If you're heading to Phuket, chances are you're looking to spend some time in the water. After all, the island is one of Thailand's top destinations for both swimming and snorkeling. And with its clear turquoise waters, diverse marine life, and colorful coral reefs, it's easy to see why.
But with so many snorkeling spots to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That's why we've put together this list of our best 7 snorkeling spots in Phuket, Thailand. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, you're sure to find a spot that's perfect for you. Read on to learn everything you need to know for the best snorkeling in Phuket.
One of the most popular snorkeling spots on the island, Ao Sane Beach is located just a short drive from Phuket Town. The beach is known for its calm waters and abundance of fish, making it a great spot for beginners. Ao Sane is also one of the only beaches on the island where you can find seagrass beds, which are home to a variety of interesting creatures like sea turtles and nudibranchs.
If you're looking for a more remote snorkeling experience, Mai Khao Beach is the place for you. This long stretch of unspoiled sand is located at the northern tip of the island and is only accessible by longtail boat. The trip is well worth it though, as Mai Khao is home to an incredible variety of marine life including manta rays, whale sharks, and turtles.
Nai Yang Beach is another great spot for beginners and families with young children. The beach is located within easy walking distance of several hotels and resorts, and its shallow reef makes it perfect for those who are new to snorkeling. Nai Yang is also a nesting site for green sea turtles, so keep your eyes peeled for these gentle giants while you're in the water.
Probably the most popular snorkeling spot on the island, Freedom Beach gets its name from the fact that it can only be accessed by longtail boat or by swimming through a narrow channel at low tide. The journey is well worth it though, as Freedom Beach boasts some of the best corals and marine life in Phuket.
Banana Beach gets its name from its crescent shape, which resembles a banana when seen from above. This secluded beach is one of the quieter snorkeling spots on the island but still offers stunning views of coral reefs and tropical fish. Banana Beach is also a great spot for families as there are plenty of shady areas where children can play while adults enjoy some time in the water.
These islands are located about 45 minutes from Phuket by boat and offer some of the best snorkeling in the area. The waters around Phi Phi are relatively shallow, making them perfect for beginners. However, there is still plenty to see underwater, including vibrant coral reefs and an abundance of fish species. If you're looking for a bit more adventure, you can even swim out to one of the nearby Viking caves.
The Similan Islands are located about 90 minutes from Phuket by boat and offer some of the best scuba diving and snorkeling in Thailand. The islands feature stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters that are teeming with marine life. Beginners can stick close to shore and explore the shallows while more experienced swimmers can venture out to deeper waters in search of dolphins, turtles, and even sharks!
Whether you're a beginner or already an expert, there's a snorkeling spot in Phuket that's perfect for you. So grab your mask and fins and head on out into the incredible underwater world that awaits! And don't forget to have your travel insurance for Thailand in order.
To explore all of these snorkeling spots, and other more secret spots, why not charter a yacht? You can explore all of these spots and others by chartering Navis One.