After years of temporary closure to preserve its pristine beauty, Maya Bay—one of Thailand's most iconic and stunning beaches—has officially reopened to visitors. Located on the small island of Phi Phi Leh, Maya Bay has been a must-see destination for travelers ever since it was featured in the movie The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. With its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone cliffs, and powdery white sand, it’s easy to see why this natural wonder is a favorite among tourists from all over the world.

If you're dreaming of visiting Maya Bay, now is the perfect time to plan your trip. Here’s everything you need to know about its reopening, what to expect, and how to make the most of your visit.

• Limited visitor numbers: To prevent overcrowding, the number of visitors allowed on the beach at any one time is strictly capped. Booking ahead is essential to secure a spot.
• No swimming: In a bid to protect the coral reefs and marine life, swimming is not permitted within the bay. Visitors can still enjoy the scenery, walk along the beach, and take in the breathtaking views, but they must stay on the designated areas.
• Sustainable tourism: Boats are no longer allowed to dock directly on the beach. Instead, they must drop anchor on the opposite side of the island, and visitors can enter the bay via a boardwalk. This helps prevent damage to the reefs and shoreline.

Maya Bay is located on Phi Phi Leh, which is part of the Phi Phi Islands group in the Andaman Sea. There are several ways to reach the bay:

• Speedboat Tours: From Phuket, Krabi, or Phi Phi Don, speedboat tours are one of the most popular ways to visit Maya Bay. These tours often include stops at other nearby attractions, such as Monkey Beach, Viking Cave, and Pileh Lagoon.
• Longtail Boats: For a more traditional Thai experience, you can hire a local longtail boat from Phi Phi Don. While slower than speedboats, longtail boats offer a more relaxed pace and the chance to explore the islands at your own rhythm.
• Day Trips: Many companies offer organized day trips from nearby tourist hotspots. These tours typically include hotel pick-up, transportation, and guided exploration of the Phi Phi Islands, including Maya Bay.