The Top Snorkeling Tours in Thailand
Are you planning your next adventure holiday in Thailand and wondering what the best snorkeling tours are the best, from Phuket to Koh Tao these are my must-do Snorkeling tours.
Please note : I will be adding the pricing i paid in 2024/2025 for these experiences, aswell as how/where i booked them.
The Similan Islands
Cost : $96 AUD booked via company Love Andaman
Donald Duck Bay Similan Island
The Similan Islands are considered one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand and Southeast Asia. Located in the Andaman Sea, this protected marine national park is known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. Snorkelers can explore shallow reef systems teeming with colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays, and even whale sharks.
The islands are famous for their exceptional underwater visibility, often reaching up to 30 meters, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. With soft white sand beaches, lush island landscapes, and thriving coral ecosystems, the Similan Islands offer a unique and unforgettable snorkeling experience in Thailand.
Accessible through day trips from Khao Lak & Phuket, the Similan Islands remain one of the top-rated snorkeling locations in the region. Their national park status helps preserve their pristine natural beauty and rich biodiversity, making them a must-visit for anyone looking for world-class snorkeling in Thailand.
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The Khai Islands
Cost: $26 AUD booked via Klook
Stunning view on Khai Nai Island
The Khai Islands are known as one of the best snorkeling spots in Thailand, especially for beginners and families. Located just a short boat ride from Phuket, the Khai Islands—Khai Nok, Khai Nai, and Khai Nui—offer shallow, calm, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling and swimming. These islands are surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and a wide variety of tropical marine life, including colorful fish, clownfish, sea urchins, and more.
Snorkeling at the Khai Islands is ideal due to the easy water access directly from the beach, making it a top choice for those new to snorkeling or traveling with kids. The visibility is excellent, and the protected bays allow for safe and relaxed exploration of the underwater world. With soft white sand beaches, warm waters, and abundant sea life, the Khai Islands deliver an unforgettable snorkeling experience close to Phuket.
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Coral, Racha & Mai ton Island
Cost: $53 AUD booked via Klook
Snorkeling in Crystal clear water on the tour
Coral Island, Racha Island, and Mai Thon Island are considered some of the best snorkeling spots near Phuket, offering crystal-clear waters, rich coral reefs, and diverse marine life. These islands are popular for snorkeling tours thanks to their easy accessibility, beautiful beaches, and vibrant underwater ecosystems filled with tropical fish, sea turtles, and occasional reef sharks.
Coral Island, also known as Koh Hae, is just a short boat ride from Phuket and is perfect for beginners and families. Its shallow waters and calm conditions make snorkeling safe and enjoyable. Racha Island, or Raya Island, is famous for its deeper reefs, excellent water visibility, and opportunities to see larger marine species. It’s a favorite for both snorkelers and divers. Mai Thon Island, often called Honeymoon Island, is a more secluded and less crowded spot that offers pristine reefs, colorful fish, and a peaceful snorkeling experience in a natural setting.
These islands are top choices for snorkeling day trips from Phuket due to their stunning underwater scenery, soft white sand beaches, and rich biodiversity. Whether you’re new to snorkeling or an experienced marine explorer, Coral, Racha, and Mai Thon Islands deliver unforgettable underwater adventures in southern Thailand.
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The Surin Islands
Cost: $145 AUD booked via Viator
One of the many Snorkeling spots on the tour
The Surin Islands are widely regarded as one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand, offering untouched natural beauty, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters. Located in the Andaman Sea, near the border of Myanmar, the Surin Islands are part of a protected national park that is home to some of the richest marine biodiversity in Southeast Asia. The calm, shallow waters around the islands make it perfect for snorkeling, with incredible visibility and thriving coral gardens.
Snorkelers at the Surin Islands can expect to see a wide variety of tropical marine life including clownfish, parrotfish, angelfish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks. The coral reefs here are healthy and colorful, making the underwater experience truly unforgettable. Unlike more crowded locations, the Surin Islands offer a peaceful and pristine environment, ideal for nature lovers and snorkeling enthusiasts.
Accessible by boat from Khao Lak and Kuraburi, the Surin Islands are a top choice for snorkeling day trips and overnight liveaboard tours. The islands are also home to the Moken sea gypsies, adding cultural interest to the natural beauty of the area. With limited tourism and protected status, the Surin Islands remain one of the top-rated snorkeling spots in Thailand.
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Koh Tao
Cost: $44.25 AUD booked via Klook
Found a Sea Turtle at Shark bay , Our last stop of the tour
Koh Tao is one of the best snorkeling destinations in Thailand, known for its clear blue waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao offers calm, shallow bays that are perfect for both beginner and experienced snorkelers. The island is famous for its stunning snorkeling spots such as Shark Bay, Ao Leuk, Hin Wong Bay, and Mango Bay, where visitors can see colorful reef fish, sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and giant clams.
Koh Tao’s warm tropical waters provide excellent visibility year-round, making it ideal for underwater exploration. The island’s protected coves and coral gardens are easy to access right from the beach, making it a favorite for snorkeling day trips and beach-based snorkeling adventures. Koh Tao also offers guided snorkeling tours by boat to reach more remote coral reefs and hidden bays.
Popular with eco-tourists and marine life enthusiasts, Koh Tao is a top-rated destination for snorkeling in Thailand thanks to its healthy coral ecosystems, variety of marine species, and relaxed island vibe. Whether you're snorkeling from the shore or exploring deeper waters by boat, Koh Tao offers one of the best snorkeling experiences in Southeast Asia.
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