Pattaya

Pattaya, located just a short drive from Bangkok, offers some of the most accessible diving in Thailand. Its main draw is the collection of excellent wreck dives, including the famous HTMS Khram and HTMS Kood, which act as thriving artificial reefs. With over 20 dive sites spread across the "Near Islands" and "Far Islands," Pattaya caters to all experience levels, from novice divers exploring shallow coral reefs to technical divers penetrating deep wrecks. This unique combination of accessibility and diverse underwater topography makes it a standout destination on Thailand's eastern seaboard.

Diving in Pattaya is possible year-round thanks to its tropical climate and consistently warm waters. While visibility can vary, the marine life is surprisingly rich, featuring large schools of fish, turtles, and an abundance of macro critters hiding on the wrecks and reefs. It's an ideal location for earning certifications, enjoying relaxed fun dives, or embarking on a dedicated wreck diving adventure without the long travel times associated with more remote Thai islands. The convenience and variety make Pattaya a compelling choice for any diver visiting Thailand.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Pattaya, Thailand?
The HTMS Khram wreck is arguably the most popular dive site in Pattaya, Thailand. This former US Navy landing ship was intentionally sunk in 2003 to create an artificial reef. It sits upright at around 30 meters, making it accessible for advanced divers. Its large, open compartments are safe for penetration, and the exterior is teeming with marine life, including barracuda, batfish, and rays. Its size and accessibility make it a must-do dive.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Pattaya, Thailand?
Well-known sites in Pattaya, Thailand, include the wrecks HTMS Khram and HTMS Kood. For coral diving, Koh Rin is a popular choice. For a less-crowded experience, explore the "Far Islands" like Koh Man Wichai, which offers excellent coral formations and chances to see turtles. The HTMS Mataphon wreck is smaller and shallower than its famous counterparts, making it a great, less-intimidating option for newly certified wreck divers.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Pattaya, Thailand?
Diving in Pattaya, Thailand, offers warm water year-round. Temperatures typically range from a low of 27°C (81°F) during the cooler, dry season (December-February) to a high of 31°C (88°F) in the warmest months (April-June). The water remains comfortable throughout the rainy season as well. This consistent warmth means you can dive comfortably any time you choose to visit.
When is the best time to visit Pattaya, Thailand?
The best time for diving in Pattaya, Thailand, is during the dry season from November to April. During these months, you can expect the calmest seas and best overall visibility. However, diving is a year-round activity here. The rainy season (May-October) can bring some surface chop and reduced visibility, but dive trips are rarely cancelled, and the water remains warm. The shoulder months often offer a great balance of good conditions and fewer crowds.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Pattaya, Thailand?
Visibility when diving in Pattaya, Thailand, can be variable. During the prime season (November-April), it typically ranges from 10 to 20 meters, with the "Far Islands" generally offering better clarity than the "Near Islands." During the rainy season (May-October), visibility can sometimes drop to 5-10 meters due to runoff and plankton blooms. It is not known for crystal-clear conditions, but the marine life on the wrecks and reefs makes up for it.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Pattaya, Thailand?
While large pelagic migrations are not a primary feature of diving in Pattaya, Thailand, whale shark sightings are occasionally reported, though they are very rare and unpredictable. The main seasonal event is the plankton bloom during the wetter months, which can reduce visibility but also attracts more baitfish and, consequently, their predators. Your best chance for special encounters is simply diving regularly, especially around the deeper wrecks.
What marine life can I expect to see in Pattaya, Thailand?
The waters of Pattaya, Thailand, host a surprising variety of marine life. Wrecks are covered in large schools of fusiliers, jacks, and barracuda. Look for resident moray eels, scorpionfish, and lionfish. On the reefs, you can find angelfish, butterflyfish, and pufferfish. Turtles are commonly sighted, especially around the Far Islands. Macro life is also abundant, with nudibranchs, shrimps, and crabs hiding in the corals and wrecks for keen-eyed divers to spot.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Pattaya, Thailand?
For the warm waters of Pattaya, Thailand, a 3mm shorty or full-length wetsuit is sufficient for most divers year-round. Some divers may even be comfortable in just a rash guard and shorts, especially during the hottest months (April-June) when water temperatures exceed 30°C (86°F). If you tend to get cold or are planning multiple dives a day, a 3mm full suit is a safe and versatile choice.
How do I get to Pattaya, Thailand?
Getting to Pattaya, Thailand, is very convenient. The nearest major airport is Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK), located about a 90-minute to 2-hour drive away. You can easily book a private taxi, shared minibus, or take a direct bus from the airport to Pattaya. U-Tapao Airport (UTP) is even closer, just 45 minutes away, and serves some domestic and international flights, offering another great option.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Pattaya, Thailand?
Shore-based diving is the standard and most practical option for Pattaya, Thailand. All dive sites are easily accessible via day trips from the main pier. There are no liveaboards that operate exclusively in this area, as the travel distances do not warrant it. Staying in a hotel on shore gives you access to a wide range of dive operators, restaurants, and other attractions, making it the ideal way to experience diving in this vibrant coastal city.
All Dive Sites in Pattaya (21)
Breman Ship WreckHad Nuan Aka Koh Lan VakHardeepHardeep Suddhadip WreckHtms Khram ShipwreckHtms Kut ShipwreckHtms Mataporn ShipwreckKoh ChanKoh ChuangKoh Klung Badan BayKoh Klung Badan SouthKoh KrockKoh Manwichai Finger ReefKoh PaiKoh RinKoh Sak Deep ReefKoh Sak EastKoh Sak WestSamaesanShark Fin RockSubmarine Reef Koh Sak