LATEST NEWS: Maya Bay is Open | October 1st, 2023
Maya Bay, Phi Phi Island Is Closing Soon | Phuket Thailand 2023
Maya Bay Has Reopened From 1st October 2023. Please read the full details here: https://5starmarinephuket.com/2023/08/13/maya-bay-opening-1st-october-2023/
Maya Bay Closed – Full Details In this video:
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is Closing
The Thailand National Park Authorities have announced that as of the 1st of August 2023, Maya Bay Phi Phi will close.
In an expected repeat of the closing of Maya Bay, Phi Phi for two months last year (2022), The Thailand National Park Authorities will again be using this time to check and assess the effects of tourists being on the beach and how the systems, which were put into place after COVID is working out. They will also be assessing the impact on the environment, both in the bay and on the land.
Maya Bay Beach will close from the 1st of August 2023
It will reopen on the 1st of October 2023. So book your tour NOW. Click Here
*As of writing these are the current dates, they may and could change.
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand IF, not the world. The Bay was featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed over 23 years ago.
Maya Bay became worldwide known after the 2000 film “The Beach” which was an adventure drama film directed by Danny Boyle, based on the 1996 novel by Alex Garland.
There was some controversy during the making of the film, with the production team accused of landscaping some of the beach and removing some of the coconut trees to make it more like the descriptions in the book.
Maya Bay may be closed BUT Phi Phi is all open – Find out more about the Phi Phi Tour. Click Here
Maya Bay, Phi Phi Closed for 2 Years.
Maya Bay Beach was closed for over 2 years (2020 – 2022) by the Thai Government to help the ecosystem recover as it had become ruined by over-tourism. It reopened back in January 2022 with new rules and regulations that helped to manage the tourists and how they access the bay.
Some of those new rules and regulations:
- Not allowing boats to close into the bay and drop anchor.
- Guests must be dropped off at a newly built pier and stairs.
- Number of guests visiting each day is restricted.
- Not allowing anyone to swim in the waters or even go too deep into the sea.
Is the closing of Maya Bay a good thing?
Very simply – YES, it is!
If you still wish to visit Maya Bay our 5 Star Marine Phuket tours are still going to Phi Phi. You can see Maya Bay from a distance and get a stunning picture of the beautiful bay.
Then head to the awesome Pileh Lagoon ( Also a location used in the movie The Beach). Check out the monkeys on Monkey Beach. Snorkel with Blacktip reef sharks, visit camel rock, and all the other wonders that are Phi Phi.
You can book these tours here
Other Tour Options
If you are coming during August and September and what to visit a movie backdrop then head into Phang Nga Bay and visit James Bond Island. To find out more about this tour – Click Here
What Islands Are Open In Rainy Season 2023
What Islands Are Open in Rainy Season, June 2023
Phuket, Thailand’s rainy season, wet season, green season or whatever people call it, some of the islands in and around Phuket are closed so you will not be able to take a tour to them.
What Phuket Islands are closed and which Phuket Islands are open?
Let’s start with the Phuket Islands that are closed:
Although the Similan Islands are not in Phuket during the high season, we do have tours to them.
The Similan archipelago consists of eleven beautiful islands, and The Andaman Sea around the islands is one of the best-kept secrets of Thailand. The crystal-clear blue water is filled with marine life, which makes spotting, sharks, barracudas, triggerfish, and
various tropical fish, not a problem at all. It has some of the most spectacular coral reefs in the world. Every year from the 15th May to the 15th October the whole of the Similan archipelago is closed to all tourists.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Similan. Please watch this video below:
If you are looking to have a similar experience to the Similan Islands then why not try the Phi Phi Tour. Stunning beaches and awesome marine life. Click here to find out more about our Phi Phi Tour.
Koh Ha and Koh Rok
Closed now and back open from the 15th of October are the tours to Koh Ha and Koh Rok. These two islands combine stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colorful marine life and corals, and therefore offer some of the best snorkeling opportunities you can find.
If you are looking to have a similar experience to the Koh Ha and Koh Rok then why not try the Phi Phi Tour. Stunning beaches and awesome marine life. Click here to find out more about our Phi Phi Tour.
Phuket Islands closing soon
Maya Bay Beach closing 1st Aug till 1st October
Maya Bay, Phi Phi is one of the best and most beautiful beaches in Thailand IF not the world. The beach was featured in the movie “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio which was filmed over 20 years ago. It will close on the 1st August to give the Thailand National Park Authorities time to check and assess the last few months effects of tourists being allowed back on the beach.
Maya Bay may be closed BUT Phi Phi is all open – Find out more about the Phi Phi Tour – Click Here
Phuket Islands that are OPEN in Rainy Season
Coral Island – Great for families
Coral Island is known locally as Coral Island is a great place to visit especially if you like to explore the region’s diverse marine environment and visit different islands., but most people will call it Coral Island. Although being a small island, it has a lot to offer whether you’re looking for a place to relax or go on an adventure.
The beautiful island getaway is only about 3 km southeast of Phuket. Coral Island has 2 main beaches: Long Beach and Banana Beach and the snorkeling off Banana Beach is awesome but more of that later. The island is about 2.5 Km long with a dense tropical jungle in the center of the island. There is one other secluded beach on the South of the island called Freedom Beach.
Coral Island is one of the best family-friendly tours that 5 Star Marine Phuket runs. The island is safe for children to play, with white soft sand perfect for sand castles, as well as rock pools during low tide for children to explore, and they can learn to snorkel right from the beach, which makes it a fantastic destination for the little ones, and for those that may be a little worried about snorkeling from the back of the boat or in deeper water. The marine life just off the beach is stunning.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Coral Island. Please watch this video below:
Khai Islands
If you are looking for an easy close by tour that is perfect for young families then the 3 Khai Islands tour; Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui, is one of the best.
The 3 Khai Islands is a group of small islands just 20 – 25 minutes away from the 5 Star Marine Phuket pier at Boat Lagoon Marina.
Two of them (Khai Nai and Khai Nok) have superb sandy beaches and incredibly clear water where swarms of colourful and friendly fish come to swim around you. This makes these two Khai Islands perfect for those who have never tried snorkeling and would like to try, or for those who are a little nervous to snorkel in deep water. You are able to walk into the water and snorkel right from the beach, you don’t even need to float or swim as you will be able to explorer the underwater world while sanding.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Khai Island. Please watch this video below:
Maiton Island
Maiton Island offers some fantastic snorkeling. The coral reefs are alive and teeming with a variety of tropical fish and you can also Enjoy a mesmerizing experience through a giant clam garden. The best time for snorkeling at Maiton Island is from December to May when the sea around Maiton is crystal clear like a blue mirror.
After a couple of hours of snorkeling, it’s time to catch dinner.
Head out a little deeper and drop in a hook and bait and you will soon catch a fish or 3, and if they are big enough then you have dinner sorted as well, which you can give to the 5 Star Marine Phuket Team and they can take care of this for you and have it cooked up with Thai flavors and spices on the BBQ while watching the sun set behind Phuket.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Maiton Island. Please watch this video below:
Raya or Racha Islands
The two tropical Racha Island; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, are sometimes called Raya Island or even King Island. BUT the name doesn’t matter as these stunning Phuket tropical islands provide the ideal destination to enjoy nature with some of the best snorkeling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
The Racha Island are comprised of two islands, Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi. (Yai means “big” in Thai and, noi means “little”). The islands possess crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches. They are very popular with divers and snorkellers, with challenging dive sites for advanced divers as well as plenty for beginners and snorkellers.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Raya or Racha Island. Please watch this video below:
Koh Hong
Among the more than 150 islands of the stunning Phang Nga Bay, Koh Hong is by far one of the most beautiful destinations with possibly some of the best views of Phnag Nga Bay from it’s awesome viewpoint.
Koh Hong is off the east coast of Phuket, in fact Koh Hong is closer to Krabi than it is to Phuket. Koh Hong island is known for its stunning natural beauty, soft white sand, and sparkling, crystal clear waters, making it a one-of-a-kind place for relaxation and island adventure.
To See An Overview Of A Tour to Koh Hong. Please watch this video below:
Discover the Best Islands in Phuket: A Tropical Paradise Awaits by Shaun Stenning
Shaun Stenning said, Nestled in the sparkling turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Phuket is a tropical haven renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage. However, beyond the mainland lies a collection of captivating islands that add an extra touch of magic to your Phuket experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best islands in Phuket, each with its own unique charm and allure. Whether you’re seeking secluded beaches, thrilling water sports, or simply a serene escape, these islands are sure to delight and captivate your senses.
Phi Phi Islands: Known as one of the most beautiful island groups in the world, the Phi Phi Islands are an absolute must-visit destination. With their towering limestone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, these islands offer breathtaking scenery. Take a boat tour to explore Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” or go snorkeling and diving to witness the vibrant coral reefs that teem with life beneath the surface.
Similan Islands: A true paradise for divers and snorkelers, the Similan Islands boast some of the most pristine waters in the region. This group of nine islands is home to a thriving underwater ecosystem, where you can encounter colorful coral gardens, manta rays, and even whale sharks. The Similan Islands are a protected national park, ensuring the preservation of their natural beauty and wildlife.
Racha Islands: If you’re yearning for a tranquil retreat, the Racha Islands, also known as Raya Islands, are the perfect escape. Located just a short boat ride from Phuket, these islands offer serene white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush green hills. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun. The Racha Islands offer a peaceful respite from the busier tourist areas.
Coral Island (Koh Hey): Situated just off the southeastern coast of Phuket, Coral Island lives up to its name with its vibrant and diverse marine life. The island offers an array of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and parasailing. After exploring the underwater wonders, relax on the island’s picturesque beaches or indulge in a delicious seafood feast at one of the beachside restaurants.
According to Shaun Stenning, Phuket’s best islands offer a delightful range of experiences, from adventure-filled water sports to serene escapes where you can unwind and connect with nature. Whether you choose to explore the famous Phi Phi Islands, dive into the vibrant marine life around the Similan Islands, or seek solitude on the Racha Islands, each destination promises unforgettable memories and postcard-worthy views. So, pack your swimsuit, embrace the tropical vibe, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of Phuket’s island paradise.
Island Hopping Here We Go
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
We are thrilled to welcome a LOAD of new destinations to enjoy from 1st October; and yes, these are going to be open to both Sandbox and Domestic guests.
With the change in season, the seas become calmer so let’s take a look at the exciting new destinations which now become accessible; working our way out from our base pier in Boat Lagoon:
1. Khai Islands
Three popular and family-friendly islands offering shallow snorkeling only 15 minutes from the pier. These islands are close together and are especially good for beginner snorkellers as you can go straight off the beach and experience a plethora of tropical fish. Also, a great spot for a beach picnic.
2. Mai Ton & Coral Combination
5 Star Marine runs a respectful dolphin spotting program at Mai Ton Island which is around 30 minutes from Boat Lagoon, where you can also snorkel before making your way to Coral Island, with beautiful snorkeling, plus relax on the beach with great vibes on Banana Beach Club, which also offers activities, massages, lunch, etc.
3. Racha Islands
The two idyllic Racha Islands; Koh Racha Yai and Koh Racha Noi, provide some of the best snorkeling reefs in Thailand and quiet, tropical white powdery beaches with crystal-clear turquoise waters. With Manta Rays and Whale Sharks hopefully coming back again this October / November, don’t miss your chance to spot these magnificent creatures.
4. Phi Phi
Phi Phi is a particularly well know location in the Phuket region, and now with the change in season you can take advantage of some stunning location all to yourself – literally, you might just be the only boat out there! Enjoy Phi Phi Ley and Bamboo Island and chance spotting turtles and clownfish.
5. Krabi Islands and Hong Krabi
The turquoise waters of the Hong Krabi Lagoon are to die for, and why not get your adrenaline going with a climb up to the new 360-degree viewpoint on Hong Krabi? This is arguably one of the best seascape views of the Krabi island sets, Phang Nga Bay, and surrounding islands in the national park that you can get from anywhere. It might be a long climb but it is worth the reward. Enjoy the infamous Railay beach for a lunch stop and gorgeous scenery too.
6. Phang Nga Bay
Phang Nga truly is one of natures’ spectacular works of art; where the vast karst rock scenery presents a visually stunning location. This location provides a different type of tour, it is not a snorkeling tour, but more about the seascapes, canoeing, caving, and exploring.
7. Koh Rok
The sea becomes like a lake in high season, making Koh Rok and Koh Ha idyllic destinations to make the most of when the season comes around. This area combines stunning water clarity with a diverse range of colorful marine life and corals and therefore offers some of the best snorkeling opportunities you can find. In season, you can also regularly see whale sharks between here and Koh Ha also.
8. Koh Ha
This offers some of the best snorkeling, stunning soft sandy beaches, and is less crowded than the better-known Similan Islands. A little further to travel compared to most of our other day trip locations; but well worth every minute for the guaranteed natural beauty and a great stop on the way to Koh Lipe.
9. Koh Lipe
This will open up in the next few weeks and boy are we raring to go! Koh Lipe is bursting with things to see and do; enjoy a romantic time at Sunrise or Sunset Beach, explore the coral reefs snorkeling at Red Coral, head to Monkey Beach or Stonehenge Rock. You might even get to spot the odd whale shark, Manta Ray, or turtle.
10. Similan & Surin Islands
Two phenomenal island-hopping destinations are situated off the West Coast of Phuket. These areas are bursting with amazing marine life, rich coral, and sandy white beaches. Enjoy a memorable boat trip to the renowned Similan Islands; a stunning archipelago in the Andaman Sea in southern Thailand, which is made up of 9 islands. We can’t wait for it to open from October 15th to May 15th. Further away and only open 6 months per year, due to the monsoon season plus in an attempt to preserve the marine environment.
11. Phuket By The Sea Tour
This unique program leaves from Boat Lagoon and travels under the Sarasin bridge then you make your way down to the banana beach past Surin, Kamala, and Patong for example, where you can stop off at a beach club or two!
So there you have it – 11 amazing tours opening up from 1st or 15th October. There are a few rules and regulations for Sandbox and Domestic customers, but please contact us to find out more, and in most cases just need your passport and proof of vaccination.
What are you waiting for? Get out there and explore while you can!
New Island Destinations for Phuket Day Tours
ANNOUNCEMENT – Thailand Pass Rules Update Frequently, The Information In The Below Post Is Now Out Of Date For Latest News Please Visit: https://5starmarinephuket.com/phuket-sandbox-rules-and-updates/
From the 15th of October 2021, there will be additional day tour options available to both Domestic and Sandbox customers. This time of year brings with it a change from the Monsoon to the Dry Season; where you can enjoy calmer winds and sea conditions which unite for a perfect combination for a day out on the sea.
This time of year also welcomes the reopening of the Similan and Surin Islands, by the National Park departments. Two phenomenal island-hopping destinations situated off the West Coast of Phuket. These areas are bursting with amazing marine life, rich coral and sandy white beaches. Similan and Surin islands are only available to visit 6 months of the year, so this is something we have been looking forward to.
This year 5 Star Marine has licensed its fleet of boats to enter the stunning areas in and around the Similan and Surin Island National Parks.
The great news is that this means that both Domestic customers and Sandbox guests can all enjoy the natural marine richness and crystal clear blue waters these locations have to offer.
In addition to these destinations opening, the islands of Koh Rok and Koh Ha will also be able to welcome guests. These are another two fantastic snorkeling and Day Tour locations that are a “must-see” and feature on many bucket lists.
To find out all the details about these new openings as well as take a sneak peek at what these destinations have in store for you, check out the YouTube video below:
