Gulf Coast Beaches Places

Koh Chang

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

Scuba diving, including PADI courses, is readily available. Divers say that the fish are smaller than in other parts of Thailand, but the coral is better, there are no sharks, and most of the dives are less than 54 feet. Prices generally run from B3,200 for a PADI introductory dive to more than B20,000 for dive-master certification. Snorkeling off a boat costs as little as B700 a day. Snorkelers usually just tag along on dive boats, but boat excursions that feature snorkeling are available.

OK Diving, which has offices on White Sand Beach and Haad Khlong Phrao, offers day dives, PADI courses, and snorkeling excursions 09/936-7080.

Ploy Scuba Diving is one of the big names in the business. They offer a full range of dives and internationally recognized PADI courses, from beginner to dive master. Their main office is on Bang Bao Pier on the south of the island. There are offices on many of the beaches around the island, too. 039/558033. www.ployscuba.com.

Thai Fon leaves White Sand Beach each morning for a 10-hour, 15-island tour of the marine park. The trip includes stops at two or more islands (skirting the shores of the others), a buffet lunch, and two snorkeling stops. The cost is around B900. It's a good way to see some of the archipelago, including uninhabited islands, but it makes for a long day. 06/141-7498.

Water World Diving offers day dives, certification courses, and snorkeling. Koh Chang Plaza, Khlong Phrao Beach, 23170. 09/224-1031.