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  • 10 September 2025 by Admin

Diving at Phi Phi Islands : Encounter Blacktip Reef Sharks and Colorful Corals

Diving at Phi Phi Islands : Encounter Blacktip Reef Sharks and Colorful Corals

When people talk about the “paradise of the Andaman Sea,” the Phi Phi Islands are always among the top names. With crystal-clear waters, pristine white sandy beaches, and dramatic limestone cliffs, Phi Phi’s beauty is world-renowned. Yet, the island’s true charm doesn’t stop on land—it lies beneath the waves, in an underwater world full of wonder.

Vibrant coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and most notably, the Blacktip Reef Shark that can be spotted in its natural habitat, make Phi Phi one of the world’s dream dive destinations.

1. The Charm of Diving at Phi Phi

Phi Phi Islands are located in Krabi Province, about 40 kilometers from Krabi Town, and only 1–2 hours by boat from Phuket. What makes diving here exceptional are:

  • Crystal-clear waters, offering excellent visibility even at shallow depths.

  • Healthy coral reefs, both hard and soft corals in stunning formations.

  • Rare marine species, such as sea turtles, manta rays, and blacktip reef sharks.

👉 With all these features combined, Phi Phi is ranked among the Top Dive Sites in Southeast Asia.

2. Popular Dive Spots Around Phi Phi

🦈 Maya Bay & Loh Samah Bay

  • Shallow waters, perfect for snorkeling.

  • Schools of sergeant major fish, groupers, and occasionally blacktip reef sharks.

  • Ideal for beginners to experience the underwater world.

🦈 Loh Dalum Bay

  • Calm waters with minimal currents, safe for families and novice divers.

  • Home to clownfish, sea anemones, and colorful soft corals.

🦈 Hin Bida and Bida Nok/Nai

  • World-famous deep dive sites.

  • Frequent sightings of blacktip reef sharks and, in some seasons, manta rays.

  • Rich in hard corals, massive sea fans, and vibrant reef ecosystems.

🦈 Shark Point (Hin Musang)

  • True to its name, this spot is a natural habitat for blacktip reef sharks.

  • Divers can also encounter barracuda, cuttlefish, and beautiful coral gardens.

3. Blacktip Reef Sharks: Predators of the Reef

  • The Blacktip Reef Shark is a medium-sized shark, usually around 1–2 meters long.

  • Easily recognized by the distinct black markings on the edges of its fins.

  • Prefers shallow waters near coral reefs, often spotted in the mornings.

  • Generally not aggressive toward humans; divers who keep a respectful distance can safely observe them.

  • For divers, seeing a blacktip reef shark in its natural environment is a rare and unforgettable experience.

4. Colorful Corals and Other Marine Life

Beyond sharks, Phi Phi’s underwater ecosystem is rich and diverse:

  • Hard corals: Brain corals, staghorn corals.

  • Soft corals: Pink, purple, and red—like an underwater flower garden.

  • Notable marine life:

    • Clownfish and sea anemones.

    • Parrotfish, barracuda, and rays gliding over sandy bottoms.

    • Sea turtles, often surfacing curiously to greet divers.

5. What to Know Before Diving at Phi Phi

📅 Best Time to Dive

  • November – April: Best conditions, calm seas, and clear water.

  • May – October: Monsoon season, with possible rain and rough seas—check weather before booking.

🎓 Skill Levels

  • Beginners → Snorkeling or shallow dives at Loh Samah and Loh Dalum.

  • Certified divers → Advanced dives at Bida Nok/Nai and Shark Point.

🧳 Essentials to Bring

  • Reef-safe sunscreen.

  • Underwater camera.

  • Proper dive gear or rental equipment from certified dive shops.

  • An adventurous spirit ready to explore.

⚠️ Safety Tips

  • Always dive with an experienced guide or instructor.

  • Avoid touching or disturbing marine life.

  • Respect marine conservation rules to help preserve the reefs.

6. Why Phi Phi Should Be on Your Dive List

  1. A chance to encounter blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat.

  2. Colorful, thriving coral reefs comparable to the best dive sites worldwide.

  3. A hub for diving education with numerous PADI/SSI certified dive centers.

  4. A destination that combines land and underwater adventures—explore all day without boredom.

Conclusion

Diving at Phi Phi Islands is a must for sea lovers. Here, you can experience the thrill of spotting blacktip reef sharks, explore colorful coral gardens, and swim alongside diverse marine species.

👉 Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, Phi Phi will captivate you and make you want to return again and again to rediscover the magic of the Andaman Sea.