Dive Phuket & Koh Phi Phi National Parks

Phuket is a great departure point to explore dive sites around Koh Phi Phi, Racha Yai and Racha Noi and further afield to the rest of the Southern Andaman Sea.

Dive around Phuket...

Diving around Phuket, Thailand is a bucket list experience for many scuba diving enthusiasts. The region boasts of warm, crystal-clear waters, an abundance of marine life, and stunning underwater landscapes. With numerous dive sites to explore, there is something for everyone, from beginner divers to the most experienced underwater photographers.
Whether you are looking to spot rare marine creatures, explore sunken wrecks or simply soak in the beauty of the underwater world, Phuket has it all. In this blog post, we will have a closer look at some of the top dive sites around Phuket and what makes them so special. So, get ready to strap on your scuba gear and dive into the adventure of a lifetime.

Shark Point

Leopard Shark at Phuket Shark point

Shark Point 
  
Shark Point dive site is a true gem of the Andaman Sea. Named for the frequent sightings of Leopard Sharks in the area, locals know it as Hin Mu Sang. Located just 27 km from Phuket, it's situated near the Anemone Reef and King Cruiser wreck, and is made up of three main pinnacles.

This site boasts the most diverse range of fish and corals among all Phuket and Phi Phi Islands dive sites. Each pinnacle is spaced 15-20 meters apart, and is adorned with stunning purple and pink soft corals, as well as beds of table coral, staghorn coral, coral head, and huge sea fans. With an average depth of 15 meters and a maximum of 30 meters, there's plenty to explore.

Divers typically start at one pinnacle and finish at the next, depending on the currents. With such a wealth of marine life, it's almost impossible to cover all three pinnacles in just one dive. If you're looking for an unforgettable underwater adventure, Shark Point is not to be missed.

See our trip report North and South Andaman...

Marine Life  
  
Welcome to Shark Point, where divers can satisfy their craving for adventure and discover some of the most incredible marine life in the area. While the name of the site may suggest that spotting Leopard sharks is the main attraction, there is so much more to experience.

Swimming among the stunning sea fans and coral, divers may be surprised to find Seahorses and ornate Ghost Pipefish. But that's not all, as the site is also home to a variety of fascinating marine creatures such as Scorpionfish, Lionfish, Pufferfish, and Blue-ringed Angelfish. For those who enjoy the smaller creatures of the ocean, don't forget to keep an eye out for colourful Nudibranchs, dancing Shrimps, and Boxfish hiding among the rocks and corals.

If you look up, you might catch a glimpse of schools of Barracuda and Yellow line Snappers moving above the reef. With so much to discover, Shark Point is a must-visit destination for any diving enthusiast.

Dive around Koh Phi Phi...

Koh Phi Phi is a group of islands in the Andaman Sea, in southern Thailand. The name Phi Phi (pronounced "phi-phi") originates from Malay. The original name for the islands was Pulau Api-Api ('the fiery isle'). The name refers to the Pokok Api-Api, or "fiery tree" (grey mangrove) which is found on the islands.

Koh Phi Phi Don is the largest and most populated island, where most of the hotels, restaurants and bars are located.
​Koh Phi Phi Leh is a smaller and uninhabited island, where the famous Maya Bay is situated. This bay was used as a filming location for the movie "The Beach" starring Leonardo DiCaprio .
Other islands in the group include Koh Bida Nok, Koh Bida Nai, Koh Phai (Bamboo Island) and Koh Young (Mosquito Island), which offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
 
If you are looking for a diving paradise, look no further than Koh Phi Phi in Thailand. This stunning island group offers some of the best diving sites in the world. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you will find something to suit your level and interest.
​Everything you’d expect to see on a postcard from a tropical island, you can find all over the Phi Phi Islands... You can explore caves, wrecks, walls, and pinnacles, and encounter sharks, turtles, rays, and fish of all shapes and sizes.
​Koh Phi Phi is also a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature, with white sandy beaches, lush green hills, crystal clear water, colourful coral reefs, abundant marine life and friendly locals...

When to dive around Phi phi islands ?

From February to May, you can enjoy the calmest, warmest and clearest waters, with temperatures ranging from 84-86ºF/29-30°C and visibility up to 30 meters. This is the best time to see the colourful coral reefs and fish that inhabit the island.

From June to September, the waters are slightly cooler, but still very comfortable at 82°F/28°C or above. Visibility drops to 10-15 meters, but this also attracts more plankton and bigger marine animals like manta rays and whale sharks. Currents are mild throughout the year, making diving easy and safe.

Koh Phi Phi

Where to dive near the Phi Phi Island ?

Phi Phi island has 15 diverse dive sites to explore, suitable for divers of all levels. Whether you want to see caves, walls, pinnacles or wrecks, you will find something to suit your taste. If you love diving, you can't miss the Phi Phi Island in Thailand! It's one of the most beautiful and diverse diving destinations in the world. You can explore coral reefs, caves, wrecks, and even swim with sharks and turtles. Here are some of the best dive sites near the Phi Phi Island...

Shark Point is a must-see for any diver who wants to experience the diversity and beauty of Thailand's marine life. It is a great place to spot leopard sharks, which are harmless and graceful creatures that can grow up to 3 meters long. They are not shy and will let divers approach them closely, as long as they are not disturbed. Shark Point Phuket is also a paradise for macro photographers, who can find many rare and exotic critters among the corals and rocks.
If you are looking for a memorable dive adventure in Thailand, you should definitely visit Shark Point Phuket. It is one of the best dive sites in the country and will leave you amazed by its rich and colourful underwater world.

Porcelain crab, Anemone Reef

Anemone Reef  
  
Beneath the surface of the Andaman Sea lies a mesmerizing underwater wonderland at Anemone Reef. Submerged beneath the waves, this pinnacle rises to 5 meters , earning its Thai name "Hin Jom". Densely adorned with sea anemones, the pinnacle offers an awe-inspiring vista of the sea's own living carpet.

With a north-south orientation and a sloped channel on the southern part, Anemone Reef boasts a depth range of 5 to 30 meters. As a result of the multitude, quality, and variety of marine life that resides amidst the beautiful coral and sea fans that adorn the pinnacle, Anemone Reef is the favoured site for both divers and photographers alike.

Marine Life  
  
Anemone Reef's marine life is a true feast for divers and photographers alike. Anemonefish and clownfish are abundant and add a splash of color to the already vibrant environment. The pinnacle is also home to big schools of snapper that cloud the area, creating an impressive spectacle. Along with these, you may spot yellowtail barracuda, groupers, oriental sweetlips, juvenile harlequin sweetlips, scorpionfish, and soldierfish that dance among the corals and crevices. Leopard Sharks, which may have escaped from the nearby famous dive sites, can also make a surprise appearance.
For those who love small critters, Anemone Reef has its share of exciting finds. Keep an eye out for tiger-tail seahorses and ornate ghost pipefish that can be found in the shallow areas near the mooring line. Nudibranchs and even anglerfish have also been known to make an appearance in this stunning dive site.

Clownfish, Anemone Reef

King Cruiser wreck

Trevallies, King Cruiser Wreck

Netted Miamira nudibranch

King Cruiser Wreck  
 
The King Cruiser Wreck: An Advanced Diver's Delight

The King Cruiser Wreck is a fascinating dive site with an interesting history. Originally a car ferry, the boat sank in 1997 while carrying only foot passengers. Thankfully, there was no loss of life, as the boat sank slowly and several dive boats were around the area to help. The wreck now sits upright on its twin hulls, forming an artificial reef that attracts an abundance of marine life.
At 85 meters long, the wreck is not small, earning it the nickname "Thaitanic". It's worth diving more than once, as it's impossible to see everything in just one dive. The maximum depth is over 30 meters, making it suitable only for advanced certified divers. The top of the wreck is at around 16 meters depth and is marked by a buoy. Divers should use the line attached near the front of the boat to descend and ascend safely.
While the car deck area was accessible in the first few years after the sinking, it has since collapsed, and penetration of the wreck is now prohibited.

Marine life  
  
The area surrounding the King Cruiser wreck is teeming with marine life, making it a must-see for any diver. Schools of snappers, barracuda, fusiliers, rabbitfish and goatfish are so abundant that they've become a bigger attraction than the wreck itself! With good visibility, the spectacle is simply breathtaking.
As you venture closer to the wreck, you may encounter bamboo or leopard sharks, and even the occasional turtle. The wreck also serves as a landmark for nudibranchs, so keep your eyes peeled for these colourful creatures during your dive.
However, it's crucial for divers to exercise caution and avoid touching anything or putting their hands on the wreck. The King Cruiser have become an artificial reef full of thriving marine life, and it's important to preserve and protect its delicate ecosystem.
Overall, the King Cruiser Wreck is a unique dive site that offers a glimpse into the past while providing a home for a thriving community of marine life. It's a must-visit destination for advanced divers looking for a new challenge.

Wonderful ghost pipefish

Koh Dok Mai, a diver's paradise... 
 
Despite its name, Koh Doc Mai or Flower Island has no flowers to speak of, but that doesn't make it any less of a wonder to explore. This stunning limestone island stretches vertically down to 30 meters, creating an impressive wall that attracts divers from all over. While the west side boasts a shallow reef teeming with hard coral and marine life, it's the east wall that truly captivates.
The wall is riddled with cracks, crevices, and caverns, offering endless opportunities to discover hidden treasures. One of the most popular spots is a large cave and a small cave, both found on the east side of the island. While the small cave is narrow and long, it's worth exploring only for certified cavern divers.
Unfortunately, Koh Doc Mai is uninhabitable and inaccessible, so landing on the island is impossible. But that doesn't diminish the beauty of its underwater world. This is a diver's paradise, with plenty of marine life. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable diving experience, add Koh Doc Mai to your list!

Marine life  
  
A good variety of small creatures make this site a favourite for scuba diving activities. Tiger-tale seahorse, ornate ghost pipefish and anglerfish are among the species frequently found along the wall dive slowly and check crevices in the wall or the sea fans, and you may spot them when they move.
The walls are also a paradise for macro photographers, as colourful nudibranchs, flatworms, tiny white eyes morays and group of 10 or more dancing shrimp are guaranteed to make an appearance. Do examine cracks and small crevices for giant morays, and enjoy the schools of yellow line snapper, trevally and fusiliers that usually swim along the wall.
For those interested in bigger fish, look at the blue for great barracuda and leopard shark may also catch a few winks at the bottom of the wall.

Koh Dok Mai, Phuket

Reef octopus, (Octopus cyanea)

Koh Bida Nok

Koh Bida Nok, part of Phi Phi National Park is a true gem for underwater enthusiasts located on the southeastern edge of the archipelago. The unique, towering limestone rock formation emerges from the turquoise bluer waters, offering a stunning view both above and below the surface. As you enter the sheltered bay, you'll find an easy, shallow descent, making this dive site accessible to divers of all experience levels. Well protected by its national park, Koh Bida Nok is a pristine dive destination where black tip sharks found a safe heaven. Please note that while this site is open to certified divers, DSD and open water courses are not permitted in Koh Bida nok in order to protect its delicate ecosystem.

Marine life

​Koh Bida Nok offers a mesmerizing underwater world, boasting a diverse topography with sandy bottoms, sloping reefs, steep walls, small caves, large cracks, and an array of thriving hard and soft corals. The stunning snapper schools that extend over large sections of the reef are a true spectacle. Anemonefish, surgeonfish, butterflyfish, and a myriad of other vibrant tropical fish species also call this place home. The rare and elusive ghost pipefish can often be found in and around the impressive coral blocks, while blacktip reef sharks and rare leopard sharks gracefully cruise through the shallow reefs - a breathtaking sight accessible to all, even snorkelers. Keep your eyes peeled even more over the summer, as whale sharks make occasional appearances. Expect to see turtles, sea snakes, honeycomb moray eels, cuttlefish, and octopuses during your dive. As for the schooling fish, you may dive into the midst of giant snapper schools and be surrounded by thousands of these magnificent silver-gold fish.

Honeycomb moray eels

Koh Bida Nai

Koh Bida Nai boasts an impressive underwater landscape featuring a variety of captivating elements such as crevices, massive boulders, and extensive fields of staghorn reef.
The island's southern and western coasts are characterized by a gradual reef slope, which starts at a depth of 6 to 8 meters and is adorned with stunning hard corals including pore, table, and staghorn corals. Scattered throughout the area are also sizable boulders, and a thrilling swim-through is available on the southern side.
On the eastern side of the island, an expansive sand slope covered with magnificent staghorn coral fields awaits. Here, divers may come across leopard sharks resting in the sand or explore the towering pinnacle beyond the reef to encounter vast schools of trevally, barracuda, and fusiliers. The pinnacle's peak sits at a depth of approximately 18 meters, gradually plunging to around 35-38 meters.
The northern side of Koh Bida Nai features an awe-inspiring topography of crags and cliffs, with walls that drop vertically to depths of 28-30 meters before reaching the sandy bottom. This section is home to a plethora of soft corals, sea fans, and colossal barrel sponges.

Marine life

​Ko Bida Nai's rich underwater world is home to an abundance of marine life. Divers exploring the eastern side may be lucky enough to spot leopard sharks or black tip reef sharks. Glide along with graceful sea turtles, and watch schools of barracuda, trevally, snappers, and mackerel shimmer in the water near the east pinnacle. The area is also home to an array of fascinating creatures such as cuttlefish, honeycomb moray eels, sea snakes, and Kuhl's stingrays. For those with an eye for the smaller things, there are numerous macro species to discover, including ghost pipefish, nudibranchs, and porcelain crabs.

Koh Racha dive sites  

Racha Yai Dive Sites are among the most sought-after dive spots in the South of Phuket, alongside Racha Noi. Only an hour and a half boat ride from Phuket's Chalong Bay, they are visually stunning and offer a diverse range of marine life accessible to all levels of divers. These islands are perfect for beginners, providing one of the best and safest places in the region to start your PADI Open Water Course or Discover Scuba Diving adventure. 

Racha Yai is an inhabited island with three resorts, several Thai restaurants, and even a small local school. The name "Racha Yai" means "Big King Island" in Thai, while "Racha Noi" means "Little King Island." The east side of Racha Yai contains the majority of the dive sites, which are popular during the summer months from May to November. Coral starts almost immediately at the water's edge and tapers off around the 20-meter mark. The visibility is typically good, averaging around 20 meters, making it a partially recommended dive site for beginners.

Dive sites on Racha Yai include:

Bungalow Bay

Bungalow Bay, located on the western side of Racha Yai Island, is a popular dive site during the high season when easterly weather is prevalent. Its location provides protection from the elements, making it an ideal spot for beginners to learn to dive and explore the underwater world. The picturesque site features plenty of white sand, making it perfect for training and practising skills.
Accessible by day trip boat from Chalong pier, Phuket, the site is divided into north and south sides, both offering similar features. While not the most stunning dive site in the area, Bungalow Bay boasts a diverse range of marine life. Those who enjoy searching for small creatures will find ornate and seagrass ghost pipefish, along with rare nudibranchs that aren't found anywhere else in the region.
The sandy bottom of the bay is home to Kuhls stingrays, flounder, and cuttlefish, while larger octopuses are often spotted. Common reef fish such as snappers, goatfish, barracuda, lionfish, scorpionfish, and surgeonfish can be seen swimming around the area. Whether you're a scuba diver or a snorkeler, Bungalow Bay is a must-visit dive site on Racha Yai Island.

Siam Bay

Siam Bay, the northernmost bay of Racha Yai Island, boasts an array of fascinating underwater features for divers and snorkelers alike. With its rocky edges and sandy center covered with hard coral patches, it is an excellent training and beginners' dive site, popular year-round due to its protection from both easterly and westerly winds.
The bay features unique man-made monuments, including two elephants and a temple gate guarded by a mythical giant sentry called Yak, believed to ward off evil spirits. These statues, located between 18 and 20 meters, serve as a starting point for diving and are easily identifiable through a mooring line.
Siam Bay is home to a variety of marine life, including Kuhl's Stingrays and peacock flounder, as well as parrotfish, triggerfish, butterfly fish, barracuda, turtles, octopuses, and cuttlefish. Divers may also spot rare species like large stonefish, flathead crocodile fish, and colourful nudibranchs, so stay alert while exploring the bay's depths.
Overall, Siam Bay is a fantastic site for both diving and snorkeling, offering an easy and enjoyable experience for beginners and experts alike. It's a perfect location to complete your PADI Open Water Course while taking in the beautiful underwater scenery.

Boxfish, Racha Yai

Racha Yai islands   
 
Koh Raya Yai, or "the chief", is a beautiful island close to Phuket that offers good value for money to lovers of small fish to admire in snorkelling.    
It is easily and quickly accessible from Chalong or Rawai, south of Phuket (as is Coral Island). It is located 30 minutes from Phuket, Chalong Bay, by boat. Racha Island also has five beaches.   
Racha yai is surrounded by a reef colonized by hard corals. The fishes are numerous: sergeant majors, rabbit fishes, fusiliers, lutjans, trumpet fishes, barracudas, box fishes, balloon fishes and many others. There are also some more unusual species, such as syngnathus and mantis shrimps. The visibility is generally very good all year round with little current.   
Koh Racha Yai has crystal clear waters and small white sand beaches. The island is very popular with divers, with some sites for experienced divers and many others for beginners.  
The east coast of Koh Racha Yai offers shallow bays that are well protected during the rainy season. Visibility sometimes reaches 25–30 meters, and regularly averages 15–20 meters throughout the year.  
Composed mainly of white sandy bottom and dotted with coral reefs, it slopes slightly, and the bays often protect divers from strong currents. This combination makes Racha Yai Island ideal for beginners and occasional divers. There are also deeper reefs, and some wrecks that are suitable for more experienced divers. 

Racha Yai bay 1-2

Located in the northeast area of Racha Yai Island, bays 1 and 2 are the most popular dive sites in the region, attracting both divers and snorkelers alike. With a sandy floor that gently slopes from just a few meters to around 25 meters, this site is perfect for beginners and training dives, and a great place to start your PADI Open Water Course.
Although the site suffered coral bleaching due to an extended period of unusually warm weather a few years ago, there is still an impressive array of marine life to be found here. Four wrecks provide a fascinating opportunity for exploration, and divers can expect to see a good range of moray eels, including clouded morays, fimbrilated morays, and giant morays. Kuhl's Rays and Blue Spotted Rays, as well as Peacock Flounder, and barracuda are also common sightings.
In addition, turtles, cuttlefish, and large reef octopus can be frequently sighted, and lucky divers may even catch a glimpse of Manta Rays. Although the hard corals, such as staghorn coral, have been depleted in recent years, the site remains a wonderful location to observe marine life.
The good visibility and shallow waters, combined with the diverse range of marine species, make this site one of the best in the region for snorkelers as well.

Racha Yai Wreck

Racha Yai Wrecks
Racha Yai Island's boat wrecks in bays 1 and 2 are a popular attraction for divers of all levels.
Here are some more details about each wreck:

Old Sail Boat Wreck
The Old Sail Boat Wreck, located in the northern part of Bay 1, is a fantastic spot for observing marine life. Despite being in bad condition, it attracts large schools of snappers and glass fish, and is home to giant moray eels and great barracudas. Ornate ghost pipefish and Jenkins rays have also been spotted around the wreck. Keep an eye out for shrimp and other creatures hiding in the nooks and crannies.

Harruby Wreck
The Harruby Liveaboard is situated between Bays 1 and 2 and is accessible for all levels of certified divers. The wreck is in excellent condition and is the best site for wreck penetration in the area. Schools of batfish and barracuda are frequently seen, and scorpionfish and bannerfish also call the wreck home. Keep an eye out for ornate ghost pipefish and nudibranch, and don't miss the snake eels that can be spotted in the sand near the wreck.

Old Fishing Boat
The old Thai wooden fishing boat is located further east of Harruby and is rapidly deteriorating. Despite this, it is still an interesting site to explore. The wreck is deeper, with the top at about 24 metres, and contains a lot of common reef fish. It has an eerie feel and makes for great underwater photography opportunities, but it is not safe to penetrate due to its poor condition.

Marla's Mystery
Marla's Mystery is a barge wreck that was purposely sunk about 150 metres east of the center of Bays 1 and 2. It is lying at about 34 metres and is not often dived, making it a difficult site to locate. This site is for experienced divers only, and prior notification should be given if you wish to dive this wreck.

Eagle ray at Bay 3, Racha Yai

Staghorn Reef

Staghorn Reef is a beautiful dive site located between Bay 2 and Bay 3 on the east side of Racha Yai Island. Although this site suffered from coral bleaching in 2010, new patches of staghorn coral are now forming and the site is showing signs of recovery.
Despite not being as frequently dived, Staghorn Reef remains a popular spot for marine life enthusiasts, with large pharaoh cuttlefish and octopus frequently sighted. Divers should be cautious of strong currents, particularly when tides are rising and currents are heading north. It's essential to stay within the safety limits and avoid drifting too far out to sea.
Although there is less coral than before, the reef still contains some soft anemone corals, providing a beautiful backdrop for underwater photographers. The site's calm and shallow waters make it an excellent place for all PADI courses, from beginners to advanced divers.

Bay 3 Lucy's Reef

Bay 3 and Lucy's Reef are two must-visit dive sites on Racha Yai Island. Bay 3 is a great place to learn to scuba dive, with its calm waters and abundance of marine life. Although there are no wrecks here, a stack of concrete cubes at around the 20 meters mark form an artificial reef. This reef is home to a variety of fascinating creatures, including Batfish, Moray eels, Lionfish, and a great selection of common reef fish.
As you head south from Bay 3, you'll come across Lucy's Reef, which is dominated by stunning hard corals. As you move further south, however, the hard corals begin to give way to rock formations. This site is known to attract eagle rays and, if you're lucky, you might even spot a Manta ray. Underwater photographers will be delighted with the variety of marine life, and snorkelers will find the shallow waters a great place to explore.
Keep in mind that during the low season between April and November, this site is especially popular with snorkelers. While currents are generally mild, it's always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings when exploring the underwater world.

Bay 4 & 5

Bays 4 and 5 are hidden gems of Racha Yai Island's southeast end, waiting to be explored by adventurous divers. Although not as well-known as some of the other dive sites on the island, these bays have started to gain popularity due to their unique features.
The shallow waters at the start of the dive allow for a leisurely descent before reaching the fascinating rock formations that drop away to about 30 meters and beyond. These formations offer divers a stunning landscape to explore, with vibrant marine life hiding in the crevices and ledges. As the coral ends around the 18 – 20 meters mark, the rocky terrain is a great alternative to traditional coral reefs, and visibility is often clearer here thanks to the lack of general activity on the sites.
While diving in Bays 4 and 5, divers might be lucky enough to spot magnificent Manta rays or majestic Eagle rays gliding through the waters. Even if these creatures don't make an appearance, the unique geological formations and diverse array of marine life make these bays well worth a visit.
Bays 4 and 5, and Home Run Reef. These sites offer a range of experiences suitable for all levels of divers and snorkelers. Whether you are interested in exploring wrecks, swimming with colourful fish, or marvelling at the beauty of coral reefs, Racha Yai has something to offer.

Homerun Reef 

Homerun Reef is a popular last dive of the day, as it offers a stunning dive along the north side of Racha Yai Island, leading back towards Chalong Bay. The site is suitable for all levels of divers, including beginners, but can be challenging at times due to the strong currents heading north.

The reef is predominantly made up of hard corals such as staghorn, branch, and pore coral, providing a beautiful underwater landscape for divers to explore. As you descend from 5 meters, the reef slopes down to 20 meters before becoming a sandy bottom.

The schools of snappers and goatfish are a highlight of this dive, including the two-spot and yellow snapper. You might also encounter trumpet and cornet fish during your dive. Keep your eyes peeled for large rays and Leopard sharks that have been spotted here, and the exciting recent appearance of Blacktip reef sharks.

Overall, Homerun Reef is a must-dive site for any scuba enthusiast visiting Racha Yai Island, offering an unforgettable underwater experience with stunning marine life and fascinating coral formations.

Hawkbill turtle, Racha Noi

Koh Racha Noi dive sites 

Racha Noi is a must-visit destination for divers looking for a unique and exhilarating experience. The dive sites offer a variety of underwater landscapes, including rock formations, coral gardens, and deep drop-offs. With its pristine waters and rich marine life, Racha Noi is the perfect location for all levels of divers.
For those seeking a thrilling adventure, the southern tip of Racha Noi is a great spot to encounter giant Manta rays. However, due to the depth and strong currents, this area is only recommended for experienced divers.
One of the most exciting aspects of Racha Noi is the outstanding visibility, which can reach up to 30 meters. This makes it a perfect destination for underwater photography and videography enthusiasts.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced diver, Racha Noi offers a range of dive sites to suit all levels. It is also an ideal place to learn to scuba dive and obtain your PADI certification.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the underwater world of Racha Noi, where you can witness some of the most amazing marine life in the Andaman Sea.

Banana Bay

Situated on the eastern side of Racha Noi, Banana Bay is a stunning dive site that offers something for everyone. Named after the banana trees that line the bay, it boasts powdery white sands, turquoise waters, and lush greenery that make it a true tropical paradise. This site is ideal for both scuba divers and snorkelers and offers excellent photographic opportunities.
With several mooring lines, diving begins in the shallow water and gradually slopes down to 25 metres, making it a perfect site for beginners and training dives. The coral is primarily hard coral, but recent regeneration of staghorn coral gives hope for its return to its former glory.
One of the highlights of Banana Bay is the massive schools of barracuda that often number close to 1000. The clear waters and direct sunlight make for a surreal experience diving among these inquisitive fish. Additionally, there is an abundance of reef fish such as lizard fish, fusiliers, butterfly fish, damsels, and red tooth trigger fish.
While rare, leopard sharks have been known to make appearances, and blacktip reef sharks have been recently spotted in abandoned fishing nets. Cuttlefish, moray eels, and manta rays are also frequently seen in the area.
Overall, Banana Bay is a must-visit dive site for divers of all levels, offering both breathtaking views and fascinating marine life to explore.

South Tip

Located on the southernmost tip of Racha Noi, South Tip is renowned for being the best site in the Phuket day trip area to witness the majestic Manta rays. It is also the site we choose to dive on the last day of our dive cruises when we go from Similan to Phuket.
South Tip is quite a small site dominated by large granite boulders that start at around 14 metres and go beyond 40 metres. This site is prone to strong currents, and there is no protection from the island, which means waves can be an issue when the sea is not at its calmest. If the sea is a bit wavy,  it may be best to relocate it to the nearby Racha Noi Bay.

Due to the difficulty of the dive and strong currents, this site is recommended for experienced and advanced divers only. But the rewards are worth it, especially during the winter months, when Manta rays sightings are most common.

The rocky reef is covered with soft corals, sea whips, and an array of marine life, including unicorn fish, surgeon fish, and the occasional school of Chevron Barracuda.

Manta ray

Racha Noi Bay

Racha Noi Bay is a picturesque and stunning dive site located on the southeastern side of Racha Noi island. Although it is farther from Phuket, it is worth the extra boat ride for the beautiful scenery and crystal-clear waters.
This dive site is ideal for novice divers as it has a large soft sand plateau and a gradual slope that leads to a maximum depth of 35 meters. Additionally, there is a small rocky island to the south that makes for an interesting attraction during the dive.
​
Advanced divers can explore the rocky reef that runs along the eastern side of the bay, but be cautious of strong currents that can pull you southward. Some of the best drift dives in the area can be found here.

Racha Noi Bay is also an excellent location for spotting pelagic species, including the ever-popular manta rays. Though it is not as well-known as the nearby South Tip dive site, it is the closest location to it, making it an ideal spot for novice divers while their more experienced counterparts explore South Tip.
​
Overall, Racha Noi Bay is a must-visit dive site for any diving enthusiast seeking an unforgettable underwater experience in the clear waters surrounding Phuket.

Whitetip Reef Shark

Marita's Rock and Marina Bay

Marita's Rock and Marina Bay are two stunning dive sites located close to each other, making it possible to explore both in one dive. The dive sites are adorned with soft corals and Gorgonian Sea Fans that provide a vibrant and colorful underwater scenery, with visibility ranging from 10-30+ meters. The impressive boulder formations found here create opportunities for swim-throughs, canyons, and small caverns to explore.

While the current inside Marina Bay is typically mild, it can be very strong outside the bay, especially at Marita's Rock. As such, Marita's Rock is recommended for experienced divers only, due to its strong currents. Racha Noi is the last dive site before the Andaman Sea, which means that the dive sites around the island start to get deep. This makes for some great opportunities to spot large pelagic fish such as Tuna, Barracuda, and Trevallies.

Manta Rays are frequently spotted at both dive sites, along with occasional sightings of Whale Sharks, Blacktip and Whitetip Reef Sharks. Keep your eyes open and be prepared for an incredible underwater adventure