Due to the current coral bleaching, The National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation Department, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment have decided to announce a temporary closure of 18 key diving spots located in seven marine national parks in southern Thailand to prevent further damage to the affected reefs.

The diving spots are as follows:

• Koh Chueak in Hat Chao Mai Marine National Park, Trang
• Koh Bu Lone Mai Pai in Mu Koh Petra Marine National Park, Satun
• Koh Takieng, Koh Hin Ngam, Koh Rawi, Hat Sai Khao and Koh Dong in Tarutao Marine National Park, Satun
• Koh Ma Prao in Chumphon Marine National Park, Chumphon
• Hin Klang in Hat Nopparattara - Mu Koh Phi Phi Marine National Park, Krabi
• Ao Mae Yai Bay, Ao Mangkorn Bay, Ao Jak Bay, Ao Tao Bay and Koh Torinla in Mu Koh Surin Marine National Park, Phang Nga
• Ao Fai Wap Bay and Koh Payu (East of Eden) in Mu Koh Similan Marine National Park, Phang Nga

The closure will be from now until further notice. You can still access the islands, but diving is strictly prohibited. For more information, visit www.dnp.go.th.