Island trekking and scuba in Thailand...

[SaltySpit]

(this is actually a repost of an email from a friend of mine, but I thought I might post it here and see if I can fish for some answers for him)

I'm going to be in Thailand for a few weeks next month, and I am looking for an Island that would be decent for diving, but also good for some trekking as well (hiking, waterfalls, etc.) Unfortunately, this trip is less of a dive adventure since my girlfriend doesn't dive, but she is really into hiking and stepping off the beaten path. In any case, I want to get a few days of diving in and perhaps coax her into trying it out, but also have other activities available to her other than getting drunk on the beach and diving since those are really activities of my own. Any suggestions on a well rounded area? Let me know... Thanks.

 

[Ringo]

Although not an island, Khao Lak sounds like the area for you.

 

[Bowmouth]

Koh Chang close to the Cambodian border and/or Koh Tarutao (Koh Lipe) close to the Malysian border sounds like the right place for you and your girlfriend.
Diving won't be "superb" in those areas but there are some ok dives to be done and it got waterfalls, lots of of forest, secluded beaches and wildlife. Both areas are sort of the beaten track but have ok accomodation facilities, restaurants and even some bars and pubs.