Hello, lovely readers! It's Sirinya, and today, I want to take you on a journey to explore some magical snorkeling spots in the Andaman Sea. The Andaman Sea is a tropical paradise, and it is home to some of the world's most stunning marine life and coral gardens. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a curious beginner, the Andaman sea has an abundance of options that cater to everyone.
As someone who has been living in Thailand for most of my life, I have always been drawn to the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea. Whenever I need to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, I head straight to the coast to explore the underwater world. From the hidden bays of Phi Phi Islands to the national parks of Similan Islands, the Andaman Sea is a haven for underwater adventurers.
In this blog post, I will be sharing some of my favorite snorkeling spots that you should add to your travel bucket list. Whether you're looking to snorkel with reef sharks, turtles, or colorful fish, there's something for everyone in the Andaman Sea. So, grab your fins and snorkeling gear and let's dive into these tropical waters together!
Koh Lipe
Koh Lipe is a small island located in the southern part of Thailand. It is known for its crystal clear water and stunning marine life, making it one of the best snorkeling spots in the Andaman Sea. One of the popular snorkeling sites in Koh Lipe is the shallow waters off Sunrise Beach. Here, you can swim among schools of colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. Another popular spot is the deep waters off Pattaya Beach, where you can spot leopard sharks, sea turtles, and even manta rays.
Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are a group of nine islands located in the Andaman Sea, northwest of Phuket. The archipelago is famous for its stunning coral reef systems, white sandy beaches, and clear waters. The Similan Islands offer some of the best snorkeling in Thailand for those who want to explore the coral reefs and marine life beneath the surface. The best time to go snorkeling in the Similan Islands is between November and April when the waters are calm and visibility is clear. Some of the popular snorkeling spots in the Similan Islands include East of Eden, Elephant Head Rock, and Donald Duck Bay.
Koh Phi Phi
Koh Phi Phi is a group of six islands located in the Andaman Sea, between Phuket and the western coast of Thailand. The archipelago is known for its towering limestone cliffs, stunning beaches, and crystal clear waters. One of the popular snorkeling spots in Koh Phi Phi is the Monkey Beach, where you can spot schools of fish and playful monkeys on the beach. Another popular spot is Maya Bay, which is known for its vibrant coral reefs and tropical marine life.
Surin Islands
The Surin Islands are a group of five islands located in the Andaman Sea, close to the Thai-Myanmar border. The islands are part of the Mu Koh Surin National Park and are known for their pristine coral reefs, clear waters, and diverse marine life. The best time to visit the Surin Islands for snorkeling is between November and May when the waters are calm and visibility is high. One of the popular snorkeling spots in the Surin Islands is the Richelieu Rock, which is famous for its colorful soft coral gardens and large pelagic species such as whale sharks and manta rays.
Koh Rok
Koh Rok is a small island located in the southern part of the Andaman Sea, close to Koh Lanta. The island is known for its crystal clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life. There are two main snorkeling spots in Koh Rok, the Koh Rok Nok and Koh Rok Nai. Both sites offer stunning underwater scenery and a chance to swim with schools of colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
Snorkeling Tips: What to Bring and Wear
Before you embark on your snorkeling adventure in the Andaman Sea, it is important to prepare yourself with the right gear and attire. Here are some essential items to bring and wear:
- Snorkel gear (mask, snorkel, and fins)
- Rashguard or wetsuit (to protect your skin from the sun and jellyfish)
- Sunscreen (water-resistant with at least SPF 30)
- Towel
- Water bottle (to stay hydrated)
It is also important to choose a reputable snorkeling tour company that values environmental conservation and safety. Before booking a tour, do some research and read reviews from previous customers.
