This dive site, Stingray City in the Similan Islands, is known for its expansive sandy bottom punctuated by scattered coral patches and small rock formations. It offers an open and gentle diving environment with generally calm conditions and easy navigation, making it a relaxed dive. There is no specific historical narrative or complex navigation required beyond enjoying the sandy landscape.
The site is famously home to numerous Kuhl’s stingrays, often found resting or foraging in the sand. Divers can also spot fascinating macro life, including colonies of garden eels swaying from the sandy seabed, various gobies, elusive shrimp, and a diversity of small reef fish. The scattered coral provides vital habitat for these smaller marine creatures.
The best time to visit Stingray City, aligning with the Similan Islands' dive season, is typically from November to April when conditions are calm and visibility is excellent. This site is particularly well-suited for beginner divers due to its shallow depths and gentle nature. Freedivers will also appreciate the clear, calm waters and moderate average depth for exploring. Divers should focus on looking for camouflaged stingrays and the intricate small life in the sand and coral.
