Sail Rock
Explore Surat ThaniIn the Gulf of Thailand just south of Cambodia is the beautiful paradise region o
In the Gulf of Thailand just south of Cambodia is the beautiful paradise region of Surat Thani, which is one of Thailand’s best diving hotspots. Consisting of 112 islands, all with seemingly infinite reefs and dramatic underwater topography, it’s no surprise that the region is often included in the world’s premier diving destinations.
The most popular islands are the world-famous Koh Samui, Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, all of which are easily accessible by ferry from the mainland. Koh Ang Thong marine national park is also included in this area, which similarly boasts exceptional dive sites suitable for all skill levels. Whether you’re a diver or not, you’re bound to be engulfed by the islands’ white sandy beaches peppered with swaying palm trees, all surrounded by pristine waters overflowing with diverse marine life. Expect to see an array of species, from colorful hard and soft corals, macro critters like nudibranch and shrimp, tons of tropical reef fish, eels, stingrays and octopus, to bigger critters, like grouper, schools of barracuda, turtles, reef sharks, and even whale sharks.
The region has a boatload of dive centers and dive resorts to choose from, catering to all budgets. Liveaboards are a good choice for those who want to dive all areas without staying on the islands, and they’re also aplenty. Dive courses are just as readily available in multiple languages, and are very affordable. The area is popular among those taking their first breaths underwater. Advanced divers also enjoy the relaxing sites here, and many even obtain higher level certifications, thanks to a wealth of varied sites with suitable training conditions for doing so.
The majority of dive sites boast vibrant reefs teeming with colorful life. With exhilarating seascapes in the mix, there's unforgettable wall and cave diving, with interesting tunnels, swim-throughs, caverns, canyons and drop-offs. Plus, phenomenal shipwrecks are included on the list, many of which are suitable for beginner divers to discover. Boat diving is common practice, with many dive operators offering daily trips. Shore diving is possible, though only in certain areas.
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: 27
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 200
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 600
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 130
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 90
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 250
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 100
The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.
Total number of species: 8
Diving is great all year round, with excellent visibility, averaging around 20–30 meters/66–98 feet. Weather is mostly hot and sunny year-round with water temperatures lingering around 28°C–30°C/82°F–86°F, though there are three distinguishable seasons involving hot, windy, and wet seasons. November is the rainy period, when overcast skies and storms occur, causing lesser visibility and choppier seas, but diving is still possible as some sites are sheltered from harsher conditions. May to September is the busiest season, when the weather and diving conditions are the most favourable.