Koh Lipe, nestled at the edge of Thailand's Tarutao National Marine Park, offers divers an exceptional underwater experience. With its idyllic beaches and clear turquoise waters, this hidden gem is far less crowded than other popular Thai islands. The diving scene in Koh Lipe is spectacular, catering to both beginners and seasoned divers. The area boasts crystal-clear visibility and is home to a myriad of dive sites, featuring pristine coral reefs, dramatic pinnacles, and vibrant rock formations.
One of the most intriguing aspects of diving in Koh Lipe is the abundant marine life. With around 25% of the world's tropical fish species residing here, divers can witness a stunning array of creatures, from colorful reef fish to majestic whale sharks and graceful manta rays. The waters are also frequented by playful dolphins and elusive dugongs. Dive sites like Stone Henge and 8 Mile Rock are must-sees, each offering unique topographies and thrilling encounters. Whether diving from shore, boat, or liveaboard, Koh Lipe promises an unforgettable adventure beneath the waves.
Diving is mainly by boat, but there are a few shore diving possibilities, particularly when night diving. What’s more, reef diving on Koh Lipe is mesmerizing, thanks to the sites being well-protected and very uncrowded in comparison to many of Thailand’s premier diving destinations.
Koh Lipe also offers some exciting drift diving opportunities, such as at Koh Pung, Big Rocks or Express Way. Wreck enthusiasts will love the Yong Hua Wreck, which was 75 meter-long fish processing boat that caught fire and sank, and now serves as an artificial reef and fish magnet.
Pelagic diving is also a common favourite for visitors, especially at sites like 8 Mile Rock, which is somewhat better suited to more experienced divers, while Koh Sarang boasts fantastic topography, with pinnacles and walls where critters and corals coat the vast rocky formations.
In terms of diving, there really isn’t a bad time to dive in Koh Lipe. The diving scene is year-round, thanks to the welcoming tropical climate providing warm waters ranging from approximately 28°C-30°C throughout the seasons.
The high (and dry) season is from November to April, when the weather and diving conditions are usually excellent and divers are more likely to spot manta rays, devil rays and whale sharks. Also, popular dive sites like Pattaya Beach, Adang Beach and Koh Yang are all visited regularly due to their protection from winds during this season.
The monsoon season uusually runs from May to October, although that doesn’t mean inferior diving. Koh Lipe tends to enjoy a drier rainy season, with downpours predominantly occurring at night, leaving the daytime mostly dry with a few clouds here and there, meaning diving isn’t too affected. Plus, some of the most notable sites such as Talang, Stonehenge, 7 rocks and Koh Taru, are all great options in this season as they’re protected from the winds.
During the full moon or dark moon period, currents can be stronger, so make sure to be aware of this if current isn’t your thing. However, dive centers have the option of diving at sites that are protected from these currents, such as at Koh Talang or Koh Yang. In any given month, for the mildest currents and best visibility, the half moon period is the best time to dive.
Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content
