Situated in Southeast Asia, Thailand is renowned for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and vibrant cities. This tropical nation consists of countless islands which offer stunning landscapes and underwater habitats.
Many of Thailand’s celebrated diving spots lie around these islands, such as the famous Similan Islands and Koh Tao. Traveling to Thailand is fairly convenient, with well-connected international airports and ferry systems, ensuring even its most remote islands are relatively accessible.
What makes Thailand so good for diving?
Thailand has much to offer divers thanks to its rich marine biodiversity, clear water, and accessibility. This Southeast Asian hotspot is a popular stop on the backpacker trail, making diving both readily accessible and affordable. Many dive schools cater to beginners and intermediate divers as well, so it’s a great spot to start diving or further your career.
There are two main dive areas in Thailand on either side of the peninsula—the Gulf of Thailand to the east or the Andaman Sea to the west. Visitors should note that the dive seasons in each destination are opposite each other: the best time to dive in the Gulf of Thailand is May through September and the best time to dive the Andaman Sea is October through April.
The waters surrounding Thailand’s peninsula are usually a balmy 77 to 86 F (25 to 30 C) with no to mild currents, making it even better for novice divers. If you are more experienced, choose a liveaboard to avoid the crowds. Overall, Thailand’s combination of vibrant marine ecosystems, accessibility, and diving facilities makes it a top choice for divers seeking unforgettable underwater adventures.
Gulf of Thailand
Koh Phangan, Koh Samui, and Koh Tao make up a trio of islands in the Gulf of Thailand, each with a unique vibe and all popular with tourists. Koh Phangan is home to the world-famous full moon party, Koh Tao is a scuba certification hotspot, and Koh Samui is for the more sophisticated adults. The best dive sites, such as Sail Rock or Chumphon, are accessible from all islands, whether via day trip or a multi-day liveaboard.
Koh Tao
With its chill island vibe and affordable hostels, it’s easy to understand why so many backpackers flock to Koh Tao for entry-level scuba certification. Many resorts and dive schools have a pool, giving students a much more relaxed learning environment. The 15+ local dive spots are within an easy 30-minute boat ride, and the sites range from 16 to 100 feet (5 to 30 m). Regular sightings include colorful fish, sea snakes, and turtles. Koh Tao has plenty of eateries and lively bars, so a beach party is never far away!
→ Chumphon Pinnacle
If you do your open water certification here, chances are that your instructor will persuade you to do your final dives at Chumphon Pinnacle. The descent is guided by two anchor lines, leading down about 50 feet (15 m), with the pinnacle’s base at 100 feet (30 m).
The main pinnacle is beautifully covered with anemones, adorable clownfish, and other vibrant reef fish. Schools of fusiliers, barracuda, and batfish are often seen here too. Whale shark sightings are fairly regular as well, especially from March to September.
→ Shark Island
Shark Island, a small island northeast of Koh Tao, is named for its pyramid-esque structure that resembles a shark’s fin. Due to its mild to strong currents, it’s generally not suitable for entry-level dive courses. These currents, however, support thriving soft coral gardens that decorate the entire dive site.
Underwater photographers will capture vibrant shots filled with fluffy Gorgonian corals. Shark Bay, opposite Shark Island, is a great spot for snorkeling, with huge green turtles residing in the area.
→ Green Rock/Red Rock
Most dive sites around Koh Tao are sandy bottoms with coral gardens, perfect for those on the open water course. On the northern coastlines and edges, dive sites such as Green Rock/Red Rock are decorated with large rocks, boulders, and fun swim-throughs. A little more challenging, Red Rock is perfect when you want to avoid the crowd and scout out less appreciated wildlife, such as tiny nudibranchs and cleaner shrimps.
→ HTMS Sattakut
To keep with Koh Tao’s learning reputation, Sattakut is a textbook wreck. It sits upright in depths ranging from 50 to 100 feet (15 to 30 m), and is a popular wreck dive site for the advanced course. Penetration is permitted so Sattakut is also a good site for the wreck specialty.*
Its island-adjacent location means currents are minimal, and diving around the wreck is quite relaxed. While the corals are not abundant around the wreck, it does provide an unobstructed opportunity to truly admire the ship’s intricate shape and structure.
*On Koh Tao, a popular PADI course combo, often called the “Tri-Spec,” combines the Nitrox, Deep, and Wreck Speciality courses. Typically the morning dive boat sets off around 5 a.m., stopping at the deeper sites—Chumphon or South West—and then does a second dive at HTMS Sattakut. If you choose to do the Tri-Spec it’ll take a few days, but it’s a great opportunity to knock out these specialties in one go and see some great dive sites, all for a decent price.
Type: Pinnacles, coral gardens, wreck
Skill level: Beginner
Access: Boat
Koh Samui
If you’re already a diver, you might want to avoid Koh Tao, with its swarm of new divers and beach bars full of backpackers and their bad decisions. Koh Samui is a large island with more boutique accommodations and sophisticated entertainment. There are still plenty of dive shops offering day trips or liveaboards. Often these boats will do a full day of diving at Sail Rock or Angthong Marine Park.
→ Sail Rock
Halfway between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan is Sail Rock, the jewel of the Gulf of Thailand. This rocky outcrop is an absolute hotspot, attracting some big oceanic players. Sail Rock starts as a gently sloping wall at 15 feet (5 m) and continues down to 115 feet (35 m). Though currents exist, divers can easily hide from them.
There are all kinds of corals, home to anemonefish, sea snakes, angelfish, yellowtail barracudas, and massive groupers. Hanging off to the blue like silver curtains are big schools of batfish or barracudas. Whale sharks are common visitors to the site, and seeing multiple on a dive isn’t unheard of.
→ Angthong Marine Park
Underwater, the 42 jagged limestone islands of Angthong Marine Park transform into interesting caves, chimneys, and overhangs. A variety of soft and hard corals, barrel sponges, and sea fans surround these rocky outcrops.
Snorkeling and freediving are also popular here due to the relatively shallow depths and the interesting swim-throughs. Sea life includes colorful reef fish, bigger reef sharks, cuttlefish, and turtles.
Type: Pinnacles, swim-throughs
Skill level: Beginner to advanced
Access: Boat
Andaman Sea
Running along the entire west coast of Thailand and up to Myanmar, the Andaman Sea offers a wide variety of underwater topography and marine life. The main jumping-off point for liveaboards is Phuket, while if you choose a day boat, there are dozens of dive shops in Phuket, Koh Lanta, Koh Phi Phi, Krabi, and more.
Just like the islands in the Gulf of Thailand, these are also scuba certification hotspots, as well as backpacker favorites, Koh Phi Phi in particular. If you’d like access to some of the region’s more remote sites, including the Surin Islands, Hin Daeng, and Hin Muang, you’ll need to travel by liveaboard.
Surin Islands
On the western side of the Malay Peninsula lie the Surin Islands, an archipelago of five islands within Mu Ko Surin National Park bordering Myanmar. Off the beaten track, these islands showcase pristine natural beauty, both above and below the water. Due to their remote location, you will need a park entrance license to dive here, obtainable only through specific dive operators. Liveaboards often combine visits to the Similan Islands, stopping at Richelieu Rock along the way.
→ Richelieu Rock
Eleven miles (18 km) west of Murin Ko Surin NP sits a random rocky outcrop protruding 100 feet (30 m) out of the water. Thanks to this lonely position, Richelieu Rock is a world-renowned marine hotspot, attracting various pelagic species such as whale sharks, snappers, and manta rays. This horseshoe-shaped reef shelters divers from the strong open-water currents, so you’ll have plenty of time to admire the soft corals, schools of fish, and rare marine critters.
→ Koh Tachai
Another great dive site is Koh Tachai, which is a collection of pinnacles and boulders. Large sea fans and radiant coral gardens thrive on these towering structures, seeking shelter among the maze of giant boulders. This topographically varied site attracts all kinds of sea life, big and small. Bring a torch to seek out critters in the cracks or look around for barracudas, whale sharks and manta rays.
Type: Pinnacles
Skill level: Intermediate
Access: Liveaboard
Similan Islands
Many regard the Similan Islands as the best diving in Thailand and these islands are repeatedly hailed as one of the top 10 dive locations worldwide. As is typical in Thailand, the Similan Islands have relatively calm conditions and offer easy, relaxing dives.
The seascape features bommies and mini pinnacles, which harbor plenty of smaller reef fish and larger creatures such as groupers, jacks, turtles, trevallies, and even the occasional whale shark or manta ray. Traveling there from either Phuket or Khao Lak is time-consuming, so we recommend a multi-day liveaboard to save time and beat the crowds.
→ Koh Bon
Just north of the Similan Islands is Koh Bon, the best place to dive with manta rays in Thailand. On the western side of the island, a ridge extends into the surrounding deeper waters— here, around the neighboring pinnacles and boulders—divers can spot majestic mantas swimming by. With its stark, steep slopes and deep waters, only reasonably experienced divers with good buoyancy should dive here.
→ Elephant Head Rock
South of Island 8, also known as Ko Similan, lies a collection of large granite boulders. Unlike the dubiously named “Donald Duck” nearby, the boulders here do actually resemble an elephant.
These curious sculptures continue below the waterline, making for an interesting dive site. Like a fallen pile of Jenga bricks, the maze of swim-throughs offers the perfect opportunity for divers to weave and wander. As you practice your underwater parkour, you’ll most likely spot ribbon eels and rays. Go a little deeper, and you’ll find gray reef and whitetip sharks.
Type: Pinnacles
Skill level: Intermediate
Access: Liveaboard
Phuket & Koh Phi Phi
From the port of Phuket to Koh Phi Phi, plenty of good dive spots are dotted around the area. Starting in Phang Nga Bay, this region is renowned for its limestone karsts, the striking rocky towers made famous in films like “The Beach” and James Bond’s “The Man With the Golden Gun.” These limestone structures of fossilized coral now harbor vibrant new life below the water.
→ Anemone Reef
As it’s easy to reach from both Phuket and Koh Phi Phi, Anemone Reef is one of the most popular dive sites in the region. Similar to Chumphon Pinnacle, the dive site is covered in sea anemones, thriving with sea life. Topography-wise, Anemone Reef is one main pinnacle starting at 15 feet (5 m) and dropping to a sandy bottom at 100 feet (30 m). At shallow depths, divers can spot reef fish and macro critters like seahorses. Deeper waters harbor elegant leopard sharks, rays, and schools of barracuda.
→ King Cruiser Wreck
The King Cruiser sank in 1997 after accidentally going over Anemone Reef. In just a few decades, this passenger ferry is now a spectacular dive site, teeming with all kinds of marine life, including nudibranchs, sweetlips, and schools of fusiliers.
Starting at 15 feet (5 m) and descending to 100 feet (30 m), you’ll find one of the toilets, where perhaps a comically inclined moray eel resides. Its added depth and penetration possibilities make it a good contender for advanced courses and wreck specialties.
→ Hin Daeng & Hin Muang
These two neighboring dive spots are done as a pair, and together they offer the best diving in the southern Andaman Sea. These pinnacles are home to a vast array of colorful soft corals, which is how they got their names—Hin Daeng means “Red Rock” and Hin Muang means “Purple Rock.”
As is often the case with mid-ocean dive sites, these rocks are a meeting point for many fish and larger pelagics who cruise by. Whale sharks, jacks, and manta rays are common visitors to Hin Daeng and Muang. Whale Sharks and mantas can be spotted year round, but chances are higher from February to May.
Type: Coral garden, pinnacles
Skill level: Beginner to intermediate
Access: Boat or liveaboard
About Thailand
Thailand’s vibrant trifecta of natural beauty, rich heritage, and culinary excellence make it an irresistible holiday destination. It’s worth taking the time to explore the northern regions in the mountains of Chiang Mai or the bustling nightlife of Bangkok. Thailand’s dramatic landscape and lavish temples mean there’s plenty to do topside and a great choice for those who like the freedom of not doing an exclusively diving holiday.
The best time to visit Thailand is generally during the cool season, from November to March. During these months, Thailand experiences cooler temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities, beach vacations, and sightseeing. Note though that this period is the peak tourist season, which means popular spots might be more crowded.
However, this is also when the country is at its liveliest as numerous events take place, enhancing the cultural experience. Our favorite has got to be the Songkran water festival, where everyone takes to the streets with water guns for soaked-to-the-skin fun.
Note also that tourism and Thailand are old friends, and unfortunately, some destinations have gotten a bit overdeveloped, with many persistent street vendors. When traveling around the country, be wary of pickpockets and scammers looking for innocent tourists.
Take a moment to look at this.
Hi Marcia,
You can dive on large dive boats from booth Krabi and Koh Lanta. Easy in and out from dive platform with large ladders. They will not go all the way down to Koh Libe, but diving at Ko Haa, Phi Phi, Hin Daeng & Hin Muang.
Enjoy the diving.
I did a dozen glorious dives from Ko Lipe 10 years ago. I am looking forward to returning to the Andaman Sea with 3 friends to dive again for a week in January. We are all experienced divers who are now 70ish. Diving from a long boat would be difficult physically for us. We plan to do day dives and do not want to go on a live aboard. Can you recommend an Andaman location other than Phuket and dive op(s) that uses modern dive boats with easier in and out than long boats do? Thank you for any advice you can give us.
When will I be able to come to Thailand for a holiday? I am in the USA.
Hi Nicolai,
Where in Thailand will you be located? There are PADI and SSI dive centered all over Thailand, and as they follow the standards they will offer you the training you need. As for the diving in Thailand in December, you should choose the side of the Andaman sea, as this will give you the best diving. Areas like Koh Libe, Koh Lanta, and Krabi are great for beginner divers with good diving and plenty of dive schools to choose from.
Really great guide! Thank you for such useful informations on your site!
I’m planning a trip to Thailand in December and I want to do open water certification. I have been in Thailand before, but now I want to do something new. So which place would you recommend for Open water course?
I really love Thailand and I want to get some more great memories ????
I am visiting Thailand at the end of march into the start of April. Where should I go to get my best chances at Whale Sharks and Manta Rays, they are both on my dive bucket list! I will be in country for over a week and would love to do multiple dives. Still planning the trip but I know I will make my way down the peninsula so I can still plan for either side! Anything else I should look for to be wary of or any specific types of dives I should do?
Hello,
I am an experience diver and will land from a liveaboard in mid April in Kao Lak where my daughter (100 dives) will join me for 3 days.
We would like to do some dives together and snorkelling while sightseeing and enjoy a beach.
Could I please have your advise on where to stay?
Khao Lak or Pucket? And if the later, where would be the best area?
Many thanks for your help!
Giovanna
Great guide! Like many others, I took my PADI Open Water certification on Koh Tao Island back in 2012.
I can definitely recommend it to others. Beautiful dive sites, friendly and experienced instructors and reasonable prices. I really loved Thailand and have great memories.
I could not have wished for more, except seeing a Whale Shark during the dives :-)
Hi Susan,
Where in Thailand are you flying to? If you’re heading to the Andaman Sea, I’d suggest you check out Koh Lanta or Koh Libe. Khao Lak has great diving(Similan Island), but it’s best with a few days of Liveaboarding, so I’m guessing that’s not for you.
My niece and I are coming to dive Thailand in February 2020. We are both advanced divers with nitrox certifications. We both live in Louisiana USA and be flying in spending approx 10 days to dive and be tourist. Please advise us should we do stay at in a certain area where we can see the most from or a liveaboard. We have never done a liveaboard because we like to have our feet on land at night. We really need you tell us where we should dive, place we should stay for about 4/5 days of diving.
Hi Aradhana,
January is not the best month for Koh Tao, as it’s the rainy season here. That said, it’s possible to get a few good days of diving.
I’d suggest you try the Andaman side for the better diving. There are more options than just Koh Lanta, but yes, this is peak season there.
Hi Edgar,
Koh Tao is good for November, but at this point, you could also get really good diving in the Andaman Sea.
We are traveling to Thailand for our Open water cert. in early to mid Nov. I see you mostly recommend Koh Tao for beginners. Is this still the best option for November?
Hi Torben,
I am planning an Open Water course, for my son ,12 yrs , who happens to be a good swimmer in around Jan 10th ,2020 . But since diving is completely new for him and based on reviews what I have read.. Ko Tao is the best place for beginners to learn ,so will Jan be a good month for diving in Ko Tao. Also pls suggest some good diving schools who have good instructors as well. A PM is welcome.
I am asking because I am a bit of confusion between Ko lanta and ko Tao. But Ko lanta will be too peaky season in January.
Hi Virginia,
Sounds like a great trip. Both in Phuket and Koh Lipe you’ll find really good dive centers and great places for beginner divers. I’d recommend you do an Open Water course, that’s 4 days wich includes theory, pool and open water training, and you’ll be well set for diving on this and future trips.
Thanks for this interesting guide and splendide videos!
We are planning a trip to thailand at the beginning of January. We have no diving experience (Just one trial up to 7 meters last summer in French Polinesia) and we would like to do it again and possibly to take some novice course there.
We are planning to head to the Andaman Sea, first Phuket and than maybe southern, to Koh Lipe and Koh Kradan.
Suggestions about where we can find diving sites for novices and where we can do a safe and effective Open Water Divers are really appreciated!
Thank you!
Virginia
what are some good places (diving clubs/schools) to learn how to scuba dive on Koh tao? :) (price and quality)
Hi Dhruv,
Did you take a look at some of the above boats?
Hi, i am travelling to phuket on 14 dec 2019. And would like to do some diving. I have done 9 dives and am an advanced OWD licence. Have done my last dive in 2016. Please guide for some best diving experience at similan either day trips or by a live aboard.
Hi Jon-paul,
Well, within that timespan flying is out, as you’ll only have Saturday to dive then. Then I’d recommend you’ll go to Pattaya for some diving. The dive centers there can properly help you arrange transportation as well.
Hi Torben
I live in Bangkok and I fancy going diving the weekend of 20/21 July. Need to be at work Friday and Back again on Monday. Would you recommend anywhere for a weekend of diving at that time of year?
Hello Torben,
My son and I are planning to visit in Thailand late November early December specifically for learning to dive.He has a beginner open water certificate.I have none, and will do a beginner course.My son will explore advance SCUBA diving options. will be great to have some advice on where to go .Thanks in advance
I am heading to Thailand with my family wife and 2 boys age 11 and 12. I used to dive a lot but not for a few years. Kids did a taster in U.K. and want to learn to dive and snorkel to see tropical waters. I don’t know where to head to get best chance of clearest waters and great sites/ safe experience and whether I should get them qualified in U.K. venture we go or do it out there. Looking at the seasons it seems that Gulf of Thailand is best place to be. We also want great experiences as well as water based activities. Any help would be appreciated!! Fin
Hi, I’m looking to do a dive trip with a friend in mid-july. We generally like to go somewhere quiet with not too many tourists but we’re a little limited with time on this occasion and so don’t want to spend too much time travelling. We both have advanced diving certification, (and I’m super keen to see a whale shark!!). Any suggestions on the most suitable spot for us?
Thanks, Kate
I will be visiting Thailand in late May/early June or mid August. I know Similan Island is not open but what are the “next best sites” for diving in Thailand during this period.
I am an experienced diver and am looking for 3-5 days of diving.
Thanks in advance,
HI Gina,
In September the Andaman side is out of the question. There’s too much choppy water and rain.
Your best option is the Gulf, and even though September isn’t the best season there, you can still get okay diving. If you’re lucky a whale shark will pass by, but the reef diving there is also worth a trip underwater :)
Not the best advice, but hope you can use it a bit.
Hi Torben, I will be in Thailand the last week in September and the first two in October this year. Could you give me some tips on which coast I should focus on (Andaman vs. Gulf)? It sounds like we are right in between seasons and suggested areas to try. I am open to going wherever it might be best and am intermediate-advanced level. I’d love to get the chance to see some larger animals but regular reef dives are OK too. If you have any specific dive site tips I’d love that too! Thanks so much. I’ll appreciate your insight and knowledge on this! :)
Hi Vivian,
Great question: July is/might be rainy season for the Andaman sea, but you’ll experience great conditions in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Tao is a good choice for diving and beaches.
Prices and accommodation really depend on who you pick to take you diving and what kind of diving you’re looking for. Generally, Koh Tao is not expensive.
Hi There, May I know which island to go during July is the best? And what is the price? Will accommodation provided?
Hi Leage,
You get great value in doing some more dive training and Khao Lak has plenty of great options to choose from. When it’s 4 years ago, a tune-up is of cause a no brainer, and rather an advanced is necessary depends on your future in diving. Are you planning to dive more in the future then go for more training, or will your next dive be in another 4 years then spend the money on an extra dive :)
Hi Jalika,
It might be hard to mantas and Whale sharks, but you can still get great diving.
If you’re up for Casual diving and a nice day trip, then Koh haa (which means 5 islands) or you can do a trip to dive spots around Phi Phi island.
Otherwise, but this is a longer trip from Phuket, but Hin daeng Hin muang is really great spots, and your biggest chance of big stuff.
Hello,
My friend and I are visiting the Phuket region on May 19 /20. I just found out that Richelieu Rock is not an option because the park is closed. We were trying to get a good chance to see whale sharks and manta rays. Any suggestions for a day trip for 1 driver and 1 snorkeler during that time?
Hi,
I will be doing a last minute planning to go diving in Khao Lak leaving in 4 days to Thailand. I need a refresher since my last dive was 4 years ago. What is your opinion of Khao Lak Explorer or Sea Dragon Dive Center in Khao Lak? I am not an experienced diver. Only did one an open water certification in Mexico 4 years ago. I am wondering if I should do an advance open water or redo the open water cert?
thanks for your suggestion,
Leigh
Nice. This site is very perfect and usefully information.
My husband and I are hoping to visit Thailand between the end of April to mid/end of May. He is looking to do a scuba diving course to acquire his certification, but I am already certified and working on my advanced certification. Where would you recommend we go that will offer both a course for my husband, but will also be exciting for me?
Where in Thailand are you planning to go? Which side the Golf or Andaman?
As for the course, do a PADI Open water course or the SSI Open water diver. Both are good options, but make sure to pick a good dive instructor.
Hi,
I shall be visiting Thailand in Mid of December . Can you please suggest where should I try the beginners course and can I also upgrade along with the beginners course .
Thanks
Hi Nicholas,
You only have to bring a bathingsuite. All else can be rented at a fair price.
That said, if you do have personal gear, it’s good to bring the things you’re comfortable using.
Hi! My partner and i will be diving at Krabi either at Phi Phi or somewhere near Ao nang. We are recently certified PADI open water divers. This would be our first time diving overseas. So we are wondering what we would need to bring? Do we need to invest in a wetsuit, rash guard, gloves, boots? Please advise, we are really excited but nervous about it. THank you!
Hi Irena,
There are great dive options in the areas of Krabi, Koh Lanta, Koh Lipe, Phi Phi or Khao Lak. All places have great diving and good dive schools, so it’s more about where you’d like to spend your days.
Hi! I’m coming to Thailand tomorrow, arriving in phuket but not sure I want to do my diving course in phuket. I only know that the best side to dive at the moment is andaman sea, looking for a nice place not too crowded and not so expensive thanks!
Hi Ben,
Yes, there are some issues with the length of the day trips. That said, you can do half day trips:
If you’re in Khao Lak, it common to dive Similan Islands, but that’s a long boat ride and you won’t make it back before 2 pm at the earliest(that’s speedboat trip) or 4-5pm if it’s on a big boat.
There are local dives like Boonsung wreck, great dive, and you’ll be back before 12. Though this is only good for one day of diving.
Krabi and Koh Lanta are doing trips to Phi phi, Koh Haa and Hin Daeng/Hin Muang which is all a longer trip. Phi Phi trips might get you back at two, depending on when the dive center leaves.
Booth places have a lot of great local spots as well, but often they sell the other spots as it’s much better diving.
Phi Phi islands, you can stay here, and dive trips are 1½ hours and back, so perfect for what you’re looking at. The island is very busy, so make sure to look into this before going here.
Koh Lipe all the way in the south also has great diving, and all are located within a short distance. Great island, very beautiful and relaxed, but it’s long trip down south. I think it’s 2-4 hours ferry/boat from Phuket or bus via land and local ferry.
Hi Ben,
Yes, there are some issues with the length of the day trips. That said, you can do half day trips:
If you’re in Khao Lak, it common to dive Similan Islands, but that’s a long boat ride and you won’t make it back before 2 pm at the earliest(that’s speedboat trip) or 4-5pm if it’s on a big boat.
There are local dives like Boonsung wreck, great dive, and you’ll be back before 12. Though this is only good for one day of diving.
Krabi and Koh Lanta are doing trips to Phi phi, Koh Haa and Hin Daeng/Hin Muang which is all a longer trip. Phi Phi trips might get you back at two, depending on when the dive center leaves.
Booth places have a lot of great local spots as well, but often they sell the other spots as it’s much better diving.
Phi Phi islands, you can stay here, and dive trips are 1½ hours and back, so perfect for what you’re looking at. The island is very busy, so make sure to look into this before going here.
Koh Lipe all the way in the south also has great diving, and all are located within a short distance. Great island, very beautiful and relaxed, but it’s long trip down south. I think it’s 2-4 hours ferry/boat from Phuket or bus via land and local ferry.
Will be in Thailand in February and am trying to figure out the best place to visit for our last 3 days. Will be up north, but want to see the southwest area and do 1-2 days of diving. My wife doesn’t dive, and it looks like all the diving is long boat rides and all day affairs. Would prefer a short ride and home by 12 or 1pm to then hang with her. Also want a nicer place, maybe with more daytime, active activities in addition to beautiful beaches. Will be coming from Chiang Rai, and then going to Bangkok next to come home. Thanks a ton for any input!
Hi Dougie,
Sounds like a trip of a lifetime. One year with the familie while traveling. Wow, please let us know how the trips go.
Regarding your question, on where you’d be able to teach your kids. Usually, dive centers on holiday destinations usually don’t rent out gear, as they see it as a business. That said, you might be able to find some that would. If I where you, I’d write a bunch of shops and tell them your plans and ask how much they would charge to facilitate this. Some won’t be willing to help you, others might.
I’m travelling for a year with my family & diving is just a small part of the trip. However, I’m an OWSI & plan to teach my 2 sons to dive (aged 10 & 12). Any tips on the best place to go where I can rent the equipment & complete both CW & OW training without spending a fortune. For now, the training is the most important, not the amazing dive site or shark airings, that can come later in Oz or Central America. Any advice would be much appreciated, thanks
Hi Merisa,
Low visibility might be an issue if the rains hit, but for this time a year, it can hit both sides.
Koh Tao is great for learning, and there’s a lot of great training dive sites to visit. Once your training is done, you can go for the “deeper” dive sites.
Hello, I will be in the Thai islands from October 29th to November 6th. I am trying to decide the best place to get my open water certification. It seems the end of Oct-beg of Nov is a transitionary time in weather for both the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Which would you suggest? I know Kho Tao is a popular learning destination, but the dive sites don’t look shallow and I am worried about visibility on rainy days in late October/beginning of November. Do you have any advice?
my wife and i wil be in thailand from Oct 16th-Nov 12th please looking for some good diving during that time, recommendations??
Hello,
We have 4 days in the middle of our honeymoon to go somewhere in the south of Thailand. 9/29-10/2. We’d love to get 2 days of diving in but looks like this time of year isn’t the best. Would you recommend one area over another this time of year? Also interested in kiteboarding if you know anything about where it’s good for that during our dates. Thanks!
We are trying to decide where to go for 4 days September 29 – October 2 to dive in Thailand for our honeymoon this year. I see a gulf of Thailand recommendation for September but also a Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi islands & Koh Lanta recommendation for October. We’d probably be interested in diving 2 days we’re there. I’m also an avid kiteboarder so if it’s windy and there’s a concession to rent from nearby that’s be a consideration.
I will be diving and snorkeling for the first time,As it’s my first time from which island I should do 3 day course.
Was thinking of doing it on phi phi island
I will traveling in mid August.
We were hoping to do a first level open water RAID certification in Thailand in October end (around 19th onwards). Where would you recommend we go?
Perfect time to go diving in Thailand.
Booth the Andaman Coast and The Gulf of Thailand all have some ward similar weather during the month of March. So wherever you choose the islands of Koh Samui or Koh Tao in the Gulf of Thailand, or Krabi, Phuket, Khao Lak(Similan islands) or Phi Phi on the Andaman Coast, you should experience sunny days with blue skies and great water.
Similan islands, are really great in March, but most of the really good dive spots are not for all newly certified boys in that age. In my opinion, they should have more experience to see the really great dive spots, but would be able to do some of the spots here.
Phuket, Krabi, Phi Phi islands & Koh Lanta,
A great option, as they all serve great diving for both new and advanced divers. This would be my pick.
Koh Samui or Koh Tao
Really great for new divers, and would be excellent for your boys to pick up experience. Diving here is not as good as the Andamans cost, that said, it’s better than many other countries, so you’ll still have great diving.
Hi Torben:
We are going at the end of March 2019.
Thanks
Rachel
End of March 2019
Hi Rachel,
Sounds like a nice trip, and great place for your boys to start their diving adventurours.
When (time of year) are you planning to go?
Hi:
I am planning to go to Thailand next spring with my family of 4. My boys (12 and 13) will be newly certified to dive – my husband and I are certified. What is the best island/area for us to go with beautiful beaches and great diving for beginners. Obviously we don’t need the party scene and do enjoy places off the beaten path.
Thanks
Hi Allan,
I’d recommend you look here: https://www.divein.com/liveaboard/thailand/ and make the booking before going there. From Phuket, Similan Islands is a great option, good diving and easy transfer to the departure docks. Rental gear is good on most boats, but it will add an extra cost to the trip.
My daughter and I will be in Thailand May 17th until about June 1st (From the USA). We are both certified, I with advanced open water and have been to Truk, Palau etc, and she has been to Bonaire. The fam went to Bonaire last year, Alex logged about 10 dives that week.
I would very much like to dive a live aboard for a few days. We will be in the Phuket area in the latter part of this trip for probably at least a week. I am looking at the Similan area possibly. I have never been to Thailand so very excited about diving there.
We have been advised to pack very light. So we have gear – but we are NOT bringing our own stuff as I gather rental is cheap enough. Please advise a good dive operation to book once there, thanks,
Hello Torben,
i’ve been too many times to Thailand but never consider to dive, recently i tried it and i got my open water certificate.
i’ve been to koh tao and it was amazing, the island is full of divers and schools. im planning to travel next month.
i will stay for a week in koh tao and planning to go for Fun dives, at least 10 dives split into 5 days “2 dives each day”.
which school/shop you recommend? and do you have an idea about the pricing.
i’ve done few research and found PhoenixSchool they offer 10 dives at 6500thb, do you have any other suggestion?
Hey there,
I want to go on a spontaneous trip now over New Year, coming down from Shanghai. Which area is the best to go for diving, now end of December? Ideally not too crowded? And, I only have 5 days, so it needs to be somehow easy and fast to reach.
Many thanks for your input!
Sylvie
Hi, we will be visiting Phuket, Krabi and Phi phi coming Feb. Could you please advise which of the three would be best for Scuba Diving and also please suggest some good safe and professional diving schools that i could go for.
Much thanks!
Hi, we will be in Phuket this February first week and we plan to then venture to Phi Phi and Krabi.
I am interested in going for a Scuba Dive during my trip, could you please suggest which of the three places above would be best and would be great if you could also suggest a nice diving school which is safe and professional please. Thank you so much for the information in the post. Looking forward to hear from you.
Dear Torben and Boby:
I will have completed the basic PADI certification course for open water diving here in the United States, but will not have completed the open water training. I am vacationing in Thailand in February 2018. My language is English. How do I find the PADI dive shops for the Phuket area and for the Similan Islands where an instructor will help me finish my PADI certification? Is PADI widely recognized in Thailand, or harder to find? Thank you.
Alan
Hi Nancy,
I’m sure most dive companies, with own boat, will meet you somewhere close to the dive site and let you join. It’s common practice and I’ve seen in plenty of times doing dive trips.
We will be on a catamaran from December 30 to January 8th. We start in Phuket and end in Langkawi. Can you recommend anyone dive shop that might rendezvous with us and take us diving? There would probably be 6 to 8 divers.
Hi Megha,
Teh Gulf of Thailand, would be the best place for a dive trip in December. IF you’re looking for an open water course, Ko Tao is the best pick in the Gulf.
Thank you for such useful information on your site. I’m planning a trip to Thailand in December and I want to do open water certification. Which place would you recommend for Open water course?
Thanks in advance.
Good afternoon,
We are thinking about going to Thailand in November. What would be the best location to stay for a great scuba diving vacation? What area
Hi Amir
Regarding visa and potential need for a local sponsorship it’s always best to contact the local embassy in your home country.
I am an Iranian diver. How can I diving in your country? Please give me a complete guide on how to get a visa and a donation. Thank you.
When you’re there might go for Koh tao they are great for a open water course(I did mine there) and it’s nice diving for beginners and snorkelers as well. It will also fit with beach and it’s quite easy to get there from Bangkok, so it might be a really god pick for you. There’s plenty of things to do on KOh Tao, so it’s a win win. KOh tao, does have some parties, but not at all anything that needs to bother you, just pick a hotel a bit outside the town and you’re good. There’s plenty of travellers on the island that’s not there for the party.
For other suggestions, you could also do Krabi or Koh Lanta, but that’s on the other side of Thailand. Therefore my pick would still be Koh Tao.
Good afternoon
We are planning a trip to Thailand. We want to visit Bangkok, Chang Mai and then 1 or 2 beach resorts on the Islands.
I have never dived before but love snorkling. I think now I want to try diving.
Could you recommend the best Island or Islands to take the PADI course?
If I get to Thailand and I have already got my certificate does this change your suggestions.
If you recommend some Islands what time of year is best. As we are at the planning stage we can choose the month.
Is there 1 or 2 Islands with a short crossing or easy transport? When we go down to the islands we can either have 4 or 5 nights in one place or 3 nights in each. I expect if I have to take my PADI course I will need at least 3 days in one place?
If I am not diving I am interested in the best islands or resorts for snorkling. We would also like to be near some towns and land based activities. We are not looking for quiet just beach resorts.
Just in case my age makes a difference to your suggestions I am in my 50’s. No moon parties needed!!!
Thank you in advance if you can offer any help or advice. We are in the early stages of planning so any suggestions will be great.
Best wishes
Hi Rahul,
I can’t recommend any dive centers in Jomtien Beach(Pataya). I really don’t know them that well.
But don’t use price as a measure of anything! Your first dive is not a place where you want to save money compared to picking the right dive center and the right instructor. Once there, or before you go, talk to a few centers, and ask how they conduct the try dive. How many will be in the group, will it be a shallow dive(if not, don’t go), will they provide pool training(or confined water) or will it just be an open water dive, who will be the instructor(talk to him/her and make sure you feel comfortable with the person how’s taking you down under).
Thanks for the guide.
I will go to Thailand in September’s first week. Can you recommend any centers to dive with?
Which center is the best price range in Thailand (jomtien beach) in September for discover dive.
Hi Abdulrahman,
Nice, great choice :) Sure, we’d love to help you pick the best spot, do you have a “side” picked? The Gold of Thailand or the Andaman Sea? Or do you need recommendations on this as well?
Let me know, and I’ll help you get a few good days of diving and snorkeling.
Great info ! I’ll be in Thailand in July for work. What do you recommend for 1-2 days diving and snorkeling?
Hi Mitch,
Most of the Andaman Sea is not good for diving in September as there are too much wind and waves. You can still dive at Phi Phi as the diving is often sheltered behind one of the islands, some of the dive sites will not be accessible but it’s still a good option. Especially for a new diver: It’s nice and easy diving with lots of life.
Golf of Thailand is your best option when you’re new to diving and don’t want to risk ending up in rough sea and a dive with no visibility. Koh Tao is the better option of the two. Here’s nice clear water, good visibility, nice life and a relaxing atmosphere.
I’m a beginner with open water certification and looking to get a few good dives in Thailand…I’ll be there at the beginning of September. Any recommendations where to go? I hear Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Koh Phi Phi is best for that time. Of the 3, which would you choose? Or if you have any other suggestions, I’d love to hear! Thanks.
October is not the best time for diving in Thailand, as there’s really unpredictable weather all around. Still there are some options that include good diving and a relaxing atmosphere because there’s less tourists.
The Gulf of Thailand (koh Samui and Koh Tao) can be dived all year round, but from October you can experience some bad weather, big swells and drop in visibility.
The Andaman Sea would be my pick for this season. The Similan Islands will still not be available, so don’t go to Khao Lak. Most busy and therefore also the places with the most options will be Phuket, Krabi and Phi Phi. Lanta is still a bit slow, but the island is opening op at that point.
You can do refresher all around, Thailand is full of great dive centers and instructors, and 2-3 days of diving is good for this season.
Great website and information.
Can you recommend the best places to dive in October, as it seems quite a few are closed then. I’m quite new to diving and would like to do a refresher course and 2-3 dives.
Well, depending on your skills, you’ll be able to find this at a dive center.
The location shouldn’t matter, but more what you can offer in return. If you can teach diving then you should go for a paid job, but if you can offer simple skills like marketing, Webdesign, etc. and they are interested in your help you can either get paid like everyone else or go for accommodation and diving.
There’s plenty of opportunities in Thailand, so it’s more about what you can offer them, than finding the place.
Hello. Does anyone know where in Thailand you can stay and work for accommodation where they also offer diving.
Thanks
Hi Bibi,
Yes, Thailand it both beautiful above and below. It sounds like you did a lot of great diving there. Thanks for sharing!
A must if you love diving! I’ve been diving in Thailand for many years, and it’s really, really amazing. I can recommend Phi Phi, Hin Deang and the Similan islands. You will really great amazing diving, and the Thai people are so friendly, so vacation here is amazing. I started backpacking through Thailand, and now I’m coming back to show this country to my children.
That is quite good, most dives we don’t get that many. There are a few dive spots around, where the numbers are going up, but you’ll ahve to be lucky. What dive did you do?
I saw about three Sharks on my first dive in Thailand. Love the place.
Do it, there’s really great diving. And it’s possible to dive all year round, either in the golf of Thailand or by the Andaman sea.
Wooow amazing place!! I must go to Thailand
Hi Jake,
In Thailand you’ll mostly see Nurse and whitetip reef sharks, they are booth very harmless. Just don’t go and bother then, and they’ll leave you be. Most spots are without sharks, but you might be lucky and see one passing by. Sharks are really no threat to divers, as long as you’re not feeding them or spearfishing.
Loved the video at the top of the page! There were a few scenes with many black tipped sharks. What kind of sharks are they and do they pose any threat to humans while diving in the beautiful waters of Thailand? Also, any dive spots around Thailand without sharks? Thanks much! JD
Diana H
Hope it will come in handy. Where in Thailand are you going? Prices vary a lot from region to region and depending on how far there is to the dive spot.
I think the cheapest I’ve encountered was around 1800 thai baht and most expensive was 6000 bath.
Thanks for the guide, will come in handy when I go to thailand in january.
Can you recommend any centers to dive with?
What is the normal price range in Thailand for a couple of dives?