Phi Phi and Maya Bay early start by private speedboat

We leave Chalong pier at 07:15 and reach Phi Phi Leh in about an hour. The boat ties up at the pontoon in Loh Samah Bay, and a wooden boardwalk leads to Maya Bay beach, about 10 minutes on foot. Swimming at Maya Bay is not allowed; you can only wade in up to your knees. Blacktip reef sharks live in the bay and are often visible from the shore. We spend about an hour on the beach.

Next come a swim and snorkel in Pileh Lagoon, Viking Cave seen from the water, lunch on Phi Phi Don and the beach on Bamboo Island.

The beaches are quietest early in the morning, and boat traffic builds by midday. Maya Bay closes for about two months every year, usually August and September. Bring swimwear, sunscreen without oxybenzone and a change of clothes.