Dino Dreams & Island Scenes: Explore Thailand’s Iconic Movie Locations from SAii Phi Phi
Published on: Jun 19, 2025
Welcome to Thailand: Hollywood’s Tropical Backlot
If you’ve ever found yourself mesmerised by a sweeping island shot or a wild jungle chase scene, chances are it was filmed in Thailand. With its otherworldly landscapes, turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs, the Kingdom has long been a go-to for filmmakers seeking a tropical setting with a touch of adventure. From Oscar-winning dramas to blockbuster thrillers, Thailand is a true movie-lover’s playground.
With Jurassic World: Rebirth set to ramage into cinemas this July, the spotlight is once again shining on the country’s most cinematic corners. Come with us as we explore Thailand’s on-screen credentials and offer a few top tips on how best to experience them for yourself.
Jurassic World: Rebirth – Filmed in Thailand’s Wildest Wonders
The seventh installment in the beloved franchise, Jurassic World: Rebirth, brings the dinosaurs back to their roots, with several key scenes filmed in Thailand’s lush national parks and pristine islands.
- Ko Kradan, part of the Hat Chao Mai National Park in Trang, offers crystalline beaches that make a picture-perfect backdrop for high-octane dino drama.
- Ao Phang Nga National Park, with its towering limestone karsts and emerald-green waters, creates the kind of primeval setting that feels straight out of another era.
- And for those craving jungle adventure, Khao Phanom Bencha National Park in Krabi delivers misty trails, waterfalls, and a rainforesty atmosphere that’s worthy of the Jurassic name.
These stunning landscapes are not just film sets, they’re real-life destinations you can explore during your stay at SAii Phi Phi Island Village, with bespoke excursions that bring you right into the heart of the action. But more on that later.
Maya Bay: The Legendary Setting of The Beach
Of course, no cinematic tour of Thailand is complete without a visit to Maya Bay, made famous by Leonardo DiCaprio in The Beach (2000), directed by Danny Boyle. Located on Koh Phi Phi Leh, just a short boat ride from SAii, this world-renowned cove continues to captivate travellers with its impossibly white sand, vertical cliffs, and enduring pop-culture status. Whether you’re a film buff or beach lover, Maya Bay is unmissable.
The White Lotus: Thailand’s Latest TV Star
Following seasons set in Hawaii and Sicily, HBO’s The White Lotus recently turned its lens to Thailand’s luxury resorts and cultural beauty. The show’s use of Phuket and Koh Samui has seen fans of the series heading to southern Thailand and its tropical islands. For a taste of the culture and intrigue that the show captures so well, we recommend staying at SAii Koh Samui Villas or SAii Laguna Phuket.
SAii Koh Samui
SAii Laguna Phuket
Stay at SAii Phi Phi: Your Base for a Movie-Inspired Adventure
Set in a private bay fringed by rainforest and coral reefs, SAii Phi Phi Island Village is more than just a beach resort – it’s a launchpad for cinematic exploration. From here in our tropical haven, you can embark on guided tours to the Jurassic World filming locations, including Ko Kradan, Ao Phang Nga, and Khao Phanom Bencha, all within reach via day trips curated by SAii Gurus – local insiders with the best intel on everything.
Whether you’re into kayaking through mystic mangroves, climbing limestone cliffs or hiking through Jurassic-like jungles, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right onto a movie set (without the danger of rogue raptors).
Book Your Jurassic Getaway
With the release of Jurassic World: Rebirth coming up, there’s no better time to follow in the footsteps of stars Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey. Whether you’re a fan of dino-sized action, cult-classic beaches, or prestige television, Thailand delivers it all—and SAii Phi Phi Island Village is your front-row seat.
