Phi Phi Islands Reopen 10 Dive Sites After Year-Long Closure Due to Coral Bleaching
KRABI, April 17, 2025 — Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park in Krabi Province has officially reopened 10 popular diving and snorkeling sites that had been closed for nearly a year due to a coral bleaching crisis.
The park had closed several areas on May 13, 2024, to allow the damaged coral reefs to recover from severe bleaching caused by environmental stressors, including warmer water temperatures. Coral bleaching occurs when zooxanthellae algae are expelled from coral due to heat stress, depriving corals of their color and nutrition.
After nearly a year of monitoring and assessments, park authorities confirmed the coral reefs have shown strong signs of recovery, with vibrant colors returning to the ecosystems. Based on these improvements, the following 10 dive and snorkel sites have now been reopened for tourists:
- Northern side of Koh Gai (Chicken Island)
- Eastern side of Koh Gai
- Northern side of Koh Poda
- Ao Pu Ya on Koh Poda
- Koh Daeng
- Railay Bay
- Koh Yawasam
- Loh Ba Gao Bay
- Viking Cave
- Front of Pi Leh Bay
However, the western side of Koh Gai (Ao Khang Khao) remains closed to protect sensitive reef areas still in need of recovery.
