Chaweng is one of the most popular beaches on the island of Koh Samui. It is frequented by both locals and tourists who look to enjoy the surrounding ocean waters through various water sporting activities. From adrenaline rides to gentle wind-guided journeys, here are the best water sports to try in Chaweng.
Snorkelling
Snorkelling is one of the best ways to explore the nearby Crystal Bay and Coral Cove in Chaweng. If you’re based at nearby hotels like Avani Chaweng Samui Hotel & Beach Club you can venture a little further out and snorkel at the nearby Koh Tan Island.
Diving
Even if you aren’t an experienced diver Chaweng has plenty of dive schools and diving spots, which is all you need to explore the ocean depths. Once you receive some basic training you’ll be set to explore and interact with the vibrant marine species that frequent the waters below.
Chaweng is also the perfect spot for thrill seekers. Jet skiing is quite the popular water sport in the area with plenty of visitors speeding across the waters at high speeds. Make sure to be careful that your path is clear of nearby swimmers and marine animals as you manoeuvre your jet ski.
Sailing
Sailing is definitely one of the best things to do in Chaweng if you prefer to be carried along the waters by the ocean winds. You can catch the northeastern winds between December and April, while the western winds often prevail from May to November on the island.
Khao Lak, with its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, is a snorkeller’s paradise. Nestled along Thailand’s Andaman Coast, this coastal gem offers a unique opportunity to explore vibrant marine life and breathtaking underwater landscapes. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeller or a curious beginner, Khao Lak has fascinating adventures in store. Make the most of your snorkelling adventure in this tropical haven with these insights.
Explore the Rich Marine Biodiversity
The waters surrounding Khao Lak are teeming with life. Snorkellers can encounter colourful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even majestic sea turtles. The nearby Similan Islands, a national park, are renowned for their rich marine biodiversity, making snorkelling one of the most sought-after things to do in Khao Lak.
For a seamless experience, choose accommodations that offer easy access to snorkelling locations. Resorts like Avani+ Khao Lak Resort provide not only luxurious stays but also opportunities for snorkelling and diving excursions, ensuring your adventure is both comfortable and exhilarating.
Best Snorkelling Spots
From the serene waters of Khao Lak Beach to the vibrant reefs of the Similan Islands, each location offers its own unique experience. The idyllic Koh Tachai and Koh Bon are also popular spots known for their crystal-clear visibility and stunning underwater landscapes.
Guided Tours for Hassle-Free Snorkelling
For those who prefer a structured experience, joining a guided snorkelling tour is an excellent option. These tours provide all the necessary equipment, expert guidance, and transportation, allowing you to focus on the beauty beneath the surface without the stress of planning.
Eco-Conscious Snorkelling Practices
To preserve Khao Lak’s stunning marine environments, it’s essential to adopt eco-friendly snorkelling practices. Avoid touching the coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and consider participating in conservation programs to help protect this delicate ecosystem.
Liveaboard diving in the Maldives is an incredible way to explore the country’s stunning marine life. These trips offer a unique opportunity to visit remote dive sites and experience the ocean like never before.
Why Choose a Liveaboard Diving Trip?
Liveaboard diving is perfect for those who want to maximise their time underwater. These trips allow divers to explore remote sites that can’t be reached on day trips, offering a more immersive experience. You’ll dive multiple times a day, with access to some of the best reefs and marine life the Maldives has to offer.
Where to Stay Before and After Your Dive
Many divers opt to extend their stay at one of the top resorts in Maldives before or after their liveaboard trip. A luxury stay at a property like Naladhu Private Island Maldives offers the perfect way to unwind after days of adventure, combining world-class diving with a relaxing island retreat.
Most liveaboard trips in the Maldives cover famous dive sites like the North and South Male Atolls, Ari Atoll, and Baa Atoll. You’ll encounter everything from vibrant coral gardens to sharks, manta rays, and even whale sharks. It’s a dream come true for marine enthusiasts.
What to Expect on a Liveaboard
Liveaboards in the Maldives are fully equipped to cater to divers of all levels, offering comfortable cabins, delicious meals, and professional dive guides. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone, making it a fantastic way to explore the underwater world.
Just a short distance south of Sri Lanka, the Maldives’ white sandy shores and swaying palms grace the waters of the Indian Ocean. With over 1,000 islands, 26 coral atolls and over a million visitors annually, the Maldives is a must-visit destination for anyone craving the sun, sand and sea.
Aside from the essentials of lightweight clothing and eco-friendly sun protection, your packing list depends on your itinerary. Keen snorkelling and diving enthusiasts might want to bring an underwater camera, or essential gear if necessary. Check with your accommodation or dive centre and see whether any excursion equipment is provided, as some Maldives scuba diving resorts include gear as a part of the underwater packages, such as Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Maldives.
Resort Islands Vs. Local Islands
What you pack may also depend on where you stay. Compared to resort islands, local islands and guesthouses are fairly more conservative, with modest dress codes for public beaches and religious sites. Be sure to bring a cover-up or long-sleeved clothing just in case.
Getting Around The Maldives
Unlike most destinations, the archipelago rarely relies on land travel, with almost all islands accessible only via seaplane and speedboat, with the occasional domestic flights. As multiple transfers can get expensive, consider picking a resort or island that already comes equipped with the amenities and activities you seek.
When to Visit
Lastly, although the Maldives is a year-round tropical getaway, the best months to visit would be from November to April, when the skies are clearer and there is a lower chance for rainfall. However, as it is peak season, the prices are higher and potential crowds are larger, so be sure to check for any hotel deals and discounts during off-season months.
Jet Skiing in the Maldives: All You Need to Know for an Adventure on the Water
If you are vacationing in the Maldives and are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure out on the waters surrounding the nation’s islands, jet skiing should be at the top of your list. Here are some of the key tips and information about jet skiing in the Maldives that you need to know.
Jet skiing is undoubtedly one of the most fun activities to enjoy in the Maldives. But it also has several benefits for your body. These include increasing blood circulation, burning calories and strengthening muscles.
Styles of Riding
There are two main ways of riding a jet ski – sitting down or standing up – depending on the style of jet ski you are using. Stand-up jet skiing is the tougher option and requires a higher learning curve and level of balance. On the other hand, sit-down jet skiing is much easier for beginners to grasp and the relevant jet skis for this are widely available.
Best Places to Jet Ski in the Maldives
The best thing about jet skiing in the Maldives is that there are several places to enjoy it. These include the North and South Male Atolls, Ari Atoll, Laamu Atoll and Lhaviyani Atoll. Since it is one of the more popular activities to do in the Maldives you can find jet ski activities and excursion opportunities through your hotel or resort.
Safety and Regulations
While jet skiing is all about having fun, it is important to stick to stay safe by following the right rules and regulations. If you are staying at any of theAdaaran Resorts, you can make an inquiry about general guidelines, but here are some essential tips to remember;
Make sure to have safety gear and life jackets before going out on the water
Stay clear of people in the water
Use the jet skis responsibly and avoid pushing the limits
Be mindful of wildlife you may encounter and be sure not to harm them
Koh Samui, a tropical gem in the Gulf of Thailand, offers some of the best snorkelling and diving adventures for ocean lovers. Whether you’re an experienced diver or a first-time snorkeler, the island’s crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning coral reefs will leave you mesmerized. Here’s how to experience the best snorkelling and diving adventures in Koh Samui.
1. Discover Ang Thong Marine Park:
For divers and snorkelers looking for Koh Samui things to do, Ang Thong National Marine Park of 42 islands with pristine waters and colourful coral reefs is a must-visit. The park is teeming with marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The shallow reefs make it perfect for snorkelling, while deeper waters offer incredible dives with visibility up to 25 meters. Day trips from Koh Samui to the park are easily available and usually include guided tours, equipment, and lunch.
2. Snorkel at Coral Cove:
For a fantastic snorkelling spot close to Koh Samui’s luxury hotels like Anantara Lawana Koh Samui Resort, Coral Cove offers calm, crystal-clear waters and an abundance of marine life. This small, quiet bay between Chaweng and Lamai is perfect for beginners and families. The reefs are easily accessible right from the shore, and you can spot colourful fish, sea urchins, and even the occasional stingray. Bring your snorkelling gear or rent it from a nearby shop for a laid-back aquatic adventure.
Just a short boat ride from Koh Samui, Koh Tao is one of Thailand’s premier diving destinations. Known for its clear waters and vibrant coral gardens, Koh Tao is home to world-class dive sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Shark Island. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or looking to get certified, Koh Tao offers a range of dive schools and courses. Popular sightings include reef sharks, barracudas, and occasionally whale sharks.
4. Visit the Secret Pinnacle:
For an advanced diving experience, head to the Secret Pinnacle—a lesser-known dive site off the coast of Koh Samui. This deep dive site is famous for its towering rock formations covered in soft corals and anemones. Divers are often greeted by large schools of fish, including barracuda, trevally, and batfish. The site’s depth and strong currents make it suitable for experienced divers looking for a thrilling underwater adventure.
5. Snorkel and Dive at Koh Phangan:
While Koh Phangan is famous for its Full Moon Parties, it also offers excellent snorkelling and diving opportunities. The waters around Haad Yao and Haad Salad beaches are ideal for snorkelling, with shallow reefs and plenty of colourful marine life. For divers, Sail Rock, located between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao, is one of the region’s top dive spots. It features a dramatic underwater pinnacle, with opportunities to spot whale sharks, giant groupers, and moray eels.
Bali is famous for its stunning beaches, but did you know it’s home to some of the most magical waterfalls too? Tucked away in lush jungles, these waterfalls offer everything from serene, meditative spots to thrilling adventure spots. Here’s your guide to the best waterfalls to visit while in Bali!
Hidden Gems in North Bali
The north of Bali is home to many secluded waterfalls where you can find peace and tranquillity. Gitgit and Sekumpul waterfalls, in particular, are worth the journey. Surrounded by tropical foliage and rice terraces, these falls have an enchanting atmosphere, perfect for a quiet escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Adventure-Ready Waterfalls for Thrill-Seekers
For those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush, Bali has plenty of waterfalls that are ideal for exploration. Some spots even offer the best water rafting in Bali nearby. The Aling-Aling waterfall, for instance, is famous for its cliff jumps and natural waterslides—perfect for those seeking an adventurous experience!
If you’re staying at the luxurious Anantara Ubud Bali Resort, you’re in luck! You’re only a short drive from Tegenungan Waterfall, an iconic spot known for its accessibility and vibrant surroundings. This waterfall is great for photography and swimming alike.
Sacred Sites with Spiritual Significance
Some waterfalls, like the Tibumana and Kanto Lampo, are revered for their mystical and spiritual aura. Many locals consider these spots sacred, making them ideal for those seeking a quiet, reflective experience in Bali’s serene natural landscapes.
Every day is a good time to head out on the ocean waters in Australia with ideal weather conditions gracing the shorelines all year round. And with plenty of beaches to choose from, the opportunities for adrenaline-pumping ocean adventures are endless. Here are some of the most popular water sports you can enjoy in Australia.
Surfing
This comes as a no-brainer, with surfing being one of the most loved pastimes in Australia. Even if you haven’t mastered the art of conquering the waves, it’s never too late to start, especially if you’re staying at a hotel near the beach such as those by Avani Hotels & Resorts. Plenty of surfing beaches in Australia offer guidance and lessons to ensure that you’ll be riding the waves in no time.
Kayaking
Kayaking is another popular water sport and a great alternative if you aren’t too steady on a surfboard. While you can certainly enjoy a kayaking adventure on the ocean waters, you can kayak along any water body including lakes and rivers.
If you’re keen to develop or test your balancing skills, stand-up paddleboarding is the way to go. As a bonus, you’ll enjoy beautiful views of the shoreline and the horizon. Stand-up paddleboards are easily available for rent around Australia and the sport is fairly easy to master on your own.
Kite Surfing
This water sport requires plenty of upper body strength and nerves of steel if you are to brave the winds. But those who dare step out of the best hotels in Australia for a kite surfing adventure will enjoy the reward of a great workout and an exhilarating day out on the ocean is well worth the effort.
As one of the popular island travel destinations in the Andaman Sea, Phuket is more than just a relaxing haven for weary travellers. With an abundance of lush rainforests and sandy beaches, Phuket has plenty of thrilling experiences for those looking to be more adventurous during their vacation. Here are some of the best adrenaline-pumping activities in Phuket for outdoor lovers.
Diving
Phuket is one of the best destinations for diving enthusiasts with crystal clear waters and vibrant underwater ecosystems. Those staying on the island at resorts like Anantara Mai Khao Phuket Villas will have the perfect opportunity to explore the depths of the Andaman Sea with expert guidance.
One of the best ways to experience the expanse of forest cover on the island is ziplining. As you speed along the rope and whizz past treetops you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the island’s lush forests from a vantage point like no other.
Windsurfing
If you’d rather race across ocean waters near your Phuket luxury resort, windsurfing makes for an ideal adventure. The ideal time for windsurfing in Phuket is from June till the end of August when the conditions are perfect. More experienced surfers can head for the northwestern region for stronger winds, while the shallow waters of the southern coastlines are perfect for beginners.
ATV Riding
This is yet another exciting way to explore the jungles of Phuket, which involves racing through the terrain at high speeds. You’ll have a close-up view of stunning waterfalls, hidden sacred statues and some of the more elusive wildlife that call the jungles home.
Shirokane, Tokyo’s verdant retreat, offers a breath of fresh air and a taste of tranquillity amid the city’s hustle and bustle. Here’s your guide to uncovering the district’s green gems for much-needed relaxation:
Experience the essence of traditional Japanese horticulture at Happo-en Garden, located just a 5-minute drive from executive apartments in Tokyo, such as the modern Oakwood Apartments Shirokane Tokyo. This exquisite space features serene koi ponds, a classic tea house, and a vibrant array of seasonal flora including cherry blossoms, bonsai, and maple trees. It’s a harmonious escape into nature’s beauty.
Explore the Institute for Nature Study
Located in Shirokanedai, this historical site reveals the area’s ancient past. Created by marine erosion up to 500,000 years ago, it houses artefacts from the mid-Jomon period, offering a glimpse into early human settlement and a deep connection to the region’s geological history.
Wander Down Platinum Street
True to its name, Shirokane’s Platinum Street dazzles with its majestic ginkgo trees, which are especially stunning in the fall. Start your journey at Shirokanedai Station and enjoy a peaceful walk along this tree-lined avenue, savouring the seasonal colours and serene atmosphere.
Cool Off at Shirokanedai Donguri Children’s Playground
This family-friendly park is a summer oasis with its refreshing rock pool and gentle water stream. Ideal for children to splash around and stay cool, the shaded areas ensure a pleasant playtime experience. It’s a short drive from Shirokane-Takanawa Station.
Relax in Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
A cherished green space for both locals and expatriates, Arisugawa Park offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s bustling life. Once part of a samurai residence during the Edo era, it provides a historical touch and a serene environment close to Hiroo Station.
