What Beginners Need to Know Before Diving in the Similan Islands — Your Essential Guide to One of Thailand’s Most Beautiful Dive Sites

The Similan Islands in Phang Nga Province are considered one of the world’s top diving destinations, famous for their crystal-clear blue waters, powdery white beaches, and vibrant underwater world filled with colorful corals and diverse marine life. With underwater visibility reaching 20–30 meters, the Similans attract both beginner and experienced divers from around the globe.

For beginners who want to try diving here for the first time, there are several important things to know to ensure a fun, safe, and worthwhile experience.

1) When Are the Similan Islands Open? (The Most Important Information)

The Similan Islands are only open from October to May
and closed from June to September every year to allow the ecosystem to recover and due to unsafe weather conditions during the monsoon season.

Best Times to Dive

• November – February: Calm sea, clearest waters

• March – May: Greater chances of seeing large marine animals such as manta rays and whale sharks

2) Diving Options Suitable for Beginners

The Similans are beginner-friendly, offering both snorkeling and scuba diving depending on your readiness.

2.1 Snorkeling

Suitable for everyone—no license required.
Shallow reefs in the Similans are stunning, especially around Islands 4, 8, and 9.

What you’ll see:

• Shallow coral reefs

• Schools of colorful fish

• Clear water with excellent visibility

2.2 Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) – No License Required

Ideal for beginners without certification.
A dive instructor will guide you step-by-step and handle the equipment.

Highlights:

• Dive depth: approximately 8–12 meters

• No previous experience needed

• Great for those who want to explore the underwater world seriously

2.3 Fun Dive (For Certified Divers – Open Water and Above)

Suitable for certified divers
Depth: 18–30 meters depending on certification level

Highlights:

• World-class dive sites such as Elephant Head Rock, Deep Six, Shark Fin Reef

• Chance to spot larger marine animals (leopard sharks, manta rays)

3) How to Prepare Your Body Before Diving

Even though diving in the Similans is not extremely challenging, proper preparation makes the experience more enjoyable and reduces seasickness or fatigue.

Tips for beginners:

• Get enough sleep

• Avoid alcohol 24 hours before diving

• Eat a light meal before entering the water

• Stay hydrated

• Consult a doctor if you have asthma, sinus issues, or chronic conditions

4) Personal Equipment to Bring

Most Similan tours provide full diving gear, but bringing your own essentials improves comfort.

Recommended items:

• Personal diving mask (fits better to your face)

• Rashguard or UV-protective swim shirt

• Towel

• Seasickness medication (very important for beginners)

• Waterproof bag for your phone

• Reef-safe sunscreen

5) Rules Beginners Must Follow When Diving in the Similans

The Similans are a protected national park with strict rules to ensure safety and environmental preservation.

Important rules:

• Do not touch or step on coral

• Do not collect marine life or shells

• Do not feed the fish

• Life jackets are required during snorkeling

• Always follow your dive instructor’s instructions

6) How Much Does Diving in the Similans Cost?

Average prices:

Snorkeling:
2,000 – 3,000 THB / day

Discover Scuba Diving (Beginner):
3,500 – 5,500 THB / day

Fun Dive (Certified Divers):
3,500 – 4,500 THB / day

Includes equipment, meals, and speedboat transfers.

7) Common Problems for Beginners — And How to Solve Them

7.1 Fear of Breathing Underwater

→ Take time practicing with your instructor
→ Breathe slowly and naturally

7.2 Mask Leaks

→ Choose a mask that fits your face shape
→ Ensure no hair is trapped in the mask seal

7.3 Seasickness

→ Take anti-motion sickness pills 30 minutes before departure
→ Avoid looking at your phone while on the boat

7.4 Ear Pain During Descent

→ Practice equalizing (pinch your nose and blow gently)
→ Descend slowly—never rush

8) Beautiful Dive Sites Beginners Should Know

Some sites suit advanced divers, but they are signature Similan highlights.

• Island 4 (Koh Miang) – Perfect for snorkeling

• Island 8 (Koh Similan) – Stunning beaches and clear waters

• Island 9 (Koh Ba Ngu) – Rich corals and marine life

• Shark Fin Reef – For Open Water divers

• Elephant Head Rock – Advanced divers only

Summary: 8 Key Things Beginners Must Know Before Diving in the Similans

1. The Similans are open only from October to May.

2. Beginners can choose Snorkeling or DSD without a license.

3. Prepare your body properly for diving.

4. Bring a personal mask, seasickness pills, and sun protection.

5. Follow national park rules.

6. Budget around 2,000–5,500 THB depending on the activity.

7. Learn basic techniques such as breathing control and equalizing.

8. Choose a tour company with strong safety standards.

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