The very name of Thailand calls for a wonderful beach vacation. And when in Southeast Asia, snorkeling in thailand Absolutely necessary. It is absolutely delightful and breathtaking! Just try as hard as you can, you’ll never have a bad experience there. Explore the amazing world hidden beneath the emerald green waters. It’s a complete universe and its design is brilliant.
There’s the cost involved and then there’s the gear and guides and everything else that you have yet to get used to. But when there’s a will, there’s a way, and the best way to go for a cheap snorkeling session is to choose wisely. Here is a list of places where you can go for snorkeling at a reasonable price.
Top 8 Places for snorkeling in Thailand!
1. Ao Mai Yai Bay, Koh Surin Nuea
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Your Best Bid These five spectacular islands that make up Surin Nuea are the most famous snorkeling destinations in the Andaman Sea. This is one of the best places to snorkel in the seven seas. These islands fall under the protection of Mu Koh Surin Marine National Park, therefore, the beaches, as well as the surrounding coastlines, are pristine and crystal clear. The geography is rich in abundance of wildlife both in and out of water.
You can go snorkeling in any of the bays in the Surin Islands, they will not disappoint you but the most revered one is Ao Mai Yai Bay which is located on Koh Surin Nue Island. It is home to one of the most spectacular varieties of coral and is also home to a diverse range of marine life and this includes the infamous clownfish (also known as Nemo).
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2. Koh Nang Yuan, Koh Tao
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The second name on the list is Koh Nang Yuan, which is made up of three separate islands off the north-east tip of Koh Tao. These islands are connected by an equally attractive gleaming white sandy strip. Not to be forgotten is the complex structure of coral reefs made up of both soft and hard corals in and around the island. The corallines are protected and relatively shallow. Hence, it is an ideal place to snorkel.
However, the island is privately owned and you will have to pay a very small amount as entry fee compared to the treasures you get to explore.
3. Au Luke Beach, Koh Tao
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Here, again, another great snorkeling spot is located in Koh Tao, Turtle Island otherwise known as Ao Luc. The location is on the south west coast. snorkellers grab their gear and dive just off the beach and explore the amazing underwater biodiversity. The relatively shallow coral reefs are perfect for snorkeling and swimmers don’t need to stray far from the beach to explore the amazing jungle that lies beneath the crystal clear waters.
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4. Maya Bay, Koh Phi Phi
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The name of the island became famous internationally after Leonardo DiCaprio featured Maya Bay on the map in the film “The Beach”. Soon after, tourists started flocking from all over the world. The movie was filmed in 1999 and since then the place has grown to its full glory by becoming a snorkeling mecca.
If you want to relive “The Beach” experience and see the original location that you have seen in the movie, and snorkel too, then go for it. The beach is almost entirely composed of coral reefs and the central extension of the beach extends for about 200 metres. Surrounded by high rocks on three sides, this place makes for a beautiful snorkeling spot.
5. Ao Niang Bay, Koh Kradan
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You can also try the small island located southeast of Koh Lanta, called “Koh Kradan”. It is an amazing sight to see wherever your eyes can marvel. Underwater, you can explore the splendor of marine life. The island belongs to the Hat Chao Mai National Park, which is spread over 89-square miles. And thus the nearby coral reefs remain almost untouched by the visitors. Experience peace in the tranquility of the island, this place is one of the most peaceful islands in Thailand.
If you want to be alone while you relax, this is the place. Tourists are few and vegetation is abundant. You can get the complete solitude you wanted when you were planning a beach vacation. Ao Niang, located on the southeastern part of the island, is the best bay for snorkellers with abundant marine life and coral.
6. Kata Beach, Phuket
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If snorkeling is the centerpiece of your Phuket trip then Kata Beach, not Patong Beach, is your go-to spot. The underwater views are thrilling. And what’s more, you don’t need to break into your bank for a dive certificate. The beach is made of pristine white sand and along the slope, palm trees will give a feeling of peace and tranquility. It is a small spread of only a mile long, yet it is completely secluded and not affected by crowds of tourists.
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7. Ko Lan
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Venture to one of the offshore islands near Pattaya’s sketchy shores. Here you will find an absolutely delightful snorkeling area in Koh Lan. Another name of this island is Coral Island. The coral reefs here are the largest and arguably the most stunning. You will have to travel less than an hour to reach the spot.
8. Koh Phor Yai
Last but not least is Koh Ngam Yai, located near the quiet town of Chumphon. It is generally considered as a stop-gap between two destinations and for this reason the place is secluded and makes for a peaceful snorkeling destination. Koh Ngam Yai, near Thung Vua Laen Beach, is a blissful destination with calm and solitude and shallow waters filled with colorful corals.
Thailand’s pristine beaches are calling you! Are you going to answer?
read ahead: 10 Best Thailand Island Resorts That Look Like a Dreamy Paradise
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