Explore Koh Samet
Scuba diving in Koh Samet is perfect for divers of all skill levels. With calm, beautiful reef sites that offer a wonderful first encounter with marine nature for beginners undertaking entry-level dive courses, and deeper pinnacle sites for experienced divers to discover, there’s truly something for everyone.
There are only a small number of dive centers and resorts on the island itself, though that only adds to the untouched island vibe that attracts visitors that long for something unique. Dive schools usually offer a more personal one-on-one experience with instructors, as classes are on the smaller side. Liveaboard diving is possible in the area, though they usually come from the mainland or other areas in the Gulf of Thailand, specifically to dive the famous Alhambra Pinnacles, which is undoubtedly the best dive site in Rayong province.
Top Koh Samet Dive Sites
1. Hin Plueng
Known as Hin Alhambra or Rayong Pinnacles, this site features vibrant corals and diverse marine life. Divers may encounter mantas or whale sharks. The adventure level is advanced due to intricate topography with cracks and crevices. Suitable for scuba diving with fascinating underwater formations.
2. The Petra Wreck
Located off Mae Phim Cape, this new shipwreck serves as an artificial reef, teeming with marine life. The site requires technical diving skills due to its depth and structure. It is mainly for scuba diving and offers a glimpse into the growing underwater ecosystem.
3. Ao Phrao Bay
Ideal for beginners, Ao Phrao Bay features calm waters with vibrant reefs and conservation projects for staghorn coral. The adventure level is easy, perfect for both scuba and freediving. The area is significant for its ecological efforts and relaxed diving experience.
4. Koh Talu
This site offers abundant corals and diverse aquatic life, with sightings of reef sharks, turtles, and sailfish. It offers an intermediate adventure level, suitable for both scuba and freediving. The site is known for its rich marine biodiversity.
5. Hin Kow (White Rock)
This site is famous for its large carpet of anemones and thriving clownfish species. It provides an easy dive suitable for scuba diving. The hypnotic underwater environment makes it a must-visit for its unique marine life experience.
The best Months to dive in Koh Samet
Thanks to the tropical climate, warm waters ranging between 28°C-30°C make diving possible year-round. The best time to dive is between October and May, as visibility is at the better end fluctuating between 10-30 meters. The weather is drier and sunnier, and ocean conditions are usually calm.
The low season from May to October may see choppier seas and a few more rainy days, but you’ll easily bag good deals on accommodation and diving during this time, and still enjoy a fantastic diving trip
Top Wildlife Sightings in Koh Samet
The usual Indo-Pacific species thrive in and around Koh Samet, from the big to the small, the area really has it all. Kaleidoscopic nudibranch, shrimp and crabs are just some of the macro species to adore, while a plethora of reef fish populate the soft and hard coral reefs, including angelfish, parrotfish, anemonefish, batfish and many more.
Eels, octopus, cuttlefish and sea snakes all make appearances, while bigger species like turtles, reef sharks and eagle rays can be spotted. At sites like the Alhambra Pinnacles, whalesharks and manta rays sometimes pass by, while leopard sharks can be seen basking in the sandy spots.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species approx.: 200
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Total number of species approx.: 28
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Clownfish
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Total number of species approx.: 90
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Angelfish
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Total number of species approx.: 130
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Butterfly Fish
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Total number of species approx.: 100
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Parrotfish
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Total number of species approx.: 80
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Stingrays
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Total number of species approx.: 250
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Grouper/Basslets
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Total number of species approx.: 110
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Snapper
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Total number of species approx.: 85
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Surgeonfish
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Total number of species approx.: 150
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Sweetlips and Grunts
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Total number of species approx.: 60
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Soldierfish
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Total number of species approx.: 20
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Porcupinefish
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Total number of species approx.: 130
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Pufferfish
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