Relaxed, laid-back, and undeniably breathtaking, Koh Samui is one of Thailand’s most popular islands. It’s a haven for wellness, luxury accommodations, world-class dining, and spectacular natural beauty.
An island on the Indian Ocean, Koh Samui is blessed with pristine white sand, crystal clear waters, and pleasant temperatures all year round. This makes it the perfect place to enjoy time on the beach and the plethora of water activities that abound. One of these activities is snorkeling.
With a wealth of marine life, Koh Samui’s underwater world is packed with vibrant coral reefs and teeming with different fish species. Unsurprisingly, its coves and beaches offer excellent snorkeling conditions for all levels.
This article will show seven top snorkeling spots in Koh Samui and the best tips for an unforgettable underwater adventure.
Related Reading: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Beach Locations in Koh Samui
Seven of the Best Snorkeling Spots in Koh Samui
Here are seven of the best snorkeling spots in Koh Samui:
Coral Cove
Coral Cove is a small, secluded beach located on the island’s east coast with excellent conditions for calm and quiet snorkeling. With abundant marine life, you’ll find the shallow waters teeming with healthy corals and various fish species.
Choeng Mon
Located northeast of Koh Samui, Choeng Mon is a relaxing beach for swimming and sunbathing. Its calm and clear waters offer perfect conditions for snorkeling, where you’ll find an abundance of corals and fish species.
Silver Beach
Silver Beach is another popular spot in Koh Samui for snorkeling. It is a quiet and calm beach located between Chaweng Beach and Lamai Beach. With hotels and restaurants nearby, it’s the best area for anyone looking for an easily accessible and convenient beach to explore vibrant marine life.
Ao Phang Nga
Ao Phang Nga is famous for its stunning scenery, with limestone karsts and emerald-green waters. A bay on the southwest coast of Koh Samui, the Phang Kay Bay area is its best spot for snorkeling.
Chaweng Beach
A popular and bustling beach, it is located on the island’s eastern coast. It’s a famous tourist beach with its long stretch of white sand, restaurants, and hotels. If you love a lively and vibrant spot for snorkeling, Chaweng Beach offers calm and clear waters and convenience.
Taling Ngam
Taling Ngam is a remote, long beach on the island’s southwest coast. It offers a quiet environment, perfect for anyone who wants to snorkel without the hustle and bustle typically found in Koh Samui’s famous beaches.
Koh Tao and Koh Nang
The Koh Tao and Koh Nang islands offer some of Thailand’s best snorkeling. Koh Tao is considered one of the country’s best diving spots, offering a variety of spots for beginner and advanced snorkelers and divers.
Both islands offer a rich marine life with vibrant coral reefs and a varied marine life. Tourists can book guided speedboat tours to the island, where guides can bring you to the most stunning snorkeling spots.
Pick your favorite spot and add it to your Koh Samui itinerary for an unforgettable time underwater. Whether you’re staying at a resort near Chaweng Beach or a little secluded in any of the Koh Samui luxury private villas, these spots are within minutes from your accommodation. Each offers something different for different preferences; take your pick and discover the island’s unique underwater offerings.
Related Readings: Discovering Sophisticated Living: What to Look for in Luxury Villas in Koh Samui
Tips for an Unforgettable Koh Samui Snorkelling Adventure
Before you start exploring corals and different fish species, here are a few tips for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure in Koh Samui:
1. Snorkel During the Dry Season
The best time of the year to go snorkeling in Koh Samui is during the dry season. December to April offer the best weather, calmer skies, and visibility for diving in shallow waters.
Related Reading: When is the Best Time to Go to Koh Samui
2. Choose the Right Spots
Do you want to snorkel in a quiet and remote spot? Or do you want to snorkel in an accessible and convenient spot with restaurants and shops nearby? Choosing the right places based on your preference will help make the experience more memorable.
3. Check Weather and Sea Conditions
Avoid snorkeling when the sea is rough or during the rainy season. Aside from not being able to enjoy it, it could also be dangerous to push through amidst lousy weather.
4. Use the Proper Gear
Use good goggles that have clear glass and fit tightly on your head. Wear a wetsuit or rashguard to protect your skin from underwater jelly stings or sharp rocks.
5. Practice Safety Precautions
Always snorkel with a buddy or let someone know you’re heading out into the waters. If something happens, your buddy can help or call for help. You must also listen and follow instructions if you’re snorkeling with a guide.
Conclusion
Koh Samui is a premier island destination with a more laid-back and calmer atmosphere than some of the country’s more popular islands. With white sand beaches and calm, clear waters, it’s no surprise it offers some of the most stunning snorkeling spots on the Indian Ocean.
From quiet and remote spots to the more lively and popular, Koh Samui has a snorkeling spot for every enthusiast.
Related Readings: Why Visit The Magical Island of Koh Samui
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Featured Image by PADI Travel
