Khao Lak: Wow Andaman Snorkeling Trip to Phi Phi & Bamboo Island

Traveling through Thailand, especially around the Andaman Sea, often means encountering some truly breathtaking sights. This Khao Lak to Phi Phi & Bamboo Island snorkeling tour by Wow Andaman neatly packages some of the most famous spots into an roughly 8-hour adventure. With a combination of stunning scenery, lively marine life, and the possibility of enjoying lush beaches, it’s a solid choice for those craving a full day of tropical escape.

One of the things we particularly like about this trip is how it balances structured activities—snorkeling, sightseeing, and a Thai buffet—with ample time to relax on bamboo-fringed beaches. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and park fees adds to the convenience and the perceived value. That said, it’s a fairly early start, with a 5 am pickup, so if you prefer sleeping in, that might be a consideration.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive day out, combining iconic sights with underwater adventures, especially those eager to see Maya Bay’s famous beaches or enjoy a laid-back afternoon on Bamboo Island. It’s ideal if you’re traveling from Phuket or Khao Lak and want to see the best of the Phi Phi islands without the hassle of organizing transport or entry fees yourself.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Value: The tour covers park entrance fees, snorkeling gear, and a Thai buffet lunch, making it a practical option for travelers who want to avoid extra costs.
• Expert Guidance: The trip includes a professional English-speaking guide who helps you navigate the highlights and ensures safety during snorkeling.
• Early Start, Long Day: Beginning at 5 am with hotel pickup, it offers a full day of activity, perfect for those with limited time.
• Stunning Destinations: Highlights like Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, and Bamboo Island promise picture-perfect scenery and vibrant marine life.
• Flexible and Convenient: Pickup from Phuket and Khao Lak, with optional hotel transfer for an extra fee, makes planning simple.
• Weather & Seasonality: Maya Bay closes two months each year (August-September), so check seasonal restrictions.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting early at around 5 am, your day kicks off with a hotel pickup in Phuket. If you’re staying in Khao Lak, you’ll need to pay an extra 300 THB for transfer, but the seamless pickup from your accommodation means no fuss. The air-conditioned minivan whisks you to Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina, where the day officially begins at around 11 am after a friendly welcome from the Wow Andaman team.

At the marina, a light breakfast with coffee and tea fuels you for the day ahead, and you’ll have the chance to choose your snorkeling gear. The staff provides clear safety instructions, which is reassuring if you’re new to snorkeling or just want a refresher.

From here, the trip speeds across the water towards Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh—an iconic stretch of beach with towering limestone cliffs framing the crystal-clear lagoon. Given the recent seasonal closures of Maya Bay (closed August-September), it’s worth confirming if the tour operates during that period. When accessible, this beach offers fantastic photo opportunities, swimming, and snorkeling among vibrant corals. Travelers have shared that the scenery here is “as stunning as everyone says,” and the shallow waters make it easy for all ages to enjoy.

Next, the boat moves to Loh Samah Bay, a slightly quieter spot where marine life is plentiful. Guests often report seeing fish, turtles, and even sharks—though the latter is generally small reef sharks, not the jaws kind. The clarity of the waters and the variety of marine creatures make it a favorite for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Following that, you’ll enjoy a scenic cruise past Viking Cave, a site with historical significance and a dramatic backdrop. This isn’t a stop, but it’s a highlight for those interested in local lore and photography.

After working up an appetite, the boat takes you to Koh Phi Phi Don for a Thai-style buffet lunch. The meal is often described as tasty, with a variety of traditional dishes served in a relaxed setting—an excellent chance to refuel before the relaxing afternoon.

Post-lunch, your next stop is Bamboo Island—a picture-perfect beach with soft white sand and fronds of bamboo trees. Here, you can unwind, sunbathe, or snorkel in shallow waters teeming with marine life. Many reviews highlight this as the perfect chill-out spot, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The expert guides are knowledgeable and approachable, often sharing insights about the islands’ history and ecology, enhancing the experience. Guests have appreciated guides like “John,” who was praised for his friendliness and helpful advice, and “Maria,” who kept everyone safe during snorkeling.

The guidance on safety, including wearing life jackets at all times and using reef-safe sunscreen, shows a commitment to responsible tourism. The snorkeling equipment is generally well-maintained, and the inclusion of beach towels and fresh fruits adds a thoughtful touch.

The Practical Side: Transport & Timing

The early start means you’ll leave Phuket or Khao Lak well before most daytime crowds, securing better photos and less crowded snorkeling spots. The boat ride itself feels comfortable, with speedboats navigating close to the shoreline, making the transfer to beaches effortless.

While the group is capped at 40 travelers, the tour often feels intimate enough for meaningful interaction without feeling crowded. The timing (start at 11 am, return around 7 pm) balances busy sightseeing with enough leisure for photos and relaxing.

Considerations & Possible Drawbacks

The early rise may not suit everyone—especially if you’re not a morning person. Also, the tour runs only in good weather; heavy seas or storms can cause cancellations, with full refunds or alternative dates offered.

Some travelers mentioned that the lunch was simple but tasty—good enough for most, but not a gourmet experience. Also, during rainy or jellyfish-heavy seasons, swimming might be riskier, so protective clothing is recommended.

If you’re planning to switch hotels in Khao Lak, remember there’s an additional fee of 300 THB, so factor that into your budget.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This snorkeling and island-hopping trip is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive day of adventure without the hassle of organizing every detail. It’s especially suitable for those eager to see iconic spots like Maya Bay and Bamboo Island, with plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery. The inclusion of a buffet lunch and park fees makes it a good value, provided you’re okay with an early start.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, the guided nature and small group size create a friendly atmosphere conducive to meeting fellow travelers. Nature lovers and underwater enthusiasts will appreciate the marine life encounters and stunning vistas.

However, if your idea of a relaxing vacation involves sleeping in or a more luxurious private experience, this may feel a bit structured. Also, those sensitive to sea conditions or prone to seasickness should prepare accordingly, as boat rides can be bouncy on choppy days.

This tour offers a well-rounded mix of iconic sights, marine exploration, and leisure, making it one of the more practical ways to experience the best of the Phi Phi Islands from Khao Lak.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup from Phuket, and an additional fee applies if you’re staying in Khao Lak.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 11:00 am at Phuket Boat Lagoon Marina.

How long is the snorkeling?
Snorkeling happens at multiple stops like Maya Bay and Loh Samah Bay, with each stop lasting from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the location.

Are all park fees included?
Yes, the national park entrance fee is covered in the tour price.

Can I visit Maya Bay during its closure months?
Maya Bay is closed from August to September. It’s best to check if the tour operates during those months or offers alternative spots.

What should I bring?
Bring water shoes or flip-flops, a hat, sunscreen (reef-safe preferred), swimwear, and a towel. Be prepared for an early start and a full day out.

This day trip from Phuket or Khao Lak offers a taste of Thailand’s most famous islands, combining the thrill of underwater exploration with the beauty of untouched beaches. Whether you’re after picture-perfect views, lively marine life, or just a relaxing day on bamboo fringed beaches, this tour delivers those moments with the added comfort of guided support and all-in-one convenience.