What is the best time to visit Bamboo Island?
The best time to visit is between November and April when the sea is calm, snorkeling conditions are excellent, and rainfall is minimal.
How long should you spend on Bamboo Island?
Most visitors spend between 2 and 4 hours on Bamboo Island as part of a full-day island-hopping tour.
Is Bamboo Island worth visiting?
Yes. Bamboo Island is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Phi Phi archipelago thanks to its white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, excellent snorkeling, and peaceful atmosphere.
