Koh Samui beaches do not offer a wide range of snorkeling opportunities, but the right spots around the island offer a glimpse of tropical marine life. Koh Samui is an offbeat place for snorkeling. Swim with large schools of fish that pass through coves and deep canyons.
Best Places for Snorkeling In Koh Samui
1. Coral Cove

Location: It lies inside the area of Hi Coral Cove bungalow between Chaweng and Lamai. There will be a clear red sign besides the main road so you shouldn’t have a problem in finding it.
2. Silver Beach

Location: Maret, Ko Samui district, Surat Thani, Thailand. You have to pass through a resort to get there. There are no charges to enter.
3. Chaweng Beach

Don’t miss out on the night parties at the beach! There are DJs, drinks, food, and dance parties every night, and it is undoubtedly a memorable experience!
Location: Surat Thani, Thailand
4. Taling Ngam

Location: Koh Samui District, Surat Thani, Thailand
5. Ao Phang Ka

Location: It is located in the Southwestern part of Koh Samui in Surat Thani province
6. Koh Madsum

You can book many speed boats online, making the entire process hassle-free.
Location: South of Koh Samui, close to Coral Island
7. Koh Taen

It is also known as Coral Island and can be reached by boat from Koh Samui. A full-day trip to the island offers a mix of activities like snorkeling, kayaking, cycling, and trekking. Various spots here are ideal for snorkeling in Koh Samui, where you can view the beautiful corals and fishes. You can find many different species of marine animals in the water, like turtles, rays, sponges, tropical fish, etc. Keep an eye on the small crevices and holes where you can find beautiful tiny organisms peeping. The time duration is approximately 50 minutes for each dive. The white sandy beaches are perfect for snorkelers.
Best Time to Go Snorkeling In Koh Samui
The best time to enjoy snorkeling in Koh Samui is from December to February, the peak season due to calm seas and moderate temperatures. You can also visit during the hot season if you can bear temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius. September to November is a strict no-no as the monsoon rolls in, and the sea can be a bit unpredictable. Visibility is also not high during this time.
Best Operators for Snorkeling in Koh Samui
1. Asian TrailsAddress: Bo Put, Ko Samui District, Surat Thani
2. Silent Divers
Address: 9/8 Moo 3 Bophut Ko Samui Ko Samui District
3. Tours Koh Samui
Address: 24/3 Moo 5 T. Bophut, Koh Samui
4. Samui Boat Charter
Address: 24 Moo 1 Koh Samui Ko Samui District
Tips for Snorkeling in Koh Samui

1. Equipment: Snorkeling gear is available at most locations, so the ones provided by the guides are convenient and easy to use. Investing in them would be worthwhile if you are a regular snorkeller and intend to use your gears frequently. The right equipment is generally expensive, and if you are a seasoned snorkeler, you could purchase it from your country of residence or Bangkok.
2. Budget: Costs for snorkeling in Koh Samui generally range from THB 2000 - 4000 or higher for more extended expeditions and Liveboard.
3. Caution: It is best to exercise precaution while underwater and avoid touching corals or marine creatures.
4. Sun Protection: Sunscreen is often recommended around 20 minutes before entering the waters.
5. Note all Beginners: Beginners should take special care not to wander too deep into the waters on their own, carefully follow the guide's instructions, and stay within their groups.
6. Weather Watch: Avoid snorkeling in Thailand during rainy weather and in heavy currents.
Many packages and tours are available for proper adventure snorkeling in Koh Samui. You can easily book them online. Day trips to the islands start from THB 2200 and can increase depending on the facilities provided.
Koh Samui is, in fact, an excellent place for many other sightseeing excursions, so make sure you take part in these activities. Thus, snorkeling in Koh Samui shouldn't disappoint either. There is a lot to see and do here, so take a deep breath and dive into this beautiful adventure called Koh Samui! Bon Voyage!