Whale watching in Thailand

Did you know you can go whale watching in Thailand? Even frequent visitors to Thailand are surprised that whales can be spotted in Thai waters. If you’re a nature lover or marine enthusiast, Thailand’s coastal waters offer a wonderful opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. 

Types of whales in Thailand

The star of whale watching in Thailand is the Bryde’s whale (pronounced ‘broodus’). This species (named after Norwegian businessman and whaler, Johan Bryde) prefers warmer waters and is commonly found in tropical regions like Southeast Asia. Unlike other whales that migrate to colder climates during certain times of the year, Bryde’s whales remain in tropical waters year-round, making Thailand a reliable spot to see them. 

Bryde’s whales use a filter-feeding system with fringed plates or bristles, known as ‘baleen’, hanging from the whales’ mouths. These act as sieves to strain seawater for food and make for a spectacular sight when the whale is feeding.  When they feed, Bryde’s whales first open their mouths when they are underwater. They then surge upwards above the sea surface with their mouths still wide open as they expel the water and use the baleen to filter out the food they need like fish and krill.

Bryde’s whales are relatively small compared to their cousins, such as blue whales or humpbacks, but they still make an imposing sight and can grow up to 15 metres in length and weigh up to 20 tons. 

Best locations to see whales in Thailand

Thailand’s long coastline provides numerous spots for whale watching. However, several key areas along the Gulf Coast are particularly known for whale sightings, each offering a unique experience. Naturally, there are no guarantees, but if you visit at specific times of the year there is a decent chance of seeing whales especially if you book a tour with knowledgeable local companies and guides who know the best locations and times to spot them.

Phetchaburi and Samut Sakhon

Best time for whale watching: August to October

The most popular whale watching spot in Thailand is in the Upper Gulf, particularly around Phetchaburi and Samut Sakhon provinces. These locations are convenient for Bangkok and are ideal for a day trip from the Thai capital. The relatively shallow waters attract large numbers of anchovies, which in turn draw Bryde’s whales. Tours usually leave from fishing villages such as Bang Tabun in Phetchaburi or Mahachai in Samut Sakhon, and tourists can expect to spend several hours out on the water.

Whale watching tours from this area offer the opportunity to observe the Bryde’s whale in its natural habitat, often seen breaching or performing ‘lunge feeding’ where the whales surface with mouths agape to scoop up schools of fish. Proximity to Bangkok and a good chance of spotting whales make this one of the most popular whale watching areas in Thailand.

Prachuap Khiri Khan

Best time for whale watching: October to December

Another hotspot for whale watching in Thailand is the quiet fishing town of Ban Krut and the bay at Ao Manao in Prachuap Khiri Khan province. The waters here are rich in fish and attract Bryde’s whales towards the end of the year when seas are calmer and fish are plentiful. These waters also attract dolphins and sea turtles making it an even more attractive destination for nature lovers.

This stretch of coastline is home to some lovely beach areas with the provincial capital of Prachuap Khiri Khan a charming destination in its own right. If you want to combine a beach holiday with whale watching, consider staying in this area. Accommodation is available in the town of Prachuap Khiri Khan and nearby Ao Manao. Alternatively, if you’d like more amenities and attractions you could opt to stay further north in Hua Hin.

Chumphon

Best time for whale watching: September to December

To the south of Prachuap Khiri Khan is the province of Chumphon, another excellent location for whale watching. The waters here are known for their rich marine ecosystems and, as with Prachuap, there is a chance here to spot not only whales but also dolphins. Chumphon’s coastline is dotted with small islands and coral reefs and is a good location for diving in addition to whale watching.

Ethical whale watching tours 

Whale watching in Thailand is an incredible experience, but it’s important to choose a tour operator that prioritises the well-being of the animals. Look for tours that follow responsible whale watching guidelines, such as maintaining a safe distance from the whales, not chasing or cornering them, and minimising noise and pollution.

Many local tour operators work in collaboration with conservation organisations to ensure that their activities are sustainable and do not harm the marine environment. When booking a whale watching tour, ask about their conservation efforts and ensure that they are operating in a way that protects the whales and other marine life.

Where to book whale watching trips

*Trips can be booked online with several operators including:
Bangkok whale watching
Love Wildlife Foundation
Wild Encounter Thailand

*The trips listed here are to help you make an informed choice; it does not mean we recommend one trip over another.

Whale watching advice

Book in advance: Whale watching tours, especially in the upper Gulf of Thailand, can fill up quickly during peak season. It’s best to book ahead to secure your spot.

• Bring binoculars and a camera: While the whales often come quite close to the boats, binoculars can enhance the experience, and a camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture the perfect shot.

• Wear sun protection: The tropical sun in Thailand can be intense, especially when you’re out on the water for several hours. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself.

• Stay patient: Whale watching is an unpredictable activity, and while the chances of spotting whales are high, it can sometimes take time. Be patient and enjoy the experience and serenity of being out on the water.