Dive Koh Phra Thong

Here is the closest landmass to both the stunning Surin Islands and Richelieu Rock, home to everything from pygmy seahorse to whale sharks.

Koh Phra Thong is situated in Phang Nga province, on the West Coast of South Thailand and covers approximately 100 square kms. It is separated from the mainland by a seven meter canal that is almost completely covered by extensive mangrove forests. Koh Phra Thong has 15 kms of fine sandy beaches to the west of the island, and the inland is mostly dry savannah, home to deer, monkeys, wild pigs and numerous rare bird species including the elusive hornbill. Tourist development has been handled very well on Koh Phra Thong, limited to just a handful of resorts, each made from local materials that do not disturb the rich natural beauty of the island. Flora and fauna on the island has been allowed to thrive, and the area houses a rich array of species.

You really are at the hub of Thailand’s finest diving with the nearby Surin Marine Park, a shining example of natural beauty. It plays host to a phenomenal range of flora and fauna both on land and in the sea. The clear and unpolluted seas around the islands are home to healthy populations of hard and soft corals, starfish, feather stars, lobsters, clams, anemones, crabs, sea pens and a rich diversity of fish including parrotfish, damselfish, triggerfish , lionfish, angelfish, batfish, grouper and reef sharks to name just a few. Whale sharks and other whale species are occasional visitors to the area as well. Surin islands will have you feeling like you are stepping into a prehistoric age, truly a magical beauty.

Just as easily accessible is Richelieu Rock, rated as one of the best places in the world to dive with whale sharks, and easily the best dive site in Thailand because of the abundance of activity going on here. The biggest problem photographers have at this dive site is choosing which lens to use! With resident frog fish and seahorse that make willing macro photo subjects, one meter Malabar groupers and outstanding coral scenes for wide angle shots, your batteries are sure to be put to the test on a visit to this site. This limestone, horse shoe shaped pinnacle is littered with anemones, sea fans, barrel sponges and soft corals of all kinds, sure to leave you in awe after every dive.

Surin Islands

Experience Level: Beginner-Advanced
Season: November-May
Visibility: 15-35 meters
Water Temp.: 26-30 Celsius
Surface Conditions: Calm

Richelieu Rock

Experience Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Season: November-April
Visibility: 15-35 meters
Water Temp.: 26-30 Celsius
Surface Conditions: Calm- can be choppy offshore
# Dive Sites: 2

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