As Thailand features over 1,000 miles of coast along the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, Thailand’s beaches are the primary destinations for many visitors to the kingdom. One of the best ways to experience the beach is snorkeling, one of the most popular activities in Thailand.

Speedboats from popular tourist destinations like Phuket, Pattaya, and Koh Samui make numerous day trips to different snorkeling locations, proving food and refreshment as well as snorkeling equipment and instruction. It’s not very difficult: simply strap a mask and snorkel to your head and as soon as you hit the water you will be surrounded by fish, floating over spectacularly colored reefs, and amazed by the diversity of life in Thailand’s waters.

Snorkeling is a year round activity on nearly all of Thailand’s beaches and islands, though some beaches, such as those on Koh Tao are ideal for snorkeling off the beach, while others, including Pattaya, require boats to reach the best snorkeling reefs. Furthermore, Thailand’s warm tropical waters do not require snorkelers to wear wetsuits, though a shirt is suggested, as many people are so excited by all the fish beneath them they end up with sunburns all over their backs!