Scuba divers have many different locations to choose from in Southeast Asia, including areas in Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam. Southeast Asia is an aquatic playground for adventurers, with thousands of miles of pristine and often unspoiled tropical beaches.

As a sporting activity, scuba diving allows people to glimpse into the underwater world of marine wildlife in their natural habitat. There are a variety of places across Southeast Asia to experience an outstanding display of ecological amazement. Visiting Thailand’s Andaman Sea is a favorite for scuba divers.

Beginners as well as more experienced divers are welcome to this region of Thailand for superb diving adventures. The Andaman Sea is known to showcase tropical fish and colorful coral. The year round conditions are favorable, giving way to warm water temperatures and clear visibility.

While swimming down into the Andaman Sea, scuba divers are able to witness some of the most tropical wildlife in Southeast Asia. Access to the Andaman Sea is relatively easy from a variety of islands, including popular Phi Phi and Phuket islands. Along with schools of fish and coral reefs, scuba divers have encountered manta rays and whale sharks during diving expeditions.

Pipe fish, lion fish, squid, tunas, and barracudas are also types of marine wildlife visible while scuba diving in this region. The picturesque Phi Phi and Phuket islands are popular spots in Thailand, but not just for scuba diving. There are an abundance of resorts, fine dining, and exciting nightlife which gives travelers plenty of activities to try out.

There are over 7,000 islands in the Philippines. The number of tropical islands provides thousands of miles of beaches and coastlines. Often overlooked by travelers, the Philippines is a great destination for less crowded and more unspoiled diving locations. Puerto Galera is one of the most famous diving spots in the Philippines.

Located on Mindoro Island, the waters of Puerto Galera have over 400 species of marine wildlife that have been recognized. Aquatic life including angelfish, eels, sea turtles, and sea horses are in abundance in dive sites around Puerto Galera. The tropical waters are warm year round and the clarity of the water is optimal for viewing the sights and scenes of underwater living.

Puerto Galera has over 30 different diving sites, which gives people the option for easy diving expeditions to more adventurous dives for the more experienced. One of the most popular resort areas of the Philippines is Boracay, where scuba divers have direct access to some of the most beautiful diving spots in the country.

Beginners and experts are welcome to enjoy the crystal clear waters around Boracay. Yapak is a location where people can appreciate a deep dive, while Crocodile Island allows divers to swim through shallower reef. The laid back atmosphere of Boracay is seen throughout its’ white sand beaches and coastal lifestyle.

Vietnam is another location in Southeast Asia that has a range of diving sites across the country. Nha Trang has been a scuba diving location for marine lovers since the 1980s and has continued to be popular ever since. The high season for diving in Nha Trang runs from March until October when the waters and weather are at their prime.

Scorpion fish, angelfish, and crabs are just some of the species that can be seen during a diving trip. Nha Trang has more than 20 diving locations throughout the region, allowing for many options to experience life underwater. Sharing a similar environment with Thailand and the Philippines, diving in Vietnam has equally beautiful scenes of tropical wildlife swimming throughout its waters.

Scuba diving in Southeast Asia is a breathtaking adventure for those who love being in the ocean. Guided tours on boats are easily available throughout countries of Southeast Asia, making the underwater world more accessible than ever before.

The natural beauty along the coasts of Thailand, the Philippines, and Vietnam are exotic while still maintaining a laid back environment that visitors are constantly attracted to. Diving sites across these countries are some of the best in the region, and shouldn’t be missed when traveling to Southeast Asia.

Share This

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

About the author

Sarah Dayan
I'm a Brooklyn native with a strong love for New York City, traveling, photography, writing, and music. I have my Bachelors degree in psychology and communication, and my Masters degree in school counseling. Through my writing, I want to share all my fun experiences in New York City.