Koh Rok & Koh Haa – snorkelling in the region’s clearest water

Koh Rok is made up of two islands, Koh Rok Nai and Koh Rok Nok, separated by a narrow channel of shallow, crystal-clear water. In the channel and around the islands lie coral gardens where, with a little luck, you will see turtles, parrotfish and schools of reef fish.

Koh Rok Nok has a long white sandy beach and a national park station. Many boats stop here for lunch. With some timing, though, you will find quiet stretches here too.

Koh Haa means five islands – a small group of limestone rocks standing in deep water. Koh Haa is best known among divers, but snorkellers get their money’s worth too: in the shallow lagoon between some of the rocks the water is often exceptionally clear.

Because of its exposed position, Koh Haa depends more on sea conditions. On calm days it is a dream; in waves the captain decides whether a stop makes sense.

Mu Ko Lanta National Park usually closes the islands during the southwest monsoon, roughly from mid-May to mid-October. The exact dates are set by the park administration. In the high season from November to April, conditions are usually ideal: calm seas and good visibility underwater.

Because the islands are far out, the weather on the day is decisive. A reputable operator would rather postpone than head out in rough seas.

From Ao Nang, Koh Rok is one of the longest day trips – about one and a half to two hours each way by speedboat, depending on route and weather. A full-day trip is therefore a must. Many combine it with a stop at Koh Haa on the way out or back.

A comfortable boat with shade, comfortable boat chairs and plenty of drinks makes a big difference on this route.

A good Koh Rok day starts early. The long morning ride is most comfortable on a calm sea, and you reach the islands before or alongside the first boats. Then come two or three snorkels on different sides of the reef, with beach breaks in between.

The crew chooses the spots based on the day’s current and visibility. A stop at Koh Haa on the way out or back rounds off the day when the sea allows. You are usually back in Ao Nang by late afternoon.

Koh Rok is worth it above all for snorkelling fans and anyone who wants to see the region’s clearest water. For small children or people prone to seasickness the long ride is less ideal – the nearby islands off Ao Nang are the more relaxed choice.

Between snorkels, the long sandy beach of Koh Rok Nok is perfect for swimming and resting. The water is shallow and clear, and there is shade under the trees at the edge of the beach. For more quiet, walk a little away from the main anchorage.

To make the long trip worthwhile, here are our top tips: