Thailand, as a tourist destination, offers many exciting options to its visitors. With its long, luxurious coastline and rich underwater life and corals, snorkeling is one of the top activities to do in the country. Both to the south, with the Gulf of Thailand, and to the west, along the Andaman Sea, there are numerous snorkeling spots to choose from - for both beginners as well as experienced people.
Snorkeling Destinations in Thailand
Surin Islands: Finding nemo, corals and more!
The five islands together that makeup Surin Islands offer some well-loved snorkeling sites in Thailand. With clear shallow waters, pristine corals, and reefs - the islands provide the perfect snorkeling experience. There is an abundance of marine life found in these areas - snorkelers can often swim with turtles and manta rays, and the area around the Ao Mae Yai Bay has clownfish - where people often delight in finding a Nemo or two!
Best Places to Snorkel: Snorkelling spots in the Mo ko Surin National Park such as Richelieu Rock, Ao To and others.
Cost: THB 3000 to THB 4000 for day trips
1. Richelieu Rock
This isolated pinnacle is located just off the Surin Islands and the Similan Islands. At low tide, you can catch a glimpse of the top of the rock, but it's what's below the surface that truly amazes divers. The horseshoe-shaped rock is surrounded by an array of rocks, pinnacles, overhangs, and small caves, creating the perfect habitat for a diverse range of marine life. Whether you're a macro or wide-angle photographer, there's something for everyone here. From seahorses to tomato clownfish and even mating octopuses, you won't be disappointed with the bountiful marine life at Richelieu Rock.
Cost: Diving at Richelieu Rock costs around 4,000-7,000 Thai Baht for a day trip and 20,000-50,000 Thai Baht for multi-day liveaboard trips, depending on the operator and package.
Best Places to Snorkel: Eastern Ridge, Shark Cave, and the West Ridge
2. Ao Mae Yai
Surin Islands are blessed with about ten picturesque bays that are brimming with incredible beaches, but nothing can beat the splendor of Ao Mae Yai Bay. It is nestled on Southern Surin Island and boasts pristine white sand and clear waters that invite snorkelers, swimmers, and divers to explore its underwater paradise. As part of Mu Koh Surin Marine National Park, you can expect the beaches and surrounding coastlines to be pristine and abundant in wildlife. Make sure to explore the diverse range of marine life, including clownfish, while snorkeling in Ao Mae Yai.
Cost: You can expect to pay anywhere between 500 to 1500 Thai Baht per person for a half-day snorkelling trip in the area.
Phi Phi Islands: Snorkel off the coasts of the famous Maya Bay and others
Best Places to Snorkel: Phi Phi Don, Bamboo Islands, Phi Phi Ley, Maya Bay
Cost: THB 2000 - THB 4000
3. Loh Samah Bay
This famous site is located on the southern tip of Koh Phi Phi Leh, with a small islet in the centre and a beautiful beach tucked away in a small canyon on the northern end. The crystal-clear waters of the channel between Koh Phi Phi Leh and the islet are perfect for snorkelling, while scuba divers can explore the wall diving around the islet down to 20 meters. For an extra special experience, consider night diving in the narrow canyon, where you'll be surrounded by soft coral and Gorgonian sea fans reflecting light from hundreds of crustaceans on the seabed. To get to Loh Sama, hire a long-tail boat from Tonsai Pier and explore other sites around the Phi Phi archipelago while you're at it.
Best Places to Snorkel: Hin Klang, The Canyon, and The Channel
Cost: On average, you can expect to pay around 1,000 to 2,500 Thai baht for a half-day snorkelling trip in Loh Samah Bay.
4. Maya Bay
Maya Bay is not only a visually stunning location, but it also offers some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. The bay is almost entirely made up of coral reefs, providing a vibrant and diverse ecosystem for snorkelers to explore. The main beach stretches for around 200 meters and is surrounded by dramatic cliffs covered with lush greenery on three sides. Snorkelers can immerse themselves in the tranquil waters while marveling at the breathtaking scenery both above and below the surface. With such a beautiful and thriving underwater world to explore, Maya Bay is truly a snorkeler's paradise.
Best Places to Snorkel: Hin Klang, Loh Samah and Pileh
Cost: On average, a half-day snorkelling tour can cost around 1,000-1,500 Thai Baht per person, while a full-day tour can cost around 2,000-3,000 Thai Baht per person.
Note: Currently, the beach at Maya Bay is closed due to environmental conservation efforts, and snorkelling is not allowed in the bay. Before planning a visit, it's important to check the current status of the beach and its accessibility to tourists.
5. Bamboo Island
Bamboo Island is a popular snorkeling destination in Thailand. Its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks, make it an ideal spot for exploring the shallow coral reefs. Accessible by speedboat from Phuket or Krabi, many tour operators offer snorkeling tours to the island.
Best Places to Snorkel: Shark Point
Cost: Around 1,500 to 2,500 Thai Baht per person
Similan Islands: Enjoy the liveboard experience, and discover exotic marine life
A place to avoid crowds and see pristine waters, the Similan Islands are also popular for the liveboard or snorkeling safaris they offer. Lasting for around 3 days, this gives a memorable experience like no other and is also one of the best ways to spot the more reclusive, exotic breeds of marine life like mantas and whale sharks. There are also one-day snorkeling options available.
Read more about Snorkelling in the Similan Islands.
Best Places to Snorkel: Snorkelling spots in the Mo ko Similan National Park, Ko Pa Yu island and others.
Cost: THB 3000 - THB 4000 for day trips
6. Christmas Point
Christmas Point is a popular dive site at the northern end of Similan Islands, consisting of large granite rocks and boulders on a relatively flat sandy seabed. The site is best known for its swim-through at a depth of 24 meters, offering a thrilling experience. With medium currents and world-class visibility, divers can spot marine life such as ribbon eels, leopard/zebra sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and various bony fish. Christmas Point is also known for the occasional appearances of manta rays and whale sharks, making it a must-visit site for experienced divers.
Cost: 2000 - 4000 Thai Baht per person
7. Anita’s Reef Diving Site
Anita's Reef in the Similan Islands of Thailand is a must-visit site for any snorkeling enthusiast. With gentle currents, it's an ideal spot for beginners to get their feet wet while still being able to experience the incredible marine life that the Andaman Sea has to offer. The bottom of the reef boasts a stunning topography with a massive rock surrounded by a sandy area, making it a great place to explore. Don't miss out on the chance to see the abundant marine life and beautiful coral reefs at Anita's Reef.
Cost: 3000 - 4000 Thai Baht per person
Koh Tao: Popular snorkeling spot with an abundance of marine traffic!
Best Places to Snorkel: Snorkelling spots in the Mo ko Similan National Park, Ko Pa Yu island and others.
Cost: THB 3000 - THB 4000 for day trips
8. Tanote Bay
If you're on the hunt for a secluded beach paradise to explore on your next snorkeling adventure, then look no further than Tanote Bay. Located on Koh Tao's serene east coast and embraced by lush green hills, this hidden gem is one of the island's most untouched and picturesque spots. You can take a leap of faith and jump from the massive rock in the middle of the bay or dive into the sheltered waters to discover an incredible array of marine life. Trust us, this idyllic spot is not to be missed!
Cost: 2000 - 3000 Thai Baht per person
9. Japanese Garden
The Japanese Garden is a real gem of a snorkeling spot in Aqaba, offering easy access to some of the best sea life that the Red Sea has to offer. Situated just north of South Beach, this sheltered and shallow reef is perfect for beginners who want to get up close and personal with the vibrant marine life. While the coral may have seen better days, there are still plenty of fascinating fish to discover, many of which are unique to this part of the world. Trust us, the Japanese Garden is an underwater paradise you won't forget in a hurry!
Racha & Coral Islands: Discover a variety of interesting corals, and fish breeds
Racha and Coral Islands include a plethora of coral and marine life around its bays, making it a prime destination for snorkelling in Thailand. Snorkelers can find exotic varieties of corals like cabbage, mushroom, and brain corals. Some of the fish found in these shallow waters include garden eels, parrot fish, and stingrays. Some people even prefer taking a boat out north from the regular snorkeling spots in search of quieter marine pastures!
Best Places to Snorkel: Coral Islands, Lah Bay, Konkae Bay and Siam Bay in Racha Islands
Cost: THB 2000 - THB 4000
10. Coral Islands
With crystal-clear waters, soft white sand, and an abundance of coral reefs, this island is a true paradise for snorkelling enthusiasts. Delve into the warm waters and discover a kaleidoscope of colorful tropical fish, graceful sea turtles, sleek rays, and even majestic sharks. The intricate coral formations are a wonder to behold, offering a home for a diverse array of marine creatures. However, it's important to respect the fragility of the coral reefs and follow local conservation guidelines to preserve this breathtaking ecosystem for generations to come.
Cost: 500 to 1,500 Thai Baht per person
11. Lah Bay
Located on the island of Koh Phi Phi in Thailand, Lah Bay is a popular snorkeling spot known for its clear waters and abundant marine life. Snorkeling in Lah Bay allows visitors to explore the colorful underwater world and encounter a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The reef system in Lah Bay is relatively shallow, making it an ideal location for snorkelling beginners.
Cost: 1500 to 3000 Thai Baht per person
12. Konkae Bay
Located on the west coast near the city of Khon Kaen, this lesser-known spot is home to a diverse range of marine life, from tropical fish to sea turtles and even octopuses. The best part about Konkae Bay is that it's not as crowded as some of the more popular snorkeling spots in Thailand, so you'll feel like you're discovering something new and exciting.
Cost: 2000 to 3000 Thai Baht per person
Tips for Snorkelling in Thailand
- The best time to snorkel in Thailand is between November and April, along the islands that lie next to the Andaman Sea. Some places, like the Racha Islands, offer great snorkeling options from May to October as well.
- Snorkeling gear is available at most locations, so it is convenient and easy to use the ones provided by the guides. If you are a regular snorkeller and intend to use your gears frequently, then investing in them would be worthwhile. Good gears are generally expensive, and if you are a seasoned snorkeller, you could either purchase it from your country of residence or from Bangkok.
- Costs for snorkelling in Thailand are generally in the range of THB 2000 - 4000, or higher for longer expeditions and liveboard.
- It is best to exercise precaution while underwater and avoid touching any corals or underwater creatures.
- Applying sunscreen around 20 minutes prior to entering the waters is often recommended.
- Beginners should take special care not to wander too deep into the waters on their own, and carefully follow the instructions of the guide, and stay within their groups.
- Avoid snorkeling in Thailand during rainy weather and in heavy currents.
So for all water babies, marine life enthusiasts, and adventure lovers in general - the experience of snorkeling in Thailand along its many islands is sure to provide you with a fun, memorable, and truly enjoyable adventure - and will definitely leave you asking for more time in their underwater paradise!