The Phi Phi Islands are an outstanding snorkel destination, with an incredible variety of tropical fish and bright coral. Join a day tour or arrange a private boat charter - trips run every day, year round. Closer to Phuket are the Coral, Racha, and Khai Nok islands, each featuring clear waters and abundant marine life just offshore. A bit further away are the spectacular Similan Islands. The Similans are world-famous for diving but snorkelling in this pristine marine wonderland is a fine experience too.

If you do go on a snorkeling excursion, make sure to use the services of an operator with good safety standards. Also, be advised that many of the cut-rate tours take people to the most crowded bays at peak periods - not so enjoyable when all you see in the water are other snorkellers! Chartering a boat is a great way to avoid the crowds.