20 Famous Movie Scene Locations That You Can Actually Visit

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The Beach – Thailand

If you want proof that film tourism can be both a blessing and a curse, look no further than The Beach. Released in 2000, it stars a baby-faced Leonardo DiCaprio, who finds a mysterious map and sneaks his way onto a secluded island commune, a paradise hidden away from the outside world.

The real-life location for The Beach was Maya Bay, on the tiny island of Koh Phi Phi Leh, Thailand. The turquoise waters and steep limestone cliffs were so unbelievably beautiful it immediately inspired an entire generation of travelers to flock to Thailand, seeking out a piece of paradise.

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But before the locals could even realize what was happening, ‘The Beach from The Beach’ was completely overrun with tourists, with once-quiet bays jammed with speed boats, garbage, and pollution. It got so overcrowded that it officially closed this year to allow the coral reefs to recover. So, you may not be able to visit the exact spot, but Koh Phi Phi is still a stunning island, with many other gorgeous beaches to explore.