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Snorkelling near Koh Rok and Koh Ha, Krabi, Thailand

Best Snorkelling Tours: Koh Rok vs Koh Ha

Two of the best reef day trips near Koh Lanta, and how to choose between them.

Kylian DevBy Kylian DevRead the author page

Koh Rok and Koh Ha are the two names that come up most for snorkelling from Koh Lanta, and most day tours cover both in one trip. That is why the question is rarely which one to choose, but which tour to book and when to go.

This page explains what to expect from each, the most important seasonal fact (both close for part of the year), and the verified tours we list. Prices and reviews are live on the booking page.

If you want to see the islands in more depth, our destination guide covers both.

Snorkelling tours we list

The first is a dedicated Koh Rok and Koh Ha snorkel day with lunch buffet. The others are alternatives if you want a broader island day or a private boat.

Prices, ratings and review counts change and are shown live on the booking partner's page, so we don't quote them here. We only list tours we could verify.

Verified snorkelling options

Koh Rok versus Koh Ha

In general terms, and worth confirming with your operator, because conditions vary by season and tide.

  • Koh Rok. Known for its beaches and shallow reef close to shore, which suits beginners and families who want easy snorkelling.
  • Koh Ha. A group of small islets with clear water and drop-offs. It tends to suit confident swimmers who want to see more variety.
  • Doing both. Most operators combine them, so you don't have to choose. The tour we list covers both, with a lunch buffet.

The seasonal fact that matters

  • Closed mid-May to mid-October. Koh Rok and Koh Ha close to visitors every year from mid-May to November (dates set each year by the park) as part of the national park's conservation closure. During that period tours switch to other snorkelling spots.
  • Best months. Plan for the mid-October to mid-May stretch, ideally in the calm dry season. Confirm dates close to the boundaries, as they can shift.

How to choose a snorkelling tour

  • Time in the water. Ask how long you spend at each snorkelling stop, not just how many stops there are.
  • Group size and boat. A smaller boat means fewer people on the reef at once.
  • Equipment and safety. Confirm masks, fins and life jackets are provided and that a guide is in the water.
  • Sun and reef care. Wear a rash vest or reef-safe sun protection, and never touch the coral.

Frequently asked questions

Both are among the best reef spots near Koh Lanta and most tours visit both. Koh Rok suits easy, shallow snorkelling. Koh Ha suits confident swimmers. You don't usually have to choose.

Read the island guide

On dates the park sets each year: the published window runs from 16 May to mid-October for most of the small islands and from 1 June to 30 September for Koh Rok, and boats stop in mid-May and restart in November, so confirm with your operator before booking.

Closure dates explained

Yes. Operators offer alternative snorkelling and island trips during the closure period, though they are different sites.

If you want a mix of beaches, swimming and lunch rather than a dedicated reef day, yes.

4-island tours compared

Last verified 27 September 2026

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