Elephant Head - Similan Islands

Elephant Head, or Hin Pusa as it’s known locally, is one of those Similan sites we always look forward to. It’s a granite boulder labyrinth, not a coral reef, and that’s precisely why we love it. You drop into this maze of swim-throughs and tunnels, feeling the slight surge pull you through narrow passages. Sunlight shafts pierce the openings, illuminating schools of blue and gold fusiliers that swirl so thick they momentarily block your view. Our favourite part is navigating the deeper sections, where you’re often rewarded with a glimpse of blotcheye soldierfish tucked into crevices. Keep an eye out for scribbled angelfish cruising the rock faces and poss' scorpionfish perfectly camouflaged on the granite. The sheer scale of these boulders, some the size of small houses, is impressive. Current here can be a bit frisky, especially around the outer pinnacles, so it’s best for divers comfortable with a drift. We’d suggest going early in the morning before other boats arrive; it gives you the space to truly appreciate the quiet grandeur of the place.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
8.619623, 97.640820
Type
pinnacle
Maximum Depth
15-35m

Marine Protected Area: Mu Ko Similan

Best Time to Dive in Similan Islands

The warmest water temperatures in Similan Islands occur in May, averaging 30.8°C. The coolest conditions are in January at 28.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 28.6°C
  • February: 29.0°C
  • March: 29.6°C
  • April: 30.6°C
  • May: 30.8°C
  • June: 29.9°C
  • July: 29.6°C
  • August: 29.3°C
  • September: 29.0°C
  • October: 29.0°C
  • November: 29.2°C
  • December: 28.7°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Similan Islands

Nearest Dive Centres to Elephant Head

Marine Life in Similan Islands

Home to 183 recorded species including 127 reef fish, 38 hard corals, 9 seagrass & algae, 4 sharks & rays, 2 other, 1 octopus & squid.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Elephant Head

Based on average water temperature of 29.4°C, currents 7 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