The Gulf of Siam isn't the Andaman Sea, and even in the Gulf, we have to concede that places like Ko Tao outshine Sichang. But where else can you see many varieties of coral, squid, sea anemones, plenty of fish (including some occasional big ones, and the rare sea turtles and dolphins) so close to Bangkok?

There are plenty of good places along the cliffs around the island, but our favorite areas are the main, north beach of Ko- Khaangkhaao and around neabry Koh Thaai Taa Muen. If you snorkel off the main beach of Ko-Khaanghkhaao, you should go at least 100 m offshore to see the best coral. You'll need to hire a boat or rent a kayak to get to these places; we've always felt it was very well worth it. You can rent snorkels, masks and life jackets, but not fins, on Ko-Khaangkhaao for B100 per day.