This dive site, Ao Mae Yai, is the largest bay located on the southeastern side of Surin Nuea Island, Thailand. Renowned for its calm waters, it serves as an excellent location for both snorkeling and diving. The site is relatively straightforward to navigate due to its bay structure and moderate depths, making it accessible for various skill levels. No specific history or story is provided, but its inclusion within a national park suggests a focus on marine conservation.
Divers and snorkelers can expect to encounter a wide variety of corals, including lettuce coral, disc coral, table coral, branch coral, black coral, and soft coral. While specific fish species are not mentioned, a healthy coral reef environment typically hosts numerous reef fish, crustaceans, and other invertebrates, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem.
The calm conditions make it suitable for visiting year-round, although the best time for diving in the Surin Islands is generally from November to April when the weather is driest and seas are calmest. Both scuba divers and freedivers will appreciate the shallow, protected waters and the abundance of coral formations. It's an ideal spot for macro photography and enjoying the diverse reef without strong currents.
