Snorkeler's Guide to Phuket: 8 Stunning Beaches
Where to Explore Underwater Wildlife in Phuket?
The best places to snorkel in Phuket are just a short distance from some of the island’s most fantastic beaches. That makes them conveniently accessible and adds snorkeling as fantastic activity to a relaxing day by the sea. However, not all offer the same clear waters and exotic marine habitats.
Snorkeling beaches in Phuket are where you can swim past anemones, parrotfish, and various types of coral. Take a deep breath and kick down the few short meters to take a closer look at lively marine ecosystems in Phuket.
1. Ao Sane
Crystal clear waters await in Nai Harn
Good for: Adventure, Families, Photo
Ao Sane is a 200-meter-long beach next to Nai Harn Beach in the south part of Phuket. It has two distinct snorkeling areas.
One is a sharp drop off into deeper waters populated by parrotfish, clownfish, and eels. Another prominent snorkeling area in Ao Sane is to the right of a beach restaurant. It’s only accessible at high tide as the coral is close to the surface. The waters surrounding the beach are clear and safe year-round. So, pack your snorkeling mask and flippers and be ready for a submarine adventure. Read more
Location: Q7HW+7R7, Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Ao Sane
2. Kata Noi
A snorkeling haven south of Kata Beach
Good for: Families, Photo
Kata Noi Beach is one of Phuket’s most beautiful beaches. The sea here is bright turquoise, especially at the rocky promontories at both ends of the 850-meter beach.
The best time to snorkel is around midday when the beach, especially at its northern part, enjoys the highest water visibility. During the low season (May to October), Kata Noi Beach becomes quite a popular spot for surfers. The beach is also considered a great spot for beginners to learn snorkeling, so if you’re traveling with family, take your kids here and see the fall in love with the underwater miracles. Read more
Location: Karon, Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Kata Noi
3. Paradise Beach
A secluded spot south of Patong Beach
Good for: Adventure, Photo
Paradise Beach lies around 5 km southwest of Patong, with a coral reef about 100 meters offshore. This 150-meter sheltered beach is managed by Paradise Beach Phuket Club, which offers snorkeling, kayaking, SUP boarding, and scuba diving. You can enjoy good and safe snorkeling as jet skis aren’t allowed to get close to the beach.
You’ll find good snorkeling opportunities at the shallow reefs near the beach and along the rocks, with high tide being the best time to go. Do note that the beach has an entrance fee, which includes a sun lounger and umbrella. Read more
Location: Muen-Ngern Rd, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand
Paradise Beach
4. Ya Nui
Snorkeling among brain coral between Rawai and Nai Harn Beaches
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Photo
Ya Nui Beach, located in the south part of Phuket, has a rocky promontory with lots of brain coral surrounding it. The further you go out, the better the snorkeling gets. If you have a boat, you should head out to the opposite islet, where the waters are teeming with tropical fish.
There’s also good snorkeling along the base of Windmill Hill. The actual beach can get crowded but pass the ubiquitous moored yachts, and you’ll find more tranquil waters. Read more
Location: Mueang Phuket District, Phuket 83100, Thailand
Ya Nui
5. Laem Ka
A kid-friendly beach in Rawai
Good for: Budget, Families, Photo
Laem Ka is the only eastern-facing beach in the south of Phuket that offers good swimming and snorkeling. The southern end of this sheltered, 150-meter-long beach is rocky but it’s possible to swim out and snorkel at high tide.
The middle part of the beach is dominated by large granite boulders, the habitat of many crab species, while the northern end is a nice swimming spot. Laem Ka Beach is kid-friendly, thanks to its safe waters and shade-giving trees, so pack a picnic and treat your family to a heavenly day on the beach and in the water.
Location: Rawai, Muang, Phuket, Thailand
Laem Ka
6. Laem Singh Beach
A lesser-known sandy paradise
Good for: Adventure, Budget, Photo
Laem Singh Beach lies on the west coast between Kamala and Surin beaches in Phuket. This 150-meter beach is right below a steep promontory, with palm trees and giant boulders dotting the sandy expanse. The southern part of the beach is excellent for swimming and snorkeling, with loads of fish to see around a rocky headland.
However, conditions can change, so it is best to go during the dry season (November to April) and be cautious of strong currents during the monsoon season (May to October). Read more
Location: Kamala, Kathu District, Phuket 83120, Thailand
Laem Singh Beach
7. Snorkeling off nearby islands
Island-hopping for the best snorkeling spots
Good for: Adventure, Couples, Families
The Phi Phi Islands are an outstanding snorkeling destination, with an incredible variety of tropical fish and bright coral. Join a day tour or arrange a private boat charter. Trips usually run year-round. Closer to Phuket are the Coral, Racha, and Khai Nok islands, each offering clear waters and abundant marine life just offshore.
If you join a snorkeling excursion, make sure to use the services of an operator with good safety standards. Many of the cut-rate tours take people to the most crowded bays at peak periods, not so enjoyable when all you see in the water are other snorkelers. Opt for chartering a boat to avoid the crowds.
Snorkeling off nearby islands
8. Similan Islands
Stellar diving and snorkeling
Good for: Adventure, Photo
The Similan Islands are among Southeast Asia’s largest dive sites, with over 200 species of hard corals, colorful tropical fish, and even sea turtles and sharks. Located just 84 km northwest of Phuket, this archipelago is also a popular stop for yachts and tour boats. While Similan is world-famous for diving, snorkeling is a fine experience too.
The islands offer clear, turquoise waters with fantastic visibility (often up to 30 meters) and a dazzling array of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, turtles, and vibrant coral reefs. They provide numerous spots for snorkeling, with shallow reefs easily accessible for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. To avoid the crowds, book an “early bird” tour, which typically returns earlier in the afternoon. Read more
Similan Islands
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