CategoriesActivity Attractions By Mininter

Snorkelling and Island Hopping from Phuket: Where to Go for the Best Experiences

Phuket isn’t just a beach paradise—it’s your gateway to some of Thailand’s most stunning offshore islands. With turquoise waters, colorful coral reefs, and limestone cliffs rising from the sea, it’s no wonder snorkelling and island hopping from Phuket are among the most unforgettable experiences visitors can have.

Whether you’re seeking calm waters for family-friendly snorkelling or dramatic landscapes for a full-day adventure, there’s an island trip for every kind of traveler. In this guide, we’ll show you where to go, what to expect, and how to make the most of your island-hopping adventure.

🏝️ Why Phuket Is the Perfect Island-Hopping Hub

Phuket’s location in the Andaman Sea places it within short boat distance to some of Southeast Asia’s most iconic islands. From budget-friendly half-day trips to luxury speedboat excursions, the options are endless.

Plus, most tours include hotel pickup, lunch, snorkelling gear, and experienced guides—making it an easy, all-in-one experience.

🐠 1. Phi Phi Islands – The Iconic Choice

Perhaps the most famous island group near Phuket, the Phi Phi Islands offer everything from vibrant reefs to jaw-dropping cliffs.

  • Highlights: Maya Bay (famous from The Beach), Monkey Beach, Viking Cave

  • Snorkelling spots: Loh Samah Bay, Bamboo Island, and the reefs off Phi Phi Leh

  • Travel time: ~45 minutes by speedboat from Phuket

💡 Great for first-timers who want a mix of sightseeing, snorkelling, and stunning scenery.

🐢 2. Coral Island (Koh Hae) – Perfect for Families

Just a short ride away from Chalong Pier, Coral Island is ideal for families or those with limited time. The coral reef is shallow and great for beginner snorkelers.

  • Highlights: Banana Beach and Long Beach

  • Activities: Snorkelling, parasailing, kayaking, and beach lounging

  • Travel time: ~20 minutes by speedboat

💡 Perfect for a half-day snorkelling trip with young kids or relaxed travelers.

🏝️ 3. Racha Islands (Racha Yai & Racha Noi) – Crystal Clear Waters

If you’re serious about snorkelling or diving, the Racha Islands are your best bet. Known for exceptional visibility and calm bays, these islands are popular with underwater photographers and marine life lovers.

  • Highlights: Kon Kare Bay, Siam Bay, and Ter Bay

  • Snorkelling conditions: Some of the clearest waters near Phuket

  • Travel time: ~30–45 minutes by speedboat

💡 Great for snorkelers who want peaceful waters and abundant marine life.

🪸 4. Similan Islands – For the Snorkelling Enthusiast

Open seasonally (usually mid-October to mid-May), the Similan Islands are a national marine park and one of the top snorkelling destinations in Thailand.

  • Highlights: Donald Duck Bay, Sailing Rock viewpoint, and incredible reefs

  • Marine life: Turtles, reef sharks, and large schools of tropical fish

  • Travel time: ~1.5–2 hours (departures often from Khao Lak)

💡 Best for experienced snorkelers and those seeking a premium full-day tour.

🏞️ 5. Phang Nga Bay – Scenic Beauty & Sea Caves

While not a top snorkelling destination, Phang Nga Bay deserves a spot on your list for its unique limestone karsts, emerald waters, and peaceful kayak routes.

  • Highlights: James Bond Island (Koh Tapu), Koh Hong, sea cave kayaking

  • Snorkelling: Limited but some shallow reefs near hidden lagoons

  • Travel time: ~1 hour by speedboat

💡 Ideal for photography lovers and those looking for a calmer, scenic experience.

🚤 Tour Tips & What to Bring

To get the most out of your island-hopping trip from Phuket:

  • Book with a reputable operator – Look for tours with good reviews and insurance coverage

  • Check the weather – Avoid tours during stormy conditions or rough seas

  • Bring: Swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, towel, hat, waterproof phone case, and some cash

  • Go early – Morning tours beat the crowds at popular spots like Maya Bay

  • Know your limits – Some snorkelling sites may require swimming in deeper water

📍 Where to Book Island Tours in Phuket

You can book snorkelling tours through:

  • Local travel agencies (especially near Rawai, Patong, Kata)

  • Your villa or hotel concierge

  • Online platforms like Klook, GetYourGuide, or directly with tour operators

  • Inter Property Phuket guest service desk (for curated, verified tours with extra care)

🌊 Final Thoughts

With dozens of islands just a short boat ride away, snorkelling and island hopping from Phuket should be at the top of your travel itinerary. Whether you’re swimming with tropical fish off Racha Yai or kayaking through sea caves in Phang Nga Bay, every trip offers a new side of Thailand’s natural beauty.

Just remember: bring your sense of adventure, respect the ocean, and don’t forget your underwater camera—these are the memories you’ll want to keep forever.

👉 Want help booking the best island tours while staying in Phuket?

Contact Inter Property Phuket for personalised recommendations, transport options, and packages that match your travel style.

snorkelling
CategoriesActivity By Mininter

Discover Phuket’s Underwater Wonders: Scuba Diving & Snor…

Exploring the Underwater Wonders of Phuket: A Guide to Scuba Diving and Snorkelling

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, is a paradise for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life, Phuket offers some of the best scuba diving and snorkelling experiences in the world. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there’s something for everyone in this tropical haven.

Why Choose Phuket for Your Underwater Adventure?

Phuket’s location in the Andaman Sea provides access to an incredible array of dive sites, each with its own unique features and attractions:

  • Stunning Coral Reefs: Phuket’s waters are home to a wide variety of coral species, creating vibrant underwater landscapes that are sure to take your breath away.
  • Diverse Marine Life: From colorful tropical fish to majestic sea turtles and even whale sharks, Phuket’s waters are teeming with fascinating creatures.
  • Year-round Diving: With its warm water temperatures and excellent visibility, Phuket offers great diving conditions throughout the year.

Top Scuba Diving Sites in Phuket

1. Shark Point: Known for its leopard sharks, this site also features a variety of other marine life, such as moray eels, octopuses, and colorful reef fish.

2. King Cruiser Wreck: This former car ferry, which sank in 1997, has become an artificial reef and a popular spot for both divers and marine life.

3. Anemone Reef: As the name suggests, this site is covered in vibrant anemones and is home to a variety of clownfish, making it a perfect spot for underwater photography.

Snorkelling Hotspots in Phuket

For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, Phuket offers excellent snorkelling opportunities:

1. Phi Phi Islands: These picturesque islands, located just a short boat ride from Phuket, boast clear waters and an abundance of marine life, making them a snorkeller’s paradise.

2. Racha Islands: Known for their white sandy beaches and turquoise waters, the Racha Islands offer fantastic snorkelling right off the shore.

3. Coral Island: Also known as Koh Hae, this small island is just a short trip from Phuket and features stunning coral reefs that are easily accessible for snorkellers.

Getting Started: Scuba Diving and Snorkelling Tours

Phuket offers a wide range of scuba diving and snorkelling tours, catering to all skill levels and preferences:

  • Day Trips: Many operators offer full-day excursions that include multiple dive sites or snorkelling spots, equipment rental, and lunch.
  • Liveaboard Trips: For a more immersive experience, consider a liveaboard trip, which allows you to dive multiple times per day and explore more remote locations.
  • PADI Courses: If you’re new to scuba diving, Phuket is a great place to get certified, with numerous dive schools offering PADI courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

“Phuket’s underwater world is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered. With its incredible dive sites and snorkelling spots, it’s no wonder that Phuket is a top destination for ocean enthusiasts from around the globe.” – Sarah Johnson, experienced scuba diver and travel blogger

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Underwater Experience

To make the most of your scuba diving or snorkelling adventure in Phuket, keep these tips in mind:

  • Always dive or snorkel with a buddy and follow the instructions of your guide or instructor.
  • Protect the marine environment by avoiding touching or disturbing the coral and wildlife.
  • Use reef-safe sunscreen to help preserve the delicate coral ecosystems.
  • Stay hydrated and take breaks as needed, especially when scuba diving.

Phuket’s scuba diving and snorkelling scene offers an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves the ocean and its incredible inhabitants. With its stunning coral reefs, diverse marine life, and range of tours and courses, Phuket is the perfect destination for your next underwater adventure. So, grab your gear and get ready to discover the wonders that lie beneath the surface of this tropical paradise!