The Five Islands of Koh Haa - a Diving & Snorkeling Paradise in Thailand
Thailand is well-known as a great place for diving and snorkelling, with many travel guides recommending the countless locations along its tropical coastline, however to many people, the five islands of Koh Haa offer a unique experience for both divers and snorkelers. Situated just 10km from the south-west tip of Koh Lanta, Koh Haa is easily accessible and features several breath-taking areas for diving and snorkeling.
The warm, clear waters of this small island group are home to many spectacular sights and there is such a wide and diverse variety of marine life that you are likely to catch a glimpse of several rare and elusive species, from nudibranchs and sea moths to frog fish and seahorses, and even the occasional whale shark gracefully passing through. Koh Haa is always full of surprises.
For snorkelers, beginner divers and more experienced divers, there is something at Koh Haa for everyone, an experience greatly enhanced by using a knowledgeable local diving or snorkelling guide who will make sure you enjoy everything this unique paradise has to offer.
Koh Haa Lagoon
The lagoon is a personal favourite of many a visitor to Koh Haa. It is a shallow, protected area that lies between 3 of the islands, full of both soft and hard coral, and providing a safe nursery-style area for many juvenile fish species.
The shallow and crystal clear water makes it an excellent spot for try dives, scuba diving courses, snorkeling and bubble makers. The lagoon is perfect for any family day out in paradise. Children from age 8 can take their 1st step into the underwater world, becoming a bubble maker in an easy, safe and exciting dive experience.
The visibility of the lagoon area is always spectacular. Ranging from 18 to 30 meters, this is great news for divers and snorkelers alike. The two islands which surround the lagoon are perfect for both certified divers and divers who've had some time out from the underwater world. With an average depth of 5 to 30 meters, the best way to get as much out of your dive as possible is to plan your journey around the islands of Koh Haa Two and Four.
Throughout this dive, you're likely to spot, yellow boxfish, hawksbill and green turtles, banded sea snakes, lionfish, leopard and black-tip reef sharks, butterfly fish, trumpet fish, squid, barracuda and countless schools of tropical fish - the list is endless! Like any dive site, the lagoon has its permanent residents. A resident favourite has to be "Pete" the porcupine fish. His friendly face will follow you around your entire lagoon dive, making you feel at one with his world.
For macro photography enthusiasts, the lagoon and all other Koh Haa islands offer countless opportunities for the patient and keen diver. Ghost pipefish, seahorses, nudibranch, sea moths, frogfish and various shrimp are all regularly spotted, and that's just to name a few.
Koh Haa One (The Chimney)
The island of Koh Haa One is only a few minutes boat journey from the lagoon and boasts a tall vertical chimney which you can easily swim through. Starting from 5 meters, and dropping to around 15 meters, the chimney itself is filled with crustaceans and tiny glassfish. Once out the of chimney, a large arm can be seen holding a bundle of life, including a resident sea horse. Along the way, be sure to keep your eyes open for large schools of snapper, trevally, barracuda hunting along the reef, along with the shy octopus, cuttlefish and many other Koh Haa residents.
Koh Haa Five (The Cathedral)
The large cavern located on Koh Haa Five is nick-named the Cathedral, easily accessed through an opening from 6 to 13 meters. With high ceilings and imposing stalactites, you can surface inside the Cathedral and witness the breathtaking view above and around. There are two large entrances where the natural light filters through, giving the Cathedral cavern a twilight atmosphere. Be sure to take along your camera, as this is one shot you don't want to miss.
Continuing around island Five, numerous species can be found including, harlequin shrimps, leafy ghost pipefish, gorgonian sea fans, spiny lobsters in cracks and the magnificent whale shark. The whale sharks can visit any time of year, so be prepared to be graced with their beautiful presence.
The shallow area in front of the beach is a must see for snorkelers and great for beginner divers. Lying at around 6 meters, the beach is filled with coal formations which can be several meters high, purple anemone beds homing clown fish but no shallow coral area would be complete without its angel fish, banner fish, Moorish idols and colourful parrot fish.
Travelling to Koh Haa
There is no better base for visiting Koh Haa than the beautiful, laid back island of Koh Lanta. Situated a short ferry ride away from Krabi, it is an upscale family island perfect for adventure, culture, relaxing, but most of all accessing dive locations.
Departing from Koh Lanta Yai (the south island), you can enjoy the luxurious and fast speed boat journey or the more traditional Thai way, known as the slow boat. Boats leave at either 8 or 9am for Koh Haa, depending on your speed requirements. The fantastic journey time via speedboat (25-30 minutes from the northern beaches of Koh Lanta), ensures you will arrive in Koh Haa Lagoon before anyone else and have a chance to enjoy these wonderful islands before the slow boats arrive from Krabi, Koh Lanta and Phuket.
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