Where to go snorkeling in Phuket
Where to go snorkeling in Phuket and nearby areas?
Snorkeling is swimming just below the water’s surface with a mask and snorkel, allowing you to observe the fascinating underwater world. It doesn’t require extensive training or much physical effort, making it perfect for children and offering plenty of enjoyable moments.
Phuket is truly a paradise for snorkeling lovers. The Andaman Sea boasts a beautiful and diverse underwater world, and thanks to the clear water, you can easily admire the intricate coral reefs and bright tropical fish.
You can snorkel at almost all beaches in Phuket: coral reefs are abundant along the edges of the bays, making it easy to spot beautiful fish and other marine life. However, here is a list of the top beaches where snorkeling is at its best.
Yanui Beach
Yanui is a small but very picturesque beach in the south of the island, about 600 meters from the more famous Nai Harn Beach. Its unique feature is a rocky outcrop that divides the beach into two parts. Due to its small size and the bay, the waters here are very calm with little to no waves.
There is a small island nearby that can be reached from Yanui by renting a kayak. Snorkeling is best near this island. Masks and snorkels can also be rented on the beach.
During low tide, you can observe exotic fish at Yanui even without a mask.
Banana Beach
A scenic, wild beach located between Bang Tao and Nai Thon, often considered one of the best in Phuket. Banana Beach is set in a small bay, so there are fewer waves during storms. The beach features coarse sand, like beads, and clear water, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling. Masks and fins can be rented on-site.
The only downside is a fairly steep descent and no parking. Cars and bikes are typically left on the road near the beach access. A gentler path to the beach can be found in the northern part.
Merlin Snorkel
The name of this place says it all – it’s perfect for snorkeling. The beach is located near Patong and is part of the Marriott hotel, but entry is free for everyone. Merlin Snorkel is set in a beautiful bay surrounded by tropical trees.
It offers a rich underwater world: numerous reefs, white sand with shells and corals, and clear turquoise water. Masks and fins for snorkeling can be rented here. But don’t forget to check the tide schedule before visiting — where the best snorkeling is in Phuket depends on the time of day, and it’s better to come here during high tide.
Nai Yang
A secluded beach on the northwestern coast of the island, close to Phuket Airport, where planes frequently fly overhead. Nai Yang is surrounded by lush greenery and trees, creating a true tropical paradise.
There is a long coral sandbar that becomes fully exposed during low tide, allowing you to explore the active underwater world while snorkeling.
Ao Sane
Ao Sane Beach is a hidden gem that not many tourists know about. The marine life here is very diverse, ranging from small fish to large coral reefs, and the water is crystal clear, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling. Ao Sane is located near Nai Harn Beach.
Freedom
Freedom Beach is one of the most picturesque beaches in Phuket, located not far from Patong. It features crystal-clear water and white sand, and underwater, you can find numerous corals and marine life, including sea urchins and colorful fish.
The bay of Freedom Beach is surrounded by rocks and hills. The secret to the seclusion of this place lies in its challenging accessibility on foot, so it’s best to reach it by boat, which takes just 10 minutes. The entrance fee is 100 THB per person.
Coral Beach on Ko He Island
A true paradise island located just 20 minutes from Phuket. It has fine white sand, like flour, crystal-clear water, and diverse flora and fauna, including coral reefs. It’s an ideal spot for snorkeling and relaxation.
You can reach Coral Beach from Rawai Beach by renting a longtail boat, which costs around 1,500-2,000 THB for a round trip, including waiting time. The entrance fee is 100 THB per person.
Banana Beach on Ko He Island
Banana Beach on Ko He can also be reached within 20 minutes by renting a longtail boat from Rawai Beach. It offers even more corals and colorful fish, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling.
There is an entrance fee starting from 100 THB per adult. The island has all the necessary amenities: sunbeds, showers, restrooms, cafes, shops, massage services, and beautiful photo spots.
Phi Phi Islands
A true gem of the Andaman Sea, the Phi Phi Islands are an archipelago of six stunningly beautiful islands. They feature hidden caves and wild beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, seclusion, and tranquility.
You can reach Phi Phi from Phuket independently (we’ve written about how to do this here) or as part of a tour. Snorkeling at Phi Phi is a must, as the underwater world here is especially beautiful and untouched.
Racha Islands
The Racha Islands, also known as Raya Islands, are a fantastic place for snorkeling. Racha Yai and Racha Noi are famous for their white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking underwater scenery.
The islands are surrounded by coral reefs, and the sea is home to a variety of marine life, including barracudas, parrotfish, starfish, and sea urchins. You can reach the Racha Islands from Phuket by speedboat.
Similan Islands
Another set of paradise islands that can be reached from Phuket by speedboat. They attract visitors with their crystal-clear waters and rich underwater world, making them one of the best places for snorkeling.
The underwater world here is abundant: you can encounter seahorses, rays, moray eels, barracudas, turtles, and even reef sharks. Moreover, the Similan Islands are home to Thailand’s oldest coral reefs, which are around 5,000 years old!
The only downside is that these islands are quite distant from the mainland, taking at least two hours to reach.
Snorkeling safety rules
To ensure a positive snorkeling experience, follow these simple guidelines:
- Do not touch shells, corals, fish, or other marine creatures with your hands. You could accidentally come into contact with a moray eel or other dangerous fish hiding among the corals. Also, avoid breaking off pieces of coral—preserve nature!
- Protect yourself from the sun. Wear a hat and use SPF sunscreen.
- Wear appropriate footwear — like water shoes, especially in the coral reef zone, to avoid injuries.
- Swim only during daylight hours. At night, marine life becomes more active, and many creatures go out to hunt.
- Do not feed the fish! They will find their own food, and your help could do more harm than good.
Enjoy Thailand’s natural beauty and be sure to explore the underwater world! You can also plan water activities by checking out the Fishing and Diving sections on our website.
