Sea walking, also known as sea trekking, is one of the most accessible and fascinating ways to experience the underwater world without the need for scuba certification or even swimming skills. Using a specialized helmet that supplies air from the surface, participants can walk on the ocean floor, surrounded by marine life, while breathing normally. This guided underwater stroll offers a rare opportunity to get up close to vibrant coral reefs and colorful sea creatures, particularly around Coral Island (also known as Koh Hae), one of Phuket’s most popular locations for sea walking.
Exploring the Waters Around Coral Island
Coral Island lies just 15 to 20 minutes by speedboat from Phuket’s southern coast. It’s a favorite day-trip or island hopping destination for those seeking clear waters, white sand, and easy access to coral reefs. Sea walking excursions to Coral Island typically begin with a morning pickup from your accommodation, followed by a short boat ride to the island.
Once there, participants receive a briefing and are fitted with a helmet connected to an air hose that allows for comfortable breathing underwater. The seawalk itself takes place in a shallow zone, typically around 5 to 8 meters deep—an ideal depth for observing reef life while still remaining safe and manageable for beginners. With guides on hand to assist, the underwater path is usually set along areas rich in coral formations and marine biodiversity.
Marine Life You’ll Encounter
One of the most rewarding parts of sea walking around Coral Island is the sheer variety of marine species you can observe up close. The island’s reefs are home to an impressive array of hard and soft corals. Among them are honeycomb corals, mushroom corals, and staghorn corals—each playing a vital role in reef structure and health. According to marine observations conducted near nearby coastal areas, more than 100 species of marine life can be found in the intertidal and shallow zones.
As you walk along the sandy seabed, colorful reef fish often make an appearance. Expect to see snapper, triggerfish, butterflyfish, and other curious swimmers flitting through the coral gardens. These reef dwellers are accustomed to visitors and often provide great photo opportunities.
Invertebrates such as starfish, sea urchins, and soldier crabs also populate the area, along with slipper lobsters hiding in rock crevices. On occasion, more elusive species like frogfish and harlequin shrimp might be spotted—though these are more commonly seen in deeper dive locations like Richelieu Rock. Larger marine creatures also inhabit the surrounding waters. Sea turtles sometimes pass through the area, and local conservation initiatives have seen the release of bamboo sharks to help maintain reef ecosystems. Recently, 30 baby bamboo sharks were introduced into the waters near Cape Panwa as part of reef health programs.
Sea Walking vs. Snorkeling and Diving
Sea walking offers a unique underwater experience—somewhere between snorkeling and scuba diving. Unlike snorkeling, which keeps you at the water’s surface, sea walking allows you to stand and walk on the ocean floor, giving a closer look at marine life. It’s particularly popular with families and those who may not be strong swimmers, as it requires no special training or equipment beyond the supplied helmet.
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Scuba diving, on the other hand, takes enthusiasts into deeper waters where they can encounter large pelagic species such as manta rays, whale sharks, and groupers—common sights around dive spots like the Similan Islands or Richelieu Rock. While diving offers a broader range of underwater exploration, sea walking is a fantastic introduction to marine ecosystems, especially for beginners and casual adventurers.
Sea walking tours around Coral Island often pair the experience with other activities like snorkeling, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the reef from both above and below the surface.
Related article: Underwater Wonders: A Guide to Scuba Diving in Phuket
Sea Walking Beyond Phuket
While Coral Island remains one of the top sea walking destinations in Phuket, it’s not the only place in Thailand offering this activity. Other popular spots include Pattaya’s Koh Larn, Koh Samui, Koh Chang, and Koh Phi Phi. Each destination offers its own unique take on the experience, with different marine environments and underwater features.
That said, Coral Island stands out for its convenience, clear waters, and family-friendly setup. The proximity to Phuket makes it an easy half-day or full-day trip, perfect for travelers staying in luxury villas or resorts on the island.
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Tips and Sustainability Notes
For those planning to try sea walking, the best conditions are usually found during the dry season, from December to April, when seas are calm and visibility is high. It’s always best to go with reputable tour operators who prioritize environmental sustainability and marine safety.
Thailand’s coastal waters are home to approximately 153 square kilometers of coral reefs, and marine biodiversity surveys in the Andaman Sea—including areas near Phuket—have recorded over 210 coral colonies across various sampling sites like Research Gate and The Free Library. These figures underscore the richness of the region’s marine ecosystems, but they also highlight the need for sustainable tourism. Many marine conservation initiatives in Thailand, including reef cleanups and species monitoring, aim to protect these fragile habitats from overuse and pollution.
Guests staying at Phuket luxury villas can enjoy a wide array of water activities such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and island-hopping. All of these, plus sea walking, can be easily arranged with trusted local operators through the villa’s Guest Experience Services prior to arrival in Phuket.
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A Dive into the Underwater World
Sea walking in Phuket provides an easy, safe, and unforgettable way to witness the beauty of the Andaman Sea’s marine life. With coral reefs teeming with fish, invertebrates, and the occasional larger species, Coral Island offers a front-row seat to the vibrant underwater world.
While Coral Island is just one of several seawalking destinations across Thailand, its accessibility and biodiversity make it a standout choice. As sustainable tourism practices gain momentum, initiatives like those led by local resorts and environmental groups continue to protect and nurture the reef habitats that make sea walking such a memorable experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Phuket, sea walking offers an immersive and eye-opening perspective on the region’s rich marine heritage.
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Featured Image by Tiket.com
