Phuket sights
Phi Phi Islands & Maya Bay
The dazzling Phi Phi archipelago — turquoise bays ringed by cliffs, snorkelling, and the famous Maya Bay of 'The Beach'. A classic full-day boat trip; Maya Bay has a seasonal conservation closure but is viewable from the water year-round.
About
The Phi Phi Islands, technically in neighbouring Krabi province but a classic day trip from Phuket, are among the most beautiful in the Andaman — towering limestone cliffs, jungle-green slopes, and water in impossible shades of turquoise. The headline sight is Maya Bay on uninhabited Phi Phi Leh, the flawless cliff-ringed cove made famous by the film The Beach; loved nearly to death, it was closed for years to let its reef recover and now reopens under strict visitor limits, with an annual conservation closure (typically around August–September). Even when the sand is off-limits, boats can hold off the cove for the view, and the surrounding waters — Pileh Lagoon, Loh Samah Bay, Viking Cave, and the snorkelling at Bamboo Island — more than fill a day. Tours run by speedboat (fast, ~45 minutes) or big ferry; arriving early or staying overnight on Phi Phi Don avoids the worst of the crowds.
Good to know
Opening hours and entry fees vary by season — check before you visit.