Thailand's Maya Bay crowned world's most photogenic beach
There's a reason travellers from all over the world keep coming back to Thailand – it's home to some of the most stunning beaches on the planet! And guess what? Two of our beaches have just made the cut for Heepsy's list of the world's top ten most photogenic beaches on Instagram. Even better, Maya Bay claimed the number one spot!
Why are these beaches such a hit on Instagram? Heepsy's ranking analysed Instagram hashtags, beach size, and visitor numbers to find the spots that are not only breathtaking but also buzzing with digital excitement. And Maya Bay? It's the ultimate winner, with a jaw-dropping 2.2 million hashtags shared across just 250 metres of paradise.
Maya Bay boasts crystal-clear waters, powdery white sand and dramatic limestone cliffs that look straight out of a postcard. Over two million visitors flock to this bay in Krabi province every year. Fun fact: this tropical gem shot to fame as the filming location for Leonardo DiCaprio's movie The Beach. But with fame came challenges. Over-tourism took a toll on its fragile ecosystem, leading to a temporary closure in 2018 to allow it to recover. The good news? Maya Bay reopened in 2022, stronger than ever. With new rules in place to protect its beauty and marine life, now's the time to explore this slice of heaven responsibly. It's up to all of us to look after Maya Bay and its marine life so it stays healthy for years to come.
Thailand also snagged a second spot on the list with Koh Tao coming in at number nine. Known as a diver's paradise, this Surat Thani island is famous for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and clear turquoise waters. Above the surface, Koh Tao's peaceful shores and laid-back vibe make it a perfect backdrop for your next Instagram post – or just a relaxing escape.
Here's the full list of top 10 most photogenic beaches in the world on Instagram, according to Heepsy:
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