Sea Turtles in Phuket: Where and When to See Them

Sea Turtles Around Phuket

The Andaman Sea around Phuket is home to several species of sea turtles, primarily green turtles and hawksbill turtles. Leatherback turtles also nest on some Phuket beaches (notably Mai Khao Beach) between November and February, though sightings are rare and the nesting population is small.

Where to See Sea Turtles

Similan Islands

The Similan Islands offer the best chances of seeing sea turtles while snorkeling. The protected marine park has healthy turtle populations, particularly around Island 4 (Koh Miang) and Island 8 (Koh Similan). Green turtles and hawksbill turtles are regularly spotted grazing on seagrass and coral.

Koh Racha (Racha Yai)

Racha Yai has a resident population of sea turtles, particularly in the bay on the east side. Divers and snorkelers regularly encounter them. The clear water and shallow reefs make sightings relatively common.

Phi Phi Islands

Turtles are occasionally spotted at snorkeling sites around Phi Phi, particularly at Shark Point and around the deeper reefs. Sightings are less guaranteed than at the Similans but do happen.

Surin Islands

Similar to the Similans, the Surin Islands have healthy marine ecosystems with turtle sightings. The islands are further from Phuket but the marine life is exceptional.

Mai Khao Beach (Nesting)

Between November and February, leatherback turtles occasionally come ashore to nest on Mai Khao Beach in northern Phuket. The Mai Khao Marine Turtle Foundation monitors nesting activity. If nesting is reported, the beach area is roped off and visitors can sometimes observe from a distance. This is a rare and special sight.

When to See Them

• Snorkeling/diving encounters: Year-round, but best during the dry season (November to April) when visibility is highest.
• Similan Islands: Open October to May. Best sightings December to April.
• Nesting on beaches: November to February.
• Hatchling releases: Some conservation projects release hatchlings. Check with the Royal Thai Navy Turtle Conservation Center on the Similan Islands or Phang Nga Coastal Fisheries for scheduled events.

How to Interact Responsibly

• Do not touch turtles. They are wild animals and touching causes stress.
• Keep a distance of at least 2 to 3 meters.
• Do not chase them. Let them approach you or swim past at their own pace.
• Do not use flash photography underwater.
• Do not stand on coral or seagrass beds where turtles feed.
• Report any turtles entangled in fishing line or nets to your guide or local authorities.

Conservation Status

Both green turtles and hawksbill turtles are protected under Thai law and international agreements. Killing, capturing, or trading in sea turtles is illegal. Thailand has various conservation programs, including head-starting facilities that raise hatchlings before releasing them to improve survival rates.

The recovery of turtle populations in protected areas like the Similan Islands shows that marine parks and seasonal closures are effective conservation tools.

Best Tours for Turtle Sightings

• Similan Islands day trip: Best overall chance
• Koh Racha diving/snorkeling: Good for underwater encounters
• Private speedboat charter: Your captain can take you to known turtle spots

Browse our available tours for snorkeling-focused options with the best marine life encounters.