Koh Tao diving spots are some of the most popular in Thailand, attracting both novice and seasoned divers. Koh Tao’s vibrant reefs and clear, warm waters make it ideal for underwater adventures, and it’s also one of the most affordable places to get diving certifications. Whether you’re seeking your first dive experience or looking to explore thrilling underwater landscapes, Koh Tao has something for every diver.

For those looking to explore more of Koh Tao’s natural beauty, check out our Ultimate Guide to Hiking Trails in Koh Tao for a well-rounded adventure on land and sea.

1. Chumphon Pinnacle 🐠

• Location: 11 km northwest of Koh Tao
• Depth: 14 to 35 meters
• Highlights: Known for large schools of trevally, barracuda, and sightings of whale sharks
• Pro Tip 📝: Arrive early to avoid crowds and increase your chances of spotting larger marine life.

Chumphon Pinnacle is often at the top of every diver’s list of Koh Tao diving spots. This deep-water site showcases Koh Tao’s iconic granite pinnacles and attracts large schools of fish, including trevally and barracuda. Chumphon Pinnacle is also known for its whale shark sightings, particularly between March and May. For many, a whale shark encounter at Chumphon is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

2. Sail Rock 🌊

• Location: Between Koh Tao and Koh Phangan
• Depth: Up to 40 meters
• Highlights: Features a vertical chimney swim-through from 18 to 10 meters, frequented by pelagic species
• Pro Tip 📝: Ideal for advanced divers due to its depth and potential for strong currents.

Sail Rock, a famous diving site accessible from both Koh Tao and Koh Phangan, is home to the iconic chimney—a vertical swim-through that brings you from 18 to 10 meters. This site frequently draws large schools of snapper, barracuda, and other pelagic species, making it a thrilling experience for experienced divers. Sail Rock is one of the Koh Tao diving spots that captures the true essence of Thailand’s underwater treasures.

To explore more unique snorkeling and diving spots in Thailand, consider our Best Snorkeling Spots in Thailand guide.

3. Southwest Pinnacle 🌅

• Location: 7 km southwest of Koh Tao
• Depth: 5 to 28 meters
• Highlights: Submerged pinnacles with vibrant coral gardens and a variety of fish species
• Pro Tip 📝: Visibility is best between July and September, making it ideal for underwater photography.

Southwest Pinnacle is made up of a series of submerged pinnacles surrounded by vibrant coral gardens and large schools of fish. As one of the more picturesque Koh Tao diving spots, it’s popular among underwater photographers for its bright colors and diverse marine life. The pinnacles here attract groupers, barracudas, and sometimes even juvenile reef sharks.

4. Shark Island 🦈

• Location: 1 km off the southern tip of Koh Tao
• Depth: 15 to 28 meters
• Highlights: Known for diverse marine life, including groupers, butterflyfish, and turtles.
• Pro Tip 📝: Be cautious of occasional strong currents; best for divers with experience.

Shark Island gets its name from its shape, which resembles a shark fin when seen from above. While it’s not particularly known for shark sightings, Shark Island’s vibrant coral landscape and diverse marine inhabitants make it an essential stop on the Koh Tao diving map. Divers can expect to see groupers, butterflyfish, and even the occasional turtle among its coral gardens.

For more shark-related adventures, check out our Shark Bay Koh Tao Guide. or explore Shark Research Institute to learn about shark conservation.

5. Green Rock 🐢

• Location: Northwest of Koh Nang Yuan
• Depth: 12 to 30 meters
• Highlights: Swim-throughs and caverns frequented by turtles and other reef fish
• Pro Tip 📝: Ideal for divers who enjoy exploring caves and spotting green turtles.

Green Rock offers an intricate underwater landscape with swim-throughs and caverns that make it a diver’s playground. As one of the Koh Tao diving spots where turtles are commonly sighted, Green Rock is particularly popular among those interested in observing marine life interactions.

Koh Tao diving spots are accessible year-round, though conditions vary across the seasons. Here’s a quick guide to the best times to dive:

• March to May: Warm waters (around 29°C) and high visibility make this period the best time to dive. It’s also peak season for whale shark sightings.
• July to September: Visibility remains good, with fewer crowds, making this an excellent time for underwater photography.
• November to January: Monsoon season brings rain and rough seas, reducing visibility and limiting dive options.

For a full overview of travel considerations, check out our Best Month to Visit Koh Tao.

Koh Tao is known as one of the most affordable places globally to get scuba certified, with numerous dive schools offering certifications under PADI, SSI, and other organizations. Courses range from Open Water to specialty dives, making it easy for visitors to tailor their experience based on their skill level and interests.

Ready to dive into Koh Tao diving spots? Book Your Tour today to explore options for certification courses.

Koh Tao’s marine diversity includes:

• Tropical Fish: Angelfish, parrotfish, and butterflyfish.
• Larger Species: Green and hawksbill turtles, reef sharks, and barracudas.
• Seasonal Visitors: Whale sharks are often spotted between March and May.

Pro Tip 📝: Keep a respectful distance from marine life for safety and to protect the environment.

• Dry Season (December–April): Expect sunny days, calm seas, and minimal rainfall.
• Monsoon Season (November–January): Be prepared for rain and possible dive cancellations due to rough seas.

Checking the weather forecast before your dive and consulting with your dive center are especially important during the monsoon season.

Our Guide for the best months to visit Koh Tao.

• Wetsuit: A 3mm shorty is typically enough due to Koh Tao’s warm waters.
• Dive Computer: Handy for monitoring depth and tracking bottom time.
• Surface Marker Buoy (SMB): Essential safety equipment, especially in areas with high boat traffic.

Pro Tip 📝: While most dive centers offer rental gear, bringing personal gear ensures a more comfortable and familiar fit.

To help protect Koh Tao’s marine ecosystem, all divers should follow eco-friendly practices, including:

• Avoid Touching Corals: Even a light touch can damage delicate coral structures.
• Maintain Buoyancy: To prevent accidental contact with the reef and reduce sediment disturbance.
• Minimize Waste: Be mindful of littering; avoid single-use plastics when possible.

Following these practices ensures Koh Tao diving spots remain beautiful for future divers. For more eco-friendly travel options, check out our Ultimate Guide to Hiking Trails in Koh Tao.

• Dive with a Buddy: Safety first!
• Equalize Regularly: Prevents discomfort and ear injury.
• Stay Hydrated: Diving can dehydrate, especially in warm weather.

Tip: Stay within your skill limits and consult with local dive guides if you’re new to a dive spot.

Koh Tao offers a variety of accommodations for all budgets, from beachfront bungalows to social hostels. For the best recommendations, see our Where to Stay in Koh Tao.

When is the best month to dive in Koh Tao?
March to May offers the best underwater conditions and visibility.

Can beginners dive at Chumphon Pinnacle?
Chumphon is recommended for divers with some experience due to its depth.

How do I get to Koh Tao?
Visit our How to Get to Koh Tao guide for detailed travel options.

Koh Tao diving spots offer an unforgettable experience, with each site promising unique marine encounters and underwater beauty. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Koh Tao’s waters await. Don’t miss out—Book Your Tour and dive into the best of Koh Tao today!