Are you looking for a calm, white sand beach where you can swim without stress? Bamboo Island, also called Koh Mai Phai, ticks all the boxes. It is a little gem located in the north of the Phi Phi archipelago.
We have lived on Koh Phi Phi since 2019. We take travelers there almost every week. Here is our honest guide to discovering it, without getting trapped by the crowd.
Where is Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai)?
Bamboo Island also has its Thai name: Koh Mai Phai. It is located in the north of the archipelago, just above Phi Phi Don. It is one of the northernmost islands of Phi Phi National Park. From our village of Tonsai, we reach it by boat. It is small: you can quickly walk around it on the sand.
White sand and shallow water
The sand of Bamboo Island is white and very fine. The beach plunges gently into clear, turquoise water. The water remains shallow for a good distance from the edge. You walk far without ever losing your footing. It's a change from the rocky coves of Phi Phi Leh, more spectacular but less easy for swimming.
When is swimming ideal?
The high season runs from November to April. The sea is calm, the water clear, the visibility is excellent. From February to April, it is also the driest period. The water remains between 27 and 30°C all year round, so never cold. In the morning, the surface is often the smoothest. This is our favorite time to take a dip.
Bamboo Island with family
With children, this island is a safe bet. The shallow water reassures the youngest. They splash around near the edge while you keep a quiet eye. Bring a hat, anti-UV t-shirt and sunscreen. Shade remains limited on the beach, so settle in early and remember to drink water.
Snorkeling around the island
Around Bamboo Island, there are coral and schools of fish. A simple mask and snorkel are enough to enjoy it. If you're just starting out, stay close to the beach, where you can stand. Want to go further underwater? We also offer diving in Koh Phi Phi for all levels, from baptism to certificates.
National park fees
Bamboo Island is part of the Phi Phi Marine National Park. Entrance costs THB 400 per adult and THB 200 per child aged 3 to 14. It's free for children under 3 years old. You pay these costs on site, upon arrival. They are generally not included in the tour price, so keep some cash with you.
Bamboo Island or Maya Bay?
The two are often visited on the same day, but they are very different. At Maya Bay, swimming from the beach is not permitted. The boats dock at the Loh Samah pontoon, then we follow a footbridge. The tour lasts approximately one hour, with a limited number of visitors. Bamboo Island is made for swimming and strolling. Good to know: Maya Bay closes every year from August 1 to September 30 to let the reef regenerate.
Often included in day tours
Most island tours pass through Bamboo Island. By speedboat or long-tail, it often completes a day at Maya Bay and the bays of Phi Phi Leh. It's a nice finale: we swim and relax after the busier spots. The up-to-date price of each excursion is displayed directly on its page.
Our tip to avoid the crowds
Bamboo Island fills up quickly by mid-morning. The big boats all arrive at the same time. Our advice from locals: leave early. You benefit from a calmer beach and still untouched water. A sunrise departure really transforms the visit, especially in peak season.
How to reach Bamboo Island?
Koh Phi Phi has no airport or cars. We arrive at the archipelago by ferry or speedboat. From Phuket, the ferry takes approximately 2 hours. From Krabi, it takes around 1h30. Once there, everything is done by boat, Bamboo Island included. The easiest way is to book a tour that includes it.
