Loh Samah Bay - Similan Islands

Loh Samah Bay, tucked away on the south side of Phi Phi Leh, feels like a familiar friend after the buzz of Maya Bay. The diving here centers on a small cliff islet at the bay’s entrance. You can easily circle it on a single tank, taking your time to explore the wall that drops to 20m on the outer side and stays shallow, around 8m, on the inner. The whole wall is plastered in corals, both hard and soft, with giant clams tucked into crevices. It's a relaxed dive, good for stretching out a longer bottom time and keeping an eye out for reef sharks cruising the deeper sections.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
7.653000, 98.760000
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Krabi Environmental Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Similan Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Similan Islands occur in May, averaging 30.8°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.6°C
  • February: 29.0°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.6°C
  • May: 30.8°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.6°C
  • August: 29.3°C
  • September: 29.0°C
  • October: 29.0°C
  • November: 29.2°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Similan Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Loh Samah Bay

Marine Life in Similan Islands

Home to 183 recorded species including 127 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 9 seagrass & algae, 4 sharks & rays, 2 other, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Loh Samah Bay

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the typical diving depths at Loh Samah Bay?
The typical diving depths at Loh Samah Bay range from 5 to 20 meters. Divers can explore the outer southern wall of the central islet down to 20 meters, while the inner northern side offers shallower depths, starting around 8 meters. This range allows for varied exploration of the beautiful reef.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Loh Samah Bay?
At Loh Samah Bay, divers can expect to encounter a vibrant reef ecosystem. The walls of the central islet are extensively covered in a variety of hard and soft corals, providing a rich habitat. Additionally, you'll find numerous clams nestled among the corals, contributing to the diverse marine life.
How difficult is diving at Loh Samah Bay, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Loh Samah Bay is classified as intermediate difficulty. While the site offers a relaxed pace to circle the islet, its intermediate rating suggests it might be more suitable for divers with some prior experience rather than absolute beginners. Beginners might find other sites in the Similan Islands more appropriate for their initial dives.
What is the best time of year to dive at Loh Samah Bay for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Loh Samah Bay for optimal conditions. For general information on seasonal diving conditions in Thailand, we recommend consulting our When to Dive guide. This resource can help you plan your trip to the Similan Islands effectively.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at Loh Samah Bay?
The provided data does not specify any particular diving certifications required or recommended for Loh Samah Bay. Divers should always ensure they meet the general certification standards for intermediate-level dives and consult with local dive centers in the Similan Islands for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like for diving in Loh Samah Bay?
The provided data does not include specific information regarding the typical current and visibility conditions for diving in Loh Samah Bay. Conditions can vary, so it's always advisable to check with local dive operators in the Similan Islands on the day of your dive for the most up-to-date information.