Khao Lak

Khao Lak serves as the premier gateway to Thailand's most revered underwater realms, the Similan and Surin Islands Marine National Parks. This destination is defined by its access to world-class dive sites featuring immense granite boulder formations, vibrant coral reefs, and dramatic pinnacles. Divers are drawn to the incredible biodiversity and the sheer scale of the underwater landscapes, which offer a different experience from the limestone karsts found elsewhere in Thailand. The area is a hub for liveaboards, providing unparalleled access to these remote and protected waters.

Diving conditions in Khao Lak are at their best during the dry season from November to April, with warm waters averaging 28-30°C and visibility often exceeding 30 meters. This period offers calm seas and the chance for spectacular encounters with large pelagics, including majestic manta rays and the awe-inspiring whale shark. Whether you're an experienced diver looking to explore deep pinnacles or a newer diver wanting to witness stunning coral gardens, Khao Lak provides a comprehensive and unforgettable diving holiday, making it a must-visit destination on any diver's map.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Khao Lak, Thailand?
The most popular and famous dive site accessible from Khao Lak, Thailand is Richelieu Rock. Located in the Surin National Park, it's renowned worldwide for its incredible biodiversity, vast purple soft corals, and for being a major hotspot for whale shark sightings, especially between February and April.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Khao Lak, Thailand?
Well-known sites include Richelieu Rock, Koh Bon for manta rays, and Elephant Head Rock in the Similans. For less crowded or alternative dives, consider the local wrecks like the Boonsung Wreck or HTMS Pratong. These sites are shallower, great for shorter trips, and teem with fish life, offering a different but rewarding experience.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Khao Lak, Thailand?
During the main diving season (November to April), water temperatures in Khao Lak, Thailand are consistently warm, ranging from 28°C to 30°C (82°F to 86°F). You may encounter occasional thermoclines that bring slightly cooler water on deeper dives, but conditions are generally tropical and very comfortable.
When is the best time to visit Khao Lak, Thailand?
The best time for diving in Khao Lak, Thailand is during the dry season, from November to early May. During this period, the Similan and Surin Islands National Parks are open, the seas are calm, and weather is favorable. The monsoon season (May-October) brings rougher seas, and the marine parks are closed to visitors.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Khao Lak, Thailand?
Visibility when diving from Khao Lak, Thailand during the peak season (November to May) is typically excellent, often ranging from 20 to 30+ meters (65 to 100+ feet). Plankton blooms can sometimes reduce visibility, but these are what attract large filter feeders like manta rays and whale sharks to the area.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Khao Lak, Thailand?
Yes, Khao Lak, Thailand is famous for seasonal pelagic encounters. Manta rays are frequently spotted at Koh Bon from February to April. During this same period, whale shark sightings are most common, particularly at Richelieu Rock, as they follow the plankton blooms. Leopard sharks are also common year-round on sandy bottoms.
What marine life can I expect to see in Khao Lak, Thailand?
Divers in Khao Lak, Thailand can see a huge variety of marine life. Expect to find manta rays, whale sharks (seasonal), leopard sharks, and reef sharks. The reefs are home to giant morays, octopus, cuttlefish, barracuda, trevally, and countless reef fish. Macro lovers can search for ghost pipefish, seahorses, and nudibranchs.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Khao Lak, Thailand?
For the warm waters around Khao Lak, Thailand (28-30°C), a 3mm shorty or full-length wetsuit is generally sufficient for thermal protection. Many divers are even comfortable in just a rash guard and shorts. A full suit is recommended for protection from sun and potential jellyfish stings.
How do I get to Khao Lak, Thailand?
To get to Khao Lak, Thailand, fly into Phuket International Airport (HKT). From the airport, Khao Lak is approximately a 60 to 90-minute drive north. You can easily arrange a taxi, private car, or shared minivan transfer at the airport or pre-book through your dive resort or liveaboard operator.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Khao Lak, Thailand?
Liveaboards are the best option to fully experience the remote Similan and Surin Islands, allowing multiple dives at top sites like Richelieu Rock. Shore-based day trips from Khao Lak, Thailand are possible but involve long boat journeys. Staying on shore offers more flexibility and is great for shorter trips or combining diving with other land-based activities.
All Dive Sites in Khao Lak (8)
Artificial ReefBangsak WreckBoonsung WreckHideaway BayKhao Na YakKoh BonKoh Tachai PinnacleRichelieu Rock