Thailand’s waters are one of the best waters in the world and are also home to some of the richest marine ecosystems in the world. The country offers experiences ranging from shallow reef snorkeling to deep wreck and big-pelagic dives. Here are some top diving and snorkeling destinations.
1. Koh Tao (Turtle Island)
In 1980s Koh Tao transformed into Thailand’s diving capital, its name means “Turtle Island” due to its turtle-shaped silhouette and its nesting green and hawksbill turtles. The island is located north of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Koh Tao has calm seas sheltered from monsoons. Coral reefs grow close to shore, making it easy for beginners.
Diving Spot :
- Sail Rock: Giant vertical chimney swim-through.
- Japanese Gardens: Shallow snorkeling site with coral bommies.
- Chumphon Pinnacle: Deeper waters, chance to see whale sharks.
Marine life: During your dive here, there are plenty of marine life you can spot such as Blacktip reef sharks, schools of barracuda, butterflyfish, and angelfish, macro critters: seahorses, nudibranchs
2. Similan Island
Similan Island’s declared a National Park in 1982; this is one of the world’s famous biodiversity islands. The name Similan comes from Malay words which means “9”, since the island once had 9 main islands (later extended to 11). It’s located 70 km. from Khao Lak with white sand beaches, and crystal-clear water.
Diving Spot :
- Elephant Head Rock
- Richelieu Rock
- East of Eden
Marine life: You can spot rare species during your diving session at Similan Island like Manta rays, whale sharks, napoleon wrasse, coral gardens with pink, purple, and red hues, schools of fusiliers, and clown triggerfish.
Keep in mind that Similan Island only open during October–May.
3. Koh Phi Phi
One of the most famous Island in Thailand well known to foreigners by its appearance in the movie The Beach. Koh Phi Phi attracts both partygoers and divers. A part of the island known as Maya Bay is now strictly required to follow the rules since it was closed due to over-tourism. The islands rise dramatically with limestone cliffs, caves, and lagoons. Surrounding waters are shallow and nutrient rich.
Diving Spot :
- Bida Nok & Bida Nai
- Shark Point
- Maya Bay (snorkeling)
Marine life: Leopard Shark is a rare marine life you can find at Koh Phi Phi along with other species like Sea turtles and reef sharks. There are also schools of fusiliers and snappers with soft corals and sponges.
Tips for visiting Phi Phi: you should come early since the place is crowded, and the best diving season is during November–April.
4. Koh Lipe
This was a home to the Sea Gypsy people in the past, now Koh Lipe has grown into a boutique eco-tourism location. It’s a gateway to Tarutao National Marine Park. The island is located near Malaysia and surrounded by more than 30 small islands. It’s a perfect place for snorkeling.
Diving Spot :
- Stonehenge
- Koh Rawi & Koh Adang
- Pattaya Beach Snorkel Reefs
Marine life: Koh Lipe’s sea is full of reef sharks, coral gardens, lionfish and turtles. But you can also spot some exotic looking fish like ghost pipefish, and frogfish during your dive.
5. Phuket & Racha Islands
As we all know that Phuket is the largest Island in Thailand and one of the busiest tourist destinations. Phuket became the diving location back in 1970s when coral reefs became popular among backpackers. Phuket provides access to Racha Islands, Phi Phi, Shark Point, and the King Cruiser wreck. Racha Yai is particularly known for beginner dives with calm conditions.
Diving Spot :
- Racha Noi: Deep, strong currents, manta rays possible.
- Racha Yai: Calm beginner-friendly reefs.
- King Cruiser Wreck: Ferry that sank in 1997, now a thriving reef.
Like most diving destinations, here you can find leopard sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, cuttlefish, pelagics fish, and artificial reef habitats.
It’s best for diving during November-May, and there are hundreds of operators so pick carefully, try finding the licensed eco-certified shops.
6. Krabi & Ao Nang
Krabi was a quiet fishing town later it boomed into a major adventure hub, offering diving, climbing, and kayaking. With towering limestone karsts define the coastline. Offshore islands provide sheltered snorkeling reefs.
Diving Spot :
- Hong Islands
- Koh Haa Yai
- Shark Point
Marine life: Colorful soft corals, Leopard sharks, Schools of fusiliers, parrotfish, and clownfish.
Thailand’s underwater world is as beautiful and diverse as the country’s landscape. With every location, it provides different experiences and offers unique encounters with marine life. Snorkeling and diving here are more than activities; they’re immersive experiences that reveal the vibrant ecosystems of the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea.