Neil Aronson Thailand is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in the world, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, Thailand’s diverse islands and coastal areas provide excellent opportunities to explore underwater.
Besides snorkeling, these areas offer lots more, including sandy beaches, turquoise seas, and incredible rock formations. Water activities abound, in addition to a great towns, waterfalls, temples, and of course great food. Go hiking or play golf, or just relax at the resort.
Why And When To Go
Southern Thailand’s lush tropical coastlines, reefs and islands offers a diversity of snorkeling spots, in both Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. More than 900 species of reef fish are found around the nearly 500 islands scattered along the country’s coasts.
Whether you’re looking for secluded coral gardens, vibrant reefs, or an abundance of marine life, Thailand offers some of the world’s most spectacular snorkeling destinations. From the famous Similan Islands to the quieter beaches of Koh Lipe, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Thailand’s underwater paradise.
Like the rest of Thailand, the area has its dry and wet seasons but is hot most of the year. The rainy season falls between July and October, but rain showers usually only last a couple hours or less. Prices are cheaper and less crowded.
November through April are high season for water activities, with the best weather. During this time, the weather is warm, the seas are calm, and the water visibility is excellent. The rainy season (May to October) can bring rough seas and poor visibility, especially in the Andaman Sea. This is also a good time to visit as it’s slightly cooler and less humid. The hottest months are April and May.
The most popular way to go snorkeling at one of the remote islands is by booking a tour. Most hotels and shops in town can arrange for them. Viator is another popular way to book one.
Travel In Thailand On Air Asia
Resources
Agoda is the best place to book cheap affordable hotels in Thailand, especially near national parks. They also book flights as well.
Expedia is my favorite place to book flights, hotels, cars, and more. Their group includes Hotels.com and Vrbo for vacation rentals.
Viator is the top choice for activities. Book everything from a waterfall tour to scuba diving, jungle trekking to cooking classes.
12Go is the top transportation source for Asia. From busses to trains to regional flights.
Air Asia is the top regional discount airlines for Thailand and all Southeast Asia.
Destinations:
Similan Islands
Location: Similan Islands are an archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea, 70Km off the coast of Khao Lak, Phang Nga Province.
The Similan Islands are part of a protected national park and are considered one of the best snorkeling (and diving) destinations in the world. With crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, you can expect to see vibrant coral reefs, giant schools of fish, sea turtles, and even manta rays and whale sharks (although rare).
The main characteristics of the islands are the rock formations which consist of huge boulders, shallow waters and dense tropical forests.
Koh 8 (Ko Similan): Known for its vibrant corals and abundance of marine life.
Koh 9 (Ko Bangu) is famous for clear waters and diverse underwater landscapes.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is one of Thailand’s most famous islands, known for its dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches. The surrounding waters offer excellent snorkeling with coral gardens and a wide variety of fish. Maya Bay, featured in the movie ‘The Beach’, is also a popular spot for snorkeling. You can stay on the islands in one of the many amazing resorts you can book on Agoda.
Book a tour with Viator. Travel between the dispersed natural wonders of the Phi Phi archipelago during a speedboat tour from Phuket. Traveling by super-fast boat means that you spend less time in transit and more time snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing at Khai Nok and Maya Bay—a protected cove featured in the blockbuster movie The Beach.
Shark Point is famous for sightings of blacktip reef sharks.
Maya Bay has clear water and beautiful coral, although it can be crowded.
Ao Ling (Monkey Beach): A quiet spot with clear waters and healthy corals.
Where To Stay On Phi Phi Islands
Paradise Pearl Bungalows. Boasting a garden, terrace, restaurant and free WiFi, Paradise Pearl Bungalows is situated in Phi Phi Don, a few steps from Long Beach and less than 1 km from Loh Moo Dee Beach.
Phi Phi Mountain Beach Resort SHA Certified has an outdoor swimming pool, garden, a terrace and restaurant in Phi Phi Don. Featuring a bar, the 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The accommodation provides room service, a tour desk and luggage storage for guests.
Phi Phi Island Cabana Hotel is spread across 12 acres of land with stunning views of Ton Sai Bay and Loh Da Lum Bay. Offering guestrooms decorated in a modern-oriental style in six building, guests can also enjoy the on-site facilities including a large outdoor pool, internet room with complimentary WiFi and three dining options and a bar.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is known for its affordable diving and snorkeling experiences. It is located in the Gulf of Thailand, near Koh Samui. The island is surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life, making it a perfect destination for underwater exploration. It’s ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
Restaurants, nightspots and dive shops cluster in Mae Haad Beach and near Sai Ri Beach. Villas dot palm-fringed beaches such as Chalok Baan Kao Bay, on the south coast. In the northwest, Koh Nang Yuan is a group of islets with hilltop views. Ko Tao is known for its tropical coral reefs, with species including whale sharks and rays. Hawksbill and green turtles gather here to breed.
Shark Bay is one of the best places to see blacktip reef sharks and other marine life.
Ao Leuk has clear water and beautiful coral reefs.
Mango Bay with its Calm waters with vibrant coral gardens and tropical fish.
Where To Stay On Koh Tao
Jamahkiri Dive Resort & Spa provides luxurious accommodation along Thian Og Bay. It offers WiFi and pier transfers for free. It has a private beach, a pool and certified diving center. The spacious Thai-style rooms come with private balconies boasting spectacular ocean views and plenty of natural light.
Cape Shark Villas offers luxurious villas and a private beach area. Private pool are also available in selected villas. Free private parking and free shuttle service is available. Cape Shark Pool Villas is 3.7 km from Sairee Beach and 6.8 km from Nangyuan Island. It is a 15-minute drive from Maehaad Pier. Samui Airport is located 62 km away.
Koh Lipe
Often referred to as Thailand’s ‘Maldives’. Koh Lipe is located near the Malaysian border in the Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe boasts pristine waters, white sand beaches, and spectacular coral reefs. The island is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, which ensures that the waters remain protected and abundant with marine life.
The nearest airport is Kat Yai Domestic Airport in Hat Yai district of Songkhla Province. Once arriving at the airport, there are always minivans waiting to take passengers to Pak Bara Pier. The trip to Pak Bara Pier takes less than 2 hours, about 120 km.
There are also regular minivan services from Krabi Town to Pak Bara Pier. These can be arranged from the main bus terminal in the town, or from hotels.
There are speedboats operating from Pak Bara on the mainland to Ko Lipe, they stop by at Ko Tarutao if the boat staff are informed. Price is around 300-400 Baht per person.
Pattaya Beach: The clear waters offer excellent visibility, ideal for snorkeling.
Sunset Beach: Great for spotting clownfish and other tropical fish.
Koh Usen: A secluded spot with vibrant coral gardens.
Where To Stay On Koh Lipe
AKIRA Lipe Resort. Boasting a beachfront location, Akira Beach Resort is placed along the Pattaya sandy beach,a 5-minute walk to the walking street. The property features 3 well-designed swimming pools, a garden and a gym. It also includes a kids’ club and a library.
Chareena Hill Beach Resort faces Pattaya beach, and offers 3-star accommodations with a garden, terrace and restaurant. Among the facilities at this property are room service and a tour desk, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The resort features family rooms.
Koh Phangan & Ang Thong NP
Known for its full moon parties, Koh Phangan also offers excellent snorkeling in its calm, warm waters. There are many quiet, secluded beaches where you can snorkel and enjoy the underwater life in peace. Ang Thong National Park is just west of Koh Phangan, and the only way to enter the park is through licensed tour operators that can be booked through Viator.
The National Park islands and the waters around are a popular destination for day-trips from the nearby islands for snorkeling, canoeing/kayaking, enjoying the beaches, hiking and more. There are many tour companies offering both group and private tours to the islands, these can easily be arranged on arrival to the island.
Haad Yuan Beach is a peaceful beach with clear waters and abundant marine life.
Ao Thong Nai Pan is a great spot for beginner snorkelers with shallow, clear waters.
Mae Haad Beach is home to the famous “Secret Beach”, with great coral and tropical fish.
Where To Stay On Koh Phangan
Kupu Kupu Phangan Beach Villas & Spa is just steps away from the white sand of Naiwok Beach. This is luxurious accommodation, and features an outdoor infinity pool and a private beach. It offers the convenience of an on-site restaurant, 2 bars and free WiFi, which is available throughout the resort. Thong Sala Pier and the shopping street are a 10-minute drive from the property. Samui Island is a 30-minute boat ride away.
Varivana Resort is a mountain resort located in Thongsala, 1.7 km from Hin Kong Beach. The resort provides free bikes, free private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a garden. Each accommodation at the 4-star resort has mountain views, and guests can enjoy access to a restaurant and to a bar. The resort features a hot tub, room service and free WiFi.
Dreamville is located in Thongsala and more mid range, 700 meters from Nai Wok Beach. They have an outdoor swimming pool, free private parking and a garden.
Pavana Boutique & Kite Bungalows is located a few steps from Thong Sala Beach. Nai Wok Beach is 1.6 km from the lodge, while Baan Tai Beach is 1.8 km away.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular destinations, offering a good mix of luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and great snorkeling spots. Therefor, is can also be crowded and hotels are pricier.
It is located just next to Koh Phangan, and many people use it to get to its neighbor. While it may not have the same pristine underwater environment as some of the more remote islands, you can still find fantastic spots just off the coast.
Lamai Beach is somewhat similar to Chaweng beach, and is one of the best beaches located on the east coast of Koh Samui, Thailand. It’s known for its scenic beauty, soft white sand, and clear blue waters, making it a great destination for beach lovers and tourists.
Koh Tan is an island off the southern tip of Koh Samui, offering beautiful coral reefs and calm waters for snorkeling. This is also a popular island to explore Ang Thong Marine Park, mentioned above.
Where To Stay On Koh Samui
Lamai Coconut Beach Resort – Beachfront and offer a layout option like a balcony or terrace.
The Fisherman’s Chalet – Small cabins hidden in the trees, featuring flat screen TV’s and Wi-Fi. Some units have balcony with ocean views.
Krabi
The waters around Krabi are famous for their limestone karst formations and beautiful beaches. The nearby Hong Islands are a great place for snorkeling with calm, clear waters and healthy coral reefs. While you can snorkel around Krabi, many people take day trips to nearby islands, which can be booked on Viator.
Located on Thailand’s west coast, towards the south of the country, Krabi province has 160km of coastline as well as over 130 tropical islands in the Andaman Sea, including protected national parks such as Koh Phi Phi and Koh Lanta, so it’s no surprise that it is one of the most popular destinations in Asia. If you’re looking for relaxing beaches, stunning scenery, and great activities, then Krabi is the place to be.
Ao Nang is a great area, and although it’s a busy area, you can find good snorkeling just off the beach, especially around the nearby Hong Islands and Poda Island. Staying in Krabi is a great option to access some of the other locations on this list.
Where To Stay In Krabi
Pimalai Resort and Spa is Koh Lanta’s first and finest five-star hotel cascades through the tropical rainforest to Kantiang Bay, one of Thailand’s best beaches. Excellent restaurants and facilities, including a cliffside pool and award-winning spa.
Amari Vogue Krabi. The charming four-star hotel set on the outskirts of Krabi has spacious teak-lined rooms, four pretty swimming pools, three restaurants and a tip-top spa, but what really makes it special is its location shimmying directly onto the white-sand shores of beautiful Tubkaak beach.
Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are part of the Mu Ko Surin National Park, and are a protected area that’s home to diverse marine life. With warm, clear waters and coral reefs, it’s a top spot for snorkelers and divers alike.
The Surin Islands archipelago is situated in the picturesque Thai province of Phang Nga. They are about 60km away from the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. The closest town is Khuraburi, which is a traditional coastal location with a busy port, a great market and a laid back attitude.
The park is closed during the rainy seasons, the annual closure periods may vary from year to year. Sometimes the park may close earlier than the announced time because of bad weather.
The main islands are Ko Surin Nuea and Ko Surin Tai which are only 200 meters apart, the corridor between both islands is shallow and a popular place for snorkelling. The other three small islands are Ko Ri, Ko Khai and Ko Klang. Mai Ngam Bay is famous for its underwater life, including turtles and small sharks.
Diving and snorkelling are the main activities in the islands. The best time for diving is around December to April when the wind is minimal and the average water temperature is around 29 °C. Snorkels and lifejackets are available for rent from the visitor center of the park, each item for 40 Baht per day.
It is possible to camp at one of the two campsites or rent one of the few accommodations in the islands, right next to the white beaches.
Koh Samet
Koh Samet is known for its white sandy beaches and clear waters, making it an excellent choice for snorkeling. The island is part of the Koh Samet National Park, and while it is more developed than some other islands, it still offers some great snorkeling.
Easily accessible by boat from Rayong, which is an hour from Pattaya and about 2 hours drive from Bangkok. So this makes it a popular weekend getaway for local Bangkok residents. The ferry ride from Rayong is about an hour. Another option is a speedboat that only takes 15 minutes. A day trip option is available on Viator, where you can just go for the day.
Some of the best spots for snorkeling and diving in Ko-Samet include Hin Khao and Koh Kudi, where you can see colorful fish and vibrant coral. If you’re lucky, you may even spot sea turtles or dolphins. Experienced divers can explore deeper waters and discover shipwrecks and underwater caves.
Where To Stay On Koh Samui
The different beach areas vary dramatically in regards to things to do and whether it is quiet or not. The weekends can turn into a party scene on the island. See our Koh Samet Guide for more.
How to get to and from these locations
Several great choices to book flights, are Air Asia, Expedia, or through 12Go.
Only Koh Samui, Krabi, Phuket can be directly accessed by flight. For the rest you will need ground and boat transportation. 12Go is the most popular site to book in Asia.
Krabi International Airport serves over 10 flights a day to/from Bangkok, as well as several from Chiang Mai. So one of the most convenient ways of arriving to Krabi Town to start your travels is to fly. It also connects other flights from all around Asia, should you be coming from a neighboring country.
For Koh Samui, By Air is the most convenient and quickest way to reach Koh Samui is by taking a direct flight to Samui Airport. Many domestic airlines operate flights to Koh Samui from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi Airport and Don Mueang Airport), Chiang Mai, Phuket, and other major Thai cities.
Koh Samui By Ferry, you can take a ferry from several mainland piers in locations such as Surat Thani, Don Sak, and Donsak Pier to Koh Samui’s main piers, which include Nathon Pier, Lipa Noi Pier, and Maenam Pier.
Koh Samet is simple to get to from Bangkok or Pattaya. From Rayong it’s a simple boat ride over to the island. There are several company options. However you can book through the popular travel site 12Go. Choose from either the slow boat of the high speed boat. Both are cheap. We took the slow boat. I don’t think I knew there was a faster option at the time.
