Bamboo Island: An Early bird Destination in the Absence of Crowds
An island destination that is a highlight for visitors to the Phi Phi region, Bamboo Island comes alive in the low season thanks to lower crowd numbers which offer visitors the opportunity to explore the island all to themselves. Guests can stroll along the soft powdery sand and forge their own footprints, listen in the absence of loud human conversations to the soft rustling of the trees, and swim and snorkel in the clear turquoise waters with plenty of space in between.
This is the Bamboo Island we’ll take you to in August and September on our Phi Phi Island Sunrise Tour. Calm, untouched and all yours to explore.
Bamboo Island At a Glance
Situated slightly Northeast of Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Island is a small, oval shaped land mass with the centre of the island covered with a cluster of lush casuarina trees. Known locally a Koh Mai Phai, the external boundary of the island is covered with soft-powdery sand that serves as the ultimate welcome mat to all guests. The Island gets its English name from the fact that the lush foliage resembles that of a bamboo forest. despite the fact that there is no bamboo present on the island.
Measuring just 0.27 km², the island is part of the Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, which helps preserve its coral reefs, marine life, and natural beauty. Its location makes it a perfect stop for our Phi Phi Sunrise Tour — easily accessible, yet just far enough from the main trails that it still feels hidden away.
While the island itself is a sanctuary well worth a visit, the surrounding waters is what really makes it an unmissable stop. Present within the shallows, and stretching all the way around the waters, is a shallow reef teeming with marine life. Some of the species present within the reef include clownfish, lionfish and if lucky you’ll be greeted by a leopard shark (relax, they are harmless) or a turtle or two. As the first guests to the island for the day you’ll get the chance to observe the reef full of life as its residents glide through the calm waters.
Why Sunrise Matters
There’s a very important reason why our tours leave at the crack of the dawn while the majority of tour operators remain anchored in the marina. Quite simply, the early hours offer a calmness and serenity that no afternoon tour can match.
By the time most tours are leaving the pier, we’ve already swum with the fishes (not in the gangster way), explored the caves of Phi Phi Leh, and are gliding onwards into the Andaman Sea. That’s the beauty of the Phi Phi Sunrise Tour, you experience the region as it was meant to be experienced: quiet, calm, and without distraction.
On Bamboo Island this matters more than in other island destinations around Phuket. Given its small size, the beach can fill quite quickly if visited in the presence of other boats. But for Simba guests, it greets you and you alone. Just golden sand, calm and clear waters, and schools of reef fish gliding past. No roaring boat engines, no loud tourists, just a small group of nature enthusiasts taking it all in.
As an added bonus, the undisturbed seas make it easy to snorkel, and the water clarity is at its clearest. There is really no disadvantage to the sunrise tour other than a slight lack of sleep, or an early bedtime the night before for the well-rested.
Scenery & Best Experiences
Sometimes its the quaint locations that provide the most memorable experiences. On Bamboo Island, you don’t need a wide selection of activities to feel like the trip was well worth it.
It’s the little things that make a Bamboo Island tour so advantageous.
The beach is blessed with soft, white sand and borders the whole island. Visitors can walk ashore and take a short stroll to a spacious patch of sand where they can lay down their towel and soak in a sun that is a lot less relentless than the sun of the high season. The sea is calm and shallow for a fair distance off shore so it is very welcoming for swimmers and snorkelers of all levels.
Take a mask and fins from the crew and explore the reef. This natural wonder surrounds the whole of Bamboo Island and is a visual treat, most notably along the Eastern side. You’ll see reef fish of all shapes, sizes and colours and, on occasion, encounter a larger shadow belonging to either a reef shark or turtle which is always an exciting moment.
When you’ve had enough sun and spent enough time snorkeling, step under the casuarina trees for some shade relief and breathe in the oxygen. They provide perfect natural shade and make a great spot to pause for a refreshing drink, or just a moment of stillness before heading back on board to depart for our next destination on the Phi Phi Island Sunrise tour, with the waters all to ourselves as we depart the Island.
Simba Sea Trips’ Sunrise Advantage
Our guests always say the same thing after Bamboo Island: “Why don’t more tour operators take advantage of this time of day.” We don’t know but we are happy they don’t!
As the first speedboat tour operator that visits Bamboo Island in the low season, you reap the full rewards of the early Island visit. You aren’t battling with crowds, you are not rushed to capture the perfect shot before the backdrop is overrun by strangers. Instead, you’re relaxing, walking and embracing complete solitude.
Every Phi Phi Sunrise Tour includes:
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An early departure to beat the rush
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Small group sizes (no cramped boats)
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Snorkeling gear, floating aids, and fresh towels
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Friendly, knowledgeable guides who genuinely care
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Time to unwind in locations like Bamboo Island with no stress or schedule
We also offer private charter boat tours of Phuket, which give you full control over the pace and itinerary. Whether you’re a couple seeking a quiet escape or a family wanting a special day out, our team tailors each experience to match your vibe.
Low-Season Perks & Practical Tips
Low season (May to October) gets a bad wrap at times, but we’ll let you in on a secret: it’s one of the best times to visit some of the smaller, denser tourist destinations like Bamboo Island.
While other operators often reduce their trips, Simba Sea Trips keeps sailing and because we go early, we avoid most of the weather challenges. Mornings are typically calm, clear, and crowd-free. Plus, the reef gets a bit of a break from heavy foot traffic, so you’re often treated to more marine activity than you’d expect.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Bring reef-safe sunscreen — it’s better for your skin and the sea
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Hydrate — we provide water and fresh fruit to keep you feeling good
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Respect the reef — don’t stand on coral or disturb marine life
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Pack light — towels, snorkels, and good vibes are all you need
Even if the skies turn grey for a bit, the serenity you’ll find on Bamboo Island in the low season is unlike anything in high season.
Final Thoughts
With Simba Sea Trips, you don’t just see Bamboo Island. You feel it. You arrive when the sea is at its calmest, when the beach is deserted, and when the day is only just beginning. Whether you’re snorkeling over coral reefs or laying back under the trees, it’s a memory that stays long after the tour ends.
Ready to experience Bamboo Island the way it should be?
Reserve your spot on the next Phi Phi Sunrise Tour today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bamboo Island Worth Visiting?
For travelers seeking an island that is largely absent of crowds (in the low season at least) then Bamboo Island is well worth visiting. It possesses soft white sand, plenty of shade and shallow waters with a vibrant marine reef.
Can you Swim at Bamboo Island?
Shallow waters surround Bamboo Island making it an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling and relaxing for individuals of all ages.
Can you stay on Bamboo Island?
Bamboo Island is a small island with no accomodation. Its beauty is in its small size that resembles a deserted island. As such, there are no accommodation options available.
What is the Best way to get to Bamboo Island?
Located Northeast of Phi Phi Don, Bamboo island is only accessible via boat. The most convenient boat trip to reach the destination is via speedboat although long boats also frequent the island.
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