Everyone has their own level of comfort, so some people don’t need special footwear for snorkeling. Some prefer to protect their feet, while others say it’s fine to snorkel at Phi Phi without shoes. For safety, we recommend snorkeling with proper protection, though in many snorkeling spots near Phuket, it’s not strictly necessary.

What danger might you face if you swim without special footwear? Most commonly, you might step on a sharp coral or a sea urchin.

What should you do in such a case? Disinfect the wound and apply a bandage. If a sharp urchin spine has penetrated deep under the skin, follow these steps:

1. Remove the spines with tweezers, not with your hands. If that’s not possible, try to dissolve them using vinegar by applying a compress.
2. Soak the wound in hot water for 30 to 60 minutes.
3. Treat the wound with an antiseptic — you can use chlorhexidine, alcohol, or hydrogen peroxide.
4. Apply a sterile bandage.
5. If self-treatment doesn’t help, consult a doctor. We’ve listed Phuket hospitals in a dedicated section.

Where to buy special footwear for snorkeling? Check the Shopping Malls in Phuket section — you can also sometimes find such shoes in small stalls in tourist areas.

You can read more about the Phi Phi Island tour to decide whether you’ll need special water shoes. On our website, you’ll also find an Excursions section where you can choose interesting routes for exploring and discovering the amazing nature of Thailand.