Diving In Phuket
For most tourists who love diving in Phuket, whether it’s scuba diving or snorkeling, the first destinations that come to mind are usually Phi Phi Island, which is widely known among travelers from around the world, or nearby Racha Island. For those who are willing to travel a bit farther, Similan Islands, about three hours by speedboat from Phuket, is another popular spot. Located in Phang Nga Province to the north of Phuket, the Similan Islands are considered one of the world’s top diving destinations, thanks to the abundant marine life and thriving underwater ecosystems. It’s a must-visit for anyone passionate about deep-water diving.
However, for those with limited time or who prefer not to travel too far, Coral Island (Koh He) is a closer alternative. While the coral in the shallow waters around Koh He isn’t as vibrant as it used to be, deeper dive sites, over 5 meters below the surface, still offer relatively intact coral. Koh He may not be the first choice for those seeking perfect shallow-water snorkeling, but it remains an excellent spot for relaxation and a peaceful swim.
That being said, if you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path diving and snorkeling experience, we highly recommend “Koh Man,” a lesser-known dive site in Phuket. Despite being relatively unknown, Koh Man is incredibly beautiful and boasts pristine natural surroundings. Situated within Phuket, it is easily accessible by motorbike, private car, or boat from Chalong Bay or Rawai Beach.
Getting to Koh Man is convenient. You can swim or kayak from Ya Nui Bay to reach the island. The waters here are typically clear and calm, making it an ideal spot for diving, snorkeling and kayaking along the serene coastline. Around the island, you’ll encounter schools of fish living in the crystal clear waters, as well as stunning, fully developed coral reefs, making it a must-visit destination for those passionate about marine life. Additionally, Koh Man is home to beautiful sea anemones, where clownfish often hide, offering you the opportunity to get up close and enjoy the vibrant underwater life.
Koh Man is a small island that can easily be snorkeled around. The best areas for snorkeling or diving are those visible from Ya Nui Bay or the eastern side of the island, where the waters are not too deep, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced divers and snorkelers. The best time to visit Koh Man is between December and April, as the water is clearer, and there are no strong waves, ensuring a more comfortable and safe snorkeling and diving experience.
Visiting Koh Man is also an excellent choice for those who wish to escape the crowds at more popular tourist spots and prefer not to travel far from Phuket. Here, you can experience pristine nature and an underwater world that remains untouched. Koh Man offers a wide range of attractions, including its vibrant and diverse hard coral reefs, which are not only a food source but also a crucial habitat for many marine species. Moreover, the island serves as a breeding ground and refuge for various fish, both large and small.
Koh Man is also a place where you can encounter rare marine life that you might not find at other islands in Phuket, making it an intriguing and mysterious diving destination. This unique charm makes Koh Man a spot every diver should visit, whether you’re a beginner or a professional. If you’re looking for a diving experience that stands out from the rest and want to witness a well-preserved underwater world, Koh Man should be on your list.
Choosing to visit Koh Man means experiencing tranquility and untouched nature, far from the busy crowds or commercialized tourist areas. Here, you can dive and snorkeling in a location full of diverse marine life, especially during high tide when the water is exceptionally clear, allowing you to see the beautiful coral reefs in vivid detail. If you’re one of the many tourists looking for a unique diving and snorkeling experience that is different from other places in Phuket, Koh Man is the perfect choice for you. With its pristine nature and peaceful surroundings, Koh Man will undoubtedly be a place you will never forget.
