What to Know about Koh Tao a Scuba Diving Paradise

Thailand is also known as the Land of Smiles, but it can also go by the name Land of Beaches, as it has a lot of many picturesque beaches you can explore. In fact, the islands around Koh Samui are the best for underwater adventures. One such island is called Koh Tao and it is considered a popular scuba diving destination in Thailand. If you want to try scuba diving or hope to get your Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) certification in Thailand, then Koh Tao is the place to be—or dive, for that matter. Below are some of the things you need to know about Koh Tao as a scuba-diving paradise.

Koh Tao: Paradise in Koh Samui

This island is surrounded by shallow bays, rock pinnacles, and reefs. Given these fascinating underwater features, this is a perfect place for new and seasoned divers. The island’s visually stunning beauty makes for a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Some islands may alarm you with stories of different critters such as sharks and turtles lurking in the waters around them. In Koh Tao’s case, however, it is deemed safe for scuba divers. You certainly won’t regret diving in such a paradise.

Best Time for Scuba Diving

You might be wondering what the best time to dive in Koh Tao is. According to diving experts and some locals, the best time to go diving in Koh Tao is from July to August. This is because the waters around Koh Tao are a lot more comfortable in these months, at 29 degrees in temperature, and the visibility is around 20 meters. The November to December monsoon season can have poor visibility while mid-February to May season has hot weather with a water temperatures of about 31 degrees. However, you can visit Koh Tao any time of the year if you are interested in seeing whale sharks.

Diving Sites in Koh Tao

Koh Tao has a wide array of diving sites, each of which is spectacular in its own way. You can explore the different coral and rock formations there, and get up close and personal with a plethora of marine life as well. When you go below the surface, you will also see artificial homes made by man for the sea creatures that live in these waters. You can ask the numerous diving schools and tour companies on the island for help. For your reference, here are the top three diving sites in Koh Tao that you may want to explore:

● HTMS Sattakut – HTMS Sattakut is located close to Sairee Beach. It is excellent for experienced divers as well as trainees. You can explore a military vessel sunk in 2011, which settled at a depth of 30 meters. You can also witness a number of yellowtail barracuda, trevally, blennies, and moray eels. This diving site is perfect for thrillseekers who are eager to explore a shipwreck.

● White Rock – Next on the list is White Rock. It is located off the coast of Sairee Beach. It ranges from 1m to 20m deep. When you dive here, you can see angelfish and butterflyfish, as well as the endangered hawksbill and green turtles. If you are looking for one of the best diving sites near the island, White Rock is for you. Divers of all skill levels will have a good time here due to its favorable depth.

● Chumphon Pinnacle – Last on the list is Chumphon Pinnacle. It is located offshore 12km in the northwest coast of Koh Tao. It features granite and coral pinnacles. These are home to schools of barracuda, batfish and the giant groupers. Chances are you may see a whale shark or a manta ray here. These creatures make an appearance on rare occasions. If you are an experienced, skilled diver, Chumphon Pinnacle is for you.

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