Maya Bay Phi Phi Island Tourism

Maya Bay is a stunningly beautiful, sheltered cove located on Phi Phi Leh Island at the Phi Phi Islands in Thailand. It is renowned for its pristine sandy beaches, towering limestone cliffs, and clear turquoise waters. Maya Bay gained international fame after the 2000 movie `The Beach` starring Leonardo DiCaprio was filmed here, which dramatically increased its popularity. The bay is about 200 meters long with soft, white sand and contains diverse marine life, making it an excellent site for snorkeling and diving. Fishing is prohibited, ensuring the conservation of the environment. Unfortunately, the bay's beauty led to ecological damage due to the overwhelming number of tourists. In response, Thai authorities imposed entry restrictions and a temporary closure that started in 2018 to enable the recovery of the natural ecosystem. Those measures have contributed to the restoration of coral reefs and marine habitats, ensuring that Maya Bay continues to be a natural paradise for future visitors while serving as a model for sustainable tourism.