Phi Phi Dive Sites. Unveiling the Magic of Our Best Dive Sites

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When it comes to scuba diving paradises, Phi Phi Dive sites stand out among the best. While Bida Nai and Bida Nok take the digital spotlight as the most famous dive sites, there’s more to a great diving experience than just the site itself. At Blacktip Scuba, we believe it’s the combination of the day, conditions, and the number of divers that truly makes a dive exceptional.

A look at BIda Nai from our speed Boat

Bida Islands: A Haven for Marine Marvels

Bida Nok & Nai, despite being the most well-known phi phi dive sites, offer a vibrant underwater world teeming with life. Encounter Blacktip reef sharks, possible leopard shark sightings, and the largest schools of snappers. Surprises await, including eagle rays, Giant trevally, Tuna, nudibranchs, Ornate ghost pipefish, and Harlequin shrimp.

However, the popularity of these sites can lead to a high volume of divers and snorkelers, turning Bida Nok into a bubble bath in the morning. Bida Nai’s smaller size may result in stronger currents, making it less suitable for novice divers.

A great spot for sharks and stunning soft coral

Palong: A Serene Underwater Sanctuary

This calm dive site is perfect for black reef shark enthusiasts. Marvel at beautiful soft and hard coral on the deep pinnacles, with possible turtle sightings and a nursery for juvenile fish. Abundant cleaning stations and leopard shark sightings add to the allure.

Despite offering less marine life compared to Bida Islands, Palong’s stunning sections are deeper, limiting visibility for those with poor air consumption. The shallow side, while great for shark sightings, lacks the beauty of coral and marine life.

Turtle sightings on lots of our dive sites
Hawkbills on Viking

Viking: A Dive for Every Explorer’s Heart

Ideal for beginners, Viking boasts abundant sharks, turtles, and schools of fish. Varied marine life, both macro and mega fauna, thrives alongside an artificial reef for buoyancy exercises. Diverse critters on the sand add a unique touch to this dive site.

Some divers find an excess of sand at the beginning of the dive. Vulnerable to wind and waves during high season, Viking may become crowded during the low season, given its popularity as a snorkeling spot.

rare underwater animals on lots of our dive sites
Macro wonders in Malong

Malong: Discover the Underwater Turtle Kingdom

Considered the best site for turtles, Malong offers rich macro variety, including harlequin shrimp, ornate ghost pipefish, and nudibranchs. Suitable for both snorkeling and diving, Malong is great for beginners.

Certainly, here’s a more neutral tone:

During the second dive at Malong, it’s not uncommon for the site to get a bit busy with boats and divers, potentially resembling a lively underwater scene. The currents might lead towards Maya Corner, where increased boat traffic is observed. The coral quality, while not at its peak, could be influenced by the frequent visits from various dive operators on the island.

The beautiful harlequin shrimp on maya corner
The less frequently dives Maya Corner with its intricate beauty

Maya Corner: Unveiling Hidden Swim Throughs & Vibrant Macro

Infrequently dived, Maya Corner provides a wealth of sea life, bigger schools of fish, sharks, and fantastic macro. Enjoy one of the most beautiful swim-throughs in the marine park, potentially ending in Malong platform for a safety stop or looking for hawksbill turtles.

Challenging currents and the need for competent certified divers are factors to consider. Surfacing without proper knowledge of currents can be dangerous due to boat traffic.

Soft Coral on Palong

Mushroom Rock: Dive into the Depths of a Soft Coral Paradise

Abundant turtles and Blacktip reef sharks, beautiful soft coral, and schools of snappers and sweetlips define Mushroom Rock. A less crowded dive site best accessed with a speedboat.

Strong currents, challenging visibility, and the need for good air consumption are factors to consider. The best part of the reef is not shallow.

Bent stick  pipefish on Viking

Phi Leh Wall: Drift Dive Delight

Embark on an exhilarating drift dive adventure at Phi Leh Wall, where currents gently guide you through a mesmerizing underwater wonderland. As you float along, marvel at the breathtaking coral formations and vibrant marine life that adorn the reef walls. Keep an eye out for majestic sharks and graceful turtles gliding effortlessly through the crystal-clear waters. And don’t forget to explore the sandy patches where unique creatures like flounders, pipefish, cuttlefish, and stingrays often hide, adding an extra layer of excitement to your dive experience.

Leoaprd sharks in Garen Heng and Hin Bida
Our majestic Leopard Sharks

Garen Heng: Navigating the Mysteries of an Underwater Pinnacle

Embark on a captivating underwater journey at Gareng Heng, an intriguing dive site where an underwater pinnacle holds the key to fascinating marine encounters. While its exact location may pose a challenge on certain days, the thrill of the hunt adds an element of excitement to the dive. Exposed to currents and occasionally featuring varying visibility, Gareng Heng provides a unique backdrop for encountering leopard sharks, eagle rays, and an impressive variety of fish schools. Dive into the mysteries of Gareng Heng for an unforgettable experience, especially recommended for those seeking the allure of leopard shark sightings.

Hin Bida: Exploring the Beauty of a Hidden Underwater Gem

Discover the allure of Hin Bida, a hidden underwater gem that reveals its beauty under optimal conditions. This captivating dive site features an underwater pinnacle, providing a stunning backdrop for marine exploration. With exposure to currents and potential variations in visibility, Hin Bida promises an exciting dive experience for enthusiasts. Leopard sharks, eagle rays, and an array of vibrant fish schools await those who venture into its depths. Ideal for all divers when conditions are favorable, Hin Bida offers a chance to witness the captivating marine life that thrives beneath the surface. Dive into the beauty of Hin Bida, where the enchantment of leopard shark encounters adds to the allure of this underwater paradise.

At Blacktip Scuba, we understand that every dive site offers a unique experience. For this reason, we choose our dive sites carefully to avoid the crowds and in search of the best sea conditions for diver’s experience and client preference. Want to do a private dive trip? book a private guide along with a longtail boat for a unique VIP experience. Join us as we explore the vibrant underwater world of Phi Phi dive sites, where each dive promises an adventure beyond compare.