reef

Log This Dive

Tao Bay

Tao Bay, on Similan Island Number One, is one of those sites we always try to hit, especially if we’re looking for a slightly more relaxed dive. It’s got a lovely, gradual slope, starting shallow over a sandy bottom, perfect for easing into the day or a long safety stop. What really stands out are the sheer thickets of staghorn coral, a real maze of branches that just goes on and on. You can spend ages poking around, spotting blennies peeking out or juvenile wrasse darting between the coral heads. We’ve seen bullethead parrotfish grazing here, their strong beaks crunching away, and sometimes a big argus grouper will cruise past, eyeing us up. Our favourite part has to be the large patches of seagrass where we often find blackbelly pygmies, almost impossible to spot unless you’re really looking. Visibility is usually pretty solid, letting the light dapple through the water, making the corals glow. It’s a gentle dive, ideal for photographers wanting to take their time or newer divers building confidence, though even seasoned pros will find plenty to keep them entertained here.