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Ao Sane Beach

A Great Snorkeling Spot in Phuket

Ao Sane Beach in Phuket, Thailand

Tucked away just next to Nai Harn Beach on Phuket’s southern coast, Ao Sane Beach is one of the island’s best-kept secrets for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Small, rugged, and beautifully natural, it offers a peaceful escape from the busier beaches nearby. Access is unusual — you have to drive under the Nai Harn Resort, then follow a narrow, winding road up the hillside until the sea comes into view.

 

Ao Sane is divided into three small coves, each separated by granite boulders. The coarse, golden sand gives way to shallow, rocky water rich with coral formations and marine life. This makes Ao Sane one of Phuket’s finest snorkeling spots, especially during the dry season when visibility is crystal-clear. You can rent snorkeling or diving gear directly on the beach, and there’s also a small dive center catering to beginners and experienced divers alike.

 

A relaxed beachfront restaurant and bar serves simple Thai and international dishes, perfect for a leisurely lunch between swims. The atmosphere is quiet and laid-back — more local than touristic — and the scenery, with views over the Andaman Sea and nearby islands, is truly photogenic.

Ao Sane scene

Ao Sane Beach Highlights

  • One of Phuket’s best snorkeling and diving spots

  • Beautiful, unspoiled setting with calm atmosphere

  • Simple beachfront restaurant and bar

  • Snorkeling and diving gear available for rent

View of Ao Sane with beach goers

Ao Sane Beach Drawbacks

  • Rocky seabed and large boulders — water shoes recommended

  • Access road is narrow and parking is limited

  • Not ideal for casual swimming or young children

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Ao Sane is from December to April, when the sea is calm and visibility is perfect for snorkeling and diving. During the low season, strong waves and currents can make swimming difficult, and access by road may occasionally be slippery after rain.

Ao Sane Photos

Ao Sane Map

Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & writer

Stéphane Audiger - Photographer & Writer

Passionate about photography since the mid-2000s, I’ve spent years capturing the beauty of Phuket and southern Thailand — from beaches and islands to festivals and daily life. My work reflects a lasting love for the region and its ever-changing light.

Last visit & photos: Ao Sane — 21 November 2015

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