Snorkeling in Pattaya

Located on Thailand’s Gulf coast, Pattaya is a popular tourist destination that is praised for its vibrant nightlife scene, seaside restaurants and 5-star resorts. The city offers dozens of different outdoor activities, but snorkeling tours in Pattaya are a popular choice amongst its visitors.

When you consider Pattaya’s dazzling beaches, coral reefs, rich biodiversity and its sprinkling of nearby islands, it should come as no surprise the Thai city is a world-class snorkeling destination.

Here's all you need to know about snorkeling tours, one of the most exhilarating outdoor activities in Pattaya.

What are the best snorkeling tours in Pattaya?

Full-day tropical island snorkeling tour from Pattaya

Explore the secluded beaches offered by the tropical islands surrounding Pattaya when you book this full-day snorkeling excursion that’s inclusive of a buffet lunch. You’ll get to snorkel at some of Thailand’s top-rated snorkeling spots and experience the region’s natural beauty.

Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup from your accommodation in Pattaya. You’ll make your way down to the port and board a luxury catamaran that will take you to the islands of Koh Rin, Koh Pai and Koh Ped. Some of the animals you can expect to see during your time underwater include moray eels, lionfish, sea urchins and many other marine creatures.

You’ll be served a delicious Thai buffet onboard the catamaran, and you can purchase alcoholic beverages at your own expense. At the end of your fun-filled adventure, you’ll be taken back to the port and transferred to your hotel.

Nemo snorkeling experience by speedboat from Pattaya

Spot clownfish and other fascinating sea creatures when you book this half-day snorkeling experience that leaves from Pattaya. This activity takes place between Chaung and Chan, located just a short boat trip away from the mainland.

Your tour operator will pick you up from your hotel in Pattaya and take you to the pier, where you’ll board a speedboat. This speedboat will take you to the snorkeling spot, where you’ll get to spend the next 3 hours in the water, discovering the abundant marine life.

One of the best things about this tour is that your guide will take photos of you enjoying your time with the colorful fish underwater, and these photos will be given to you at the end of your trip, providing you with a special memory of your time in Pattaya.

Are there any combo available with snorkeling tours in Pattaya?

Full-day Coral Island Tour with Snorkeling, Jet Ski and Parasailing

Make the most of your time at the stunning Coral Island by opting for a boat tour from Pattaya that includes three exciting outdoor activities. Explore the underwater wonderland with a snorkeling adventure before you get your heart rate up by trying jet ski riding and parasailing.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Tour in Pattaya

This snorkeling and scuba diving tour in Pattaya is led by an experienced instructor, and after an introduction to the basics, you will get to explore the coral reefs. Your guide will lead the way through the underwater world, showing you the coral reefs and different sea creatures, including eels, turtles and tropical fish. After your underwater experience, you’ll be treated to a tasty lunch onboard the speedboat.

How much do snorkeling tours in Pattaya cost?

Basic half-day snorkeling tours in Pattaya, such as the Nemo snorkeling tour, usually cost around US$50 per person for a shared group experience that’s inclusive of roundtrip transfers and snorkeling equipment.

Snorkeling tours that include scuba diving, typically cost about US$80 per person for a full-day experience.

Full-day snorkeling tours that visit some of Pattaya’s nearby islands, including Koh Pai and Koh Luam, typically cost around US$85 per person for a trip that includes hotel transfers, a buffet lunch and national park fees.

What is included?

When you join a snorkeling tour in Pattaya, you’ll be provided with everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience. Most snorkeling tours are inclusive of roundtrip hotel transfers, use of snorkeling equipment, national park fees (if applicable) and refreshments.

Where does it start?

Snorkeling tours in Pattaya usually begin at the port, where you’ll board a boat docked at one of the piers. However, there is no need to make your way to the port on your own, as tour operators offer hotel pickup services from your accommodation in Pattaya.

Ensure that you are ready in your hotel lobby or outside your hotel at least 5 minutes before the designated pickup time so that you don’t keep your guide waiting.

How long does it last?

As most snorkeling tours in Pattaya are full-day experiences, these excursions usually last between 7 and 8 hours. If you don’t have an entire day to dedicate to a snorkeling tour, you could opt for one of the half-day excursions, which last roughly 4 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Unfortunately, snorkeling tours in Pattaya are not usually suitable for wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility. However, there are plenty of other outdoor activities in Pattaya that are wheelchair friendly.

When is the best time for a snorkeling tour in Pattaya?

The best time for a snorkeling tour in Pattaya is from November to April during the dry season. During these months, the waters are calmer and clearer, offering better visibility to explore marine life. Avoid the rainy season, which runs from May to October, as rain can reduce water clarity and stir up sediments.

Which other water activities can be done in Pattaya?

• Scuba diving in Pattaya
• Kayaking in Pattaya
• Stand up paddleboarding in Pattaya

Travel tips

• Avoid touching or stepping on corals. Use reef-safe sunscreen to prevent chemical pollution, which can damage marine life.
• Drink plenty of water and eat a light meal before snorkeling to keep your energy up.
• Listen to your guide regarding safe areas to snorkel and areas that are off-limits.
• Consider using a waterproof camera or GoPro to document your snorkeling. But prioritize safety over getting the perfect shot.