Maya Bay closure extended for another two years

Saturday, May 11, 2019

The closure of Maya Bay made popularized by the movie ‘The Beach’ has been extended for another two years for a full recovery of its corals and wildlife. However, this has invited sharp criticism from the tourism industry.

Maya Bay, ringed by cliffs on Ko Phi Phi Ley Island and surrounded by azure waters, was made famous when it was featured in the 2000 film starring Leonardo Dicaprio.

It shut down last June over worries that the white-sand paradise was suffering from pressure of thousands of day-trippers arriving by boat.

Authorities had initially said that the beach, which is a massive attraction for Thailand’s more than 38 million tourists, was going to be closed for four months, but its re-opening was constantly postponed.

Thon Thamrongnawasawat, advisor to the Department of National Parks, said that the ban on visitors will be extended until mid-2021.

After it is re-opened, measures such as limiting the number of daily visitors and banning boats from parking within the bay’s waters will be enacted, Thon said.

« Back to Page

• Maya Bay in Phuket offers serene escape with lush vegetation

• Maya Bay Reopens Once Again

• Maya Bay to remain closed indefinitely

• Tourism compelled Maya Bay authorities to close the beach for foreseeable future