Snorkelling

Water Activities

Discover where to snorkel in Koh Lipe, Thailand. Swim with clownfish, explore hidden bays, and support eco-friendly tours.

Introduction to Koh Lipe’s Snorkelling Scene

Koh Lipe’s crystalline waters and thriving coral reefs make it a snorkelling haven in Thailand’s Tarutao National Marine Park. Unlike busier destinations like Phuket or Koh Phi Phi, the island’s small size ensures uncrowded bays and intimate encounters with marine life. Whether you’re a first timer or seasoned snorkeller, the shallow reefs here, many just steps from the beach, promise an unforgettable adventure.

Top Snorkelling Spots You Can’t Miss

Jabang Coral Garden

A shallow reef near Sunrise Beach, Jabang is perfect for beginners. Schools of iridescent parrotfish and neon damselfish dart between vibrant staghorn corals. Local guides often joke that the resident clownfish here are "the friendliest in the Andaman", though touching them is strictly off limits.

Koh Hin Ngam’s Mysterious Black Stones

This surreal snorkelling site features volcanic rocks polished smooth by waves. Legend says removing a stone curses the taker with bad luck, so focus on spotting blue spotted stingrays instead. Time your visit at high tide for the clearest visibility.

Secret Tip: For solitude, ask longtail boat captains about Koh Yang, a lesser known island with untouched coral formations.

How to Book a Responsible Snorkel Tour

Most tours depart from Pattaya Beach and cost between 500 to 800 THB for a half day trip. Opt for eco conscious operators like Lipe Diving or Adang Sea Tour, which fund reef conservation projects. Private charters (2,500 THB per day) let you customise stops, ideal for photographers or families.

Pro Traveller Tip: Avoid feeding fish, as this disrupts ecosystems and attracts aggressive species.

Marine Life You Might Encounter

Koh Lipe’s waters teem with biodiversity. Common sightings include angelfish, moray eels, and butterflyfish. Seasonal visitors like whale sharks glide near Koh Tarutao from November to April. After a coral bleaching event in 2010, reefs like Jabang have rebounded, a testament to successful conservation efforts.

Snorkelling with Children: Family Friendly Tips

The calm, shallow waters of Pattaya Beach’s eastern edge are ideal for young swimmers. Resorts like Castaway and Idyllic Concept lend free gear to guests. For toddlers, consider a clear bottom kayak paddle, a fun way to explore without getting wet.

Cultural Connections: The Sea Gypsy Legacy

The Urak Lawoi people, Koh Lipe’s indigenous community, have fished these waters for centuries. Some snorkel guides share stories of ancestral fishing rituals and point out "spirit poles" embedded in reefs, wooden totems believed to protect fishermen. Respect these cultural markers by observing from a distance.

Essential Gear and Eco Practices

Bring a reusable snorkel set for hygiene and comfort. If renting, ensure masks are sanitised. Biodegradable sunscreen, such as reef safe brands like Stream2Sea, is mandatory. Many shops sell it on Walking Street. Underwater photographers can rent GoPros (200 THB per day) near Sunrise Beach.

Best Time to Snorkel in Koh Lipe

November to April offers glassy seas and 30 metre visibility. During monsoon season (May to October), head to sheltered bays like Sunset Beach, where waves stay gentle.