Explore Thailand’s underwater treasures, from coral-covered pinnacles to whale shark encounters
Thailand is a diver’s paradise, offering warm waters, excellent visibility, and an incredible diversity of marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, the underwater world here never disappoints. From the famous Similan Islands to lesser-known gems, these are the top 5 dive sites in Thailand that deserve a place on your bucket list.
1. 🐠 Richelieu Rock – Similan Islands
Often rated as Thailand’s best dive site, Richelieu Rock is a stunning horseshoe-shaped pinnacle located in the open sea. It’s famous for attracting large pelagic species like whale sharks (especially from February to April), giant trevallies, barracudas, and schools of jacks.
What makes it special:
- Vibrant soft corals and anemones
- Macro life including harlequin shrimp, ghost pipefish, and seahorses
- Best visited via liveaboard trips from Khao Lak
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Best Time: November to April
2. 🐢 Hin Daeng & Hin Muang – Koh Lanta
These two sister sites offer some of the deepest wall diving in Thailand. Hin Daeng (“Red Rock”) and Hin Muang (“Purple Rock”) are remote, dramatic, and full of colour — and they’re among the best places to spot manta rays and occasional whale sharks.
What makes it special:
- Deep drop-offs and stunning soft coral walls
- Chance to see large pelagics
- Fewer divers than the Similan Islands
Level: Advanced
Best Time: November to May
3. 🐬 Koh Tao – Chumphon Pinnacle
Koh Tao is known as Thailand’s diving school, but it’s not just for beginners. Chumphon Pinnacle, located about 30 minutes by boat, is one of the island’s top advanced dive spots. Expect to see batfish, barracuda, groupers, and the elusive whale shark if you’re lucky.
What makes it special:
- A submerged granite pinnacle teeming with life
- Great visibility and excellent coral health
- Perfect for those who want to combine learning with real adventure
Level: Intermediate
Best Time: March to September
4. 🦈 Shark Point – Near Phuket
As the name suggests, Shark Point is known for regular sightings of leopard sharks dozing on the sandy seabed. It’s part of a marine sanctuary and features several limestone pinnacles covered in soft corals, sea fans, and sponge gardens.
What makes it special:
- Close to Phuket — ideal for day trips
- Gentle currents and relaxed conditions
- Colourful nudibranchs and macro life
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Best Time: November to May
5. 🐙 Sail Rock – Between Koh Phangan & Koh Tao
Sail Rock is the top dive site in the Gulf of Thailand, known for its famous chimney swim-through, vertical wall, and abundant schooling fish. It’s often visited on dive trips from Koh Tao, Koh Samui, or Koh Phangan.
What makes it special:
- Signature chimney swim-through
- Huge schools of trevally, snapper, and barracuda
- Great for both beginner and experienced divers
Level: All Levels
Best Time: May to September
🧳 Planning Your Dive Trip to Thailand
Thailand’s dive spots are scattered across both the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, so timing matters. For example:
- West Coast (Similan, Hin Daeng) = Best from November to April
- East Coast (Koh Tao, Sail Rock) = Best from May to September
Whether you want to join a liveaboard, stay in a dive resort, or mix diving with beach downtime, I can help you build the perfect itinerary.