Snorkeling in Thailand is getting more fun and relaxing as they are developing their infrastructure day by day. Tourists visit Thailand for several reasons and Snorkelling is one of them. They have plenty of available tour packages that you can easily book online.
But before heading off you should know the best snorkeling spots in Thailand, the Cost of Snorkeling in Thailand, and The best time to visit your desired location. Not only these I shared why you should visit the spot and how to visit your desired snorkeling spot. You will also find the best snorkeling tour packages in Thailand for the spots I discussed below.
Best Islands in Thailand for Snorkeling
Thailand is blessed with an abundance of stunning beaches offering fantastic snorkeling opportunities. Here are some of the best islands in Thailand for snorkeling:
Koh Tao
Why to go? Known as one of the top snorkeling destinations in Thailand, Koh Tao boasts crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Some popular snorkeling spots include Shark Island, Mango Bay, and Aow Leuk.
The best time to visit Koh Tao is February through April because of the weather, dive visibility, and fewer crowds. March and April are also one of the best times to see whale sharks.
Where is Koh Tao Located? 45 km north of Koh Phangan; District: Ko Pha-ngan; Province: Surat Thani;
Bangkok to Koh Tao
Getting to Koh Tao Island from Bangkok is relatively easy as there are several transportation options. You can directly fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui Island and then take a Boat from Koh Samui to Koh Tao Island.
Alternatively, you can reach the nearest city Surat Thani, or Chumphon from Bangkok by Bus, Car, or Flight and then reach the nearest Ferry port to choose your transportation to Koh Tao. Read more from the main article on Koh Tao Island.
Read The Ultimate Guide to Koh Tao Island
What are the Koh Tao’s Popular Tour Packages?
Similan Islands
Why to go to the Similan Islands? Similan Islands are renowned for their pristine white-sand beaches and excellent snorkeling sites. These islands are rich in biodiversity. You can have the chance to encounter sea turtles, reef sharks, and a variety of tropical fish on these islands. The best time to visit the Similan Islands is November to mid-May.
Location: In the Andaman Sea, Lam Kaen, Phang-nga, Thailand
How to get to the Similan Islands?
Getting to the Similan islands is relatively easy. From Bangkok Reach Phuket or Khao Lak. From Phuket or Khao Lak, you’ll need to make your way to Thap Lamu Pier to reach Similan island. Book a Tour guide or Charter a Boat. You can book an overnight or private tour package from Phuket or Thap Lamu Pier. Book your desired tour package from below.
What are the Similan Islands’ Snorkeling Packages?
Koh Phi Phi Island
Why to go? The Phi Phi Islands, particularly Phi Phi Leh and Phi Phi Don, offer breathtaking underwater scenery ideal for snorkeling. Maya Bay, made famous by the movie “The Beach,” is a popular snorkeling spot with its clear turquoise waters and vibrant marine life. The best time to visit Koh Phi Phi Island is between November and April.
Location: Ao Nang, Mueang Krabi District, Krabi, Thailand
How to get from Bangkok to Koh Phi Phi?
To visit Koh Phi Phi Island from Bangkok there are two options:
1) You can fly or take an overnight Bus from Bangkok to Krabi Airport. Once you’re in Krabi, head to the ferry terminal Ao Nang Pier to catch a ferry to Koh Phi Phi.
2) Another option is to fly from Bangkok to Phuket International Airport. Phuket is a larger island with more frequent ferry services to Koh Phi Phi compared to Krabi. Then go to the ferry terminal Rassada Pier Choose your ferry to Koh Phi Phi.
Ferries to Koh Phi Phi come in different types, including speedboats, express ferries, and traditional longtail boats.
Koh Samui to Phi Phi Island: There are no direct options from Koh Samui to Phi Phi Island. You’ll first need to take a ferry from Koh Samui to Surat Thani by Ferry or Speedboat. From Surat Thani ferry terminal, you can take a bus or taxi to Krabi. Then take a taxi to the Ferry terminal Ao Nang Pier. Now, Book your package trip or choose your Ferry or Speedboat to Phi Phi Island.
What are the Popular Tour Packages?
Koh Lanta Island
Why to go? With its laid-back atmosphere and diverse marine ecosystems, Koh Lanta is a great destination for snorkelers of all levels. Explore the coral gardens of Koh Haa or discover colorful fish and sea creatures at Hin Daeng and Hin Muang. The best time to Go Koh Lanta Island is from December to February
Location: Ko Lanta, Karabi, Thailand
How to get to Koh Lanta?
There are two options to get to Koh Lanta from Bangkok. You can select your preferred option.
Phuket to Koh Lanta: If you’re planning to visit Phuket and its nearest attraction, you can take a ferry from Phuket to Koh Lanta. You can take a flight from Bangkok to Phuket or take an overnight bus. Then go to Rassada Pier and take a Ferry (Recommended) or SpeedBoat from Phuket to Koh Lanta. If you take a ferry then you can have the chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Andaman Sea.
Krabi Airport to Koh Lanta: Krabi is the closest mainland destination to Koh Lanta. You can reach Krabi by flying into Krabi Airport or taking a bus or taxi from other parts of Thailand. Then take a Taxi or a bus to Hua Hin Pier, Karabi. Now take a ferry to Koh Lanta Island.
Popular Snorkelling Packages in Koh Lanta:
Koh Chang
Why to go? As one of Thailand’s largest islands, Koh Chang has numerous snorkeling spots along its coastline. Visit Koh Rang National Marine Park for some of the best snorkeling experiences, where you can swim alongside tropical fish, reef sharks, and even occasional whale sharks. The best time to Visit Koh Chang Island is from November to February
Location: Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang District, Trat Province, Thailand
Koh Chang Island Map
Bangkok Airport to Koh Chang:
From Bangkok Airport you can hire a direct taxi to the Koh Chang Ferry stop at Laem Ngop and then take a Ferry to Koh Chang. This option is more convenient but also more expensive, with the journey taking around 5 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. I don’t know about the other option.
Popular Koh Chang Snorkelling Tour Packages:
Koh Samui
Why to go? While primarily known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Koh Samui also offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. Explore the underwater world at spots like Koh Tan and Koh Mudsum, where you’ll find thriving coral reefs and an array of marine species. The best time to Go to Koh Samui is the dry season from December to August.
Location: Ko Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
Koh Samui Map PDF
How to get to Koh Samui?
Getting to Koh Samui, the beautiful island in the Gulf of Thailand is relatively easy. The most convenient way to reach Koh Samui is by flying directly to Samui Airport (USM) from major cities in Thailand such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai.
The alternative option is to take a bus, train, or car to reach Surat Thani and then take a ferry from the port of Raja Ferry Pier, Don Sak to Koh Samui. The ferry ride takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
Koh Tao to Koh Samui: Simply go to the Koh Tao Ferry port. There you will find several boats, speedboats, and ferries to Koh Samui. If you don’t find any direct options then head to Surat Thani.
Popular Tour Packages:
Ko Pha Ngan
Why to go? Koh Pha Ngan is famous for its Full Moon Party and also offers fantastic snorkeling sites away from the party scene. Head to Bottle Beach or Haad Yao to snorkel in calm, clear waters and encounter colorful coral formations and marine life. The best time to visit Koh Phangan is between mid-December and the end of March.
Location: Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani, Thailand
How to get to Ko Pha Ngan?
You can fly to Koh Samui (the nearest airport) from major cities in Thailand, such as Bangkok, Phuket, and Chiang Mai, as well as from some international destinations. Then take a boat or ferry to Ko Pha Nagn from any of these ferry ports Maenam Pier, Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha Pier), and Lipa Noi Pier.
The alternative option is to come to Surat Thani by Bus, Train, or Car, then reach the ferry port “Raja Ferry Pier, Don Sak” and take a transportation method to Koh Pha Ngan.
Popular Tour Packages:
These are just a few examples of the best beaches for snorkeling in Thailand. Each spots offers unique underwater landscapes and unforgettable experiences for snorkel enthusiasts. Remember to prioritize marine conservation by practicing responsible snorkeling habits and respecting the delicate coral ecosystems.
Best Time to Snorkel in Thailand
The best time to snorkel in Thailand largely depends on the region you plan to visit and the prevailing weather patterns. Here’s a general overview but check the weather forecast before heading for Snorkeling in Thailand:
Andaman Sea (West Coast):
The Andaman Sea, which includes destinations like Phuket, Krabi, and the Similan Islands, experiences the best snorkeling conditions from November to April. During this period, the weather is typically dry with calm seas and excellent visibility, making it ideal for snorkeling and diving. However, the peak tourist season falls between December and February, so expect larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
Gulf of Thailand (East Coast)
Islands like Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand have a slightly different snorkeling season. The best time to snorkel here is between January and August, during the dry season. While the weather can be hot and humid, the sea conditions are generally calm, offering good visibility for snorkeling. Keep in mind that the Gulf of Thailand experiences a rainy season from October to December, which may affect underwater visibility and sea conditions.
Ultimately, the best time to snorkel in Thailand depends on your preferences and the specific destinations you plan to visit. Be sure to check the weather forecast and sea conditions before heading out, and consider factors like water clarity, marine life activity, and tourist crowds when planning your snorkeling adventure in Thailand.
Snorkeling in Thailand Cost
The cost of snorkeling in Thailand can vary depending on several factors, including the location, the type of tour or package, and the level of service provided. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs associated with snorkeling in Thailand:
Cost of Snorkeling Tour Packages in Thailand
- Costs of Day Snorkeling Tour Packages in Thailand: Joining a snorkeling day tour is a popular option for exploring Thailand’s underwater world. Prices for day tours can range from $20 to $100 or more per person, depending on the destination, the number of snorkeling spots visited, and the inclusions such as transportation, equipment rental, meals, and guide services.
- Costs of Multi-Day Snorkeling Trip Packages in Thailand: For a more immersive snorkeling experience, you can opt for a multi-day liveaboard trip, which includes accommodation on a boat and visits to multiple snorkeling sites. Prices for liveaboard trips vary widely depending on the duration of the trip, the level of comfort provided, and the destinations visited. Expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $1000 or more per person for a multi-day liveaboard trip.
Cost of Snorkeling in Thailand independently
If you’re not joining a guided tour and prefer to snorkel independently, you can rent snorkeling equipment from dive shops or beachfront vendors. Prices for snorkeling equipment rental typically range from $5 to $20 per day, depending on the quality of the gear and the location.
National Park Fees
Some snorkeling spots in Thailand are located within national parks, which may require visitors to pay an entrance fee. These fees can vary depending on the park and whether you’re a foreigner or a Thai national. National park fees usually range from $5 to $20 per person.
Think about Extra Fees
Depending on the tour or package you choose, there may be additional optional extras such as underwater photography services, snacks or drinks onboard, or additional activities like kayaking or paddleboarding. These extras can incur additional costs.
It’s important to research and compare different tour operators or rental shops to find the best value for your budget and preferences. Additionally, consider factors such as safety, reputation, and environmental responsibility when choosing a snorkeling tour or rental provider in Thailand.
Before heading off, please read:
Now I hope you got a complete overview of snorkeling in Thailand and the best beaches, how to reach them, the cost of snorkeling, and many more. Stay with us for updates and more recommendations.
