Is Maya Bay Still Closed?

Maya Bay evokes images of soaring limestone cliffs, turquoise waters and soft white sands framed by lush greenery. Set within the Phi Phi Islands of southern Thailand, this crescent-shaped cove gained global recognition after appearing in the film The Beach, but its newfound popularity also brought challenges as well as acclaim. Years of over-tourism caused significant environmental strain, leading the Thai authorities to take bold action in preserving one of the country’s most iconic landscapes.

A Beach That Captured the World’s Imagination

Maya Bay has long been a must-visit destination for travellers to Thailand. With its clear waters, dramatic cliffs and powdery shoreline, it seemed the perfect example of paradise found. It became a top destination for day-trippers and snorkelling tours from Phuket, Krabi and Koh Phi Phi, attracting thousands of visitors daily at its peak. While the influx brought global attention, it also placed intense pressure on the fragile marine environment.

Seasonal Closures to Protect a Fragile Ecosystem

In 2018, the Department of National Parks made the difficult but necessary decision to close Maya Bay to the public. This marked the start of a conservation journey that has since seen remarkable progress. Today, Maya Bay remains open to visitors for most of the year, but closes annually from 1 August to 1 October to allow the marine ecosystem to rest and regenerate.

These closures form part of a broader strategy that prioritises sustainable tourism over mass access. The results have been extraordinary, both visually and ecologically, and Maya Bay now stands as a global example of what can be achieved when nature is given space to recover.

Signs of Recovery and Renewal

Since the first closure, the transformation has been clear. Over 30,000 coral fragments have been successfully replanted, and marine life is returning in abundance. Blacktip reef sharks, once rare in the area, now glide through the shallows as a sign of restored balance. The beach itself is healthier too, with clean sands and thriving vegetation where erosion once threatened the shoreline.

Visitor numbers are now carefully managed through timed entry slots and an online booking system. Boats are no longer allowed to drop anchor in the bay. Instead, they arrive at a nearby designated pier, with visitors walking a short distance to the beach. These measures help protect the delicate underwater habitats and maintain a quiet and respectful environment.

Visiting Maya Bay Before the Seasonal Closure

Maya Bay is currently open and welcoming visitors until 1 August 2025. If you are staying in Phuket or Phang Nga, this is an ideal time to visit. The weather is typically dry and calm, the water is crystal clear, and the scenery is every bit as stunning as you might imagine.

To avoid the crowds and fully appreciate the setting, we recommend early morning private tours. These often include snorkelling at nearby coral reefs, scenic cruising around Phi Phi Leh, and a peaceful walk along the sand at Maya Bay itself. Swimming in the bay is not permitted to preserve the marine ecosystem, but the overall experience remains just as rewarding.

A Model for Responsible Tourism

Maya Bay’s closure and revival have sparked a broader shift in how tourism is managed across Thailand’s marine parks. What once seemed an extreme measure is now celebrated as a success story. Other protected areas, including parts of the Similan Islands and nearby bays, have followed suit, introducing seasonal breaks and stricter conservation rules.

This model emphasises that sustainability is not about limiting access entirely, but rather about striking a balance between visitor experiences and long-term preservation. For travellers, it offers reassurance that Thailand’s natural treasures will remain for future generations to enjoy.

Aleenta Support for Sustainable Exploration

At Aleenta Phuket – Phang Nga Resort & Spa, we believe in meaningful travel experiences that honour the places we visit. Located less than two hours from the pier that leads to Phi Phi, our resort offers a peaceful base for exploring this part of Thailand. We collaborate with reputable local operators to enable our guests to experience Maya Bay and the surrounding islands in a manner that supports ongoing conservation efforts.

Our concierge team can assist in arranging private or small-group tours that respect park guidelines, avoid overcrowded times, and include visits to lesser-known gems throughout the Andaman Sea.

A Natural Wonder Worth Visiting

Maya Bay is more than a beach. It is a symbol of Thailand’s commitment to protecting what matters most. Its closure may have once disappointed hopeful visitors, but its reopening has become something far more meaningful. It offers the rare chance to witness what restoration looks like and to be part of a new way of exploring the world’s most beautiful places with care.

If you plan to visit before August, do so with awareness and appreciation. Take nothing but memories, leave nothing behind, and enjoy a destination that is once again as pristine as nature intended.