The Best Dive Sites in Koh Tao: A Complete Guide

Even if you’re not an experienced diver or are just beginning to take an interest in diving, you probably know that Koh Tao, a small Thai island in the Andaman Sea, is an international diving mecca. It has been for decades and continues to hold that title thanks to its vast selection of dive schools (including DPM Diving, with over 10 years of experience on the island) and the magnificent conditions of its underwater environments. If you’re considering a visit, in this article, we’ve gathered the best dive sites to help you make the most of your diving experience in Koh Tao.

Why Dive in Koh Tao?

If Koh Tao has been training and welcoming hundreds of thousands of divers for decades, it’s for a reason. Known as the “Turtle Island,” it’s a place that captivates visitors with its crystal-clear waters, rich biodiversity, and accessible dive sites for all levels of divers. In fact, Koh Tao has traditionally been an excellent place to start your diving journey and obtain the ‘Open Water’ certification.

Combine that with an unparalleled atmosphere of travellers from all over the world eager to have a great time and enjoy the ‘after-diving’ experience, and the answer is clear: yes, you must visit Koh Tao and live the true Thai diving adventure.

8 Dive Sites in Koh Tao

There are many dive sites around Koh Tao, but here we detail the most recommended ones for different types of divers.

Chumphon Pinnacle

This is one of Koh Tao’s most famous dive sites, characterised by its impressive granite pinnacles rising from the seabed. You can find barracudas, giant groupers, and if you’re lucky, the whale shark, especially in the right season.
This site is ideal for intermediate and advanced divers due to its depth and occasional currents. Don’t forget your underwater camera to capture the abundant marine life.

Sail Rock

Although technically located between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, Sail Rock is a must-visit dive site. It’s famous for its “chimney,” a vertical formation where divers can ascend or descend in a spiral. You’ll see large schools of barracudas, batfish, and sometimes whale sharks.

Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to dive early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Shark Island

This small islet is named after its shape, which resembles a shark’s fin. It offers an impressive diversity of underwater landscapes with reef sharks, rays, and a wide variety of soft and hard corals.
Currents can be strong, especially on the eastern side, so it’s advisable to be prepared or opt for the calmer western side.

Southwest Pinnacle

A site made up of a series of submerged pinnacles covered in anemones and corals, providing a stunning visual display. You’ll see schools of fusilier fish, jacks, and occasionally bull sharks.

It’s best visited in the early morning to take advantage of the best visibility and avoid the crowds.

Japanese Gardens

Located near the famous Koh Nang Yuan beach, this site is perfect for beginner divers due to its calm waters and shallow depth. With a variety of tropical fish and corals, it’s an excellent place to spot clownfish and turtles.
Ideal for a relaxed dive or snorkelling. Conditions are generally calm, making it perfect for those new to diving.

White Rock

One of the largest and most diverse dive sites in Koh Tao, White Rock offers a wide range of marine life at different depth levels. From garden eels in the sand to barracudas and turtles around the reef.

This site is great for both daytime and night dives. At night, you can spot crabs, shrimp, and other nocturnal creatures.

Green Rock

This site is famous for its small caves and swim-throughs, making it an exciting experience for more adventurous divers. You’ll see triggerfish, turtles, and occasionally reef sharks.
Be cautious with the triggerfish, especially during mating season, as they can be territorial. This site is better suited for divers with some experience.

Hin Wong Bay

A quiet bay on the eastern coast of Koh Tao, ideal for divers looking for a less crowded spot. A place with an abundance of corals and small reef fish. Rays and cuttlefish can also be seen here.
Visibility can vary, so it’s best to visit during low tide. It’s an excellent place for a peaceful and relaxing dive.

Map of Dive Sites in Koh Tao

Here are all the best dive sites in Koh Tao located on the map: