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

Travelers looking for a scenic escape from bustling Krabi often seek out full-day trips that combine beautiful beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and a chance to see some of Thailand’s most iconic sights. This tour, priced at around $62.33 per person, offers just that—highlighting several beloved spots like Bamboo Island, Maya Beach, and Phi Phi Don, with round-trip transportation, a buffet lunch, and snorkeling gear included.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it offers a good mix of relaxing beach time and sightseeing, all in one manageable day. Plus, the inclusion of a professional guide and all the essentials like snorkeling gear, water, and fruit make it feel like a well-organized adventure.

A potential consideration is the additional fees—most notably the national park entry fee of 400 THB per adult—which travelers should budget for ahead of time. Also, the tour size maxes out at 30 guests, so it isn’t excessively crowded, but it’s still a group experience, meaning some flexibility with timing might be necessary.

This tour suits those wanting a value-packed day exploring Thailand’s famed islands without the hassle of organizing transport or meals. It’s particularly ideal for first-time visitors, couples, or small groups eager to tick off several must-see sights in a single day.

Key Points

• Beautiful Destinations: The trip visits several of the most picturesque spots in the Phi Phi archipelago, including Bamboo Island, Maya Beach, and Viking Cave.
• Snorkeling & Relaxation: Equipped with snorkeling gear and life jackets, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to swim among colorful fish and coral reefs.
• All-Inclusive Value: Lunch, fruit, water, and snorkeling equipment are included, making it easy to enjoy your day without extra costs.
• Professional Guidance: A knowledgeable guide leads the tour, sharing insights and ensuring smooth logistics.
• Convenient Transfers: Round-trip hotel pickup from Krabi Town and Ao Nang simplifies planning.
• Additional Fees: Be prepared for the national park fee and possible extra charges for remote areas.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Out

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup times starting around 7:45 am—perfect for maximizing your day. The first pickup points include Krabi Town, Klong Muang, and Tub Kaek, with Ao Nang pickups following shortly after. Once everyone is collected, you’ll head to Nopparat Thara Pier, where the boat awaits to take you on your island adventure.

Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)

Your first stop is Bamboo Island, famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. It’s a quiet spot—ideal for lounging or taking a dip. Reviewer Franziska M highlights that the time spent here was sufficient, and she enjoyed excellent snorkeling and top-notch food. The island’s massive bamboo groves give it its name and add a lush backdrop to your photographs.

Viking Cave and Pileh Lagoon

Next, the tour takes you to Viking Cave, a limestone formation where bird nests are harvested—an interesting sight for photography and sightseeing. Wall paintings inside are visible, and the cave itself offers a photo-worthy backdrop.

Following that, you’ll visit Pileh Lagoon, a sheltered, hidden gem with calm, crystalline waters. The steep cliffs surrounding it make for impressive views and excellent photo opportunities. It’s a peaceful spot for a refreshing swim and to admire the natural beauty.

Lohsamah Bay and Maya Bay

The group then moves to Lohsamah Bay for snorkeling, where the vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish await. Many travelers find this snorkeling stop to be a real highlight, with the opportunity to see marine life up close.

Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is next on the list. Here, you’ll get time for photo shoots and sightseeing. Although Maya Bay can get crowded, the tour’s timing helps you beat the busier times, capturing its stunning scenery in relative peace.

Lunch and Island Hopping on Phi Phi Don

Around noon, it’s time to relax and refuel with a buffet-style lunch at Phi Phi Don, the main island. Reviewers like Franziska M describe the meal as “spice and delicious,” adding that they appreciated the ample time to rest and enjoy the surroundings.

Post-lunch, the itinerary includes visits to Monkey Bay, where you can swim, relax, or snorkel with the playful monkeys (though always keep a close eye on your belongings). This part of the tour emphasizes leisure and enjoying the scenic, lively environment.

Return and Reflection

By around 4 pm, it’s time to head back, with the boat returning to Krabi. The experience ends back at the meeting point, leaving you with plenty of memories—and perhaps some great photos of the day’s highlights.

Practical Details and What to Keep in Mind

This tour covers a lot of ground in about 8 hours, so it’s packed but well-paced. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, reducing the feeling of being part of a massive crowd, and the inclusion of hotel transfers makes logistics straightforward.

The price includes all the essentials—lunch, snacks, snorkeling gear, and a guide—adding to its value, especially considering the boat transport and entry fees are not included in the listed price. For remote areas like Klong Muang and Tub Kaek, an extra 100 THB per person is payable directly to the driver, so it’s worth planning ahead.

Reviewers note that the guides are attentive; one mentioned that the guide was particularly “very attentive,” which can make a big difference in a day full of activities. The tour is suitable for most travelers, but pregnant women or those with certain health conditions are advised against joining.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

A negative review from Dragan_S highlights a common confusion: additional costs for park entry and unmentioned charges upon boarding. It’s important to remember that the 400 THB national park fee is payable at the entry point, not included in the initial price. Some travelers also noted that remote areas like Klong Muang and Tub Kaek might incur an extra charge, so clarify your pickup location when booking.

On the positive side, many travelers, including Franziska M, loved how ample the time was to explore and snorkel, emphasizing stunning views and superb food. The shared sentiment is that this trip offers good value for money, especially given the scenic stops and included amenities.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you’re seeking a well-rounded day trip that balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxing on beautiful beaches, this tour from Krabi offers excellent value. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting to tick off multiple must-see sights like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island without the stress of planning each detail independently.

The inclusion of lunch, snorkeling gear, and hotel transfers makes it a convenient choice, and the limited group size ensures a more personalized experience. While extra fees are a consideration, they are standard for parks and remote areas, and transparent about these costs can help manage expectations.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors eager to explore the Phi Phi Islands’ highlights and for small groups or couples looking for a scenic, hassle-free adventure. It’s a fantastic way to see some of Thailand’s most iconic spots in one memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, round-trip hotel transfers from Krabi Town and Ao Nang are included in the price. However, remote areas like Klong Muang and Tub Kaek incur an extra fee of 100 THB per person, payable directly.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring your swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Snorkeling gear and life jackets are provided, but feel free to bring your own mask if you prefer.

Are meals provided during the trip?
Yes, a buffet lunch, fresh fruit, and drinking water are included, making the day convenient and tasty.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, starting with pickup around 7:45-8:00 am and returning by 4 pm.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but children aged 4-11 qualify for a child ticket. Pregnant women and those with health issues like high blood pressure or heart disease are advised against joining.

What does the tour include?
It includes snorkeling gear, a professional guide, water, fruit, lunch, life jackets, a first aid kit, and accident insurance.

Is there an extra cost I should be aware of?
Yes, the 400 THB national park fee is paid at the entry point, and remote areas may have an additional charge of 100 THB for pickups.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 30 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full cancellation is possible up to 24 hours before the start for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are non-refundable.

In summary, this Krabi-based day tour offers a fantastic way to experience Thailand’s famed islands with good value, scenic stops, and plenty of opportunities for swimming and photo-taking. While some extra costs are involved, most travelers find the experience well worth it—and a memorable highlight of their trip.