Beaches

Best Snorkeling Spots for Non-Divers

March 3, 20265 min read

Japanese Gardens

Located between Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan, Japanese Gardens is arguably the best snorkeling site in the Gulf of Thailand. The shallow reef (1–5 metres) is covered in beautiful hard and soft corals.

You'll see clownfish, angelfish, pufferfish, and if you're lucky, a sea turtle cruising by. Accessible by longtail boat from Mae Haad (about 200 THB round trip).

Shark Bay (Thian Og Bay)

Despite the name, the sharks here are harmless blacktip reef sharks — usually juveniles about 1 metre long. They patrol the shallow sandy areas and are incredible to watch from the surface.

The bay is accessible by a trail from the south of the island. There's a small entrance fee (100 THB) at the viewpoint resort above.

Mango Bay

On the north coast, Mango Bay offers excellent snorkeling over a rocky reef with great visibility. It's a favourite stop on snorkeling day trips.

The coral is in great condition and you'll spot groupers, moray eels, and schools of fusiliers. Best visited on a calm day.

Aow Leuk

A beautiful east-coast bay with a gently sloping sandy bottom and healthy reef on both sides. It's one of the most beginner-friendly snorkeling spots.

There's a small beach bar where you can rent gear and grab a cold drink between swims. Entry fee is usually 50 THB or free if you buy food/drinks.

Hand-picked PADI courses based on this article.

Discover Scuba Diving

Try scuba diving in Koh Tao with no experience needed. One-day intro with PADI instructor: pool training plus 1-2 ocean dives in calm tropical water. ฿2,600.

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Open Water Diver

Get your PADI Open Water Diver certification in Koh Tao. 3-4 day course, max 4 students per instructor, two custom dive boats, lifetime certification. ฿11,000.

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