The Samui archipelago holds some of the best dive sites in Southeast Asia. Many of the sites are not only spectacular but also suitable for beginners as they are in shallow waters of protected bays. In fact, the area is so popular and supports so many dive schools that it now accounts for substantial percentage of all the new dive masters certified in the world.
While there are good dive sites around the main tourist islands Samui and Phangan, the 'Mecca' for divers is Tao Island at the far north end of the island group. Tao, which means turtle, has a wide range of accommodations and dozens of dive companies to fit you out. For all the details, see our sister site, the SEA Undersea guide.