Surat Thani dive sites
Thailand · Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions.
Best Season
February to October, March to October, March-September, March to September
Skill Levels
beginner, advanced
Nearby Cities
Koh Samui, Koh Tao
All dive sites
Ang Thong Marine Park
Koh Samui · Surat Thani · Thailand
A protected archipelago of 42 limestone islands west of Koh Samui where sheltered reefs between dramatic karst formations harbour healthy coral gardens, reef sharks, and sea turtles in the Gulf of Thailand's most scenic marine park.
Southwest Pinnacle
Koh Tao · Surat Thani · Thailand
A granite pinnacle complex rising from the sandy seabed southwest of Koh Tao, renowned for bull sharks, large groupers, and vibrant soft coral gardens on its stepped granite boulders.
Tanote Bay
Koh Tao · Surat Thani · Thailand
A boulder-strewn bay on Koh Tao's eastern coast where granite formations create swim-throughs and caves, hawksbill turtles rest in crevices, and artificial reef projects have revitalised the marine environment.
Twins Pinnacles
Koh Tao · Surat Thani · Thailand
Twin granite pinnacles rising from a sandy seabed off Koh Nang Yuan, beloved by new divers for shallow coral gardens and abundant reef fish in consistently warm, clear Gulf of Thailand water.
Diving in Surat Thani
Surat Thani offers reef, pinnacle dive sites across 2 locations. Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions before planning your dive.
FAQ
How do I arrange diving in Ang Thong Marine Park?
Dive trips to Ang Thong depart from Koh Samui, with the boat journey taking approximately one to two hours depending on weather and the specific dive sites visited. Several Koh Samui dive operators run day trips that combine two dives with surface intervals spent exploring the islands, including the famous Emerald Lake viewpoint. Advance booking is recommended as trips run weather-dependent and group sizes are limited by park regulations.
Is the marine park open year round?
Ang Thong Marine Park typically closes during November and December due to northeast monsoon conditions that make boat travel unsafe and reduce visibility. The park occasionally extends closures into January depending on weather patterns. February through October is the operating season, with March to May offering the calmest seas and best visibility. Park entrance fees apply and are collected by the Department of National Parks.
What is the visibility like compared to Koh Tao?
Visibility in Ang Thong is generally comparable to Koh Tao, ranging from 8 to 20 metres depending on season and recent weather. The sheltered channels between islands often provide better visibility than open water sites as the limestone karst reduces wave action and sediment suspension. During the optimal months of March to May, visibility can reach 20 metres in the clearer areas. The Gulf of Thailand never matches Andaman Sea clarity, but the marine life density compensates.
What skill level is required for Southwest Pinnacle?
Southwest Pinnacle is rated as an advanced dive site due to its depth of up to 26 metres, potential currents that can range from mild to strong, and the open-water nature of the pinnacle complex. Divers should hold an Advanced Open Water certification at minimum and have at least 30 logged dives. Current awareness and proper buoyancy control are essential, as currents can shift direction during the dive. Most dive operators on Koh Tao require a checkout dive before taking divers to this site.
When is the best time to see bull sharks at Southwest Pinnacle?
Bull shark sightings at Southwest Pinnacle are most frequent between December and March when water temperatures in the Gulf of Thailand drop slightly. During this period divers occasionally spot solitary bulls or small groups cruising along the deeper flanks of the pinnacle below 22 metres. Sightings are never guaranteed and depend on conditions, visibility, and current patterns. The calmer seas between March and May also provide excellent conditions for the dive even without shark encounters.