Thai Scuba Dive - Koh Tao

Thai Scuba Dive often gets overlooked for some of Koh Tao’s bigger names, but we think that’s a mistake. It’s not about grand pinnacles or dramatic swim-throughs here. Instead, what we love is the sheer density of everyday reef life that congregates in its shallow, sheltered bays. We’re talking about schools of blue and gold fusiliers so thick they momentarily block out the sun, swarming around the coral bommies. Our favourite time to dive here is early morning, before the dive boats from Sairee get too numerous. Drop down and spend some time scanning the sandy patches for Goldmann’s sandgobies, always a treat to watch them darting in and out of their burrows. You’ll weave around brain corals and some surprisingly colourful patches of whip coral, keeping an eye out for blacktip soldierfish lurking in the shadows. It’s a gentle dive, perfect for photographers wanting to capture those macro shots or newer divers building confidence. You won't typically find strong currents here, making for a relaxed exploration amongst crescent grunters and the occasional inquisitive wrasse.

Location
Koh Tao, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
9.454941, 100.037880

Marine Protected Area: Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park

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 Thai Scuba Dive

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 Thai Scuba Dive

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