If you’re island-hopping around the Phi Phi Islands, don’t miss Bamboo Island—also known as Koh Pai. Located about 5 km northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don, this tropical gem offers a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the archipelago. Unlike the more crowded islands, Bamboo Island remains relatively quiet, even though a few post-lunch tours from Phuket may briefly visit. As a result, it’s an ideal spot to relax, snorkel, and soak up the beauty of the Andaman Sea in serene surroundings.

Things to do: Bamboo Island in Phi Phi Archipelago

For travelers seeking a serene escape, Bamboo Island near Koh Phi Phi, Thailand, deserves a spot on your bucket list. Located northeast of Koh Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island—also known as Koh Mai Phai—offers stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Interestingly, despite its name, the island is mostly shaded by tall Casuarina trees, with only a few actual bamboo plants. Still, the natural charm is undeniable.

Moreover, a day trip to Bamboo Island is perfect for those who want to unwind in a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Whether you’re snorkeling in the shallow reefs, lounging on the soft sand, or simply soaking in the panoramic views of the Andaman Sea, this hidden gem offers the kind of unspoiled tropical beauty that defines paradise.

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Snorkeling Activity on Bamboo Island, Thailand

Snorkeling on Bamboo Island: A Must-Do Experience in Phi Phi – If you love marine life, you’ll definitely want to book a Bamboo Island snorkeling tour—it won’t disappoint. Located just off the coast of Koh Phi Phi, Bamboo Island ranks as one of the top snorkeling spots in Thailand, offering crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs just steps from the beach.

As you dive in, you’ll swim alongside colorful tropical fish, spot clownfish (yes, like Nemo!), and may even see graceful sea turtles gliding through the water. The calm, shallow sea makes it perfect for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.

Most tour operators include snorkeling gear, so there’s no need to bring your own. In addition, the island’s natural setting allows you to explore freely without strong currents or boat traffic getting in the way.

While you’re enjoying the underwater beauty, be mindful of the delicate coral reef. Avoid touching or stepping on it, and help protect this fragile ecosystem for future generations. Oh—and don’t forget to bring your underwater camera to capture incredible photos and videos of your experience.

Highlights of visit: Coral Reefs & Boat Trips

Bamboo Island offers some of the best snorkeling experiences in the Phi Phi Islands. Just between Phi Phi Don and Bamboo Island lies the famous Hin Klang coral reef, where crystal-clear waters and colorful marine life make you feel like you’re swimming inside an aquarium. Closer to the shore, a vibrant reef nearly encircles the island, stretching up to 500 meters from the beach and creating ideal conditions for underwater exploration.

To reach Bamboo Island, you can hire a long-tail boat either from Tonsai Village or the Sea Gypsies Village on Laem Thong Beach. The trip takes approximately 40 minutes from Tonsai or just 15 minutes from Laem Thong, making it easily accessible for a day trip.

Additionally, you can join a Phi Phi day trip by speedboat from Krabi or Phuket, or opt for a camping experience with overnight stays in tents, organized from Koh Phi Phi Don. These options allow you to explore the island at your own pace, whether you’re seeking a full-day adventure or a more immersive stay under the stars.

Since Bamboo Island is part of a national park, make sure to bring cash for the mandatory entrance fee, which supports marine conservation efforts and helps maintain the island’s pristine environment.

Phi Phi & Bamboo Islands by Speedboat

Boat trips can be arranged from phuket where you can also visit surrounding Phi Phi Islands. The island’s pristine white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters made for a perfect day trip.

If you’re planning a trip to Thailand and looking for an unforgettable day on the water, a Phi Phi Islands and Bamboo Island speedboat tour should be high on your list. This exciting island-hopping experience combines breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and some of the most iconic locations in the Andaman Sea.

Start from Phuket or Krabi

Most tours depart from either Phuket or Krabi, taking you on a high-speed journey across turquoise waters toward the world-famous Phi Phi Islands. As you cruise through the sea, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, lush green islands, and the warm tropical breeze.

Most tours depart from either Phuket or Krabi, taking you on a high-speed journey across turquoise waters toward the world-famous Phi Phi Islands. As you cruise through the sea, you’ll be surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs, lush green islands, and the warm tropical breeze.

Visit Maya Bay & Pileh Lagoon

Your first stops often include Maya Bay, the stunning beach featured in The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio, and Pileh Lagoon, a tranquil, crystal-clear lagoon perfect for swimming and photos. These highlights offer a mix of cinematic beauty and quiet serenity, making them top attractions on any Phi Phi speedboat tour.

Discover Bamboo Island

After exploring the main Phi Phi Islands, the tour continues to Bamboo Island—a smaller, quieter island known for its white-sand beaches and vibrant coral reefs just offshore. This is a great place to snorkel, swim, or just relax on the beach without the crowds.

How to Get to Bamboo Island from Phi Phi, Krabi, or Phuket

To visit Bamboo Island from Phi Phi Don, plan for a minimum duration of 3 hours. The boat ride from Ton Sai Beach to Bamboo Island usually takes 45 to 60 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions. To secure your spot—especially during peak season—book your longtail boat at least one hour in advance.

For a more personalized experience, consider chartering a private longtail boat, speedboat, or yacht. This option gives you full control over your schedule and activities, making it ideal for travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace or include other nearby islands. As of now, expect to pay around 1,500 Baht for a private 3-hour longtail boat tour from Phi Phi Don.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling on a budget, shared speedboat tours and scheduled ferries often include Bamboo Island in their multi-island itineraries. These group trips offer a more affordable and convenient way to see the area without compromising on the experience.

Bamboo Island’s Location: Ao Nang, Krabi 81000, Thailand

From Krabi

To reach Bamboo Island from Krabi, book a speedboat tour or ferry transfer to Koh Phi Phi Don, the nearest major island. Since no direct ferries go to Bamboo Island, you must first travel to Phi Phi Don.

Begin by taking a ferry or speedboat from Krabi to Ton Sai Pier, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. From there, either hire a private longtail boat or join a group speedboat tour to Bamboo Island—just 45 to 60 minutes away.

For convenience, many operators in Ao Nang and Krabi Town offer day trips to Bamboo Island as part of a multi-island tour with stops at Maya Bay, Pileh Lagoon, and Monkey Beach.

Finally, since Bamboo Island lies within a national park, prepare to pay an entry fee of 400 THB per adult on arrival.

From Phuket

To reach Bamboo Island from Phuket, start by taking a speedboat or ferry to Koh Phi Phi Don, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on sea conditions. After arriving at Ton Sai Pier on Phi Phi Don, you can either charter a private longtail boat or join a group speedboat tour to Bamboo Island. The boat ride from Phi Phi to Bamboo Island typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes.

Alternatively, many Phuket-based tour operators offer full-day speedboat tours that include Bamboo Island along with other highlights like Maya Bay, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon. These tours provide a convenient way to explore the best of the Phi Phi Islands in one day. Since Bamboo Island belongs to a national park, remember to bring cash for the entrance fee, which usually costs 400 THB per adult.

Bamboo Island travel tips & information

Plan your escape to Bamboo Island, one of the most stunning spots near Koh Phi Phi, Thailand. Just a short boat ride from Phi Phi Don, this small island offers white-sand beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and relaxing. Unlike busier destinations, Bamboo Island stays quiet and uncrowded—even during high season. Whether you join a day trip from Phuket or Krabi or rent a private longtail boat, getting here is simple and rewarding. Don’t forget to bring cash for the national park entrance fee, and pack your snorkeling gear or underwater camera to capture every moment.

How Much Is the Entrance Fee for Bamboo Island?

400 THB is the entrance fee: Since Bamboo Island is part of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, visitors must pay an entrance fee of 400 Baht.

This fee directly supports conservation efforts and often includes access to other protected areas within the park. Additionally, fees can vary depending on your age and nationality, so be sure to check the latest rates before your trip to avoid surprises.

Best time to Visit

To enjoy a more peaceful experience on Bamboo Island, plan your visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when there is less crowds. Moreover, weekdays tend to be less busy than weekends, and visiting during the low season (May to October) helps you avoid the tourist rush.

Remember, Bamboo Island remains open only during daylight hours, so you’ll need to explore this tropical paradise as part of a daytime trip.

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Can you stay on Bamboo Island Thailand?

Yes you can stay overnight: Unlike the other Phi Phi Islands, Bamboo Island offers a completely different experience. You won’t find towering cliffs or resort developments here—just a stretch of powdery white sand surrounded by turquoise water. While most visitors come for a day trip, you can stay overnight on Bamboo Island, but only by camping.

Since the island has no hotels or built accommodations, camping is the only option. Bamboo Island remains remote and undeveloped, with very limited infrastructure, so don’t expect any permanent buildings or tourist facilities. If you plan to camp, you’ll need to bring your own tent and essential camping gear, as rentals are not available on the island.

You can book a day trip or arrange a camping experience through operators on Koh Phi Phi Don. Camping gives you a rare chance to experience Bamboo Island’s tranquility after the day-trippers leave, letting you enjoy peace, starlit skies, and the sound of the waves in complete solitude.

However, keep in mind that facilities are extremely basic—there’s no electricity, running water, or shops—so you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient during your stay.

Bottom Line: Is Bamboo Island Worth Visiting?

Absolutely yes—Bamboo Island is a must-visit destination in the Phi Phi Islands. With multiple travel options, including private boat charters and budget-friendly group tours, you can easily reach this tropical paradise no matter your travel style. To make the most of your visit, plan ahead, respect the natural environment, and allow enough time to fully enjoy the island’s crystal-clear waters and white-sand beaches.

Whether you’re exploring Phi Phi for the first time or returning for another adventure, Bamboo Island stands out as a true highlight you shouldn’t miss.