Koh Yippon - Gulf of Thailand

Koh Yippon, tucked away in the northern reaches of Angthong Marine Park, offers a reliable, sheltered dive. It’s a site we often head to when conditions elsewhere are a bit choppy, and it rarely disappoints for a relaxed potter. The main draw is a collection of soft corals, big barrel sponges, and anemones in the shallows, making it a good spot for snorkelers too. Deeper down, past the 10-meter mark, we’ve often found large snappers hanging out, plus the occasional blue-spotted stingray cruising the sand. Schools of fusiliers and yellow-tailed barracuda can sometimes be so thick they almost block the light, which is always a treat. Maximum depth here is about 18 meters, so it’s a good choice for newer divers or those looking for a longer bottom time without pushing the limits.

Location
Gulf of Thailand, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.780000, 99.680000

Marine Protected Area: Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park

Best Time to Dive in Gulf of Thailand

The warmest water temperatures in Gulf of Thailand occur in January, averaging 28.2°C. The coolest conditions are in December at 28.2°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.2°C (air: 26.9°C)
  • February: 28.2°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • March: 28.2°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • April: 28.2°C (air: 29.1°C)
  • May: 28.2°C (air: 29.1°C)
  • June: 28.2°C (air: 28.6°C)
  • July: 28.2°C (air: 28.1°C)
  • August: 28.2°C (air: 28.2°C)
  • September: 28.2°C (air: 27.6°C)
  • October: 28.2°C (air: 27.2°C)
  • November: 28.2°C (air: 27.0°C)
  • December: 28.2°C (air: 26.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Gulf of Thailand

Nearest Dive Centres to Koh Yippon

Marine Life in Gulf of Thailand

Home to 167 recorded species including 126 reef fish, 18 hard corals, 7 sharks & rays, 6 seagrass & algae, 2 sea cucumbers, 2 clams & mussels.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Koh Yippon

Based on average water temperature of 28.2°C.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 28°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth range at Koh Yippon, and what is its maximum depth?
Koh Yippon is primarily a shallow dive site, offering a maximum depth of 18m. This makes it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of divers and snorkelers alike.
What kind of marine life and underwater topography can divers expect to see at Koh Yippon?
Divers at Koh Yippon can expect to explore a vibrant reef environment, rich with plenty of soft corals, barrel sponges, and anemones easily visible from the surface. In deeper sections, you can spot larger marine life such as large snappers, blue-spotted sting rays, and schools of fusiliers and yellow-tailed barracuda.
Is Koh Yippon considered a difficult dive site, suitable for beginners, or more for experienced divers?
Koh Yippon is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site, making it suitable for divers with some experience. Its mostly shallow nature and sheltered location also make it great for both scuba divers and snorkelers.
When is the best time of year to dive at Koh Yippon for optimal conditions and marine encounters?
Based on the provided data, specific information regarding the best time of year to dive at Koh Yippon for optimal conditions and marine encounters is not available. We recommend checking local dive operator information or our When to Dive section for seasonal insights.
What diving certifications are required or recommended for diving at Koh Yippon?
The provided data does not specify any particular diving certifications required or recommended for diving at Koh Yippon. Given its intermediate difficulty and maximum depth of 18m, an Open Water Diver certification would generally be sufficient. Always check with your chosen dive operator for their specific requirements.
What are the typical current and visibility conditions like at Koh Yippon?
Koh Yippon is found in a sheltered location within the Angthong Marine Park, suggesting generally calm conditions. However, the provided data does not offer specific details on typical current or visibility conditions. Divers should always consult local dive guides for up-to-date information on conditions at Koh Yippon.