Top things to do in Phuket

Bamboo Island tours | Coral-rich reefs & soft golden beaches

Bamboo Island is a small, scenic island in Thailand’s Phi Phi archipelago, just 5km northeast of Phi Phi Don. It gets its name from the bamboo that once grew here, though today it's mostly covered in soft sand and casuarina trees. Known for its clear waters, rich marine life, and coral reefs located up to 500m from the shore, it’s a top spot for snorkeling and swimming. Since it’s uninhabited, there are no hotels or restaurants, making it an ideal stop for a quiet beach break.

Bamboo Island is often included in full-day Phi Phi tours, which is the best way to visit since it’s so close to the main islands. The entry fee is covered under the national park fee, so if you're already paying to visit Maya Bay or other Phi Phi spots, you won’t need to pay extra!

Why choose a Bamboo Island tour?

Woman snorkeling in clear waters near Phi Phi Islands, Thailand.
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Shallow waters

Bamboo Island has some of the clearest waters in the Phi Phi Islands, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow areas allow even beginners to enjoy marine life up close.

Coral reefs for snorkeling

Just offshore, you’ll find coral reefs teeming with fish, making it one of the best spots for snorkeling in the region. Unlike crowded snorkeling sites, the waters here are often less disturbed.

Uncrowded beach space

Unlike other islands, Bamboo Island has more open sandy areas. It’s a good choice if you want to relax without the usual crowds of Maya Bay or Tonsai Beach.

No high cliffs or sharp rocks

While other coastal locations have steep cliffs and rocky shores, Bamboo Island has a flat, sandy coastline. It’s accessible and safe for all ages!

Small enough to explore on foot

At around 700m long and 600m wide, the island is easy to walk around in a short amount of time, making it a great stop for exploration.

Your Bamboo Island tour highlights

Bamboo Island, Phuket

Chilling on soft white sands

Bamboo Island is known for its powdery white sand and emerald-green waters, perfect to sit on with your family.

Tourists snorkelling in clear blue waters
Relaxing under casuarina trees
Bamboo Island aerial view
Long Tail Boat anchored in Bamboo Island

Frequently asked questions about Bamboo Island tours

Bamboo Island is part of the Phi Phi archipelago in Thailand. It lies about 5km (3 miles) northeast of Phi Phi Don and is a popular stop on island-hopping tours.