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Top Scuba Diving Destinations in Thailand

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Table of Contents

1. Similan Islands – Phang Nga Province

2. Richelieu Rock – Phang Nga Province

3. Hin Daeng & Hin Muang – Krabi Province

4. Koh Tao – Surat Thani Province

5. Koh Phi Phi – Krabi Province

Thailand is a world-renowned diving destination, attracting divers of all levels with its crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life. Whether you’re seeking whale sharks in the Andaman Sea, beginner-friendly reefs in the Gulf of Thailand, or dramatic underwater cliffs and caves, Thailand has something for every diver.

In this guide, we rank the top scuba diving spots in Thailand, providing detailed information about each location, the best time to dive, how to get there, and tips to make the most of your underwater adventure. Perfect for travelers and diving enthusiasts planning their diving itinerary.

Prepare your gear, because you’re about to dive into some of the most stunning marine environments Southeast Asia has to offer, from rich biodiversity to breathtaking underwater landscapes.

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01 Similan Islands – Phang Nga Province

Similan Islands – Phang Nga Province

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Highlights: Thailand’s most famous dive destination; crystal-clear waters, vibrant soft corals, and abundant marine life, including manta rays, whale sharks, and schools of tropical fish. Underwater landscapes feature pinnacles, walls, and patches of sand.

  • Best Time to Dive: November – April

  • Access: Liveaboard trips from Khao Lak

  • Tips:
    • Ideal for intermediate to advanced divers.
    • Check weather conditions before departure.
    • Bring underwater photography gear; water visibility is excellent in peak season.


Google Maps: Similan Islands 

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02 Richelieu Rock – Phang Nga Province

Richelieu Rock – Phang Nga Province

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Highlights: Known for whale shark sightings and exceptional biodiversity; soft corals, giant barracudas, and macro life like nudibranchs. Deep water pinnacles attract advanced divers.

  • Best Time to Dive: November – April

  • Access: Liveaboard trips from Khao Lak or Phuket

  • Tips:
    • Strong currents can occur; best for experienced divers.
    • Use dive guides familiar with the area for safe navigation.

Google Maps: Richelieu Rock

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03 Hin Daeng & Hin Muang – Krabi Province

Hin Daeng & Hin Muang – Krabi Province

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Highlights: Dramatic vertical drop-offs, colorful soft corals, manta rays, and whale shark sightings. Hin Muang is deeper and great for drift diving.

  • Best Time to Dive: November – April

  • Access: Day trips from Koh Lanta, Krabi Province

  • Tips:
    • Best for intermediate to advanced divers.
    • Bring underwater photography gear; currents can be strong.
    • Check liveaboard or day-trip availability in advance.

Google Maps: Hin Daeng & Hin Muang 

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04 Koh Tao – Surat Thani Province

Koh Tao – Surat Thani Province

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Highlights: Small island in the Gulf of Thailand; beginner-friendly dive sites and affordable PADI courses. Popular spots include Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock, and Ao Leuk.

  • Best Time to Dive: May – September

  • Access: Ferry from Chumphon or Surat Thani

  • Tips:
    • Excellent for first-time divers.
    • Visibility may vary seasonally.
    • Many dive schools offer guided trips and certifications.

Google Maps: Koh Tao

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05 Koh Phi Phi – Krabi Province

Koh Phi Phi – Krabi Province

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Highlights: Dramatic underwater landscapes with caves, swim-throughs, and coral walls; sightings of blacktip reef sharks, turtles, and trevally schools. Popular dive sites: Bida Nok, Bida Nai, Shark Point.

  • Best Time to Dive: November – April

  • Access: Ferry from Phuket or Krabi

  • Tips:
    • Some sites are suited for intermediate divers.
    • Watch for strong currents.
    • Ideal for underwater photography; best visibility in dry season.

Google Maps: Koh Phi Phi 

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by Thairanked Guide

October 16, 2025 07:26 AM

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