If you’re dreaming of colourful coral reefs, warm tropical waters, and the thrill of breathing underwater for the first time, Thailand is one of the best places in the world to begin your diving journey. With excellent visibility, calm seas, affordable courses, and a welcoming diving culture, it’s easy to see why so many people choose to learn scuba diving in Thailand.
But with so many beautiful islands to choose from, where should you start? In this guide, we’ll explore a few of Thailand’s most popular dive destinations and explain why Koh Lanta stands out as the best place to learn scuba diving in Thailand for beginners.
Why Thailand Is a Great Place to Learn to SCUBA Dive
Thailand has long been a favourite destination for travellers looking to explore the underwater world. Here’s why it’s especially well-suited to beginners:
Warm Water: No need for thick wetsuits, temperatures average 27–30°C year-round
Safe, Clear Conditions: Many training sites offer calm, shallow bays with great visibility
Affordable Courses: Thailand offers some of the best value PADI Open Water courses globally
Experienced Instructors: English-speaking instructors with international certifications are easy to find
Tropical Marine Life: Even on your first dives, expect to see colourful fish, corals, turtles and more
Comparing Popular Places to Learn to SCUBA Dive in Thailand
Let’s take a look at some of Thailand’s well-known dive training spots and how they compare for beginners.
Koh Tao- Diver’s Island
Often called the “backpacker’s diving island”, Koh Tao has trained more beginner divers than almost anywhere else in the world. It’s affordable and lively, with lots of dive schools competing on price.
Drawback: It can be crowded underwater and on land, especially in high season.
SCUBA Diving in Phuket
Thailand’s largest island has a well-developed dive scene, with many courses offered in nearby sites like Racha Yai and Phi Phi.
Drawback: Some dive sites are far from shore, and the busy tourism scene may not suit everyone.
Koh Phi Phi
Famous for dramatic scenery and great diving, Phi Phi offers a fun and social atmosphere for learners.
Drawback: Dive sites can be very busy, and party noise may make it harder to relax between dives.
Why Koh Lanta Is the Best Place to Learn Scuba Diving in Thailand
If you’re looking for a relaxed, supportive, and high-quality learning experience, Koh Lanta is the top choice for first-time divers. This peaceful island on the Andaman Coast has everything a beginner needs, without the stress or crowds.
What Makes Koh Lanta So Ideal?
Calm, Clear Conditions: Training sites like Koh Haa and Koh Rok are perfect for learning, with gentle currents and excellent visibility
Small Class Sizes: Dive centres on Koh Lanta focus on personalised instruction and low student-to-instructor ratios
Relaxed Atmosphere: Unlike some of the busier islands, Lanta offers a calm and friendly environment to help you stay focused and comfortable
Experienced Instructors: You’ll find some of the region’s most qualified PADI professionals right here on the island
Access to Stunning Dive Sites: Once you’ve completed your course, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore more advanced sites like Hin Daeng and Hin Muang
What to Expect When Learning to SCUBA Dive
Most beginners start with the PADI Open Water Diver course, which usually takes 3–4 days. Here’s what’s included:
Theory Sessions – Learn the basics of dive physics, safety, and equipment
Confined Water Dives – Practise key skills in a pool or shallow bay
Open Water Dives – Complete four open water dives in the ocean with your instructor
Certification – Once complete, you’re certified to dive anywhere in the world to a depth of 18 metres
When Is the Best Time to Learn to Dive in Koh Lanta?
The diving season on Koh Lanta runs from November to April, with calm seas, great visibility, and warm water. This is the ideal time to book your course and enjoy the best underwater conditions Thailand has to offer.
Final Thoughts: Dive Into Your Next Adventure
Whether you’re on a gap year, career break, or just keen to try something new, learning to dive is a life-changing experience — and Thailand is the perfect place to start. Among all the tropical islands, Koh Lanta stands out for its balance of quality training, peaceful atmosphere, and access to incredible dive sites.
