Destination snapshot
Best time
Nov–Apr (Similans)
Water temp
82–86°F
Visibility
60–100 ft
Skill level
All levels
Flight time (US)
Long-haul
Great for
Liveaboards · Training
Why visit
Similan Islands liveaboards for manta and whale shark encounters plus warm, easy reefs near Phuket & Koh Tao.
Best dive sites
- Richelieu Rock
- Koh Bon
- Elephant Head Rock
- Shark Point
Best snorkeling spots
- Similan Islands
- Phi Phi
What you may see underwater
Interesting fact
The Similan Islands sit inside a marine park that closes annually from mid-May to mid-October — one of Southeast Asia's most protected reef systems.
Who this destination is best for
- New divers
- Backpackers
Frequently asked questions
- Similans or Koh Tao?
- Similans (Andaman) for pelagics and pristine coral; Koh Tao (Gulf) for cheap certifications and easy reef diving.
- When to dive Thailand?
- November–April Andaman side; year-round in the Gulf of Thailand.
- Whale sharks?
- Richelieu Rock is the classic waypoint, best March–April.
Ready to dive Thailand?
Tell us your dates and experience level — a Salty Reef Travel Concierge will match you with the right resort, operator, or liveaboard in Thailand and handle the details. Always free to you.
Available 24/7 · 727-240-2242 · Our travel concierge service is always free to you.
At a glance
- Region
- Southeast Asia
- Country
- Thailand
- Best season
- Nov–Apr (Similans)
- Water temp
- 82–86°F
- Visibility
- 60–100 ft
- Skill level
- All levels
- Flight from US
- Long-haul
Newsletter
One dispatch a month, straight from the water.