Thailand is a dream destination for divers, offering crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and unforgettable experiences. While the country is renowned for its year-round diving opportunities, Thailand diving in June presents unique advantages. From the colorful reefs of Koh Haa to the thrill of encountering mantas at Hin Muang, June offers a magical underwater adventure.
This guide covers why June is ideal for diving in Thailand, top dive sites, and activities you can enjoy when you’re not exploring the depths.
All Change in 2024
The best diving in Thailand is notoriously found on the Andaman coast. Historically, all of the National Marine Parks on this west coast of Thailand have closed on May 15th each year. But, in 2024 The Mu Koh Lanta Marine Park stayed open until the end of June, changing the landscape when it comes to diving opportunities in June.
Why Choose Thailand for Diving in June?
June is a standout month for divers looking to experience Thailand’s underwater wonders.
1. Favorable Conditions While June marks the start of the monsoon season, dive sites in the southern Andaman Sea remain calm and accessible. With water temperatures at 28–30°C (82–86°F) and visibility ranging from 15 to 30+ meters, conditions are perfect for exploring.
2. Marine Life Encounters The Andaman Sea teems with marine biodiversity in June. Divers can expect encounters with vibrant coral reefs, schooling fish, and the possibility of pelagic species like whale sharks and manta rays.
3. Value for Money June is Thailand’s shoulder season, meaning you can take advantage of lower prices for flights, accommodations, and liveaboard trips.
Top Dive Sites for June Diving in Thailand
Koh Haa: Tranquil Waters and Rich Marine Life
Koh Haa, or “Five Islands,” offers some of the best diving experiences in Thailand. Its calm lagoon and varied dive sites cater to divers of all skill levels.
Why Dive Here?
Stunning coral gardens and caverns.
Frequent sightings of lionfish, ghost pipefish, and colorful schools of snapper.
Highlights:
The Cathedral: Twin caverns with breathtaking light effects.
The Chimney: A vertical swim-through from 5 to 16 meters.
Check out our Koh Haa Diving article to get the full rundown on this most beautiful area of the South Andaman.
Hin Daeng & Hin Muang: A Pelagic Wonderland
For more experienced divers, Hin Daeng (“Red Rock”) and Hin Muang (“Purple Rock”) are must-visit sites. These deep pinnacles rise dramatically from the sea floor.
Why Dive Here?
Spectacular soft corals in red and purple hues.
Regular encounters with manta rays and whale sharks.
Dive Highlights:
Steep walls swarming with trevally and barracuda.
Opportunities to spot reef and leopard sharks.
Koh Phi Phi, Shark Point, and Anemone Reef
Koh Phi Phi: Famous for its dramatic underwater landscapes, including steep walls, caves, and overhangs.
Shark Point: A site named for its leopard and blacktip reef sharks. The area is adorned with barrel sponges and vibrant corals.
Anemone Reef: A haven for clownfish, nudibranchs, and moray eels, thanks to its dense cover of anemones. These sites are perfect for capturing the essence of diving in Thailand.
Beyond the Dive: Explore Thailand’s Topside Treasures
When you’re not diving, Thailand offers countless activities to enrich your trip.
1. Relax on Idyllic Beaches Enjoy the serene beauty of Thailand’s beaches. Maya Bay, notorious from the 2000 Danny Boyle film ‘The Beach’, is a beautiful spot to visit. If you are looking for a place to relax and hang out, Yanui Beach, or Naiharn in the south of Phuket are great too.
Note – Maya Bay has been heavily visited in recent years, so at times the authorities do close the area off, so we would recommend checking to see the status before attempting to visit.
2. Immerse Yourself in Thai Culture Visit iconic landmarks like the Big Buddha, or Wat Chalong temple in Phuket. Bustling night markets offer insight into local traditions, and the energy in Thailand is like no other.
3. Savor Thai Cuisine Dive into dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum Goong, and mango sticky rice. For adventurous palates, local markets serve some truly exotic street food.
4. Go Island Hopping Snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring Phang Nga Bay, are excellent ways to get the most out of your time here.
Maximize Your Experience with a Liveaboard
A liveaboard trip will elevate your June diving by offering unparalleled access to remote sites.
Why Choose a Liveaboard?
Early morning and night dives reveal different marine behaviors, something that you may not be able to do on a regular day boat.
Remote locations like Hin Muang and Hin Daeng are easily accessible to you.
Enjoy more diving per day; up to 4 dives, and the camaraderie of fellow divers on your multiday stay on board.
Be at the best dive sites before the masses. Your liveaboard is a travelling hotel, so will often move to your diving destination even before you wake.
Come and join us on an adventure of a lifetime, on a special itinerary that we have put together to make the most of the Mu Koh Lanta National Park being open in June, here – Southern Thailand (not incl Koh Lipe)
[Editor’s note: I was lucky enough to join the last trip in June this year (2024), being the last of the trips running the new itinerary, and to be frank, I was a somewhat blown away at the conditions. The diving at Koh Haa and Hin Daeng/Muang was immaculate; truly incredible visibility, pretty much no current, making all of the colours shine back at you! The sun was out at its fullest for the first 2.5 days too, only a few spots of rain and a bit of an overcast sky towards the end of the trip. Definitely a voyage to remember 🥰]
Packing Tips for June Diving in Thailand
Dive Essentials: Bring your dive computer and own mask for a comfortable fit.
Light Clothing: Pack breathable clothes and a light rain jacket for tropical showers.
Extras: Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, motion sickness pills (if boat diving), and a reusable water bottle.
For a more immersive list, check out our ‘What to Pack’ article (with useful packing list download too).
Conclusion: Thailand Diving in June Awaits You
Thailand diving in June offers unparalleled opportunities to explore vibrant marine ecosystems, breathtaking dive sites, and the best of Thai culture.
Whether you’re gliding alongside a manta ray at Hin Daeng or soaking up the sun on Naiharn Beach, June is the perfect time to experience Thailand’s underwater and topside wonders.
In short, pack your gear and your sense of adventure. Thailand is ready to deliver memories that will last a lifetime.