Best places to work as a diving instructor
In this series, we’ll explore the best places in Asia to work as a scuba diving instructor, showcasing career opportunities, dive sites, and lifestyle perks.
Koh Chang, Thailand
Tucked away on Thailand’s eastern coast, Koh Chang is a hidden gem for diving professionals. Known for its lush jungles, laid-back vibe, and warm hospitality, this island offers a unique blend of career opportunities and an unbeatable lifestyle for PADI instructors.
Career Opportunities in Koh Chang
Koh Chang’s dive industry is smaller than places like Phuket or Koh Tao, but that’s part of its charm. The island has a handful of well-regarded dive centers that prioritize quality over quantity, giving instructors a chance to work closely with students in small groups.
As a PADI instructor, you’ll find steady opportunities to teach Open Water, Advanced, and specialty courses. Koh Chang also offers easy access to dive sites ideal for beginner-level training, making it a great place for instructors who enjoy introducing people to the underwater world.
Underwater Beauty
Koh Chang’s dive sites may not have the big-name appeal of the Similan Islands, but they’re rich in charm and biodiversity. Reefs like Hin Luk Bat and Hin Rap are teeming with colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, and intriguing critters like cuttlefish and stingrays.
The island also features wreck diving opportunities, with the HTMS Chang wreck being a standout site. At over 100 meters long, it’s one of the largest shipwrecks in Thailand and a must-visit for advanced divers.
Lifestyle Perks
Life on Koh Chang is all about balance. When you’re not underwater, you can explore the island’s lush rainforests, hike to waterfalls, or relax on quiet beaches like Lonely Beach. The pace here is slower, making it ideal for those who want to escape the hustle of larger dive destinations.
The island’s affordability is another major perk, with inexpensive accommodations, delicious street food, and plenty of local markets. At night, you can unwind with fellow divers at cozy beach bars or enjoy live music by the shore.
What Makes Koh Chang Unique
Koh Chang’s blend of jungle and ocean creates a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. It’s one of the few places where you can go from teaching a dive course to trekking through dense greenery, all in the same day.
The sense of community is another standout feature. Koh Chang has a close-knit diving scene, making it easy to form lasting friendships with colleagues and locals alike.
Is Koh Chang the Right Fit for You?
Koh Chang is perfect for instructors who value a relaxed lifestyle and meaningful connections with their students and coworkers. If you’re looking for a quieter alternative to Thailand’s busier dive hotspots, this charming island might just be your next dream workplace.
Become a PADI diving instructor
Being a PADI diving instructor is truly the best job in the world! You get to live and work in stunning tropical destinations, stay active every day, and share your love for the underwater world.
Dreaming of becoming a PADI diving instructor? Get in touch, and we’ll show you how!
