Krabi
Krabi is a world-renowned diving hub on Thailand's Andaman coast, famed for its dramatic limestone karsts that tower over turquoise waters. While the area offers fantastic diving for all levels, it serves as a gateway to some of the region's most celebrated sites, including the nearby Phi Phi Islands and the Shark Point marine sanctuary. Divers are drawn to the vibrant coral reefs, intriguing swim-throughs, and caverns that characterize the local underwater topography, making it an excellent base for both training and underwater exploration.
The diving conditions in Krabi are generally welcoming, with warm water temperatures hovering around 29°C (84°F) all year. The prime diving season from November to April promises calm seas and visibility that can exceed 25 meters at offshore sites. Divers should visit Krabi not just for the diverse marine life, which includes leopard sharks and turtles, but for the perfect blend of spectacular topside scenery and accessible, rewarding underwater adventures that cater to every experience level.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in Krabi, Thailand?
While Krabi has local sites, the most popular day trips are to the Phi Phi Islands. The sites Bida Nok and Bida Nai are exceptionally famous, offering stunning walls, diverse coral, and a high chance of seeing turtles, blacktip reef sharks, and sea snakes. Their rich biodiversity and dramatic underwater landscapes make them a must-do for any diver visiting Krabi, Thailand.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Krabi, Thailand?
Well-known sites accessible from Krabi, Thailand include the Phi Phi Islands, King Cruiser Wreck, and Shark Point. For a less crowded experience, the local islands directly off Ao Nang are excellent. Sites like Koh Si, Koh Ha, and Koh Poda offer great macro photography opportunities, fun swim-throughs, and are perfect for relaxed dives without the long boat journeys.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Krabi, Thailand?
The water temperature in Krabi, Thailand is consistently warm and tropical year-round. You can expect temperatures to range from 28°C to 31°C (82°F to 88°F). There is very little fluctuation between seasons, making it an ideal destination for comfortable diving at any time of the year without the need for a thick wetsuit.
When is the best time to visit Krabi, Thailand?
The best time for diving in Krabi, Thailand is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. This period offers the best conditions with calm seas, excellent visibility, and sunny weather. The monsoon season is from May to October, which can bring rain and rougher seas, occasionally impacting boat schedules. However, diving is still possible during these months.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Krabi, Thailand?
During the peak dive season (November-April), underwater visibility in Krabi, Thailand is generally very good. At offshore sites like the Phi Phi Islands, it can range from 15 to 30 meters (50-100 feet). Visibility at local sites closer to the mainland can be lower, typically between 5 and 15 meters, but they offer fantastic macro life. Conditions can be reduced during the rainy season.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Krabi, Thailand?
While not guaranteed, whale sharks are most frequently sighted from February to May. They are typically seen at deeper, offshore pinnacles like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang, which are accessible from Krabi via special long day trips or liveaboards. Manta rays are occasionally seen at these sites as well. Leopard sharks are a common, non-migratory resident at Shark Point.
What marine life can I expect to see in Krabi, Thailand?
In Krabi, Thailand, you can expect to see a wide array of marine life. Common sightings include leopard sharks, blacktip reef sharks, hawksbill turtles, moray eels, and large schools of snapper and fusilier. The reefs are also rich with smaller creatures like clownfish, lionfish, scorpionfish, and various nudibranchs. Cuttlefish and octopus are also frequently spotted by observant divers.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Krabi, Thailand?
Given the warm water temperatures of 28-31°C (82-88°F), a wetsuit is often optional. Many divers are comfortable in a rash guard and shorts. However, for thermal protection on multiple dives, a 3mm shorty or a 3mm full wetsuit is recommended. This provides enough warmth without causing overheating when diving in Krabi, Thailand.
How do I get to Krabi, Thailand?
The easiest way to reach Krabi, Thailand is to fly into Krabi International Airport (KBV), which serves domestic flights from Bangkok and some international routes. From the airport, it is a 30-45 minute taxi or shuttle bus ride to Ao Nang, the main hub for dive operators. You can also arrive by ferry from Phuket or Koh Phi Phi.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Krabi, Thailand?
Krabi, Thailand is primarily a destination for shore-based diving. Staying in a hotel in areas like Ao Nang allows you to take daily boat trips to all the popular local sites, including the Phi Phi Islands. While some liveaboards depart from the region, they typically travel to more distant locations like the Similan Islands. For diving around Krabi, staying on shore is the most practical choice.