Dive into these unforgettable snorkeling escapes! Corals, currents, and calm waters, Southeast Asia is a paradise for snorkelers curious about underwater wonders. Its clear waters are home to colorful corals and rich marine life. And the best part? Southeast Asian countries offer affordable snorkeling experiences than any other place in the world. So, if you are a backpacker on a shoestring budget, check out this blog on the Best Budget Snorkelling Spots in Southeast Asia for Under $50.
Also Read:
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📍Top Snorkeling Spots by Country
Thailand
1. Koh Tao – Hin Wong Bay🤿
Incredible Thailand is home to many paradisiacal beaches, where one-of-a-kind water adventures await. Koh Tao is an island on the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand. It is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, making it a popular destination for divers and snorkelers. The latter notoriously crowd Hin Wong Bay on the east coast of the island. It is a more laid-back and quiet destination, offering a serene retreat to visitors. You need to rent a kayak to get around, as walking is challenging due to the rock formations.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Sharky Bay: Koh Tao has five prime snorkeling spots, including Shark Bay. Its highlight is the blacktip reef sharks that can be seen year-round.
- Aow Leuk: This is another prime snorkeling spot featuring a wide sandy beach, crystal clear waters, and shallow coral reefs with marine life.
- Japanese Gardens: Located in a sheltered bay at Koh Nang Yuan Island, this dive site is ideal for beginners.
- Beaches Accessible by Foot: You can easily access nearby beaches and bays on foot.
Typical Tour Price Range
- A full-day snorkeling tour around Koh Tao can cost anywhere between $25 and $45.
- These tours typically include lunch and a visit to hidden bays.
Best Months To Visit
- Peak Seasons: Hottest months of February to May
- Calm Seas + Less Crowds: March and April
- Good Visibility: September and October
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2. Koh Samet🏖️
Escape to Koh Samet for an unforgettable snorkeling experience. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, it is renowned for its beautiful, pristine beaches, including Ao Phrao and Hat Sai Kaew. These beaches are prime spots for affordable snorkeling, with rates as low as $21. The island is conveniently located near Bangkok and boasts a serene setting, making it an ideal destination for a family vacation.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Crystal-clear Waters: Expect calm, shallow waters, which are perfect for beginners.
- Rich Marine Life: Expect to see a diverse array of fish, including cuttlefish, blue damselfish, and parrotfish.
- Coral Reefs: Snorkelers will see vibrant coral reefs around the islands.
- Affordable Rentals: Snorkeling gear rental is available at reasonable prices.
Typical Tour Price Range
- Snorkeling experiences on Ko Samet can cost between $22 and $31.
- These tours usually include a 5 or 6-island snorkeling experience with lunch.
Best Months To Visit
- Calm Seas + Clear Water: Dry months of October to May
- Expect cooler, less humid weather
Vietnam
3. Nha Trang – Hon Mun Island🏝️
Are you planning a summer vacation to Nha Trang in Vietnam? If not, you should do that now! It features four paradisiacal islands, including the Hon Mun Island. The latter is a must for budget-conscious travelers seeking water adventures. Hon Mun Island features long white-sand beaches and many off-shore activities, including snorkeling, sea walking, and parasailing.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Coral reefs: Hon Mun Island features crystal-clear waters, which are rich in about 2,000+ species of colorful coral reefs.
- Diverse Marine Ecosystem: Hon Mun Island is the first marine conservation area in Vietnam, preserving over 1,500 species of aquatic life.
- Beginner-friendly: You don’t have to be a snorkeling expert to enjoy snorkeling in Hon Mun Island. Even novices and non-swimmers can snorkel in the island’s shallow waters.
- Cheap Boats: You can reach Hon Mun Island cheaply with the boat fare only costing around $11 to $14.
Local Tour Prices
- Snorkeling tours are affordable, with costs ranging from $20 to $30.
- These expeditions usually include snorkel gear and specialized swimming goggles.
Best Months To Visit
- Mild Weather + Ideal Snorkeling Conditions: Dry season of April to July
- Warm Sunshine and Favorable Environment: Between July and September
4. Phu Quoc Island🌞
Travel to the “pearl island,” Phu Quoc Island, for budget snorkeling opportunities. Located in the Gulf of Thailand, this island spans 589.27 square kilometers. It is a must-visit for couples and families who want to enjoy sun, sand, and water. As one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations, accommodation options are excellent, featuring a range of five-star hotels and resorts. In addition to snorkeling, you can enjoy diving and island-hopping adventures.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Colorful Reefs: Phu Quoc Island’s An Thoi Archipelago is a top snorkeling destination whose coral reefs are home to colorful fish and sea turtles.
- Starfish Beach: This beautiful beach is named after thousands of starfish who float to the shore to enjoy the moonlight. It also features pristine sand and calm waves.
- Gentle Waves: The island’s gentle waves make it beginner-friendly, where anyone can enjoy snorkeling and diving.
- Quiet Locations: Expect less-crowded beaches in a serene setting.
Typical Tour Price Range
- Expect budget-friendly snorkeling experiences ranging from $20 to $40.
- These tours usually include snorkeling gear, lunch, and transport to and from the snorkeling sites.
Best Months To Visit
- Favorable Weather + Calm Seas: Dry season of late-October to mid-May
- Ideal Time: November to April
Philippines
5. Moalboal, Cebu – Sardine Run🐟
The Philippines is next on our list of the best budget snorkelling spots in Southeast Asia for under $50. While there are many snorkeling destinations in the country, Cebu has something truly spectacular that you won’t see anywhere else. It’s the Moalboal Sardine Run! This underwater attraction is off the shore of Panagsama Beach in Moalboal and features millions of sardines assembling together. They are so gigantic that they resemble a tornado underwater.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Unique Experience: The Sardine run is a mesmerizing spectacle, where millions of sardines gather in synchronized movements. You will also see sea turtles.
- Vibrant Corals: The place where the sardine run takes place is surrounded by hard and soft corals, which contribute to the spectacular performance.
- Affordable Guided Tours or DIY Options: You can enjoy the Moalboal Sardine Run accompanied by a guide. If you are a confident swimmer, experience this underwater spectacle alone.
- Nearby Budget Stays: You will find many affordable hotels near Panagsama Beach in Moalboal.
Guided Snorkel Tour Price Range
- The Moalboal Sardine Run tours are affordable, costing under $40.
- These include a guide, snorkel mask, and life jacket.
- You can also elevate your experience by purchasing nearby island-hopping packages.
Best Months To Visit
- Clearest Views + Best Underwater Conditions: Dry season of November to May
- Best Experience: December to February
6. Apo Island (near Dumaguete)🐠
Embark on a snorkeling adventure on Apo Island. This hidden gem of a volcanic island is 30 kilometers south of Dumaguete in the Philippines. The name ‘Apo’ comes from the Filipino language, meaning ‘elder’ or ‘respected ancestor.’ The island is renowned for its rich marine habitat, which is protected as a marine reserve by the National Integrated Area Act. Diving and snorkeling are the core activities on the island, attracting tourists from all around the globe.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Rich Marine Biodiversity: Snorkelers will see a variety of marine species, including sea turtles, colorful fish, maori wrasse, and blacktip reef sharks.
- Coral Reefs: Apo Island’s water features over 400 species of coral, which makes snorkeling a spectacular experience.
- Easily Accessible: Visitors can easily access Apo Island from Dumaguete and Cebu.
- DIY Tour: Seasoned snorkelers can rent a mask and snorkel gear for around $1.76, which is super cheap compared to other snorkeling areas in the Philippines.
Typical Tour Price Range
- The price for guided snorkeling tours in Apo Island ranges from $35 to $50.
- These tours usually include a boat ride to the island, snorkeling equipment, and meals.
Best Months To Visit
- Low Temperatures: November to April
- Diving Season: October to May
Malaysia
7. Perhentian Islands – Coral Garden🪸
We can’t miss Malaysia when discussing Southeast Asian countries for affordable snorkeling experiences. The Perhentian Islands rank among the best destinations, whose coral gardens are a significant attraction for snorkelers and divers. Coral Bay is named after its beautiful coral gardens. The two main islands, Perhentian Besar and Perhentian Kecil, offer excellent snorkeling and other water adventures.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Crystal-clear Water: The Perhentian Islands are a tropical paradise, boasting water with exceptional visibility, ranging from 10 to 20 meters.
- Colorful Reef Fish: These turquoise waters are home to vibrant corals and a variety of reef fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, wrasse, butterflyfish, bearded scorpionfish, anemonefish, and lionfish.
- Reef Sharks: The islands’ diverse marine ecosystem also includes nurse sharks and blacktip and whitetip reef sharks.
- Affordable Gear Rental: If you want to snorkel alone, you will find gear rentals at reasonable prices.
Group Tour Price Range
- Group snorkeling tours are priced as low as $35.
- These expeditions usually cover snorkeling equipment and boat tickets.
Best Months To Visit
- Good Weather + Abundant Marine Life: April to September
- Busiest Months: July and August
Indonesia
8. Gili Trawangan – Turtle Point🐢
Fly to Gili Trawangan, a tropical paradise just off the coast of Lombok, Indonesia. It is a part of a group of tiny islands called the Gili Islands. Also called the Gili T, it is the largest and most popular, welcoming over 1 million visitors annually. These travelers come to the island to soak up the sun on its white sandy beaches, play in its crystal-clear turquoise water, and see its vibrant marine life. This is a haven for visitors from all walks of life, including couples, families, and backpackers.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Turtle Point: It is a popular snorkeling spot on Gili Trawangan, renowned for its abundant sea turtles, including Green, Loggerhead, and Hawksbill species.
- Easy Beach Access: You can conveniently access several beaches on the island on foot. Beaches on the east side offer a laid-back experience, while the ones on the west side are more upscale.
- Cheap Boat Options: You will find affordable ferries, speedboats, and public boats to reach Gili T.
Typical Tour Price Range
- Tours with guides and gear are often under $50.
- You can choose from private or group tours.
Best Months To Visit
- Best Underwater Visibility: Driest months of June to September
- Less Crowded + Quiet Setting: Rainy season of October to March
9. Amed, Bali🫧
Finally, Amed in Bali is among the best budget snorkelling spots in Southeast Asia for under $50. This charming coastal village offers insights into Bali’s authentic side. It is a more laid-back community, with villagers relying on fishing to make a living. Another way to earn money for the village is through tourism. Visitors worldwide travel here to snorkel, scuba dive, and indulge in other water activities.
Why It’s Great For Budget Snorkeling
- Coral Gardens: Amed is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Jemeluk Beach is primarily described as a coral garden, thanks to its abundant hard and soft corals.
- Calm Waters: Amed’s gentle waves make it beginner-friendly for snorkelers. With proper precautions, you can snorkel alone and save money.
- Sunken Temple: The Jemele Temple underwater is a must-see attraction for snorkelers who can witness the temple’s intricate, submerged carvings.
- Best Snorkeling Spots: Don’t miss the Japanese Shipwreck and the USAT Liberty Shipwreck.
Typical Tour Price Range
- Guided snorkeling experiences in Amed can cost between $15 and $30.
- These tours cover snorkeling gear and underwater attractions.
Best Months To Visit
- Better Visibility + Favorable Snorkeling Conditions: Dry season of April to September
- Manta Rays Sighting: April and May
- Giant Mola Mola Fish Sighting: Between July and September
🎒Bonus Tips for Budget Snorkellers
Bring Your Mask & Snorkel to Save Rental Fees
Snorkeling is something that will keep you hooked after trying it once. Instead of having to rent snorkeling gear time and again, buy your own snorkel masks, snorkels, fins, and snorkeling vests. Focus on fit rather than brand or price; masks and fins that don’t fit will cause unnecessary discomfort. TUSA and CRESSI offer high-quality snorkel gear. If you are budget-conscious, buy used snorkeling gear from experienced snorkelers.
Join Group Tours vs. Private to Cut Costs
Budget snorkelers should opt for group tours to save money. These tours are generally more affordable as the costs for guides, transportation, and equipment are shared among participants. Smaller group tours are the ideal option, offering a balance between cost and quality. However, if you have specific needs or want customization, you have to spend slightly more by booking private snorkeling tours.
Book Ahead Online For Deals
Southeast Asian countries are the busiest during the snorkeling season. It’s better to book tours in advance to ensure a hassle-free trip. Always look for sales, discounts, and deals from reputable online travel agencies (OTAs). Tip: Use TourTeller to compare hundreds of guided snorkeling experiences at your desired destination. It’s super easy to use; all you have to do is input the name of your travel destination in the search box, and TourTeller will offer you hundreds of available activities. You can compare any tour with the help of the “compare with similar tours” button. You can also find the snorkeling experience of your preference with the help of filters.
🎯Conclusion
From Indonesia’s serene coasts to the hidden reefs of Thailand and the Philippines, we have listed the best budget snorkelling spots in Southeast Asia for under $50. Now, it’s your turn to explore and find the deal that suits your preferences. Instead of going through hundreds of travel websites, book affordable snorkeling tours on TourTeller. With the help of AI-powered Torch, you can find and compare available snorkeling options effortlessly. In addition to exploring responsibly, don’t forget to carry reusable snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen, and a waterproof bag. You should also invest in a budget-friendly travel insurance.
