Maya Bay to close for two months for monsoon season recovery

The renowned Maya Bay in the Phi Phi Islands will be closed to tourists from August 1 to September 30 to allow nature to recover and ensure visitor safety during the monsoon season. Despite the rough seas, tourists continue to flock to this destination made famous by the Danny Boyle movie The Beach, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.

Yutthapong Damsrisuk, head of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, announced the upcoming annual closure of Maya Bay, Loh Samah Bay, and Lo Ko Bay in the Phi Phi Islands. The closure, running from August 1 to September 30, aims to allow both terrestrial and marine ecosystems to rejuvenate.

Additionally, safety concerns during the monsoon season, when strong winds and waves prevail, have made the closure necessary. The docking area at Loh Samah Bay, the main access point to Maya Bay, becomes particularly dangerous during this period, posing risks for tour boats and visitors.

From October 1 last year to yesterday, July 25, the national park collected 549,865,932 baht in entrance fees, welcoming 1,683,430 visitors. In July of the previous year, the park collected 23,000,940 baht from 110,436 visitors.

In contrast, this July saw a decrease in the number of tourists to 96,236, but revenue increased to 34,745,805 baht, a rise of 11,744,865 baht. This increase in revenue is attributed to stricter fee collection measures implemented by the park authorities.

The monsoon season, which brings strong winds and high waves, poses significant risks to tourist activities in the area. Despite these conditions, more than 1,000 tourists visit Maya Bay daily, drawn by its breathtaking beauty and international fame. The national park’s decision to close the bay aims to mitigate these dangers and preserve the natural environment.

“The closure is essential for the restoration of natural resources and ecosystems, both on land and underwater.”

Sustainable tourism

The park has been implementing various measures to protect the environment and ensure sustainable tourism. The annual closure of Maya Bay and surrounding areas is a crucial part of these efforts. By restricting access during the monsoon season, the park helps prevent damage to the coral reefs and other marine life caused by the influx of tourists.

“We want to ensure that future generations can enjoy the pristine beauty of Maya Bay. This temporary closure is a small sacrifice for a greater good.”

Tourists visiting the Phi Phi Islands during the closure period are encouraged to explore other attractions within the national park. The park offers numerous alternative destinations, including pristine beaches, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs, providing ample opportunities for eco-friendly tourism.

The park authorities have also been working closely with local communities and tour operators to ensure a smooth transition during the closure period. Efforts are being made to raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation and the benefits of sustainable tourism practices.

As the closure approaches, park authorities are urging tourists and tour operators to comply with the restrictions and support the conservation efforts. The long-term health of the ecosystems in Maya Bay and its surrounding areas depends on these collective efforts, reported KhaoSod.