Have you ever dreamt of swimming in the open waters with nothing but the blueness of the waters and calmness around you? If yes, then Krabi is the perfect spot for your Thailand holidays. Located in the southern part of the country, this city is all about beaches, sunshine, warm lazy afternoons, and cocktails. With lush tropical forests and rugged limestone cliffs, this place is a feast for the eyes and an adventure not to be missed. The sapphire beaches with golden sands are a haven for all water lovers. Feeling excited? Continue reading to learn more about the best snorkelling and diving areas in Krabi.
Top Snorkelling and Diving Spots in Krabi
Snorkelling and diving are two amazing activities that any tourist can enjoy in Krabi. Both these water sports not only keep you busy but also provide you with knowledge about the massive marine life existing underneath the sea. Let’s view some of the popular places for you to kick in your swimming skills:
- Phi Phi Islands
On top of the list in Phi Phi Islands. Situated between Phuket and Krabi province, this hub of islands is the largest snorkelling spot in Krabi. Tourists can get to this site only via longtail wooden boats or speedboats.
If you move a bit north, you will find Bamboo Island and Moskito Island. These islands don’t get crowded with people, hence are an ideal spot for romantic couples and introverts. The water in Phi Phi Islands is shallow which makes it suitable for a safe snorkel time, especially for beginners.
Moreover, Maya Beach, popular for its role in the movie The Beach, is a great spot to explore underwater beauty. Loh Samah Bay, located nearby, offers stunning coral formations. Divers can watch colourful sea creatures including clownfish, parrotfish, and even small reef sharks. Most of the snorkelling tours are conducted in the daytime since there is no hotel for the travellers to stay.
- Hong Islands
Hong Islands is another suitable spot for snorkelling. Located off the coast of Krabi, it is a group of four islands known as the Koh Hong Group or Hong Lagoon. These islands are famous for their peaceful surroundings and crystal-clear waters. Unlike the busy Phi Phi Islands, Hong Islands offer a more relaxed snorkelling experience. The calm conditions make it easy to explore the vibrant marine life.
Tourists can hop into boats to explore the lagoon during high tide. The entrance to the lagoon is a narrow passage surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. As you enter, the water turns a brilliant shade of emerald green. The view is breathtaking. During low tide, only kayaks can reach the shores, offering a quiet and intimate experience.
The coral reefs around Hong Islands are full of marine creatures. Snorkellers can spot angelfish, butterflyfish, and even moray eels hiding among the corals. The area is also rich in sea anemones, making it a great place to see clownfish swimming playfully.
- Koh Lanta
Koh Lanta is an excellent destination for all types of travellers. Whether you prefer luxury resorts or budget-friendly stays, this island has something for everyone. It is less crowded than other tourist hotspots in Krabi, making it a peaceful retreat.
One of the top snorkelling spots near Koh Lanta is Koh Rok Nok. It consists of two small islands that offer some of the clearest waters in Krabi. The coral reefs here are incredibly healthy, making them a great site for snorkelling.
The shallow waters are filled with a variety of fish and soft corals. The deeper areas have stunning drop-offs where divers can spot sea turtles, reef sharks, and giant groupers. Koh Rok is also known for its vibrant clownfish population. The coral formations here are well-preserved and full of life.
Koh Rok Nok offers an unforgettable snorkelling experience. Whether you are new to snorkelling or have done it before, the underwater world around Koh Lanta will leave you amazed with its beauty and rich marine life.
Safety Precautions for Water Sports
This section will discuss some of the safety precautions that every swimmer must adhere to in Krabi. While some snorkelling and diving spots have shallow waters, taking careful measures is vital for a safe adventure. Let’s have a look at the tips:
- Always go for a deep swim with a snorkelling or diving expert. This is to ensure that you can have a fun time without getting into any trouble. No matter even if you are an expert diver, it is never a good idea to swim alone in the vast open waters.
- Most of the krabi holiday packages are not available during May to November because they are consider as worst months, since the city experiences monsoon rainfalls during this time. From September to October, the rainfall can be too much which increases the tide levels of the sea. Tourists must avoid any water activity during this season at all costs.
- The colourful corals might tempt you to touch them however, it is wise never to do so. The sea anemones can pierce your skin even within the swimsuit. Moreover, it can cause infections which might be quite serious for your health.
- Underwater is full of a variety of marine creatures. While some may be harmless, others can hurt you badly. You must never insert your hand in any holes or even go inside any caves or narrow alleys. Moray eels and box jellyfish are found in abundance in Krabi. Maintain your distance upon seeing them. Many fatal deaths have been caused by the jellyfish.
Wrap Up
This blog has discussed some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Krabi. Tourists who dream of exploring marine life and don’t suffer from Thalassophobia (fear of large waters) can opt for these water activities. If you are looking for a way to have a memorable trip to Krabi then contact Virikson Holidays to get customised Krabi holiday packages.
