Shark Island - Gulf of Thailand

Shark Island, or Koh Pung as some call it, sits just southeast of Koh Tao, a rocky outcrop that does vaguely resemble a shark fin breaking the surface. Don’t get your hopes up for big sharks every dive, though we have occasionally spotted a leopard shark lazily cruising the sandy patches, and turtles are a regular sight. The eastern side is generally our pick, with some interesting boulder formations dropping to around 17 metres. You’ll find plenty of smaller reef fish here, and it's one of the more consistent spots around Koh Tao to see orangespined unicornfish. Down on the south side, a soft coral garden at 14 metres adds a splash of colour. It’s a pretty gentle dive, suitable for newer divers looking for a relaxed tour of a classic Gulf of Thailand reef.

Location
Gulf of Thailand, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
10.061700, 99.844900
Maximum Depth
17m
Difficulty
Beginner

Marine Protected Area: Suratthani Environmental Protected Area

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 Shark Island

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 Shark Island

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 Shark Island in Koh Tao?
Diving at Shark Island typically ranges from shallow areas to a maximum depth of 17 metres. For instance, a beautiful soft coral garden can be found on the south side at 14 metres, offering diverse exploration opportunities.
What kind of marine life and corals can divers expect to see at Shark Island, Koh Tao?
Divers visiting Shark Island can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life. You'll find many types of tropical fish, and it's one of the few spots around Koh Tao where you might spot the unique orangespined unicornfish. Additionally, a soft coral garden thrives on the south side at 14 metres, and lucky divers sometimes encounter leopard sharks and turtles here.
How challenging is diving at Shark Island, Koh Tao, for different experience levels?
Diving at Shark Island is classified as Beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for divers of various experience levels. Its accessible conditions allow newer divers to explore its beautiful reef formations and diverse marine life comfortably.
When is the best time of year to dive Shark Island in Koh Tao for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data context does not specify the best time of year for optimal diving conditions or marine life sightings at Shark Island. For general information on seasonal diving in the region, you might consult our When to Dive guide.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Shark Island, Koh Tao?
Given that Shark Island is rated as Beginner difficulty, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient to enjoy this site. This certification allows divers to explore the reef and its marine inhabitants within safe recreational limits.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at Shark Island, Koh Tao?
The provided data context does not offer specific details regarding the usual current and visibility conditions at Shark Island. Divers should always check local conditions with their dive operator on the day of their dive for the most up-to-date information.