With its postcard-worthy beaches, crystal clear water and lush, tropical forests, Thailand tends to set visitor expectations pretty high. In my experience it delivers in spades, both above and below the waves. For the diving enthusiast, Thailand offers opportunities to encounter some of the ocean's largest fish, swim with so many as to completely fill your field of vision, as well as experience an abundance of vivid, healthy corals—yet these are only part of what makes scuba diving in Thailand such a worthwhile venture.

For the adventure of a lifetime, I recommend a dive trip along the west coast. Liveaboard vessels are plentiful, with the most popular sites to the north, though there are underwater gems everywhere. The colorful coral backdrop and the chance to meet both whale sharks and manta rays (at the right time of year) are guaranteed to thrill divers of all experience levels.

November through April offer the best months to dive, as the weather is both warmer and drier, which makes underwater conditions clearer. Additionally, some sites close during monsoon season, so be sure to plan ahead.

A few not-to-be-missed diving destinations along Thailand's west coast, from north to south, are Khao Lak, Phuket/Koh Phi Phi, Koh Lanta and Koh Lipe, which I’ve highlighted below. I’ve even put together my dream 14-day dive trip itinerary, which I hope can serve as inspiration for your trip!

Related Reading: Close Encounter With a Whale Shark

Koh Lipe

Pristine beaches, turquoise water and vibrant coral reefs make Koh Lipe a must-visit destination for scuba divers touring Thailand's west coast. Be sure to catch the Stonehenge-like underwater rock formations and eye-catching gardens filled with pink and purple leafy corals.This tropical, car-free paradise sits just north of the Thai-Malaysia border inside Tarutao National Marine Park and provides convenient access to the national park's dive sites.

Koh Lanta

Further south from Phuket along Thailand's west coast lies the road-accessible island of Koh Lanta. Known and loved for its laid-back atmosphere and distance from the crowds, this jungle-covered island is an ideal stop for nature lovers.

I recommend visiting Lanta Old Town and Mu Ko Lanta National Park during your surface intervals.

In addition to the numerous reef-filled sites surrounding the island, Koh Lanta is an ideal base for visiting two slightly more remote dive sites:

• Hin Daeng and Hin Muang - These sister rock formations offer dramatic drop-offs, coral gardens and a good chance of meeting a whale shark or manta ray.

• Koh Haa - Made up of six uninhabited limestone islands to the west of Koh Lanta, Koh Haa presents whale sharks, hawksbill turtles, blue-spotted rays, ghost pipefish and numerous other logbook-worthy creatures.

Phuket and Koh Phi Phi

Phuket (an island that is accessible by road from the mainland) and Koh Phi Phi (an island easily accessed by a fast ferry) are home to some of the best dive resorts in Thailand. Both islands make for great day trips, and either destination is a reliable choice for divers looking for an adventure.

Phuket delivers an appealing mix for those who want an experience of both culture and mainland convenience (and great food). This is a great option for divers looking to combine a city stay with some underwater action.

Koh Phi Phi, on the other hand, is well-suited to visitors looking for a dose of island life. Accommodation options range from more secluded, peaceful resorts to options in the heart of Koh Phi Phi's famous nightlife.

Related Reading: VIDEO Best Diving in Thailand

Khao Lak

The unassuming coastal village of Khao Lak is the primary departure point for liveaboard vessels on Thailand's west coast. Its white sandy beaches, chilled-out vibe and convenient local diving make it the ideal stopover before boarding a liveaboard.

For time-strapped travelers, both single-day and overnight cruises are available. To maximize your chances of memorable encounters, however, a multi-day liveaboard is really recommended. These liveaboards offer access to Thailand’s top dive sites and they can provide a greater level of comfort and convenience while maximizing your time on the water.

Once on board, your liveaboard vessel will likely venture to some of the best dive sites within the nearby Similan and Surin Islands Marine National Parks, likely including:

• Richelieu Rock - Alongside Sail Rock in the Gulf of Thailand, Richelieu Rock is famous for swimming with whale sharks. Even if the big guys don't make an appearance, this horseshoe-shaped reef is teeming with fish that will keep you entertained from the moment you hit the water to the second you surface.

• Koh Bon - This uninhabited rock island is one of the most northerly of the Similan Islands and offers the best chances for manta ray sightings.

• Similan Islands - Any of the numerous dive sites surrounding these islands, such as Elephant Head Rock, East of Eden and Beacon Point, offer an enriching mix of hard and soft coral reefs, abundant marine life and crystal clear waters.

14-Day Itinerary

This comprehensive two-week itinerary will allow you to take in the best diving on Thailand's west coast. Starting in the south, you’ll make your way up the coast, finishing on a liveaboard from Khao Lak (although the trip can easily be reversed, if necessary).

Day 1: Arrive in Koh Lipe via boat (The nearest airport is Langkawi International Airport in Malaysia)

Day 2: Dive in Koh Lipe

Day 3: Transfer to Koh Lanta by boat

Day 4: Dive in Koh Lanta

Day 5: Transfer to Phuket or Koh Phi Phi by boat

Day 6: Dive in Phuket or Koh Phi Phi

Day 7: Transfer to Khao Lak

Day 8-11: Begin 4N/5D liveaboard

Day 12: Departure day (You'll likely fly home from Phuket International Airport)