Explore the Best Dive Spots of Koh Phi Phi

Explore the Best Dive Spots of Koh Phi Phi

One of Thailand’s most beautiful areas is the island of Koh Phi Phi. With a landscape as magical below the water as it is on dry land, the island offers the chance to discover some of the best diving spots in the glistening Andaman Sea.

The island is scattered with diving schools and various starting points for diving trips, so it is the perfect place to discover a magical underwater world whether you are a seasoned pro or just beginning your diving adventures.

I’ve never been diving before – where is best to start?

Koh Phi Phi is extremely popular amongst divers of all abilities, so it is filled with schools and diving centres where you will find the chance to learn and enjoy some trips for beginners. The PADI diving qualification is recognised across the world, so it is advisable to choose a PADI qualified school and instructor, as they will best equip you for the open water.

Most dive schools will offer lessons in shallow water off the beach, so you can become comfortable with the equipment and the process, and then they will accompany you on dives that are suitable for beginners. Koh Phi Phi boasts a number of fascinating places even beginners can visit, such as Bida Nok, which is filled with vibrant corals, and Bida Nai, which has a swim-through teeming with glass fish.

These unforgettable destinations are also ideal for families that want to try the sport together, as they offer calm waters and relatively safe surrounds.

How do I find diving equipment?

If you’re embarking on a diving course as a newcomer, equipment will be available at your diving school, and you will be given advice as to what is necessary when heading on a diving trip.

Those who are more experienced will find a mass of diving shops across Koh Phi Phi where you can hire equipment, and prices are regulated so you won’t find too much difference between businesses.

I’ve been diving many times, where can I go to see something new?

Koh Phi Phi is known for its diving, and it offers some of the most phenomenal sites across Thailand. As well as being surrounded by a number of dive sites, it is also the perfect gateway to some of Thailand’s other sites, around Koh Lanta and Phuket.

Malong is a stunning site to visit, with turtles resting on the coral reef and swim through's at the end of the dive. Night dives are also popular amongst more skilled divers, in particular Tonsai Bay, which is a much loved destination for evening dives. Here you will find nocturnal reef creatures hiding amongst the staghorn corall.

When should I visit?

Koh Phi Phi enjoys the tropical climate of the Andaman coastline of Thailand, so it presents the perfect conditions for diving whatever the time of year. However, you should be aware that the rainy season is in full force between late May and October, although the showers are usually brief and followed by bright and sunny spells. During the monsoon season the visibility can drop, and the temperature of the water does get cooler between June and September.

If you want to visit during optimum diving conditions you should book your flights to Thailand in April, when the waters are warm and the visibility is at its best.

Thailand gives its visitors the chance to discover a magical landscape hidden beneath its crystal clear waters, and it offers trips and lessons that are relatively cheap when compared to other top diving destinations across the world. Whether you’re looking for that next underwater thrill, or you want to put your new found diving skills to the test, Koh Phi Phi might just be the perfect place to do so.