Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Snorkelling in Koh Samui is an exciting way to explore the island’s beautiful underwater world. The island’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a top destination for snorkelers. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced swimmer, there are plenty of places to explore. The best snorkelling spots in Koh Samui have shallow coral reefs, making them accessible right from the beach. Some locations require a short boat ride but offer even more vibrant marine life. If you are searching for the best beach in Koh Samui for snorkelling, this guide will help you find the perfect spot.
Best Places For Snorkelling In Koh Samui
Here are the 10 best beaches in Koh Samui for snorkelling
1. Chaweng Beach
Photo: Tirachard Kumtanom / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Chaweng Beach is the most popular beach on Koh Samui, known for its nightlife, restaurants, and soft white sand. Snorkelling here is best near the small reef close to the northern part of the beach. The water is usually clear in the morning, offering good visibility to see schools of colourful fish and some coral formations. While not the best snorkelling spot on the island, it is convenient for those staying nearby. Early morning is the best time to avoid crowds.
Location: Surat Thani, Thailand
Major Attraction: Lively nightlife and water sports
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
2. Silver Beach
Photo: Dajana Reçi / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Silver Beach is a small, quiet bay surrounded by granite boulders and lush greenery. The beach has soft white sand and clear turquoise waters, making it one of the best beaches in Koh Samui for snorkelling. The coral reefs close to the shore are teeming with tropical fish, sea urchins, and other marine life. The water here is usually calm, making it ideal for beginners. Since it is a private beach, it is less crowded than Chaweng and Lamai, offering a peaceful snorkelling experience.
Location: Maret, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
Major Attraction: Stunning rock formations and clear water
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
3. Coral Cove
Photo: Indi Samarajiva / Wikimedia Commons
Coral Cove is a hidden gem, perfect for those seeking a more private snorkelling experience. The small beach is surrounded by rocky cliffs, creating a secluded and peaceful environment. The coral reefs are just a short swim from the shore, and the clear water allows you to see parrotfish, butterflyfish, and even the occasional moray eel. The calm waves make it a great choice for beginners. Since it is less developed than other beaches, it offers a more natural snorkelling experience.
Location: Between Lamai and Chaweng
Major Attraction: Secluded beach with crystal-clear waters
Ideal Trip Duration: 3-4 hours
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
4. Taling Ngam
Photo: Roma Neus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Taling Ngam is a quiet beach on the west coast of Koh Samui, far from the busy tourist areas. The beach offers breathtaking views of the Five Islands and a peaceful snorkelling experience. The reefs here are home to colourful fish, soft corals, and even small reef sharks. The water is usually calm, and the lack of crowds makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers. It is a great place to enjoy both snorkelling and watching a beautiful sunset.
Location: West coast of Koh Samui
Major Attraction: Stunning sunsets and remote beaches
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
5. Ao Phang Ka
Photo: Deror Avi / Wikimedia Commons
Ao Phang Ka is a peaceful bay with stunning marine biodiversity. Unlike other tourist-heavy beaches, this area remains quiet and pristine. The shallow waters are home to vibrant coral reefs, making it perfect for snorkelers looking to spot sea stars, anemones, and small tropical fish. The bay’s calm conditions make it an excellent spot for underwater photography. While the beach itself is not very sandy, the underwater scenery more than makes up for it. It is a great place for a relaxing snorkelling trip.
Location: Southwest of Koh Samui
Major Attraction: Peaceful surroundings and rich marine life
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
6. Choeng Mon
Photo: Damian Moore / Wikimedia Commons
Choeng Mon Beach is a family-friendly beach known for its calm waters and soft sand. The nearby islets, Koh Fan Yai and Koh Fan Noi, are perfect for snorkelling. The waters here are rich with coral reefs, and you can spot clownfish, angelfish, and even small octopuses. Since the waves are gentle, it is a great place for beginners and children. The beach is lined with resorts and restaurants, making it a convenient spot for a day trip.
Location: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
Major Attraction: Nearby islets for snorkelling and kayaking
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
7. Koh Tan
Photo: Scorewith German / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Koh Tan is a small, undeveloped island with some of the best snorkelling in Koh Samui. The coral reefs are well-preserved, offering sightings of clownfish, sea cucumbers, and even sea turtles. Since there are no cars or large hotels on the island, the water remains clear and full of life. A short boat ride from Koh Samui will take you to this snorkelling paradise, where you can enjoy a peaceful and untouched natural environment.
Location: Small island south of Koh Samui
Major Attraction: Pristine coral reefs and rich biodiversity
Ideal Trip Duration: Full-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
8. Koh Nang Yuan
Photo: Dan Searle / Wikimedia Commons
Koh Nang Yuan is a set of three small islands connected by a white sandbar. This location is famous for its clear blue waters and vibrant marine life. The coral reefs are easily accessible, and you can spot a wide variety of fish, including wrasses, groupers, and even reef sharks. The island is protected, so the marine environment remains in excellent condition. It is a must-visit spot for serious snorkellers looking for a stunning underwater experience.
Location: Near Koh Tao
Major Attraction: Famous sandbar and vibrant coral reefs
Ideal Trip Duration: Full-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
9. Mu Koh Ang Thong National Park
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Mu Koh Ang Thong is a national marine park made up of 42 islands. Snorkelling here is an incredible experience, as the area is home to untouched coral reefs, sea turtles, and a variety of tropical fish. The crystal-clear waters and dramatic limestone cliffs make it one of the most scenic snorkelling spots. As a protected area, the marine life here is abundant, making it an excellent place for underwater exploration.
Location: Off the coast of Koh Samui
Major Attraction: Marine park with breathtaking scenery
Ideal Trip Duration: Full-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
10. Madsum Island
Photo: Dewicilay / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Madsum Island is a hidden paradise for snorkelers. The water here is shallow, and the coral reefs are in excellent condition. You can spot various fish species, including butterflyfish and angelfish. The island is less crowded than other snorkelling spots, making it a perfect place to enjoy nature in peace. There are also friendly pigs on the beach, adding a unique charm to this destination.
Location: Near Koh Samui
Major Attraction: Secluded island with pristine waters
Ideal Trip Duration: Half-day
Nearest Airport: Samui International Airport
Nearest Train Station: Surat Thani Railway Station
Snorkelling in Koh Samui is an unforgettable experience. The island has a variety of snorkelling spots, from busy beaches to quiet, hidden locations. If you are looking for the best beach in Koh Samui for snorkelling, Silver Beach and Choeng Mon Beach are great choices. They have clear waters, coral reefs, and easy access. Whether you prefer snorkelling close to the shore or taking a boat to a remote island, Koh Samui has something for everyone. Grab your snorkelling gear and explore the stunning underwater world of this tropical paradise by booking your trip with TripXL!
Cover Photo: John Cahil Rom / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
