Scuba Diving in Southern Thailand – Definitely Worth It!

Stephan Werner, 06.01.2020

Water: 800 times denser than air, 25 times faster heat loss than on land, and completely unsuitable for our lungs.If someone had explained it to me like that 30 years ago, I’m not sure whether curiosity or doubt would have won. 😅

One thing is certain: my very first dive back in 1990 was such a success that 13 years later I started my scuba instructor training on Lanzarote

3,000 Dives, 3 Continents – And Still Fascinated

Today, after more than 3,000 dives on three continents, I know one thing for sure: diving is a motivating, healthy and exciting adventure that never loses its magic.

Why? Because:

• You meet amazing people from all over the world.

• You train important muscle groups without even realizing it.

• And you immerse yourself in an ecosystem millions of years old.

Yes, diving isn’t a cheap hobby. Snorkeling also lets you admire fish and corals. But only while diving do you experience true weightlessness and discover underwater details you’d never see while snorkeling.

A single dive can give you memories you’ll never forget!

A Sport Loved Across Generations

Diving fascinates people of all ages. Even in ancient times, warriors used hollow reeds to sneak unnoticed under the water into enemy territory. Was that the “big bang” of diving?

Modern scuba gear – known as S.C.U.B.A. (Self-Contained Underwater Breathing Apparatus) – became widespread during and after World War II.

And the good news is: If you can equalize pressure in your ears, are physically fit, and know how to swim, nothing stands in the way of your diving career. What are you waiting for?

Top Diving Regions in Thailand

Southern Thailand offers some of the best dive sites in the world, whether you’re a beginner or advanced diver.

1. Gulf of Thailand

Here you mainly dive around the islands Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao. With a bit of luck, you might even spot whale sharks – sometimes even as a student during your first dives!

2. Andaman Sea (West Coast)

Open from October 16 to May 14, the region offers world-class diving around the Similan and Surin Islands, Koh Bon, Koh Tachai and the famous Richelieu Rock (60–80 km off Khao Lak).

Other fantastic spots include:

• Koh Doc Mai

• Shark Point

• Phi Phi Islands

• Anemone Reef

• King Cruiser Wreck

Pro Tip: Book a multi-day dive or snorkel liveaboard safari.This way, you avoid the crowds and can enjoy peaceful early morning or night dives. Perfect to get the best experience when it comes to diving in Thailand.

If you need recommendations for the best dive centers in Khao Lak and Phuket, email me at stephan@khaolak-activities.com or reach me on WhatsApp: +66 9480 77875.

Breathing Properly Underwater – But How?

Summer 1994: After a few dives, my dive guide asked me: “How do you actually breathe underwater?” I thought for a moment: “Just normal, why?”

He replied: “Your breathing sounds like this: exhale – inhale – pause … exhale – inhale – pause.”

I thought that was fine – until he explained why the pause was in the wrong place.

The safest and most relaxed way to dive is to pause after exhaling – not after inhaling. It matches our natural breathing rhythm. Our subconscious sometimes tricks us because we instinctively think we survive longer underwater on a full breath.

Why Is This Breathing Technique So Important?

• You relax best when you’re in an exhaled state.

• You exhale CO₂ more effectively (main trigger for the “air hunger” feeling).

• You need less weight thanks to lower buoyancy.

• You massively reduce the risk of lung overexpansion injuries.

Proper breathing and achieving buoyancy are the two most essential diving basics!

My Life in Khao Lak – And Yours?

I’ve been living and working in Khao Lak as a German expat for over 15 years.I’m happy to share my diving experience and answer all your questions about Khao Lak patiently and in detail.

Thank you for reading and warm greetings from Khao Lak – hopefully see you soon in the Land of Smiles!

Your Stephan Werner

Note: Some of our articles are created with the support of modern AI tools – however, every line is personally reviewed, enriched and adapted by us. This way, we combine technology with real on-site experience.