Thailand is an excellent location for scuba diving, with many dive sites considered the best worldwide. A tropical paradise with vast coastlines, Thailand is a playground for scuba divers all year round.

The Andaman sea on Thailand’s Southwest coast offers many first-class dive spots with a consistently warm water temperature and exceptional underwater visibility; it is home to the most extraordinary and breathtaking corals and marine life you will discover anywhere in the world.

Phuket is a sought-after scuba diving destination that offers divers the opportunity to explore the stunning marine life of the Andaman Sea. While Phuket offers diving opportunities all year round, the ideal time for diving is from November to April.
During these months, the conditions for diving are optimal, with the slightest chance of rain and storms. The sea is usually calm, the sun is shining, and the water is crystal clear, making it an excellent time for divers to explore the underwater world.
The water temperature during these months is also at its best, ranging between 28 to 31 degrees Celsius, providing a comfortable environment for divers. Additionally, the visibility during this period is excellent, allowing divers to witness the diverse range of marine life that inhabits the Andaman Sea.

As a beginner, having questions and being cautious when contemplating scuba diving is natural. Scuba diving is enjoyed by thousands of divers every day worldwide and is considered a low-risk activity compared to other activities and sports. The most common medical needs arise from seasickness, sunburn and dehydration, which are preventable and entirely in your control.

Of course, safety levels are determined by what goes beforehand. It is imperative that training is of high quality and carried out by professionally trained divers, where skills are practiced several times in shallow waters before continuing into deeper waters. Within this professional, qualified environment, you can be assured that the equipment used is fit for purpose and serviced within the manufacturers’ guidelines.

For new divers, you can explore the coral reefs of Koh Racha islands with no prior experience for 5,000 Thailand Baht. For new scuba divers looking at getting their worldwide diving licence, the PADI Open Water Diver course is set over three days at 13,500 Thailand Baht.
If you are a certified diver looking to explore Phuket’s main dive sites and surrounding islands, Thailand divers run three daily dive trips costing 3,900 Thailand Baht.

Phuket and Koh Samui are tropical paradises and deserve a place at the top of any destination wish list. Some differences exist while they have similarities, such as beautiful white beaches and transparent, inviting waters. Koh Samui is more spread out and quieter, with a laid-back vibe and perhaps a little rustic.

Scuba diving is said to be better around Phuket than in Koh Samui, although you can explore the underwater world around Koh Samui. However, Koh Samui is located in the Gulf of Thailand on the Eastern coast, sitting in what is considered a large bay with little tidal or current movement. Such conditions result in a less sophisticated biodiverse location, and whilst it may be worth looking, most Koh Samui trips will head to other places.

In contrast, Phuket sits on the West Coast, with the Andaman Sea providing rich, ever-developing biodiverse ecosystems which bring a vibrant, enchanting array of life. Here, you can dive some of the best sites in the world with good chances of sighting Manta Rays, Whale Sharks, Reef Sharks, turtles and a phenomenal amount of other tropical life. Vibrant, integral corals and reefs are waiting to be explored. Phuket offers a variety of experiences when scuba diving Thailand, from Wall dives to wrecks, from tunnels to caves; every need is met, and memories are made.

Phuket Island province has an area of 576 km2 (222 sq mi) 

English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, but a little Thai will get you a long way. Speaking a little of the local language shows respect and care for the culture; most people love it when you try. Learn the basics of help, please, thank you, and remember that Google Translate is a handy app you can out on your phone to help out. Our Phuket diving trips depart from Chalong port which is located on the Southern tip of Phuket.

The currency used in Phuket is the Baht (THB). 1 Baht = 100 Satangs. Major credit cards are widely accepted across the island.  Banks offer the best exchange rates. Having some cash on hand for small vendors, street food, and tips is good.

Travelers flying to Phuket have two options: a direct flight into Phuket International Airport or a one-hour connecting flight from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi International Airport. When planning your trip, depending on where you are coming from, there may be several stops, so plan ahead!

Phuket is home to over 40 gorgeous beaches, and it’s known worldwide that this is an area of stunning beauty. There is a beach for every type of traveler. As a rule of thumb, northern and southern beaches will be quieter and more relaxed, perfect for when you’re ready just to chill. However, if you are ready to experience the legendary nightlife here, you will want to head toward the bustling western beaches for music and dancing.

1. Patong Beach is the most popular in Phuket, with a 3 kilometers long beach and an array of hotels, restaurants, shopping, and storied nightlife. Patong is big and pulses with dynamic energy.

2. Kata Beach is one of the most visited beaches, and for good reason. Get your Instagram ready for the sandy bays, intense blue seas, and the famous island in the middle of the ocean. Kata beach is about 2 kilometres long, but the Club Med Resort claims about 1.5 kilometers of the beachfront. 

3. Karon Beach is one of the longest beaches in Phuket, with a stunning 3 kilometers of white sand. Karon has numerous hotels, quality dining, and exciting nightlife. If you want the excitement of Patong but with fewer crowds, Karon is for you. 

4. Bang Tao Beach is situated halfway between Phuket International Airport and Patong beach on the island’s west coast. Bang Tao hosts some of the island’s most lavish resorts: Dusit Thani Laguna Phuket, SAii Laguna Phuket Resort, Banyan Tree Resort, and Angsana Phuket Resort, to name a few. Bang Tao has something for everyone, with numerous restaurants and beach clubs. 

5. Nai Yang Beach is off the beaten path and hosts a variety of small bars and restaurants guaranteed to help you unwind. A favorite of locals and tourists alike. 

6. Mai Khao Beach is part of the Sirinath National Park and the longest beach in Phuket. Its northern location protects this beach from the crowds. You could walk 11 kilometers and maybe pass two locals on your way. Resorts are available on the beach. 

7. Nai Harn Beach is a gem of a beach tucked between small mountains and tiny islands at the very south of Phuket. More relaxed than the west coast beaches, Nai Harn’s bay is a great place to anchor for the day and explore the many restaurants and shops at your own pace.