Listly by Roland Lefevre
Krabi one of Thailand's southern provinces boasts 160 km of coastline and about 154 small islands off its coast that are famous for beautiful scenery and excellent dive sites and snorkeling spots.
The six islets of Koh Phi Phi south of Krabi, part of Thailand's largest national marine park offer beaches and bays that are excellent for family snorkelling.
The site is sheltered by high sandstone cliffs and there are several small beaches here. Some are visible only during low tide. The clear water, colourful coral and reef fish makes it a popular family snorkelling destination. Best time to visit is November to April when the sea is calm. Consider staying at Anantara Sikao Thailand Resort & Spa which offers plenty of snorkelling opportunities too.
This area is also sheltered by sandstone cliffs and features a shallow bay with calm water excellent for family snorkelling. As the shadows thrown by the cliffs obscure the underwater scenery, morning is the most suitable time to snorkel and to see the fish that swarm around boats looking for food.
It is about 5 km from Phi Phi Don the largest island of the Phi Phi group. Although it is just a speck on the water it's beautiful beaches, shallow water, underwater landscape and lack of crowds attract families.
Probably the best place to snorkel in the Phi Phi islands is Hin Klang, a submerged coral mountain. Just two km offshore, it offers great visibility, lots of colourful fish and coral.
This is another family friendly snorkelling destination with beautiful underwater scenery close to shore. Shark Point just 200 meters from shore is known for its black tipped reef sharks. Bamboo and Mosquito Islands are popular family snorkelling destinations when the tide is low.
It is said to be one of the most family friendly destinations with several safe and accessible beaches and bays suitable for snorkeling and family friendly facilities.
This the largest of the Phi Phi islands has a reef that runs the entire length of its east coast, just 100 meter from shore. Coral and fish are clearly visible in its shallow waters while larger fish and more coral can be seen further out to sea.