Koh Dor - Similan Islands

Koh Dor is a solid afternoon stop in the Similans, particularly if you’re keen on seeing blacktip reef sharks. We’ve found the best chance to spot them is actually on snorkel, right around lunchtime, on the west side of the island; they can be a bit shy on scuba, but a fleeting glimpse isn’t out of the question. Underwater, it’s a good mix of hard corals like those big Porites and Diploastrea Heliopora, alongside soft corals, sea whips, and some impressive barrel sponges. It’s a pleasant, easy dive, probably best for those who appreciate healthy reef structure and don’t mind a quiet afternoon seeking out elusive sharks.

Location
Similan Islands, Thailand, Southeast Asia
Coordinates
7.966700, 98.750000

Marine Protected Area: Hat Noppharat Thara-Mu ko Phi Phi

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 Dor

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 Dor

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