Ao Hin Ngam - Koh Tao

We really like Ao Hin Ngam, especially when the light hits just right in the late morning. It’s got a lovely, natural feel to it, a bit more rugged than some of the more manicured sites around Koh Tao. What makes it standout for us are the big, sprawling patches of staghorn coral. They’re everywhere, creating this intricate habitat, and if you take your time, you’ll spot all sorts of small stuff darting in and out. We’ve spent ages here just watching the pink anemonefish. They’re always busy, fiercely guarding their homes. Keep an eye out for blue-spotted stingrays tucked into the sand flats too, especially as you drift away from the main coral bommies. Visibility here can sometimes be a bit variable, particularly after a strong rain, but when it’s good, the water has that lovely warm, green hue that’s classic Koh Tao. We’d suggest this one for divers who appreciate a slower pace, those who like to really observe rather than just cruise past. You won’t find huge pelagics, but the sheer density of reef fish, like the big schools of blue and gold fusiliers, is really impressive. Look for the blackfin barracuda hanging out in the deeper sections, often just watching the world go by.

Location
Koh Tao, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
10.067682, 99.841100

Marine Protected Area: Suratthani Environmental Protected Area

Best Time to Dive in Koh Tao

The warmest water temperatures in Koh Tao occur in May, averaging 30.6°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C
  • February: 28.6°C
  • March: 29.3°C
  • April: 30.2°C
  • May: 30.6°C
  • June: 30.2°C
  • July: 30.0°C
  • August: 29.7°C
  • September: 29.4°C
  • October: 29.2°C
  • November: 29.3°C
  • December: 28.6°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Koh Tao

Nearest Dive Centres to Ao Hin Ngam

Marine Life in Koh Tao

Home to 56 recorded species including 35 reef fish, 11 sharks & rays, 4 other, 2 hard corals, 1 clams & mussels, 1 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Ao Hin Ngam

Based on average water temperature of 29.5°C, currents 14 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°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