Koh Doc Mai - Similan Islands

Koh Doc Mai, or Flower Island, stands as a prominent limestone outcrop between Phuket and the Similans. We often hit it when transiting, and it rarely disappoints. The walls drop away dramatically on three sides, absolutely plastered with colourful soft corals that live up to the island's name. It's a fantastic place for poking into cracks and crevices; we regularly spot moray eels, octopus, and the occasional ornate ghost pipefish tucked away. The site suits divers who enjoy a slower pace, keen to scour every inch of the wall for macro life, though we've certainly seen leopard sharks resting on the sandy bottom too. We'd suggest going early to avoid the crowds from day boats.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
7.790000, 98.480000

Marine Protected Area: Phuket Environmental Protected Area

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 Koh Doc Mai

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 Koh Doc Mai

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Koh Doc Mai?
The typical depth range for diving at Koh Doc Mai is not specified in the provided data. However, as it is described as one of the best wall dives in the area, divers can expect the walls to drop steeply, potentially offering opportunities for deeper exploration. For more information on dive sites in the Similan Islands, please explore our resources.
What kind of marine life and underwater features can divers expect to see at Koh Doc Mai?
Divers at Koh Doc Mai can expect to explore a huge limestone rock that rises steeply from the sea, featuring sheer walls that drop straight down. The site is renowned for its beautiful and colourful flower-like corals covering every surface, which inspired its name 'Flower Island'. It is a favourite site due to the sheer diversity of marine life present, making it a vibrant wildlife encounter.
How challenging is diving at Koh Doc Mai, and what level of diving experience is recommended?
Diving at Koh Doc Mai is rated as intermediate in difficulty. Divers should possess a level of experience suitable for intermediate conditions, which often includes managing potential currents or deeper profiles associated with wall diving. This site is considered one of the best wall dives in the Similan Islands.
What is the best time of year to dive Koh Doc Mai for optimal conditions and visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year to dive Koh Doc Mai for optimal conditions and visibility is not available in the provided data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on diving seasons in Thailand.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Koh Doc Mai?
While specific certifications are not listed, Koh Doc Mai is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. Divers should hold certifications and experience appropriate for intermediate conditions, which typically means being comfortable with wall diving and potentially varying depths. It's always wise to dive within your training and experience limits.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Koh Doc Mai dive site?
The provided data does not include specific information about the typical current conditions or visibility at the Koh Doc Mai dive site. Divers should always consult with local dive operators for the most current conditions before planning their dive.