Snorkeling Paradise at Koh Thalu, Koh Kudi
Koh Thalu and Koh Kudi are some of the best sites for snorkeling, easily accessible from Bangkok. Koh Thalu and Koh Kudi are located in Rayong province. A day trip is realistic to visit the islands, however an early start is recommended to allow sufficient time to explore.
Koh Thalu means Hollow Island, it is just a few kilometers east of Koh Kudi. It is free from any major tourism development. Under the care of Khao Laem Ya-Samet National Park, there are no resorts on Koh Kudi but a nondescript park accommodation and a restaurant.
While the waters around Koh Kudi are not as deep as around Koh Thalu, the main dive site differs slightly in that it is a large solid rock foundation sloping towards the deeper area. Underwater visibility is about 12 meters; maximum depth about 20 m. Around Koh Kudi snorkelers can see cowfish, batfish, black coral, gorgonian (sea fans) and reef fish.
Underwater delights
Koh Thalu is well-known for its healthy coral. Visibility may be a little less than Koh Kudi, although the diving area is a bit deeper (22 m). Here scuba divers can see sea anemones, gorgonian and black sea fans.
Koh Thalu’s unspoiled beach has powdery white sand. There are no resort developments. Visitors won’t be disturbed by vendors, visitors can still buy snacks, drinks and use deck chairs provided by park officials.
Some visitors enjoy snorkeling in shallow areas, where they can find healthy coral, while scuba divers love deep water adventure to explore underwater delights, schools of interesting fish and other marine life, the seabed where there is a huge and diverse array of marine life. The sight of some awesome anemones guarded by a clownfish is exactly the children’s animation classic Finding Nemo.
Accommodation
Koh Kudi has some basic bungalows. It still lacks the wide range of accommodation options, only tents are available for rent.
Koh Kudi or Koh Kud is an island in a Thai traditional literature, Phra Aphaimanee, penned by Sunthorn Phu, a native of Rayong. Nearby islands are Koh Thaikangkao, and Koh Thamruesi. The beach has powdery white sand; it is suitable for swimming and camping under the care of Protection Unit of National Park. There is a small charge for bringing your own tent.
Travel connections
Koh Thalu and Koh Kudi are located off Ban Phe in Rayong province, about 236 km from Bangkok. Koh Kudi is part of Khao Lem Ya-Koh Samet National Park, so there is an entrance fee of 400 baht (US$12.20).
Visitors wishing to “island hop” will need to arrange for the hire of a speedboat. These are available from most resorts in Klaeng and Ban Phe. Follow Me Tour (+66 [0]3 864 7405) charges a daily rate of 2,500 baht for four people. Alternatively, Nemo Tour (+66 [0]2 347 2096) can provide a similar deal. There are also daily tours departing Koh Samet.
For more information, please contact tel. 0 3865 3034, or The Marine National Park Service, Department of Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry, tel. 0 2561 2919, 0 2561 2921.
References: Thai-Asean News Network
