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 Lipe
Nestled in the southern Andaman Sea, Koh Lipe is often called the “Maldives of Thailand” for its powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters. While it may not have the bustling dive industry of Phuket, Koh Lipe offers something even more enchanting: a chance to work in a pristine paradise that feels like a hidden gem.
Career Opportunities in Koh Lipe
Although Koh Lipe is smaller than other Thai dive destinations, the island has a handful of well-established dive shops catering to both beginners and seasoned divers. As a PADI Instructor, you’ll find opportunities to teach courses ranging from Discover Scuba Diving to advanced specialties like Underwater Photography or Nitrox Diving.
The island’s slower pace and smaller dive industry mean you’ll often work with small groups, allowing you to form meaningful connections with your students. Many dive centers here focus on conservation, offering instructors the chance to get involved in marine protection initiatives—a rewarding bonus for environmentally conscious professionals.
Underwater Beauty
Koh Lipe is part of the Tarutao National Marine Park, which boasts some of Thailand’s healthiest coral reefs. Dive sites like Stonehenge, 8 Mile Rock, and Hin Ngam feature vibrant soft corals, schools of pelagic fish, and macro critters perfect for underwater photography.
Lucky divers might spot manta rays or whale sharks during the right season, while muck diving enthusiasts can marvel at nudibranchs, pipefish, and seahorses. The waters are typically calm and clear, making them ideal for teaching beginner courses.
Lifestyle Perks
Koh Lipe’s charm lies in its simplicity. The island is small enough to walk from one side to the other, and its laid-back vibe is perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. Imagine starting your day with a beachside coffee, spending your afternoon underwater, and ending the day watching a breathtaking sunset at Sunset Beach.
The lack of cars keeps the island peaceful, and the warm, welcoming community of locals and expats makes it easy to feel at home. Despite its remote vibe, you’ll find plenty of cozy restaurants, beachfront bars, and local markets to enjoy.
What Makes Koh Lipe Unique
What sets Koh Lipe apart is its commitment to sustainable tourism. Dive shops here often collaborate on reef cleanups and coral restoration projects, so working as an instructor feels like you’re truly giving back to the ocean you love.
The island’s remoteness adds to its charm. It’s not as easy to get to as Phuket or Koh Tao, but that’s what makes it special—you’re working in a place that feels untouched and exclusive.
Is Koh Lipe the Right Fit for You?
Koh Lipe is perfect for instructors who value quality over quantity and dream of working in a tranquil environment. It’s an excellent fit for those passionate about marine conservation and building personal connections with students.
If you’re ready to trade the hustle of city life for a simpler, more rewarding existence, Koh Lipe might just be your diving instructor 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!