Joanna James
Magical Maya Bay, made famous by the movie and book 'The beach', is more than a pretty beach. Here are some amazing ways to relive the imagination sparked by the Hollywood cult classic.
Phi Phi Islands draws travellers from all corners of the globe, and most will stay in Koh Phi Phi Don. Thus, the little town can get quite packed with people and may shatter your perception of an idyllic secluded paradise; however, this need not be a negative experience. You can embrace the unique atmosphere, make new friends, embrace the sunsets, probe the fresh market stalls of the island, and enjoy its characteristically chaotic hustle and bustle. Plus, you can find many a luxury hotel on Phi Phi Island the likes of SAii Phi Phi Island Village.
When in Maya Bay, snorkelling along the incredible shores should be on your things-to-do list! However, if you are an amateur snorkeller, stay near the boat, wear a life jacket, and make sure to remain visible to the crew and other passengers.
Visitors can take a boat ride around the bay and see the prehistoric paintings located inside the so-called Viking Caves, North East of Koh Phi Phi. The entrance fee into the region is 674 Bhat. According to legend, these illustrations were cut into the rock by ancient Pirates and Vikings thousands of years ago.
One of the exhilarating things to do at Maya Bay is to jump off the top of a cliff! Request your boat instructor to take you to the leaping points in the Bay region, ascend the towering cliffs, and jump directly into the amazing blue waters of Maya Bay! Of course, make sure you are a skilled swimmer/diver if attempting the jump!
The waters surrounding Maya Bay and the National Marine Park surrounding it are perfect for kayaking! One of the top picks is Pileh Lagoon. This stunning lagoon near Maya Beach has a length of 600 metres and sparkling emerald, green waters encircled by limestone ridges over 100 metres in height! The incredibly clear and temperate waters result in an abundance of colourful fish – another aspect to keep an eye out for apart from the breathtaking scenery while on your kayak. You can also find a little beach near the entrance if you want to swim and take in some rays.
Also called Koh Pai, Bamboo Island is found towards the north-easterly end of Koh Phi Phi. It lies roughly 5 km away from Koh Phi Phi Don and is a gorgeous paradise – a perfect getaway from the rush and bustle encountered in Maya Bay. Measuring around 600 metres, it almost looks like a heart and is enclosed by a white sandy stretch. Its main area is surrounded by lush greenery.
Mosquito Island lies 2.5 kilometres from the northern tip of Koh Phi Phi Don and looks like a bent nail from above. It has a length of one kilometre and is only 150 metres wide. Mosquito Island remains uninhabited, while the eastern section has a couple of beaches rarely visited by tourists. The island gets its name from the namesake insect that turns up in their numbers at dusk!
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A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
