Best Snorkelling Spots in Phuket to Put on Your Snorkels and Fins!
Close your eyes, and picture this: you're floating effortlessly in crystal-clear waters, surrounded by an underwater wonderland.
Your snorkel lets you breathe easy, and you fix your eyes on the kaleidoscopic world below.
As you look around, the ocean floor comes alive with colours and the marine life dances in harmony.
Yup, that's Phuket for you!
From tranquil turquoise waters to hidden coves brimming with playful sea creatures and vibrant corals, this tropical paradise offers snorkelling experiences that will leave you breathless – in the best way possible
Here's our guide to the best snorkelling spots in Phuket, on both the mainland and the islands:
So, strap on your snorkelling gear, unleash your inner explorer, and plunge into a world where reality transcends imagination!
Best Snorkelling Spots in Phuket's Nearby Islands
Coral Island
Also known as Koh Hae, Coral Island is Phuket's nearest snorkelling haven you can reach in fifteen minutes by speedboat from Ra Wai Beach in south Phuket or Chalong Pier.
The idyllic island boasts shallow, turquoise waters, where you can glide over vibrant coral gardens and spot playful sergeant major fish.
Coral Island has two beaches, Long Beach and Banana Beach, and is also home to the Coral Island Resort, where you can spend a wonderful night.
How to Reach: 15 minutes by speedboat from Chalong Pier (map) or Ra Wai Beach (map)
Koh Racha
Head to Koh Racha, a small island about 30-kilometres from south Phuket. The water clarity is astonishing, with shallow coral reefs and a white sandy sea floor.
Glide through schools of tropical fish like Moorish Idols at Ter Bay - and if you go diving, you might notice blue spotted sting rays, turtles, and nudibranchs if you're lucky!
Racha Island is also home to the luxurious villa resort, The Racha.
How to Reach: 45-minutes by speedboat from Chalong Pier (map)
Phi Phi Islands
Famous for its stunning limestone cliffs rising dramatically from the sea, Koh Phi Phi boasts equally captivating underwater scenery.
Maya Bay, made famous by the movie "The Beach," teems with crystal-clear waters and marine biodiversity.
For divers, Phi Phi Islands' underwater nirvana also brings you across colourful soft corals adorning the ocean floor and abundant marine life, like blacktip reef sharks, lionfish, cuttlefish, pufferfish, and eels.
How to Reach: 45 minutes by speedboat from Rassada Pier. (map)
Similan Islands
Renowned as one of the world's top diving destinations, the Similan Islands' snorkelling opportunities are equally breathtaking.
This archipelago is an underwater playground with surreal rock formations, vast coral reefs, and an incredible array of marine life.
For adventurous snorkellers, the underwater boulders and swim-throughs add an extra layer of excitement.
How to Reach: 1.5 hours by speedboat from Thap Lamu Pier in Khao Lak (map)
Best Snorkeling Beaches in Phuket
Banana Beach
Escape the crowds and head to the serene Banana Beach, a hidden gem on Phuket's southwestern coast.
A secluded cove and towering palm trees make Banana Beach of Phuket a tranquil snorkelling experience.
The calm and shallow water is ideal for beginners to hone their skills.
Explore the coral formations near the shore and swim alongside an array of colourful tropical fish that call this underwater sanctuary home.
Address: 27RG+PHH, Choeng Thale, Phuket 83110 (map)
Merlin Beach
Merlin Beach of Phuket offers snorkelling experiences close to Patong Beach in a picturesque hidden bay.
Discover a vibrant underwater world as you venture beyond the shoreline near the Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa.
Look for shy sea cucumbers hiding among the coral branches.
Merlin Beach is also an excellent spot for snorkellers looking for turtles and escaping the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist destinations.
Address: V7JC+XM, Pa Tong, Kathu District, Phuket 83150, Thailand (map)
Freedom Beach
Freedom Beach offers freedom minus the crowd on its pristine white sands and beneath the blue waves.
You can access Freedom Beach during the high season and only by a steep road or longtail boats.
Its underwater terrain is an artist's palette adorned with colourful sponges, sea fans, and vibrant coral gardens.
Be on the look-out for the resident sea turtles, and you'll leave Freedom Beach with unforgettable snorkelling memories.
Address: V7GG+48 Karon, Phuket 83100 (map)
Yanui Beach
Yanui Beach nestles in a tiny cove between the Windmill Viewpoint and the Cape Promthep at the southern tip of Phuket.
What makes this cove unique is the small cape in the middle, with grassy slopes on each side and behind it.
Yanui Beach's snorkelling spots are shallow waters where small, friendly fish will curiously swim up to your mask.
The picturesque surroundings add to the overall charm of this beach.
Address: Q884+WM Rawai, Phuket 83100 (map)
Ao Sane Beach
Tucked away from the mainstream tourist spots, Ao Sane Beach is a treasure trove for snorkelling enthusiasts seeking tranquillity.
This secluded beach is flanked by rocky cliffs, providing a haven for marine life to flourish.
Snorkel along the rocky outcrops, and you'll discover a surprising diversity of marine creatures. For divers, check out bamboo sharks, moray eels, and coral species that call this spot home.
Address: Q7HW+7P Karon, Phuket 83130 (map)
Khai Islands
The Khai Islands are an archipelago of three separate islands: Khai Nai, Khai Nau and Khai Nok, each offering crystal-clear, shallow waters, sandy beaches, and rich corals and marine life.
Snorkelling here is also a treasure trove of opportunities to spot loads of marine life.
How to get there: 20-minute speedboat from Phuket's east coast
Unveiling Aquatic Marvels
As the waves gently touch the shore, you'll emerge from Phuket's underwater wonders feeling exhilarated and refreshed.
In a realm where words can't quite capture the magic, the language is spoken through vibrant coral gardens and the graceful dance of marine life.
Explore places like Coral Island, the wild Similan Islands, the hidden depths of Phi Phi, and the peaceful Banana Beach.
Commonly Asked Questions
What's the best time of year for snorkelling in Phuket?
The dry season from December to March is ideal, as the seas are calmer, and visibility is better for snorkelling. Phuket's rainy season typically starts in May/June and ends in October/November.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer to snorkel at these spots?
While basic swimming skills are required, life jackets and floatation devices are often available to ensure safety for less confident swimmers.
Can I rent snorkelling gear at these locations?
Yes, most spots offer snorkel gear rentals. However, we recommend bringing your gear for the best fit and comfort.
Are these spots family-friendly and suitable for beginners?
Yes, most spots are family-friendly, with calm waters and minimal currents, making them suitable for families with children. The shallow waters are also perfect for beginners.