Thailand is recognized as a vibrant country for tourists, boasting astonishing and extraordinary beaches that offer breathtaking views, undoubtedly ranking among the best in the world. In this context, discovering the best places for snorkeling in Thailand can enhance the joy of diving in the azure waters of Thailand, creating an unforgettable experience for divers.
reading suggestion: best beaches near Bangkok
Best Time for Snorkeling in Thailand
Diving is considered one of the most exciting and luxurious recreational activities, and experiencing it is a privilege that not everyone gets. In this incredibly beautiful country, filled with crystal-clear waters and astonishing nature, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on diving. However, to enhance your experience, choosing the best time for diving in Thailand is essential to make the most of it.
Due to Thailand’s location in a tropical region, diving is possible in various parts of the country for most months of the year. The water temperature typically ranges from a minimum of 25 to a maximum of 33 degrees Celsius throughout the year. However, the best time for diving in Thailand also depends on your specific travel destination. For instance, the optimal time for diving in the Andaman Sea is from December to April. Generally, the best time for a diving trip is during the dry months of the year when there is less rainfall.
reading suggestion: cheapest cities in Thailand
1. Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are one of the best diving spots in Thailand. The Similans consist of nine beautiful and stunning islands, featuring 20 diving stations where diving instructors teach tourists the basics of underwater exploration. They can also be great options for photography.
In these islands, the water depth is shallow enough that you can observe marine life without having to go underwater, which highlights the quality of the waters in this region. The Similan Islands are recognized as a national park in Thailand, with water channels in the area reaching nearly 40 meters deep. The surroundings of these islands are so beautiful that you will undoubtedly never tire of diving in this location.
2. Ko Surin Nua
Surin Islands is another diving area in Thailand, consisting of five small islands located 40 kilometers west of Thailand, near the border with Myanmar. This area is suitable for beginner divers, and there are many rocks in the region that assist divers in resting when they become tired.
Like other diving areas in Thailand, these islands are covered with coral reefs and serve as a habitat for a variety of fish and rare marine species.
To access these islands, you can take a day trip on speedboats from Phuket, dedicating the rest of your day to camping or staying in tents and beach huts, allowing you to experience a beautiful one-day trip.
3. Phi Phi Islands
On the other side of the Andaman Sea lies Koh Phi Phi, which became famous worldwide thanks to the movie “The Beach,” starring Leonardo DiCaprio in the early 2000s. It is one of the most recognized tourist destinations in Thailand, and its popularity is not solely due to the film; the breathtaking landscapes and nature also attract visitors.
This area is considered one of the best spots for diving in Thailand, and interestingly, some companies guarantee that you’ll see all kinds of marine life, or they will refund your money. However, it’s important to note that diving is prohibited during certain times of the year due to turtle nesting.
4. Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta, one of the largest islands in Thailand, is another incredible diving destination in the country. It consists of 52 small islands located in the Andaman Sea, and you can access this area by boat from Phuket, Krabi, or Koh Phi Phi. Notably, Phuket is relatively quieter compared to the other beaches in this region.
This area boasts 9 stunning beaches, where you can observe beautiful rock formations and marine creatures, and the diving spots are situated in open waters.
5. Koh Dok Mai
Koh Dok Mai is one of the best diving spots in Thailand, located near Phuket, and is regarded as one of the most beautiful islands in the country. Divers can observe marine creatures such as sharks and a variety of fish while enjoying the stunning scenery and crystal-clear waters of the area.
6. Ko Lipe
Get ready to discover Koh Lipe, known as the paradise for divers. This area, located in southern Thailand, offers every kind of water activity you can imagine, with luxurious diving experiences among them.
In this region, there are over 38 diving spots, some suitable for beginner divers and others for experienced ones. The best way to experience this area is through a day trip, where you can enjoy camping and accommodations while taking in the dreamlike scenery and white sands along the waters.
7. Kaw Tao
Best Places for Snorkeling in Thailand, also known as Turtle Island, is one of the top regions for diving in Thailand. It comprises three diverse islands, each offering snorkeling opportunities. Water sports enthusiasts and divers can plan their trips to this area with ease.
In addition to diving, there are various shops where you can purchase necessary diving equipment, and it is also an excellent place for beginners to receive training. Certification courses for diving are available in this area as well. Notably, there is no fee required for diving in this region, which is one of the reasons for its popularity.
Conclusion
Recreational diving has its own unique wonders and beauty, but choosing the right area for this activity is one of the most important aspects. Without a doubt, Thailand is one of the countries where you should not miss diving in its best locations. These areas feature crystal-clear waters, allowing you to observe aquatic creatures without even going underwater. The stunning natural scenery, with reefs covered in lush greenery, creates a special atmosphere in different regions, while the beaches, each with its unique and special sands, combine with the everlasting views of these areas to make Thailand one of the key and attractive destinations for divers.
Each region is made up of different islands and parts, some of which are suitable for day trips, and each has its own unique features. The facilities provided are well-suited for divers of all levels, from beginners to advanced, allowing everyone to experience the peak of enjoyment.
Which one of the areas do you choose for diving in Thailand?
