
Bamboo Island Koh Phai
A tranquil, uninhabited island in Thailand known for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal weather, clear skies

Bamboo Island Koh Phai
Best Time
Ideal weather, clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A tranquil, uninhabited island in Thailand known for its powdery white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant snorkeling.
"Clear sea water under blue sky with the white fluffy sand. I love this peaceful island so much."

Pack a Picnic 🍕
There are no resorts, so bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a full day of island bliss .
Snorkel Gear 🤿
The northern part is great for snorkeling with fish. Bring your own or rent it if available.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White Sand Beaches
Island-wide
Powdery white sand meets crystal-clear turquoise waters for a postcard-perfect tropical escape.

Shallow Water Snorkeling
North of the island
Swim with vibrant sergeant major fish in calm, shallow waters, perfect for all ages.

Tranquil Atmosphere
Island-wide
Escape the crowds and find peace on this quiet island, ideal for relaxation and nature immersion.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Entrance Fee & Access
Best for Snorkeling & Swimming
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack a Picnic 🍕
There are no resorts, so bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a full day of island bliss.
Snorkel Gear 🤿
The northern part is great for snorkeling with fish. Bring your own or rent it if available.
Entrance Fee 💰
Be prepared to pay an entrance fee to access the island's beaches and waters.
Sun Protection 🌞
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack a Picnic 🍕
There are no resorts, so bring your own food and drinks to enjoy a full day of island bliss.
Snorkel Gear 🤿
The northern part is great for snorkeling with fish. Bring your own or rent it if available.
Entrance Fee 💰
Be prepared to pay an entrance fee to access the island's beaches and waters.
Sun Protection 🌞
The sun can be intense. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for a comfortable day.
Boat Tours 🚢
Often visited as part of island-hopping tours from Phi Phi or Phuket.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bamboo Island's stunning white sand beaches and incredibly clear, shallow waters, making it a paradise for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families. While an entrance fee is required, most find the pristine natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere well worth the cost, offering a serene escape.
"you have to pay an entrance fee to step on this island. if not, please enjoy it from the boat and are not allowed to enter this island.
but it is worth the cost to enjoy the clear sea water under blue sky with the white fluffy sand.
unless it's peak season like when we came."
BludStory
"Aside from Koh Hong, this island has the most enjoyable swimming with fish and shallow water snorkeling. Your kids will enjoy this. The north of the island, close to where boats are docking to the west(right), offers a beautiful beach and shallow water full of mostly sergeant major fishes that you can snorkel or swim with. Further down is the bank of corals that are easy to swim over and watch the sea life underneath, be careful of the sharp corals. If you go further with your kids, I suggest that your kids use a floating or life jacket so your kids can float over the coral bank, depending on the tide. I recommend visiting this beach for a day trip. Your kids will love it."
Dominic Pengjad
"Ko Mai Phai, or Bamboo Island, in Thailand is a tropical paradise. With its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant marine life, it's a snorkeler's dream. There are no resorts, just pure natural beauty. Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful day on the beach. It's the perfect escape from the crowds, where you can disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Ko Mai Phai is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and serenity in Thailand."
Lex Melony
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai) is easily accessible by speedboat or long-tail boat from Phi Phi Don. The journey typically takes about 30 minutes. Many island-hopping tours from Phi Phi include Bamboo Island as a stop.
Yes, you can reach Bamboo Island from Phuket via speedboat. The trip usually takes around 45 minutes to an hour, and it's often included in day tours from Phuket.
While there are no regular public ferries directly to Bamboo Island, it's commonly visited via organized boat tours and private charter services from nearby islands like Phi Phi and Phuket.
For convenience and to experience multiple spots, joining an island-hopping tour that includes Bamboo Island is a popular choice. Alternatively, hiring a private speedboat offers flexibility.
Yes, Bamboo Island (Koh Mai Phai) is a small island located to the north of Koh Phi Phi Don and is considered part of the Phi Phi archipelago.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, there is an entrance fee to step onto Bamboo Island. This fee contributes to the island's upkeep and conservation efforts.
The exact entrance fee can vary, but it's generally a modest amount. It's advisable to check current prices upon arrival or with your tour operator.
Visitors are generally required to pay the entrance fee to access the island's beaches and waters. You can admire the island from your boat if you choose not to pay.
Bamboo Island is typically accessible during daylight hours as part of day tours. There are no official opening or closing times as it's an uninhabited island.
Tickets for the entrance fee are usually purchased upon arrival at the island. If you're booking a tour, the entrance fee might be included or listed separately.
🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience
Bamboo Island is perfect for swimming, snorkeling in its clear waters, sunbathing on its white sandy beaches, and simply relaxing in a peaceful environment.
Absolutely! Bamboo Island is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities, especially in the shallow waters on the north side where you can see many fish.
Bamboo Island is largely undeveloped. There are no resorts, hotels, or electricity. You'll find basic facilities like restrooms, but it's best to bring your own food and drinks.
While it can get busy with tour groups, Bamboo Island is generally considered quieter than other Phi Phi Islands like Maya Bay. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak seasons can offer a more secluded experience.
Bring swimwear, a towel, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, snorkeling gear, a waterproof bag, and a picnic lunch with plenty of water.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire island offers stunning photo opportunities. Focus on the contrast between the white sand, turquoise water, and lush greenery. The northern beach with its shallow waters is particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light and fewer crowds, making for more serene and beautiful photographs. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Drone usage regulations can change. It's best to check local rules and be mindful of other visitors and the natural environment before flying a drone.
A waterproof camera or action camera is ideal for capturing underwater shots while snorkeling. A good quality smartphone or mirrorless camera will also work well for landscape and beach photography.
The long stretch of white sand beach, the clear shallow waters with visible fish, and the casuarina trees lining the shore are all iconic elements to capture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🐠 Snorkelers and Divers
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Bamboo Island's Name and Nature
This lack of development contributes to its reputation as a peaceful paradise. Visitors often describe it as a place to disconnect and enjoy the simple beauty of the sea and sand. The island's pristine condition is a testament to its protected status and the efforts to preserve its natural charm for future visitors.
The Snorkeling and Swimming Experience
Beyond the immediate shoreline, a bank of corals lies just a short swim away, offering a chance to see diverse marine life. It's recommended to be mindful of sharp corals and, for younger children, using a life jacket can provide extra security while they float over the coral formations. The visibility is often so good that you can see the layers of blue water from the ocean floor.
Planning Your Day Trip
When visiting, be prepared for an entrance fee, which is standard for this protected island. This fee helps maintain the island's pristine condition. Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially experience fewer crowds and a more tranquil atmosphere. The weather is often described as awesome, especially in months like December.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit