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Ao Mai Pai
ℹ️Practical info — Ao Mai Pai
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The road down to the bay is extremely steep and winding; be very careful if you are riding a scooter, especially in the wet.
- There are no ATMs in the bay, so make sure to bring enough cash for meals and local expenses.
- Visit the nearby Mu Ko Lanta National Park early in the morning to explore the lighthouse and nature trails before the heat peaks.
- Watch the sunset from one of the viewpoint restaurants on the cliffside for a remarkable perspective of the entire cove.
🍽 Food
Try this creamy, peanut-based curry at one of the family-run beachfront restaurants.
Freshly caught fish often prepared over charcoal at the small beach shacks in the bay.
Refreshing shakes made from local mango or pineapple, first-rate for the hot midday hours.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Small setups along the main road offering handmade jewelry and colorful sarongs.
Just 10 minutes away, you can find more unique clothing and local art in Kantiang Village.
Look for locally made soaps and oils, often sold in small resort shops.
Walk past the rocks at the southern end to find a stretch of sand that is often deserted.
A tiny, hidden cove just north of Bamboo Bay with no permanent structures and ultimate peace.
The nature trails within the Mu Ko Lanta National Park offer quiet jungle immersion.
Water temperature…
Ao Mai Pai, often referred to as Bamboo Bay, is one of the last retreats on Koh Lanta that has preserved its wild charm. The bay is located in the far south of the island, just before the Mu Ko Lanta National Park. The beach of Ao Mai Phai is crescent-shaped, with fine sand and crystal-clear water, convenient for swimming and snorkeling. A highlight of the region is the nearby Laem Ta Not Beach, home to the iconic lighthouse that serves as the island's landmark. The surroundings are characterized by forested hills that reach right down to the beach. There are only a few accommodations, which enhances the exclusive and quiet atmosphere. Visitors can go trekking in the national park or observe the rich wildlife, including monkeys and monitor lizards. Sunsets in Ao Mai Pai are spectacular, as the bay faces west. It is the good place for travelers seeking absolute tranquility and wishing to experience Thailand's nature in its purest form. The road connection to the south is steep and gives fantastic viewpoints.
- Location: Thailand
- Top sights: Following Giants · Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor) · Khlong Chak Waterfall
- Nearby: Khlong Top (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 83 | 22 | 101 | 138 | 230 | 241 | 244 | 271 | 307 | 304 | 212 | 134 |
Geography
Facts
- Known as Bamboo Bay
- South Koh Lanta
- Near National Park
- Iconic lighthouse
- Crystal clear water
- Secluded location
- Hiking trails
- Wild nature
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Begin your morning with a refreshing stroll along the shores of Ao Mai Phai, setting a tranquil tone for the day. As midday approaches, the path leads you to Khlong Chak Beach and the secluded coves of Nui Bay for relaxation. The afternoon is dedicated to ethical nature exploration at Following Giants, a profound experience. Conclude your walking journey as evening falls over Ba Kan Tiang Beach.
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Morning walks require raincoats as the coast is dramatic. Midday brings heavy showers; seek shelter near the beaches. Afternoon paths are muddy, step carefully. Evening needs an umbrella as you head back.
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Crisp morning air makes the beach walk refreshing. Midday sunshine is mild, perfect for exploring. Afternoon brings a cooling breeze as shadows lengthen. Bring a warm layer for the early 5 PM sunset.
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Kick off your cycling tour with the gentle morning breezes at Ao Mai Phai before pedaling towards the hidden Nui Bay Beach. The midday sun is spent thoughtfully observing rescued elephants at Following Giants. By afternoon, transition to the lively Ba Kan Tiang Beach and snap a quick photo at the Survivor statue. End the active ride near the jungle edge watching playful wild monkeys at dusk.
Ao Mai Phai
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
Wild Monkeys
Start your wet ride carefully on slippery roads. Midday showers mean frequent stops under shelters. Afternoon cycling requires focus on muddy trails. Evening rides back are dark; ensure your lights work.
Ao Mai Phai
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
Wild Monkeys
Enjoy a cool morning breeze on your ride. The midday sun is gentle, making cycling comfortable. Afternoon rides offer great golden hour views. The sun sets early, so pack a warm jacket.
Ao Mai Phai
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Ba Kan Tiang Beach
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
Wild Monkeys
Drive down to the southern tip early to explore Laem Ta Not Beach and its majestic lighthouse in the morning light. Midday brings you up the coast, unwinding at Ao Mai Phai, Khlong Chak, and the beautiful Nui Bay. Your afternoon promises adventure with ethical elephant encounters and a refreshing trek to Khlong Chak Waterfall. Your road trip concludes with photo stops at the Survivor statue.
Laem Ta Not Beach
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Khlong Chak Waterfall
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
A morning drive keeps you dry while the rain washes the coast. Midday rain makes roads slippery; drive slowly. Afternoon stops require quick umbrella dashes. Evening drives are cozy, but watch for flooded patches.
Laem Ta Not Beach
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Khlong Chak Waterfall
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
Start your drive with crisp morning views. Midday offers perfect conditions to roll windows down. Afternoon stops are pleasant with mild sun. Drive back early; keep a warm sweater handy.
Laem Ta Not Beach
Ao Mai Phai
Khlong Chak Beach
Nui Bay Beach
Following Giants
Khlong Chak Waterfall
Statue of Koh Lanta, French TV show (survivor)
Sights in the town Ao Mai Pai (6)
Frequently asked questions
What is Ao Mai Pai?
What is the beach like in Ao Mai Pai?
How to reach the bay?
Are there restaurants nearby?
Can you snorkel there?
Ao Mai Pai: where is it located?
Ao Mai Pai: what is there to see?
Ao Mai Pai: when is the best time to visit?
Ao Mai Pai: why is it worth visiting?
Nearby cities
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