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White sand beach and large rocks at Similan Islands

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Premier Snorkeling Sites: Islands 7 and 9

Most Similan Islands speedboats stop at two main snorkeling sites during a day trip. These locations offer clear water and abundant marine life.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

Day trips from Khao Lak or Phuket usually schedule 45-minute snorkeling sessions near Koh Ba Ngu (Island No. 9) and Koh Payu (Island No. 7). You will view underwater granite boulders and coral reefs directly from the boat.

You must apply reef-safe sunscreen before swimming. The national park strictly bans formulas containing oxybenzone, octinoxate, 4-MBC, or butylparaben.

Tourists standing near the famous Sailing Boat Rock
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

Koh Ba Ngu (Island No. 9)

45 mins snorkelingLook for sea turtles

This area features Christmas Point, known for dramatic underwater boulders and schooling tropical fish. Look for sea turtles and reef sharks in the deeper blue sections of the water. You will typically spend 45 minutes snorkeling here.

Three speedboats anchored together while people snorkel in clear water
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Koh Payu (Island No. 7)

45 mins snorkelingCurrents can be strong

Koh Payu features East of Eden and other coral spots with abundant marine life. Ocean currents can sometimes be strong in this area. Wear your life jacket if you are not a strong swimmer, and stay close to your boat guide.

Book a Snorkeling Day Trip

Aerial view of Sailing Boat Rock at Similan Islands
Similan Islands Snorkeling Day Tour from Phuket12 h 4.1 (101)from $95
similan snorkeling day tourfrom $95 on Viator
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