The Phuket oceanic waters of the Andaman sea are mild, clear, bursting and calm for snorkeling and are choice ideally considered by tourists. These water are suitable normally for year round snorkeling, but the ideal time is November to April. In this season the tropical waters of Andaman sea are most docile.
For a short period in the year around May to October, near west coast, undertow become strong and can be dangerous. Due to good temperature around 27 or 28°C normally, the visitors can enjoy snorkeling without the need of wearing wetsuits. To prevent sunburn, normal t-shirt wearing is recommended.
The average quality snorkeling gears are available easily on rent, at some of the beaches. Variety of snorkels, masks and find are being sold at many shops near the island.
In Phuket, snorkeling can be done on many beaches including Kata beach, karon beach, Patong beach, Surin beach, Kamala beach, Ao Sane, Laem Singh beach, Ya Nui beach. Near Phuket there are many other options available as well for snorkeling including Phi Phi islands and Similan Islands.
In Phuket, Kata beach is hottest tourist spot. The entire length of most of Kata beach is soft sand. Besides, the rocky bay shore can be found in the north where lots of corals can be found with very clear water. The Koran beach is also preferred as wonderful destination, specially for kids, due to its quite shallow waters. At southern corner of the beach, rocks and corals can also be found.
The Patong beach is always filled up with tourists and visitors. Coral and abundance of fish can be seen here in the northern side up through Kalim. These water are rocky. More fish can be found at and around Surin beach. There are not so many corals but area is rocky at the Southern end of Surin. It is easily accessible from the main beach.
The abundance of coral can be found at Kamala beach. The coral reef at northern side of Kamala beach is famous and well known. The boating has increased here in the bay much in recent years which has resulted in less colorful corals. Swimming, sunbathing and snorkeling are active happenings here.
At the north side of Kamala, the smaller beach of Laem singh exists. This beach is very decent for snorkeling. Its southern end is bid rocky.
Ao Sane is a smaller beach which can be accessed through a dusty road from Le Royal Meridien Phuket Yacht Club located in Nai Harn. In its rocky shore, abundance of corals can be found. The Baan Krating resort located here increases the importance of this peaceful place.
For a nice snorkeling experience tourists prefer Ya Nui beach which is situated between Laem Promthep and Nai Harn. This is a relaxed place with various lunch offers for divers. Coral drink is a delight offered here at a small but very nice restaurant located here at Ya Nui.
