From the crystal-clear depths of the Andaman Sea to the rushing rivers of the lush northern jungles, Thailand has a lot to offer in terms of water thrills.
This is the second of a series of articles where we explore some of the most epic things that you can do in Thailand as an adventure-seeking, adrenaline junkie.
Related posts:
Thailand for Thrill Seekers: Land Adventures
One of the cool things about Thailand is that the regulations aren’t as strict as those in some other countries, which allows you to do things that might make you think…
“Should I be doing this?”
Here are some of the wildest things you can do in the waters of Thailand.
Stay tuned and jot down which ones you want to add to your bucket list. The cool part about doing all of these activities in Thailand is that they are way cheaper than trying to do the same thing in the US.
If this article excites you, check out the next segment of this series, where I dive into Thailand’s airborne adventures.
Water activities
Scuba diving
Thailand is a diver’s dream, known for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
With sites suitable for all levels, from shallow coral gardens to deep pelagic encounters, divers can enjoy sightings of manta rays, whale sharks, and colorful fish species.
Where are the best scuba diving spots in Thailand?
- Richelieu Rock:
Located near the Surin Islands, this site is famous for its vibrant soft corals and diverse marine life. It’s a hotspot for spotting whale sharks, especially between February and May. - Koh Tao:
This is where my wife and I went for our Thailand Scuba diving adventure. Often referred to as a diving paradise, Koh Tao is ideal for beginners and those seeking certification due to its calm waters and affordable dive courses. The island is surrounded by sites teeming with marine life, including the famous Chumphon Pinnacle. - Hin Daeng and Hin Muang:
These two remote pinnacles are located near Koh Lanta and are known for their steep drop-offs, vibrant corals, and the chance to see manta rays and whale sharks. Due to the strong currents, these sites are more suited to experienced divers. - Similan Islands:
A renowned diving destination, the Similan Islands offer clear waters, rich biodiversity, and intriguing underwater landscapes, including huge boulders and swim-throughs. - Phi Phi Islands:
Aside from their stunning surface beauty, the waters around the Phi Phi Islands are filled with colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and several interesting wrecks, making it a popular diving destination for all skill levels. - Koh Lipe:
Situated in the Tarutao National Marine Park near the Malaysian border, Koh Lipe offers superb diving with its pristine coral reefs and abundant fish life. It’s also a great spot for night diving. - Pattaya:
Known for its wreck diving, Pattaya has several sites, including the HTMS Hardeep, the Bremen, and the Khram. These offer a mix of artificial reefs and marine biodiversity close to Bangkok.
What is the best time of year to go scuba diving in Thailand?
Visibility in Thai waters often exceeds 30 meters, bringing the underwater world to life with stunning clarity.
The diving season peaks from November to April, offering calm conditions ideal for exploration.
Are there any requirements or certifications needed for scuba diving in Thailand?
I have my PADI certification, which allows me to dive to a certain depth without a guide.
However, my wife was not certified, so we weren’t sure if she could go out.
It turns out there is an option for everyone.
We decided to take a guided diving tour in Koh Tao, one of our most beautiful underwater experiences. We swam with turtles and all kinds of fish. I even saw an eel, which was both incredible and terrifying.
I hoped to spot some kind of shark but never came across one, probably for the best.
Here’s some more info on the certification requirements:
- Age:
Divers must be at least 10 years old for junior certifications, with restrictions on depth and adult supervision. - Medical Fitness:
A self-assessment health questionnaire is typically required. For certain conditions, a doctor’s clearance might be necessary to ensure it’s safe for you to dive. - For Beginners:
No prior certification is needed for introductory dives under professional supervision, known as “Discover Scuba Diving” experiences. These are not certification courses but allow you to try scuba diving. - Certification Courses:
To dive independently, you need a certification from a recognized agency like PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) or SSI (Scuba Schools International). The Open Water Diver certification is the first level, teaching you the fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive theory, confined water skills, and open water dives. - Advanced and Specialty Dives:
Additional certifications, such as Advanced Open Water Diver or specific specialty courses, are required for more challenging dives, such as deep dives (beyond 18 meters/60 feet), night dives, or wreck dives.
White water rafting
White water rafting is one of those things that seems like a surefire way to die.
But after having done it many times in several different countries, I can confidently say that it’s only kinda likely.
Just kidding.
I’ve only ever seen one person get hurt doing this, and it was from hitting themselves in the face with their paddle.
White-water rafting in Thailand offers an exhilarating escape into the country’s stunning natural landscapes.
The north, especially around Chiang Mai, is renowned for its vibrant rivers like the Mae Taeng, which provide a thrilling setting for rafting adventures. These rivers, fed by seasonal rains, boast varying grades of rapids, making them suitable for beginners and experienced rafters.
From navigating gentle flows amidst lush scenery to conquering challenging rapids, rafting in Thailand combines adrenaline-pumping excitement with the beauty of unspoiled nature.
It’s an adventure activity that allows participants to bond over teamwork and shared thrills, offering a memorable experience.
Where can you go white water rafting in Thailand?
In Thailand, white-water rafting is an exciting activity that takes advantage of the country’s diverse river landscapes, offering experiences that range from mild to wild.
Here are some of the best places for white-water rafting in Thailand:
- Mae Taeng River, Chiang Mai:
Difficulty: Grades 3 to 5. The Mae Taeng River offers rapids suitable for intermediate to advanced rafters, providing a mix of exhilarating challenges and scenic tranquility. - Pai River, Mae Hong Son:
Difficulty: Grades 3 to 4. The Pai River is ideal for those with some rafting experience. Its rapids offer a challenging yet rewarding adventure amidst stunning natural landscapes. - Song Galiae River, Kanchanaburi:
Difficulty: Grades 2 to 3. This river is perfect for beginners to intermediate rafters, offering milder rapids for those looking for a fun, less intense experience. - Umphang, Tak Province:
Difficulty: Grades 3 to 5. Rafting in Umphang is for the adventurous soul. It includes remote and challenging sections best suited for experienced rafters seeking a true wilderness adventure. - Prachinburi River, Prachinburi:
Difficulty: Grades 2 to 4. The Prachinburi River caters to a wide range of rafters, from beginners to those with some experience. Its rapids provide a good mix of challenge and enjoyment, set against beautiful landscapes.
These destinations offer a blend of thrilling rapids, breathtaking scenery, and the opportunity to experience Thailand’s natural beauty from a unique perspective.
Kitesurfing
Kitesurfing involves a steep learning curve and lots of patience with yourself.
I went to a kitesurfing shop, and by the end of the first lesson, I was just beginning to figure out how not to get yanked around like a cabbage patch doll.
However, if you like challenges or you already know how to kitesurf, Thailand is a paradise for kitesurfing enthusiasts. It offers a perfect blend of consistent winds, warm waters, and stunning tropical landscapes.
With its diverse range of kitesurfing spots catering to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders, Thailand has become a top destination for this thrilling water sport.
Where are the best kitesurfing spots in Thailand?
- Hua Hin:
Located on the Gulf of Thailand, Hua Hin is one of the country’s premier kitesurfing destinations. It offers ideal conditions with long sandy beaches, warm waters, and consistent cross-onshore winds. The best time to visit is from November to March when the wind is strongest. Hua Hin caters to all skill levels and has numerous kitesurfing schools. - Phuket:
Thailand’s largest island boasts several excellent kitesurfing spots. Nai Yang Beach in the north is popular, offering a small bay with shallow areas for beginners and some waves for more experienced riders. The best winds are from May through October. Rawai Beach in Chalong Bay on the southeast coast is another top spot, with flat and choppy water ideal from November through March. - Koh Phangan:
Koh Phangan is famous for its full moon parties and offers superb kitesurfing conditions. The island has various spots suitable for all levels, including Chaloklum Bay, with its consistent winds and flat water perfect for freestyle. The main season is from July to August and December to March. - Koh Samui:
This tropical island gem features spots like Nathon Pier on the west coast, ideal from July to October, Maenam in the north, and Ban Harn Beach in the southeast during the December to April high season. Expect flat water and stable winds. - Pranburi:
Located south of Hua Hin, Pranburi offers a more secluded kitesurfing experience. Its long stretches of untouched beaches, clear waters, and reliable winds make it a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility. - Pattaya:
Jomtien Beach in Pattaya provides wide sandy shores and consistent winds suitable for all levels. After an exciting session, you can enjoy the city’s lively atmosphere.
What is the best time of year to go kitesurfing in Thailand?
The main kitesurfing season in Thailand runs from November to April during the northeast monsoon, with the most consistent winds from November to February.
However, some spots like Phuket and Koh Samui also offer good conditions from May to October.
Are there any requirements or lessons needed for kitesurfing in Thailand?
While you can learn independently, it is highly recommended that you take kitesurfing lessons for safety and proper technique, especially if you’re a beginner.
No prior certification is required.
Many kitesurfing schools in Thailand offer lessons for all levels, with experienced instructors and equipment rental:
- Beginner courses usually involve 2-3 days of instruction covering safety, wind theory, kite control, body dragging, and water starts.
- Intermediate and advanced lessons focus on improving technique, upwind riding, jumps, and tricks.
- Equipment rental is widely available, but it’s advisable to bring essentials like a harness, helmet, and sun protection.
With its world-class kitesurfing spots, consistent winds, and stunning tropical scenery, Thailand offers an unforgettable adventure for riders of all levels.
Wakeboarding
Thailand is a paradise for wakeboarding enthusiasts, offering a perfect combination of warm weather, stunning landscapes, and world-class cable parks.
Where are the best wakeboarding spots in Thailand?
- Thai Wake Park (Lumlukka):
Located just outside Bangkok, Thai Wake Park is considered one of the best cable parks in the world. It features a full-size cable system with multiple obstacles, catering to riders of all levels. The park also offers lessons, equipment rental, and accommodation. - Taco Lake (Bangkok):
About an hour from central Bangkok, Taco Lake is a popular spot for local and international riders. The small lake houses a cable wake park with jumps and obstacles and a SUP (stand-up paddleboarding) school. It’s an affordable and accessible option for those looking to wakeboard near the city. - Phuket Wake Park:
This state-of-the-art cable park in Phuket features a full-size cable system, a System 2.0 for beginners, and a variety of obstacles. It caters to all skill levels and offers lessons, equipment rental, and on-site accommodation. The park is set in a stunning location surrounded by jungle and mountains. - Wake Up Wakeboarding (Koh Phangan):
Located in the village of Chaloklum on the island of Koh Phangan, Wake Up Wakeboarding is the first professional wakeboarding organization in the Gulf of Thailand. They offer boat wakeboarding sessions in the beautiful bay, with packages suitable for beginners and experienced riders. - Canyon Wake Park (Chiang Mai):
Set in the unique landscape of Chiang Mai, Canyon Wake Park offers wakeboarding with a backdrop of lush mountains and canyons. The park features a cable system and an aqua park, making it a fun destination for families and groups.
What is the best time of year to go wakeboarding in Thailand?
Thailand’s tropical climate allows for year-round wakeboarding, but the best conditions are typically during the dry season from November to April.
Many parks operate throughout the year, with some offering special promotions and events during the low season.
Are there any requirements or lessons for wakeboarding in Thailand?
Most cable parks in Thailand cater to all skill levels, from complete beginners to advanced riders.
Many offer lessons with experienced instructors and provide all the necessary equipment, such as boards, helmets, and life jackets.
Some parks, like Thai Wake Park, even have dedicated sections for beginners, with slower cable speeds and smaller obstacles.
For boat wakeboarding, such as with Wake Up Wakeboarding in Koh Phangan, sessions are available for both beginners and experienced riders.
Beginners will receive instruction and guidance from professional coaches.
Riders are typically required to wear a life jacket and helmet at all times for safety.
Age restrictions may apply, with some parks offering special sessions or packages for kids.
Surfing
While Thailand may not be the first destination that comes to mind for surfing, the country offers some surprisingly good waves and a growing surf culture.
With its beautiful beaches, warm water, and laid-back vibe, surfing in Thailand is an experience not to be missed.
Where are the best surfing spots in Thailand?
- Phuket:
The island of Phuket is considered the surfing capital of Thailand. The west coast beaches like Kata, Kalim, Kamala, Surin, and Nai Harn offer the most consistent waves, especially during the monsoon season from May to October. Kata Beach is the most popular spot, with various beach breaks suitable for all levels. - Khao Lak:
Located north of Phuket in Phang Nga province, Khao Lak boasts several uncrowded beaches with fun beach breaks. The area is known for its laid-back atmosphere and long, sandy beaches like Pakarang (Memories Beach), which has become a hub for the local surf community. - Koh Phayam:
This small island off the coast of Ranong province in the Andaman Sea is a hidden gem for surfers. Ao Yai Beach on the southwest coast picks up consistent swell and offers both left and right breaks suitable for all levels. The best waves are from May to October. - Hua Hin:
The most accessible surf spot from Bangkok, Hua Hin has several beach breaks that work best during the monsoon season. Khao Takiab Beach is the central spot, offering gentle waves ideal for beginners and longboarders. The peak season is from November to January. - Koh Samui:
While the Gulf Coast of Thailand receives less swell than the Andaman Coast, Koh Samui can have surfable waves during the northeast monsoon from October to December. Chaweng Beach is the main spot, with a sandy bottom and beach break waves suitable for beginners.
What is the best time of year to go surfing in Thailand?
The best waves in Thailand generally coincide with the monsoon seasons:
- Andaman Coast (West):
The most consistent surf is from April to November, with the biggest swells often arriving between May and October. The peak season is from June to August. - Gulf Coast (East):
The northeast monsoon brings waves from October to December, with November being the peak month. However, waves on this coast are less frequent and smaller compared to the Andaman side.
What are the surfing conditions like in Thailand?
- Thailand’s waves are generally smaller and less powerful than those of other surfing destinations like Indonesia or Hawaii. The average wave height ranges from 1-3 meters (3-10 feet).
- Most spots are beach breaks with sandy bottoms, suitable for beginners and longboarders. A few reef breaks are also present, but these are less common.
- Water temperature is warm year-round, averaging 28-30°C (82-86°F), so no wetsuit is needed.
- Wind conditions vary depending on the season and location, with offshore winds more common in the early mornings.
Are there surf schools and board rentals available?
Yes, most of the popular surfing beaches in Thailand have surf schools and board rental shops.
Lessons are available for beginners, with experienced instructors and a variety of board types to choose from.
Prices are generally affordable compared to other destinations.
Jet skiing
For an adrenaline-pumping adventure on the waves, jet skiing is a thrilling way to explore Thailand’s stunning coastlines and islands.
With its crystal-clear waters, picturesque beaches, and vibrant marine life, Thailand offers the perfect setting for this exciting water sport.
Where are the best jet skiing spots in Thailand?
- Phuket:
As Thailand’s largest island, Phuket boasts numerous beaches ideal for jet skiing, such as Patong, Karon, Kata, and Bang Tao. Rental kiosks are readily available, and the island’s popularity means a wide variety of jet ski types to choose from. Many operators also offer guided jet ski tours to nearby islands like Phi Phi and Phang Nga Bay. - Pattaya:
Pattaya is another top spot for jet skiing, known for its lively atmosphere and water sports scene. Jomtien Beach and Koh Larn (Coral Island) are popular launch points, with rentals and guided tours available. Pattaya is also known for its floating restaurants, making a unique pit stop during your jet ski adventure. - Koh Samui:
This tropical paradise in the Gulf of Thailand offers excellent jet skiing opportunities, particularly along Chaweng and Lamai beaches. Many resorts and beachfront operators provide rentals and tours, allowing you to explore the island’s stunning coastline and neighboring islands like Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. - Krabi:
Krabi is a jet skier’s dream with its dramatic limestone cliffs, hidden coves, and turquoise waters. Launch from beaches like Ao Nang or Railay, or join a guided tour to explore the area’s iconic islands and marine parks, such as the famous Phi Phi Islands and the Hong Islands. - Hua Hin:
This charming seaside town, just a few hours from Bangkok, offers a more laid-back jet skiing experience. Rent a jet ski from the main beach and cruise along the coastline, taking in the view of the town’s iconic hilltop temple and the surrounding mountains.
What to expect when jet skiing in Thailand:
- Rental options:
Most popular beaches have jet ski rental kiosks, with prices varying based on location, type of jet ski, and rental duration. Hourly rates typically start around 1,500-2,500 baht, with discounts for longer rentals. Life jackets and basic instructions are usually included. - Guided tours:
For a more immersive experience, consider joining a guided jet ski tour. These often include visits to nearby islands, snorkeling spots, and hidden beaches, with stops for lunch and refreshments. Prices vary depending on the duration and itinerary but expect to pay around 3,000-5,000 baht per person. - Safety considerations:
While jet skiing is an exciting activity, it’s important to prioritize safety. Always wear a life jacket, listen carefully to the operator’s instructions, and stay within designated areas. Be aware of other swimmers, boats, and jet skis, and avoid reckless behavior. Travel insurance that covers water sports is also recommended.
Tips for jet skiing in Thailand:
- Choose a reputable rental operator with well-maintained equipment and clear safety guidelines.
- Check the jet ski for any pre-existing damage before setting off, and report any issues to the operator.
- Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the intense tropical sun.
- Bring a waterproof camera or action cam to capture your adventure, but secure it properly.
- If you’re a beginner, consider taking a lesson or starting in calmer, sheltered waters before venturing out.
