I’ll never forget this moment: We were living in Koh Tao at that time, and I was pregnant with our second daughter. Early in the morning, before work, my husband and I went snorkeling. We had just swum a few meters out when suddenly, we were surrounded by seven blacktip reef sharks.
That morning, I realized you don’t have to dive deep in Thailand to experience incredible sights.
We’ve been living here since 2019 and regularly go snorkeling and scuba diving. In this guide, I’ll share the top 10 snorkeling spots in Thailand so you can have unforgettable underwater adventures on your next trip!
Best Snorkeling Spots in Thailand
Here’s a quick table—scroll down for all the details!
1. Koh Tao – The Snorkeling Capital of Thailand
Koh Tao is the place to be if you love snorkeling. Known as “Turtle Island,” it’s got clear water, colorful coral, and tons of marine life. The best part? You don’t even need a boat—just walk in from the beach, and you’re in a tropical underwater paradise.
What to Expect
Koh Tao is packed with sheltered bays, shallow reefs, and tons of fish. The water is calm and warm, making it perfect for beginners, families, and anyone who just wants to float around and watch the fish. Expect to see parrotfish, butterflyfish, sea turtles, and even blacktip reef sharks (don’t worry—they’re harmless!).
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Shark Bay – The most exciting spot! Blacktip reef sharks love it here, and so will you.
- Ao Leuk – Calm, shallow, and packed with beautiful corals and tropical fish. Great for kids and beginners.
- Hin Wong Bay – A snorkeler’s dream, with crazy underwater rock formations and loads of marine life.
- Tanote Bay – Less crowded but just as stunning, with vibrant coral gardens and schools of fish.
Who It’s For
Koh Tao is perfect for everyone. Shallow reefs and gentle waves make it easy for beginners, but there are also deep drop-offs and rocky areas for more adventurous snorkelers.
How to Get There
Koh Tao is only accessible by boat:
- From Koh Samui or Koh Phangan – Ferries take 1.5 to 2 hours.
- From Surat Thani or Chumphon (mainland Thailand) – Expect a 2 to 3-hour ride.
Best Time to Visit
Snorkeling is best from March to September, when the Gulf of Thailand has calm seas and great visibility. But honestly? You can snorkel here all year round.
2. Similan Islands – Pristine Marine Wonderland
The Similan Islands are a snorkeler’s dream. This group of eleven protected, gorgeous islands in the Andaman Sea has some of the clearest water and healthiest coral reefs in Thailand. If you love colorful fish, sea turtles, and endless blue, this is the place to be.
The scenery above water is just as stunning, with massive granite boulders and soft white sand beaches.
What to Expect
Snorkeling here is like swimming in an aquarium. The coral reefs are full of life, with giant sea fans, anemones, and soft corals everywhere. You’ll see schools of tropical fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. If you’re lucky, you might spot a manta ray or a clown triggerfish gliding through the water.
Best Snorkeling Areas
- Donald Duck Bay – Yes, it’s named after a rock shaped like Donald Duck’s beak. Shallow, clear water makes it a great spot for sea turtles, clownfish, and anemones.
- Koh Miang – Calm, warm waters with beautiful coral gardens and tons of reef fish. One of the best spots for relaxed snorkeling.
- Christmas Point – A great place for spotting bigger fish, including moray eels, clown triggerfish, and even manta rays.
Who It’s For
The Similan Islands are amazing for all snorkelers, but some areas can have strong currents. Beginners will love the calm bays, while more experienced snorkelers can explore deeper spots with more marine action.
How to Get There
- From Khao Lak – The easiest option. Speedboats take 1.5 to 2 hours.
- From Phuket – A longer trip. You’ll need to drive or take a bus to Khao Lak, then hop on a speedboat.
Best Time to Visit
The Similan Islands are closed from May to October due to monsoon season. The best time to go is November to April, when the water is calm, clear, and perfect for snorkeling.
3. Koh Lipe – The “Maldives of Thailand”
Koh Lipe is a tiny island with big snorkeling adventures. White sand, crystal-clear water, and coral reefs right off the beach—this place feels like paradise. It’s often called the “Maldives of Thailand”, and once you see it, you’ll know why. Unlike some of Thailand’s busier islands, Ko Lipe is laid-back, peaceful, and perfect for snorkeling straight from the shore.
What to Expect
Koh Lipe’s reefs are shallow, colorful, and full of life. You don’t need a boat—just put on a mask, swim a few meters, and you’ll be surrounded by fish. Expect to see clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, and even blue-spotted stingrays. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a hawksbill turtle gliding by.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Sunrise Beach – The best spot for snorkeling. Coral reefs start just meters from shore. If you go early, you might even see baby reef sharks!
- Pattaya Beach – The most popular beach, but still great for snorkeling. Clear water, easy access, and lots of fish.
- Koh Usen – A tiny island just off Koh Lipe. Healthy corals, tons of fish, and fewer people. Perfect for a short boat trip.
Who It’s For
Koh Lipe is great for everyone. The reefs are easy to reach, the water is calm, and there’s plenty to see even in the shallows. Perfect for beginners, families, and anyone who loves relaxed snorkeling.
How to Get There
Koh Lipe is only accessible by boat.
- From Pak Bara Pier (Satun Province) – The fastest option, 1.5 to 2 hours by speedboat.
- From Langkawi, Malaysia – A direct ferry takes about 90 minutes.
Best Time to Visit
The best snorkeling conditions are from November to April—calm seas, clear water, and warm weather. May to October is monsoon season, so expect stronger waves and lower visibility.
4. Surin Islands – Best for Off-Shore Snorkeling
The Surin Islands are a dream for snorkelers. Remote, wild, and home to some of the best coral reefs in Thailand. If you want clear water, tons of fish, and fewer crowds, this is the place.
What to Expect
Snorkeling here feels like swimming in a giant aquarium. Corals are bright and healthy, and the water is crystal clear. You’ll see huge schools of fish, playful sea turtles, and if you’re really lucky, a whale shark! Barracudas often hang around too, making things even more exciting.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Chong Kad Channel – One of the best spots for big fish sightings. Expect barracudas, reef sharks, and maybe even a manta ray.
- Ao Mae Yai Bay – Shallow, calm, and full of colorful fish. Great for all levels.
- Ao Tao – Less visited but just as stunning. Beautiful coral gardens and lots of marine life.
Who It’s For
The Surin Islands are perfect for everyone. The water is calm, the reefs are shallow, and there’s so much to see.
How to Get There
- From Kuraburi Pier – The fastest route, about 1.5 hours by speedboat.
- From Khao Lak or Phuket – You can book a day trip, but staying overnight is way better.
Best Time to Visit
November to April is the best time to go. Clear skies, calm seas, perfect snorkeling. The islands close from May to mid-October because of monsoon season.
5. Phi Phi Islands – Vibrant Coral Reefs
The Phi Phi Islands are famous for their dramatic cliffs, turquoise water, and amazing snorkeling spots. Whether you’re swimming with colorful reef fish, spotting leopard sharks, or gliding over anemone gardens, this place feels like a real-life postcard. The best part? You don’t have to be a pro—just grab a mask and jump in!
What to Expect
The water here is super clear, and the reefs are full of life. You’ll see schools of tropical fish, soft corals, and maybe even a leopard shark cruising by. If you love snorkeling in stunning locations, Phi Phi won’t disappoint.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Maya Bay – One of the most famous beaches in Thailand. Clear water, vibrant corals, and tons of fish. The scenery? Unreal.
- Monkey Beach – Expect curious monkeys on land and beautiful coral gardens in the water. Great for spotting clownfish and parrotfish.
- Loh Sama Bay – A top spot for spotting leopard sharks, anemone fields, and tons of reef fish.
Who It’s For
Phi Phi is great for all snorkelers. The water is warm and clear, and there are plenty of easy, shallow spots. If you’re more experienced, try deeper areas where you might see sharks and bigger fish.
How to Get There
- From Phuket or Krabi – Ferries take 1.5 to 2 hours.
- From Koh Lanta – Speedboats take about an hour.
- Once on the islands – You can rent a longtail boat to reach the best snorkeling spots.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to snorkel around Phi Phi is November to April—calm seas, clear visibility, and warm weather. May to October brings the monsoon, so expect choppier water and less visibility.
6. Koh Chang – Underrated Snorkeling Spot
Koh Chang doesn’t get as much attention as Koh Tao or Phi Phi, but it should. This lush, jungle-covered island has amazing snorkeling, especially around the nearby Koh Rang National Park. If you’re looking for clear water, colorful corals, and fewer crowds, Koh Chang is a great choice.
What to Expect
Snorkeling here is super laid-back. You’ll find calm, shallow reefs full of marine life—reef fish, stingrays, and even seahorses if you’re lucky. The corals are healthy, and the water is warm and inviting. It’s not as busy as other snorkeling spots in Thailand, which makes it a great option for a relaxed trip.
Best Snorkeling Beaches
- Bang Bao Bay – One of the best off-the-beach snorkeling spots. Shallow reefs, clear water, and plenty of fish.
- Koh Rang National Park – A short boat ride from Koh Chang. Stunning coral reefs, large schools of fish, and the occasional stingray. One of the best snorkeling areas in Eastern Thailand.
Who It’s For
Koh Chang is great for beginners and relaxed snorkelers. The reefs are easy to reach and not too deep, making it a perfect spot for families, couples, and casual snorkelers.
How to Get There
Koh Chang is easily accessible from mainland Thailand:
- From Bangkok – A 5-hour drive or bus ride to Laem Ngop Pier, then a 30-minute ferry to Koh Chang.
- From Trat Airport – A 20-minute taxi ride to the pier, then a quick ferry over.
Best Time to Visit
The best snorkeling conditions are from November to April—calm seas, clear water, and sunny skies. May to October is the rainy season, so expect rougher seas and lower visibility.
7. Koh Rok – Untouched Beauty
If you’re dreaming of snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by vibrant coral and tropical fish, Koh Rok is perfect. This tiny paradise is part of Mu Ko Lanta National Park and has some of the best-preserved reefs in Thailand. With shallow, calm waters and barely any crowds, it’s an amazing spot for a peaceful snorkeling adventure.
What to Expect
Koh Rok has bright coral gardens, tons of fish, and perfect visibility. You might see clownfish, butterflyfish, and even a sea turtle cruising by. The beaches? Soft white sand and totally unspoiled. It’s one of the best day trips from Koh Lanta if you want a mix of snorkeling and relaxing.
Best Snorkeling Areas
- Ao Man Sai – Calm, shallow, and packed with fish. Great for beginners and families.
- Koh Rok Nok – A stunning reef with vibrant corals and big schools of fish. Perfect for both beginner and experienced snorkelers.
Who It’s For
Koh Rok is amazing for beginners, thanks to shallow waters and gentle waves. But even experienced snorkelers will love it for the healthy reefs and peaceful atmosphere.
How to Get There
- From Koh Lanta – Speedboats take about an hour. Many tour operators offer day trips with snorkeling stops and lunch on the beach.
- From Phuket or Krabi – Some longer boat tours include Koh Rok in island-hopping trips.
Best Time to Visit
The perfect conditions for snorkeling are November to April—calm water, great visibility, and sunny skies. Like other national parks in Thailand, Koh Rok is closed from May to October due to monsoon season.
8. Koh Kood – Hidden Snorkeling Gem
Koh Kood is one of Thailand’s most underrated islands. It’s quiet, less touristy, and has some of the clearest water you’ll find. If you’re looking for secluded beaches, healthy coral reefs, and a peaceful snorkeling experience, this is the place.
What to Expect
Koh Kood’s reefs are pristine and full of life. You’ll see schools of reef fish, soft and hard corals, and even the occasional sea turtle. The best part? No crowds! This island is way less developed than Koh Tao or Koh Phi Phi, so it still feels untouched and wild.
Best Snorkeling Areas
- Ao Phrao – A beautiful, quiet bay with crystal-clear water. Snorkel straight from the beach and find colorful corals and reef fish.
- Ao Klong Hin – One of the best snorkeling spots on the island. Pristine reefs, great visibility, and hardly any tourists.
Who It’s For
Koh Kood is perfect for snorkelers who love peace and nature. The waters are calm and shallow, making it great for beginners and families. If you’re looking for vibrant coral reefs without the crowds, this is the island for you.
How to Get There
Koh Kood is not as easy to reach as other islands, but that’s part of its charm!
- From Trat – Take a speedboat (1-1.5 hours) from Laem Sok Pier.
- From Bangkok – First, take a bus or flight to Trat, then hop on a speedboat.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit is November to April—calm water, great visibility, and warm weather. Avoid May to October, as the monsoon brings rougher seas and rain.
9. Phuket – Best Accessible Snorkeling
Phuket is one of the easiest places to snorkel in Thailand. You don’t need long boat rides or expensive tours—just head to one of the island’s many beaches, put on a mask, and dive in. If you’re looking for easy access to coral reefs, calm waters, and diverse marine life, Phuket has some great spots. Plus, if you want to explore further, Racha Yai and Coral Island are just a short boat trip away.
What to Expect
Phuket’s best snorkeling spots have clear water, shallow reefs, and lots of fish. You’ll see parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even a sea turtle. The reefs here aren’t as vibrant as Koh Tao or the Similan Islands, but they’re still beautiful and super easy to reach.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Ao Sane Beach – A small, quiet beach with coral reefs just meters from shore. One of Phuket’s hidden gems for snorkeling.
- Ya Nui Beach – A calm, sandy bay with good coral and plenty of fish. Great for beginners.
- Banana Beach – A beautiful, less crowded beach with clear water and easy snorkeling.
Day Trips for Even Better Snorkeling
- Racha Yai – A short boat ride from Phuket, with some of the clearest water and healthiest reefs in the area.
- Coral Island (Koh He) – A quick 15-minute boat trip from Phuket. Great for a relaxed day of snorkeling and beach time.
Who It’s For
Phuket is perfect for casual snorkelers and families. If you want easy access to snorkeling without a long trip, this is the best spot. For better reefs and clearer water, take a short boat trip to Racha Yai or Coral Island.
How to Get There
- Phuket has an international airport, making it one of the easiest places to reach in Thailand.
- Once you’re on the island, you can take a taxi, rent a scooter, or book a boat trip to the best snorkeling spots.
Best Time to Visit
Snorkeling is best from November to April—calm seas, good visibility, and warm water. May to October is monsoon season, which means stronger waves and lower visibility at some beaches.
10. Koh Samui – Best for Families
Koh Samui is a great island for snorkeling—especially if you’re traveling with kids. It has calm, shallow reefs, easy beach access, and plenty of marine life. While the snorkeling isn’t as famous as Koh Tao or the Similan Islands, there are still some great spots where you can swim with colorful fish just a few meters from shore. If you’re up for a short boat trip, Koh Tan and Ang Thong National Marine Park offer even better snorkeling.
What to Expect
Koh Samui’s snorkeling spots have gentle waves, warm water, and easy access—perfect for beginners. You’ll see parrotfish, butterflyfish, and small coral formations. Some areas have seagrass beds where sea turtles like to hang out.
Best Snorkeling Spots
- Silver Beach – A beautiful, long beach and one of the best off-the-beach snorkeling spots on Samui. Clear water, small coral patches, and lots of fish.
- Koh Tan – A small island just 20 minutes from Samui, with better coral reefs and plenty of marine life. A great day trip.
- Ang Thong National Marine Park – A stunning group of islands with crystal-clear water, hidden lagoons, and coral reefs. Snorkeling here is incredible.
Who It’s For
Koh Samui is perfect for families and beginners. The water is calm and shallow, and there are plenty of easy spots to snorkel right off the beach. If you want better reefs, take a short boat trip to Koh Tan or Ang Thong.
How to Get There
- Koh Samui has its own airport, with flights from Bangkok, Phuket, and other major cities.
- Ferries also run from Surat Thani and Don Sak Pier on the mainland.
- To reach Koh Tan or Ang Thong, you’ll need to book a boat tour or hire a private longtail boat.
Best Time to Visit
The best snorkeling conditions are from January to September—calm seas, good visibility, and warm weather. October to December can bring rain and rougher water, but some spots are still swimmable.
Check out these amazing hotels in Bangkok, or use the map below. 👇
Snorkeling Tips for Thailand
Snorkeling in Thailand is amazing, but a little planning can make it even better. Here are some simple tips to help you have a safe and fun experience.
Best Season for Snorkeling
The best time to snorkel in Thailand is November to April. The water is clear, calm, and warm. From May to October, the sea can be rough, and some places, like the Similan and Surin Islands, are closed.
Rent or Bring Your Own Gear?
- Bring your own – If you snorkel often, it’s better to have your own mask and snorkel. It fits well and is cleaner.
- Rent at the beach – If you don’t want to carry gear, you can rent from local shops or tour guides. Always check for leaks before heading into the water.
Protect the Ocean
- Use reef-safe sunscreen – Some sunscreens harm coral and fish. Use a reef-friendly one or wear a rash guard.
- Don’t touch corals or fish – Corals are alive and grow slowly. Touching them can kill them.
- Don’t feed the fish – It changes their natural behavior and hurts the reef.
Stay Safe in the Water
- Watch for currents – Some places have strong currents. Check the weather and water conditions before snorkeling.
- Listen to guides – Some areas have rules to protect nature. Always follow local advice.
- Stay aware of boats – Some snorkeling spots are busy with boats. Stick to safe areas and wear bright colors if needed.
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Final Thoughts on the Best Snorkeling Spots in Thailand
As you can see, Thailand has so many amazing spots for snorkeling. Personally, I’ve had better experiences snorkeling here than scuba diving. You don’t need to hop on a dive boat or go 20 meters deep to spot sea turtles and blacktip sharks – they’re right there in the shallow waters!
I hope this helps with your trip planning, and I wish you some magical snorkeling adventures in Thailand!
What’s your favorite snorkeling spot in Thailand? Or is there one you’re dying to try? Let me know in the comments!
Thank you for reading and for making me part of your day! Yours, Lulu
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