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The largest island of Thailand, Phuket, is a Snorkeler’s paradise. The island offers clean blue waters and a diverse and vibrant marine life. Phuket is also known as the pearl of Andaman for its natural beauty and mesmerising turquoise waters. Snorkelling in Phuket is one of the most loved activities because of its amazing coral reefs, safe waters, and diverse ecosystem. The waters around Phuket are ideal for all levels of snorkelers, from beginners to experts.
Factors Making Phuket Ideal For Snorkelling
Photo: Vlad & Marina Butsky / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Here are the factors that make Snorkelling in Phuket an ideal activity during your trip.
- Diverse And Rich Marine Life: The Underwater World of Phuket flaunts its diverse ecosystem with sea turtles, colourful clown fishes, vibrant corals, and so many other amazing marine creatures. Snorkelers can expect to encounter large marine life, such as Manta Rays and reef sharks, as well as smaller fishes, like clown fishes and parrot fish.
- Ideal Water Conditions: Phuket experiences warm weather majorly. Thus, the visibility underwater is always at its best providing a clear view of the marine ecosystem. The water temperature is always comfortable for snorkelling. Phuket also experiences mild currents in the calm waters, making it safe to snorkel all year long.
- Picturesque Locations: Phi Phi Islands, Racha Islands, and Coral Island are some of the most beautiful spots for snorkelling in Phuket. The underwater marine environment is amazing for any snorkeler to enjoy and make unforgettable memories.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Phuket For A Memorable Vacation
Popular Snorkelling Spots in Phuket
1. Koh Raya
Photo: Nicolas Vollmer / Wikimedia Commons
12 km to the south of Phuket are two islands, Racha Yai and Racha Noi. These are amazing spots for snorkelling with crystal clear water and the occasional spotting of turtles. Racha Yai has a shallow bay flaunting white sand with coral chunks peeking over the water bed. Expect to spot some amazing marine creatures such as surgeonfish, parrotfish, and bright, colourful clownfish. If you are lucky, you might spot hidden octopuses.
Cost/Person: Full-day snorkelling trip starts from 3050 THB / 7500 INR
2. Coral Island
Photo: Ritiks / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
It is a very close island to Phuket with a very shallow bay. Coral Island is an ideal spot for Snorkelling, with groups of little sardines swimming around to accompany you during the snorkelling session. The beach is mesmerising with its soft white sand, making the entire snorkelling experience even more breathtaking. It is not just the sardines and the white sand that make this island special, but also the large beautiful birds with big beaks that visit this island, giving you an unmissable view. The coral island is an ideal spot for snorkelling throughout the year, exhibiting natural beauty at its best.
Cost/Person: Starts from 1400 THB / 3500 INR for adults
Suggested Read: Amazing Places To Visit In Phuket On Your Next Vacation
3. Phi Phi Islands
Photo: Luxure / Wikimedia Commons
Phi Phi island is a very popular island situated 46 km away from Phuket. It is a group of six islands, the largest of which is named Phi Phi Don, which is home to all the major lodgings and eateries. The second largest island is Phi Phi Ley, which has Maya Bay. The remaining four small islands collectively make up the Phi Phi Islands Marine Park. This area is an ideal spot for snorkelling because of its protected marine ecosystem. The fish wander about, knowing they are safe here, and that is what provides the best experience and view while Snorkelling.
Cost/Person: Half-day snorkelling trip starts from 850 THB / 2100 INR per adult
4. Koh Hong
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons
Ko Hong is an island situated 40 minutes to the west of Phuket. There is a hidden Lagoon behind two Karst Cliffs, creating a natural entrance. The water inside the doorway is beautifully turquoise. Right outside the Lagoon are spots for snorkelling that are quite popular among snorkelers looking for less crowded areas. The clarity of water varies greatly in this area however the view is amazing in the spots with better visibility.
Cost/Person: Snorkelling in Koh Hong costs 2100 THB / 5200 INR on average
Suggested Read: Top Serene Beaches In Phuket To Visit On Your Next Vacation
5. Koh Maithon
Photo: Dawn in Phuket / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Maithon island of Phuket is very special for being the best place to spot dolphins. Dolphins frequently wander around this part of the water. With clear blue water, a diverse ecosystem, and an ideal marine condition, Maithon Island is a great snorkelling spot in Phuket. However, it is advised to make prior bookings and plan according to the season while visiting this island, as accommodation might not be available throughout the year. Maithon Island experiences a very seasonal crowd and thus operates accordingly. y
Cost/Person: A snorkelling session on the private island of Maithon can cost around 1700 THB / 4200 INR per person.
6. Koh Ha
Photo: จีรวัฒน์ แก้วประสงค์ / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Ha Island is not just a treat for snorkelers but also every visitor. Ha in Thai means five, and this island is a collection of five small islands protruding from the water that form a circle. Kho Ha is a one-and-a-half-hour boat ride away from Phuket, but the journey is worth the view from the destination. The circle of islands in the middle of Koh Lanta National Park and Koh Phi Phi makes for one of the best snorkelling spots. As the island is quiet and away from the main area of the crowd, the water is amazingly clear and unsoiled.
Cost/Person: Around 1700 THB / 4200 INR along with an additional 400 THB / 1000 INR as the National Park fee
Suggested Read: Everything Travellers Need To Know About Phuket Nightlife
Tips For Snorkelling In Phuket
- Planning The Right Time To Snorkel In Phuket: Phuket experiences pleasant and safe weather for Snorkelling all year long. However, from November through April is the ideal time to snorkel in Phuket. With the pleasant weather, perfect water conditions, and beautiful backdrop, snorkelling becomes an unforgettable experience in Phuket.
- Weather And Tide Conditions: Always have a clear understanding and awareness of the weather and tide conditions before planning a snorkelling session. It is advised to keep close to popular snorkelling sites and also take suggestions from local people.
- Ensure Proper Gear: Make sure to always use proper gear to maintain safety underwater. It is also highly recommended that you go for well-reviewed snorkelling guides and instructors.
- Environmental Protection And Awareness: While you plan on snorkelling it is crucial to have an understanding of the safety of marine life. Take enough precautions to ensure delicate marine life is not harmed or impacted through the activity of snorkelling.
Phuket has the ideal spots for Snorkelling for any level of experience. Spot octopuses, turtles, and even dolphins while snorkelling into the magical marine world in Phuket. Whether you are a beginner in Snorkelling or experienced, Phuket has a spot for everyone. With TripXL, plan your next unforgettable trip to the waters in Phuket. With expert guidance, choose the best spot and ensure your safety while experiencing the memories of a lifetime.
Cover Photo: Oberpepe / Wikimedia Commons
