Koh Samae San Cluster
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Military Island Diving
A military-controlled island cluster with some of the best visibility in the upper Gulf and pristine reef systems.
Depth Range
5–28m
Site Type
reef
Samae San
Visibility
10–25m
26–30°C
Getting There
30 min boat from Samae San pier
~25 km south of Pattaya
10 Oct
11 Oct
12 Oct
13 Oct
14 Oct
15 Oct
16 Oct
Marine Life
Notable Features
- • Military-protected ecosystem
- • Best upper Gulf visibility
- • Exceptional macro life
- • Pristine conditions
Best Time to Visit
About Koh Samae San Cluster
The Koh Samae San cluster (including Koh Chuang, Koh Chan, and several smaller islands) is a military-controlled area that has inadvertently become one of the upper Gulf's best dive destinations. Restricted access means the reefs are in exceptional condition. Visibility often exceeds 15m — remarkable for the upper Gulf. Macro life is outstanding, with multiple seahorse species and rare nudibranchs.
Tips
Must arrange access through registered operators. No overnight stays allowed.
Experience Required
Intermediate. Some sites beginner-friendly.
Location
GPS: 12.5700°N, 100.9500°E
Learn to Freedive in the Gulf of Thailand
Sites like Koh Samae San Cluster are what the Gulf has to offer. Get certified with us on Koh Samui — train at Sail Rock and Koh Tao in groups of no more than 3, skip the Koh Tao ferry, and dive the best of the region.
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