Maya Bay on Phi Phi Leh Island has been awarded ISO 13009:2015 certification for its sustainable beach operation and management practices. The announcement was made on December 2 by Sangsuri Songtong, Chief of Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park. The certification was granted by the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research in collaboration with the Department of Tourism.
The iconic bay, renowned globally for its pristine beauty, reopened on October 1, 2024, following a two-month closure during the monsoon season to allow for natural restoration. The reopening comes with stringent conservation measures and enhanced safety protocols aimed at preserving the area’s delicate marine ecosystem.
Under the new guidelines, tourist visits are capped at one hour, with a maximum of 375 visitors per round, accommodating between 3,500 and 4,000 people daily. Swimming remains prohibited to safeguard coral reefs and marine life, underscoring the park’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
This recognition highlights the park’s efforts to balance tourism with ecological preservation, setting a benchmark for sustainable beach management in Thailand.
