Where was The Beach filmed?
2000
City Locations
Phuket, Bangkok (Thailand)
Location Types
Beach/Oceanview
Location Styles
Exotic/Tropical, Asian, Beachfront, Hostel, Sail
About The Beach
The Beach is a 2000 adventure drama film starring Leonardo DiCaprio as Richard, a young American backpacker in Thailand. When Richard hears a local discussing an idyllic and secluded beach, he sets off to find it. Accompanied by Francoise and Étienne, two French travelers whom he meets along the way, they discover the secret paradise of The Beach, located on an island in the middle of a shark-infested lagoon. The three join the community of people already living there and settle into island life. But as tensions mount between Richard and the other inhabitants, it becomes clear that all is not what it seems on The Beach.
The Beach was directed by Danny Boyle (Slumdog Millionaire) and written by John Hodge (Trainspotting) based on Alex Garland's novel of the same name. Upon its release, The Beach received mixed reviews from critics but was a moderate box office success.
To make sure that the pristine landscapes remained unspoiled during filming, Danny Boyle banned cigarettes from the set – even going so far as to hire someone to search through waste bins for discarded cigarette butts! This dedication to eco-friendly filmmaking made The Beach one of the first films to receive recognition from Greenpeace for its commitment to environmental protection during production.
A controversy arose during the filming process when 20th Century Fox decided to alter the natural beach setting of Ko Phi Phi Le by bulldozing and modifying it to give it a more "paradise-like" appearance. As part of the production process, some sand dunes were altered while coconut trees and grass were cleared to expand the beach. The studio earmarked funds to re-establish and restore the beach to its original state. However, environmentalists filed lawsuits claiming that the ecosystem was beyond repair, and the restoration efforts had been futile. After the completion of filming, a clear flat area with an odd distribution of trees was left at one end of the beach, which had been artificially created and was never corrected. Consequently, the whole region remained damaged from its original state until the tsunami of 2004.
The Beach Locations
The Beach was shot primarily on the beautiful Thai island of Ko Phi Phi Le. Located in the stunning Krabi Province, it is part of an archipelago of six islands, which feature some of the most iconic limestone formations and lush rainforests in all of Thailand. With its majestic karsts jutting out from tropical foliage and soft white-sand beaches stretching along crystal-clear waters, it's no wonder why this paradise has been featured as a backdrop for numerous films over the years.
The majority of scenes in The Beach were filmed at various locations around Ko Phi Phi Le, including Nui Bay, a picturesque beach with soft sand and tranquil waters, and Laem Thong, a stunning stretch of beach with dramatic limestone formations along its shore. One of the most iconic scenes from The Beach was actually filmed at Maya Bay—a stunning bay surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation—which has since become synonymous with the movie itself due to its popularity.
A trip to any one of these idyllic locations would be absolutely worthwhile for any fan of The Beach or anyone looking to experience some truly breathtaking sights in Thailand. With its pristine beaches framed by towering cliffs and vibrant green forests, Ko Phi Phi Le offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to provide plenty of lasting memories for years to come.
Richard walking through the city streets scene in The Beach
Thanon Khao San, Talat Yot, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
In Bangkok, Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio), a young American on a quest for adventure, makes his way through a vibrant and packed night market. The market is teeming with street vendors selling an array of items, and the surrounding ambiance is infused with the aroma of spices and food, inundating the senses. The cacophony of honking motorcycles and chatter fills the air.
Thanon Khao San, or Khao San Road, is a vibrant and bustling street in Bangkok, Thailand. It's a popular destination for backpackers and tourists alike, known for its nightlife scene and affordable accommodations. The street is lined with vendors selling everything from street food to souvenirs, and the atmosphere is electric with the sounds of live music and chatter. The energy is infectious, drawing in travelers from all over the world who are looking for a taste of Thailand's vibrant culture.
Tuk-tuks are a fun and unique way to get around Bangkok. They're essentially motorized rickshaws and can be found on most street corners. Negotiate the price with the driver before getting in and enjoy the ride. This filming location is right in the heart of Bangkok, so it’s easy to find.
Discover Filming Locations
Richard meeting Daffy scene in The Beach
The Memory at On On Hotel, 19 Phangnga Rd, Talat Yai, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83000, Thailand
On Khao San Road, Richard lodges in an unremarkable travelers' hotel where he encounters Françoise (Virginie Ledoyen) and Étienne (Guillaume Canet), a young French couple. It's here that he also meets Daffy (Robert Carlyle), who informs him of an immaculate, untouched island in the Gulf of Thailand, which houses a hidden beach of extraordinary beauty. Daffy discloses that he had clandestinely settled on the island several years prior but left due to complications. Tragically, Daffy takes his own life, leaving behind a map of the island for Richard to discover.
Hotel scenes were filmed at The Memory at On On Hotel, a historic hotel located in the heart of Phuket Old Town, Thailand. Built-in 1929, this Sino-Portuguese-style building was originally known as On On Hotel and has been meticulously restored to its former glory. One of the standout features of the hotel is the beautiful courtyard, which is filled with lush greenery and tranquil water features. It's the perfect spot to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
This filming location is found in southern Thailand, close to the stunning beaches for which Phuket is famous.
Browse Video Shoot Locations
Richard convinces the French couple to go to the island scene in The Beach
Surin Beach, Choeng Thale, Phuket 83110, Thailand
Once Richard acquires the hand-drawn map, he convinces Françoise and Étienne to journey with him to the island, and the trio depart for Koh Samui. While there, Richard crosses paths with two American surfers who have heard whispers of the island, and he provides them with a duplicate of the map.
Surin Beach, situated on the west coast of Phuket, is an exquisite and private beach. Boasting powdery white sand, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery, it's no surprise that Surin Beach is frequently regarded as one of the most stunning beaches in Thailand. The beach is a favored destination for swimming, sunbathing, and indulging in water sports such as snorkeling, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The tranquil waters make it an optimal location for families with young children or individuals seeking a more serene swimming experience.
Throughout Phuket, taxis are an accessible mode of transportation to reach your intended destination. Inform the driver of your destination, and they will transport you directly to Surin Beach. This destination is about a 40-minute drive northwest from Old Town Phuket.
Film Shoot Locations Guide
Boarding the boat scene in The Beach
Ao Por Pier, 3C6M+95Q Andaman Sea, Pa Klok, Thailand
Embarking on their private boat, a group of young adventurers set sail toward a secluded island. During the journey, Richard becomes smitten with Françoise . After swimming from a nearby island to their destination, they stumble upon a cannabis plantation, which is being protected by armed Thai farmers.
Nestled in the serene town of Pa Klol, Phuket Province, Thailand, Ao Por Pier is a picturesque pier. It serves as a popular departure point for boat excursions to neighboring islands and provides captivating vistas of the surrounding mountains and sea, making it an ideal haven for photography enthusiasts and sightseers alike. Visitors can savor the gentle sea breeze while taking a leisurely stroll along the wooden walkway or simply unwind on the pier, soaking in the calm maritime ambiance and watching the boats glide by.
Visitors can easily get to this destination by car, taxi or bus. It’s roughly a 40-minute drive northeast from the heart of Phuket.
Waterfall jump scene in The Beach
Haew Su Wat Waterfall, CCP7+7M3 Unnamed Road Mu Si, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima 30130, Thailand
Richard, Françoise and Étienne traverse across the island and stumble upon a waterfall. With no particular plan in mind, they decide to take a daring leap into the water. As they continue their journey, they encounter Keaty (Paterson Joseph),who introduces them to a hidden community of travelers residing on the island covertly. Sal (Tilda Swinton), the community's English leader, reveals that the farmers permit their stay under the condition that they maintain seclusion and do not welcome any additional visitors to the island.
Haew Su Wat Waterfall is a breathtaking waterfall located in Khao Yai National Park, Thailand. As one of the most scenic and popular waterfalls in the park, Haew Su Wat attracts visitors from all over the world. The waterfall consists of three tiers, each with its own distinct character and charm. The first tier is the most accessible and is easily reached by following a short trail. The second tier requires a bit more effort but is well worth it, as it offers a spectacular view of the falls from above. The third tier is the most challenging to reach, and visitors must be prepared for a steep hike through dense jungle.
Visitors can take a bus to Pak Chong, the nearest town to Khao Yai National Park. From there, visitors can take a shared taxi or tuk-tuk to the park entrance, where they can follow the signs to the waterfall.
Beach romance scene in The Beach
Maya Bay, เกาะพีพีเล Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi 81000, Thailand
Under the night sky, Françoise invites Richard to the beach where she confesses her love for him, igniting an affair between them. Although they intend to keep it clandestine, the community eventually discovers their secret tryst. Despite being upset, Étienne concedes that he will not impede Françoise's happiness with Richard.
Maya Bay is a breathtakingly beautiful bay located in Mueang Krabi District, Krabi Province, Thailand. It is part of the Phi Phi islands and is one of the most famous and popular destinations in the region, attracting visitors from all over the world. Maya Bay is known for its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and towering cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop to the bay.
To get to Maya Bay, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, visitors can take a boat or ferry from either Krabi Town or Ao Nang. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Conclusion
The Beach is a well-known film that was shot in several beautiful locations across Thailand. The main setting of the movie is the spectacularly gorgeous shore of Ko Phi Phi Le, an island located in the southeastern region of Thailand. Throughout the film, viewers are treated to breathtaking views of lush jungles, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. In addition to Ko Phi Phi Le, some scenes were also shot in Krabi Province and Bangkok.
The Beach perfectly captures the essence of Thai culture and nature. From its stunning visuals to its captivating storyline, this movie has become an instant classic amongst fans of adventure films and travel films alike. Audiences can’t help but be mesmerized by the exotic beauty depicted throughout every scene, from Richard’s journey to find “the perfect beach” to his interactions with locals on different islands around Thailand.
The end result is a captivating travelogue filled with unforgettable moments set against some of Southeast Asia's most beautiful natural landscapes. Whether you’re watching it for its picturesque visuals or for its dramatic plotline, The Beach is sure to leave you wanting more.