Scuba Diving in Pattaya: The Ultimate Guide with to find a Pattaya dive centre by Copperband Scuba Academy.
If you’re dreaming of ocean-blue adventures just a stone’s throw from Bangkok, Pattaya is a surprising and rewarding gateway to scuba diving. With warm waters, accessible dive sites, and a vibrant local diving scene, Pattaya offers options for beginners exploring their first breath underwater and seasoned divers chasing new wrecks and reefs. This guide blends practical tips, the best Pattaya dive sites, and why Copperband Scuba Academy is your go to Pattaya dive centre for safe, fun-filled dives. If you’ve never done Sucba Diving in Pattaya, you’re not alone—it happens. Here’s some reasons and information to go Scuba Diving Pattaya.
Why Pattaya is a Top Destination for Scuba Diving in Thailand
- Proximity to Bangkok: Bangkok is a quick drive or short flight from Bangkok. There are many travel options from GRAB, BOLT, Private care hire, Mini Bus or train. Pattaya is the most accessible Scuba Diving Destination from Bangkok.
The Cost will vary from 150bhat for a Mini Bus from stations like Ekkamai bus terminal where you will certainly hear where you can buy a ticket to Pattaya!
The average cost of a GRAB or BOLT will be around 1250THB to 1500THB depending on where you will be departing from in Bangkok.
- Beginner-friendly options: Pattaya hosts a range of entry-level dives, Try Dives and PADI Discover Scuba Experiences, and introductory courses that don’t skimp on safety or fun.
Our Try Dive experience consists of 2 amazing coral dives, the first down to 6 meters and the second to an exciting 12 meters depending on conditions and abilities.
You will be paired with an experienced Instructor along with a maximum of 1 other person. We will provide you with a full and detailed briefing on the equipment we will be using and safety while under the water. .
- Pattaya Far Islands – Choose a Pattaya dive centre that travels to the Pattaya Far Islands like Koh Phai (to dive HTMS Kram), Ko Man Wichai, Koh Rin and North and South Rock. These truly are Pattaya’s Gem dive sites which are untouched and full of marine life that no where else in Pattaya can compare, even Samaesan.
The Far Islands are approximately 1.5 hours from Bali Hai Pier on our beautiful boat Copperband 1. We are the only dive centre in Pattaya to regularly dive the far islands at least once a week or when conditions allow.
- Access to wrecks: There are 6 amazing wrecks to dive in Pattaya (3) and Samaesan (3) all of which offer a new and exciting experience. With simple penetration to more advanced deep penetration wreck Scuba Diving in Pattaya is simply great.
- Welcoming dive culture: A dense community of instructors, divemasters, and dive shops makes learning and exploring sociable and enjoyable.
The Best Pattaya Dive Sites to Explore Note: Pattaya is home to a mix of shallow reefs, wrecks, and abundant marine life—perfect for photography, macro observing, and relaxed dives. Here are some standouts:
- Wrecks off Pattaya and Sattahip: One of the top drivers for Scuba Diving Pattaya is the chance to explore historic shipwrecks. Expect curious reef fish, occasional rays, and a sense of stepping back in time as you glide along sunken hulls. These sites are popular for intermediate depth dives, all with easy access from Pattaya on our boats.
- Samaesan and nearby reefs: This location is a stunning place to dive, we offer a luxury liveaboard experience on our boats in Samaesan for serious diving, certified divers only unless by prior arrangement. Diving here is truly beautiful with 3 wrecks to explore SS Suddahip (AKA The Hardeep) as well as the Twin Wrecks T94 and T95.
There are many Reef Dive Sites to choose from and we rotate them so that we always see a different dive site each time we go.
- Pattaya Near Islands Kho Larn, Koh Krock and Ko Sak areas: Pockets of colorful reef colonies and sandy patches that attract a range of reef inhabitants. These sites are great for buoyancy control practice and underwater landscape photography, especially during calmer sea days.
There are two wrecks to explore, HTMS Mattaphon just off of Koh Larn and HTMS Kutt just off of Koh Sak.
- HTMS Khram and alternative wreck dives (near Pattaya): The Khram wreck near Koh Phai (Pattaya Far Islands) is a classic Pattaya dive target for more experienced divers or those with a little more time and training. The distance and depth offer a memorable contrast to reef dives and are a fixture on many Pattaya Dive Centre itineraries.
Why choose Copperband Scuba Academy as your Pattaya dive centre—What to Expect When You Dive Here Copperband Scuba Academy is a common name you’ll encounter in the Pattaya diving scene. In practice, most reputable centers share core strengths: safety-first operations, small-group dives, modern equipment, and certified instructors (PADI, Raid, SSI, etc.). Here’s what you typically get:
- Structured courses and experiences: From PADI Discover Scuba experiences for first-timers to PADI Open Water and PADI Advanced Open Water courses, you’ll find options that suit your training level and goals.
- Safe, supportive instruction: Expect briefings, buddy checks, and a patient, supportive approach to help you gain confidence underwater.
- Equipment and boats: Modern rental gear, well-maintained equipment, and comfortable boat departures to nearby dive sites.
- Small groups and personalized attention: Many Pattaya dive centre operators emphasize small-group diving to maximize safety and enjoyment.
- Flexibility and convenience: Multiple departure times, pick-up/drop-off arrangements, and options to combine dives with other activities.
If you’ve seen “Copperband Scuba Academy” referenced in itineraries or reviews when searching for a Pattaya dive centre, it’s usually a signal that you’ll be working with a professional, safety-minded operator who prioritizes guest experience and learning.
Practical Tips for First-Timers in Pattaya
- Get certified or onboard with a discover scuba experience: If you’re new to diving, consider a PADI Discover Scuba experience or a basic PADI Open Water course—both are widely offered in Pattaya and can be the start of a longer diving adventure.
- Expect warm water and moderate currents: Pattaya waters are generally comfortable, but currents and visibility can vary by site and season.
- Dress for the conditions: Lightweight wetsuit (3mm) is common for Pattaya, with a hood, in cooler months or deeper wreck dives.
- Safety first: Always dive with a licensed instructor or guide, perform pre-dive safety checks, and stick with your buddy. Avoid pushing depth or duration beyond your training level.
- Book with a reputable Pattaya dive centre like Copperband Scuba Academy: Choose a center with current certifications, well-maintained equipment, and clear safety protocols. Read reviews and ask about group sizes, dive briefings, and emergency procedures.
- Respect local marine life and environment: Don’t touch corals, feed fish, or litter the water. Use eco-friendly sunscreen if you’re diving near coral reefs.
Best Time to Scuba Dive Pattaya
- Dry-season window: The months from November through April are typically favored for clearer water and calmer seas, making it ideal for beginners and those focusing on photography.
- Rainy/monsoon window: May to October can bring more variable sea conditions, but experienced divers still find plenty to explore. It’s wise to book with a Pattaya dive centre that can tailor dives to current conditions and safety guidelines.
- Planning around tides and boat schedules: Tidal windows and boat departures can influence site choices and depth. A local Pattaya dive center can optimize your day for the best visibility and easiest entry/exit.
How to Choose a Pattaya dive centre (including Copperband Scuba Academy)
- Credentials and safety: Look for PADI, RAID SSI, or other recognized certifications, up-to-date equipment, and a clear safety briefing protocol.
- Small-group policy: Dives with smaller groups improve safety and the overall experience, especially for new divers.
- Transparent pricing and packages: Ask about gear rental, waterfront access, and any additional fees. Reputable centers provide clear, written quotes.
- Flexible scheduling: A center that can accommodate your dates and offer a mix of discovery dives, certifications, or multiple-dive days provides more value.
- Real-world testimonials: Read recent guest reviews and ask for contactable references if needed.
- Location and accessibility: A Pattaya dive centre that’s easy to reach from your hotel, with reliable transportation arrangements, simplifies your trip. We arrange collections from all over Pattaya and Jomtien
Plan Your Pattaya Scuba Trip
- Getting there: Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports are the typical gateways; Pattaya is a short drive or train ride away. From there, local taxis, motorbike taxis, and shuttle services connect you to dive centers.
- Where to stay: Choose accommodations near the beach or central Pattaya to minimize travel time to dive boats.
- Combine diving with a Pattaya visit: Pattaya offers vibrant markets, nightlife, cultural sites, and family-friendly activities—great for a multi-day trip that centers on diving but balances downtime.
- Pack list: Your dive log, certifications, a towel and spare clothes, a water bottle, reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof bag for electronics, and a small first-aid kit. Your Pattaya dive centre will often provide essential gear, but you may want to bring personal items like a mask that fits well or a familiar snorkel.
Some more detail about the Dive Sites in Pattaya
Pattaya Near Islands Scuba Diving:
Koh Sak
This is a small island in a cluster of islands consisting of Koh Larn, Koh Sak and Koh Krock, often referred to as the “Near Islands” by Scuba Divers in Pattaya. It has 4 well know Scuba Dive Sites.
HTMS Kutt
Approximately 300 metres from the coast of Koh Sak East lays the wreck of HTMS Kutt. Wa World War II class landing craft sank when decommissioned by the Thai Navy to be an artificial reef and Scuba Diving Site. This exciting wreck has a number of penetration points, from novice to expert tech diver entry points.
Filled with reef and marine life including an abundance of Macro this wreck is a must do in Pattaya when Scuba Diving. It also has a sister wreck, HTMS Kram about 1.5 hours away. The same style ship, but two totally different dive experiences.
Koh Sak East
This lovely dive site offers a great diving experience from novice in the sandy bay with beautiful fish and coral to see to more advanced further into and around the bay with beautiful walls, very rare (previously thought to be extinct) Neptune Corals and even the random colony of Sea Horses, file fish and much more.
Be wary of the currents they run from South to North and vice versa along the edge of the dive site and island, use the northernly rising currents to drift out deeper to see the Neptune Corals and Sea Horses. Use the southernly dropping currents to explore in the bay and around the island if able to do a one way dive.
Koh Sak West
The Opposite side of the Sandy bay this dive site is again good for novice divers to Advanced. Follow the coral around the island for at least 1 hour with plenty to see, if you’re able to do a 1 way dive! If back to boat keep heading East from 6m down to 13m currents allowing and turn the dive at 100bar or 40 minutes. Use the currents to slowly drift you back to the boat.
Watch out for the Turtles, box fish, puffer fish and so much more on this lovely dive site!
Submarine (there used to be a sight seeing submarine here, removed a long time ago)
This long dive site to the west of the island is great for novices and your first one way drift dive. Conditions allowing you can drift around into the bay around the corner and have fun watching the marine life as you drift along in the currents.
Watch out for the Turtles as you dive into the bay.
Koh Larn
This island has an abundance of dive sites! Our favourites are:
HTMS Mattaphon
Just 260 metres or so from the coast of the island is the Shipwreck HTMS Mattaphon. A World War II Landing craft around 25-28 metres long. A great first time wreck with an artificial reef built around it consisting of 4 sets of concrete cubes full of marine life and Macro. At around 19 metres deep this is truly the first time wreck dive experience dive site.
Laem Thong
The dive sites of dive sites at the Pattaya Near Islands. With long walls and deep passages to explore you will see Bamboo Sharks and sea horses (if you go slow enough and look hard for them!).
Whether you do a one way drift dive or a back to boat dive this beautiful dive site is a Pattaya gem for Scuba Divers. During the day look along the walls for Sea Horses, under the rocks for Bamboo Sharks, along the reef for the odd Black tip shark (if you’re very lucky). With the reef traversing around the bay from 5 meters down to 16 metres this site is great for experienced and novice divers alike.
Laem Thong is the ultimate Night Dive destination! See the predators awake and do a night dive here to see Octopus, Cuttlefish, Bamboo sharks and even the sea horses at night. Truly special night dive location.
White Rock
This long 1.5 km stretch of coral leads down into the Southpoint coral bay. Do a 1 hour one way dive here and see everything you would want to see on a great dive in Pattaya. Stunning corals beautiful fish and many Macro species to search for. Best dived as a one way dive towards Southpoint Corals.
Saxaphone
Forming a part of a 1 way dive from White rock or a westerly dive from South Point Corals this lovely site has walls and beautiful turtles to fine. Be aware of the currents and long sandy stretches between corals, the wait and swim between them is worth it!
With walls from around 7 metres and 15 metres this dive site has a lot to offer all divers. Use the currents to push you from coral reef to reef. See enormouse elephant ear corals to tiny macro along the walls and in the sand.
South Point Corals
Running from the beach round into a small black sanded bay this coral reef is really beautiful. Going down to around 16 to 18m with many different marine organisms to see. Look out for the Macro on this site its very beautiful and there are at least 2 Turtles to find also!
Between reefs dive around the sand beds look out for Nudibranch, Snails, Crabs and pipe fish. There are often puffer fish and file fish to admire as you dive between reef beds.
Koh Krock
A novice dive site, max depth between 8 and 16 metess. Renowned for it’s super fast drift dives you must make the most of what there is to see. With a Turtle house group of corals there are sometimes 3 or 4 turtles to see here. Drift out down to around 16m for a different, more darker, experience and find the Octopus and Macro that others choose to miss. Speak to your instructor they know the best parts of this island to dive for sure, they will always say go deeper, dive in the sand and along the soft coral gardens around 16m and see what you find. For the experienced divers this is the better way to dive this site. Sticking to the coral line whilst lovely is not the best of this site.
When diving the sand, look for the dark areas and small clusters of coral, look hard to find spider crabs, sea horses, nudibranch, baby octopus and cuttlefish. Whilst you may feel you’re seeing nothing when you do see something it’s amazing and a thrill. Imagine you could be the only human to EVER have seen that creature. What a thrill!
Far Islands Pattaya
These islands deserve a blog of their own they are very special. We think the Pattaya Far Islands are comparable to Diving in Sattahip, Samaesan. We know because we are the only dive centre in Pattaya to dive them at least once a week!
Koh Phai (home to the shipwreck HTMS Kram)
HTMS Kram
This World War II Landing craft was sank around 25 years ago when it was decommissioned by the Thai Navy. A stunning wreck with lots to see and the sister ship to HTMS Kutt off of Koh Sak. But this wreck is totally different. Overgrown with stunning corals, deeper and darker with tighter penetration points this is a great wreck to do the PADI Wreck Specialty with us. Look out for stunning macro life and crabs, turtles and moray eels. This site is a must dive for all scuba diving enthusiasts in Pattaya.
Koh Phai
Ideal for first time divers to expert photographers to go sand diving to spot the Nudibranch and other Macro for that perfect shot! This island has 2 or three dive sites all varying in depth and dense corals from hard coral reefs to soft coral gardens on rocking traverses. Often with strong Eddie currents you must kick hard to get into the bay but once there its worth it. Walls and isolated rocks to explore, keep an eye out for the Bamboo Sharks and micro forna that hang around there. Decorator Crabs and other small animals scavenge around for their next meal! Keep your eyes open!
Koh Man Wichai
Once we have dived HTMS Kram we normally make the 1 hour trip, during our surface interval, to this stunning Island and do two dives here because there is so much to explore and see.
With 3 dive sites rammed with stunning hard and soft corals, walls to explore and great visability on most days we truly love this little island.
The convenience to the Kram makes it a great alternative to Koh Phai if we have only advanced scuba divers on board. Using the Currents to navigate through the walls and rocky areas this is a great and fun dive always. Definitely a favourite for Copperband Scuab Academy’s instructors.
Koh Rin
This beautiful isolated island approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from Bali Hai Pier in Pattaya is really a destination for all scuba divers in Pattaya. We could spend 2 days there and still not see everything we wanted to see. With 2 spectacular dive sites the walls, swim throughs, channels and spectacular shoals of baby barracuda, rabbit fish, yellow tips and squirrel fish this site is often jaw dropping. Untouched by the rest of the Scuba Community in Pattaya Koh Rin is preserved and pristine and we want to keep it all to ourselves. With at least 2 trips a month here we are one of the only dive centres to regularly dive this island.
Plus it comes with two superb bonus divesites. North Rock and South Rock.
North Rock
Well we can only say you have to see it to know why this is a spectacular dive site. Walls of corals from 4 meters to 18 meters with more fish than anywhere else on Pattaya Scuba Dive Sites. Stop in the middle of a shoal of Barracuda while they circle you, spin around in a hover and be amazed by how fast they move and how beautiful it is to see. Truly jaw dropping compared to any other Pattaya Scuba Diving site.
Theres even a Motorbike hidded here as a bit of fun, placed here 10-15 years ago by some previous scuba diving centres we love hunting for it for some great gimmicky pictures.
South Rock
Another small rock just off of Koh Rin with the most amazing aray of soft and hard corals to admire. As a second or third dive of the day you won’t be disappointed as you dive deep and along the wall of corals and ascend slowly going from end to end admiring the marine life in its abundance on this small un-spoilt pinnacle. Shoals of Rabbit fish swim above so make sure to look up and admire them as they feed and swim in circles above you. What a pleasant dive site to add to any Scuba Divers List in Pattaya.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do I need to be certified to dive in Pattaya? No it is not necessary. If you’re new, you can start with a Try Dive Experience or a PADI Discover Scuba experience or enroll in a basic certification course with a Pattaya dive centre.
- What is the water temperature like? Water temperatures are around 28 to 31 degrees depending on the time of year and rarely fluctuate.
- How deep do Pattaya dives go? Entry-level dives are often shallow from 6 to 12 metres, with deeper wreck dives available for trained divers up to 30-32 metres.
- Is Pattaya good for underwater photography? Yes, especially around reefs and wrecks where light angles and marine life offer exciting subjects.
- Is Copperband Scuba Academy as a Pattaya dive centre a good choice for families? Many centers cater to all levels and ages, offering beginner options and family-friendly schedules. We definitely have a family friendly boat and can even offer a Nanny on board for extra comfort at an additional cost to be agreed at the time of booking.
