Tide Tribe Pro-Dive
Shore Diving on the Eastern Seaboard
SHORE DIVING: PATTAYA & BEYOND
Shore diving offers a unique sense of freedom and self-sufficiency, allowing you to bypass the structured schedules of boat charters and explore the underwater world at your own pace. By entering the water directly from the beach or a rocky headland, you gain the flexibility to choose your own timing based on tide cycles and personal preference. This approach is particularly rewarding for underwater photographers and macro enthusiasts who wish to spend extended periods observing small critters without the time constraints of a group dive.
Along Thailand's Eastern Seaboard, the coastline from Sattahip to Chanthaburi provides an underrated corridor for these independent adventures. While the Andaman Sea often takes the spotlight, this region rewards the curious diver with shallow, macro-rich reefs and sightings of juvenile green turtles or blue-spotted rays. The water temperatures remain a comfortable 27–30°C throughout the year, though the best conditions typically occur between November and May when visibility is at its peak.
Success in shore diving depends on local knowledge and careful preparation. Understanding the specific entry points—whether it is a calm sandy walk-in at Hat Nang Ram or a rocky trek requiring sturdy boots at Ao Khai—is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Safety remains paramount, necessitating the constant use of a surface marker buoy due to local boat traffic and a clear understanding of the tide charts to ensure favorable conditions for both entry and exit.
Click below for our Eastern Seaboard Shore Diving Guide, featuring GPS entry points and site profiles for 13 verified locations including Koh Si Chang and Koh Samet.
REMINDER:
SMB is mandatory due to high speedboat and longtail traffic.
High Tide is best for entry over rocks.
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