Explore Koh Tao

Koh Tao, located in the Chumphon Archipelago of Thailand, is a haven for divers seeking vibrant marine life and diverse underwater landscapes. This tropical paradise is renowned for its breathtaking coral gardens, intriguing shipwrecks, and dramatic drop-offs that offer an exciting diving experience for both novices and seasoned divers. The waters around the island teem with colorful tropical fish, elegant eels, and majestic pelagics like reef and leopard sharks, making every dive a unique encounter with the ocean's wonders.

One of the key attractions of Koh Tao is its accessibility and affordability, with numerous dive centers providing courses from beginner levels to advanced certifications. The island's calm, clear waters are ideal for newcomers to earn their open water certifications, while more challenging sites cater to advanced divers. Additionally, the island offers a vibrant community for aspiring dive professionals to begin their careers, with courses available for divemasters and instructors.

Most dive sites on Koh Tao are accessible by boat, with operators typically offering two-tank dive trips, allowing divers to explore the island's natural beauty above and below the surface. Liveaboards frequently include Koh Tao in their itineraries, providing divers the opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity of the Chumphon Archipelago. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Koh Tao promises an unforgettable underwater adventure with its rich marine ecosystems and stunning landscapes.

Places to Explore

Koh Nangyaun

7 Divesites

This unique island, actually three separate islands connected by a beach, Koh Nangyuan has four beautiful dive sites with some interesting underwater topography

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Diver Level Programs / Courses

Echo Divers

Advanced Open Water Diver

Contact the Center for more information.

If you cannot decide which specialty programs are the best choice for you, join the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program! You will try Deep Diving and Navigation plus a variety of 3 more specialty areas of choice before committing to full specialty training. It is a great way to experience what advanced diver training is all about and how valuable it can be to your diving adventures. During the Advanced Open Water Diver Program, you will experience 5 different specialties by completing one open water training dive per specialty after a comprehensive briefing with your SSI Instructor. By taking this program you will have total freedom to explore. You can complete the full Specialty trainings any time in the future and credit your Advanced Open Water Diver training towards them.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

The Diver’s Boat

Advanced Open Water Diver

14 Nov 2025

If you cannot decide which specialty programs are the best choice for you, join the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program! You will try Deep Diving and Navigation plus a variety of 3 more specialty areas of choice before committing to full specialty training. It is a great way to experience what advanced diver training is all about and how valuable it can be to your diving adventures. During the Advanced Open Water Diver Program, you will experience 5 different specialties by completing one open water training dive per specialty after a comprehensive briefing with your SSI Instructor. By taking this program you will have total freedom to explore. You can complete the full Specialty trainings any time in the future and credit your Advanced Open Water Diver training towards them.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

Crystal Dive

Advanced Open Water Diver

15 Nov 2025 + 1 more

The SSI Advanced Open Water Course is the perfect next step for certified divers who want to build confidence, try specialty dives, and unlock deeper dive limits. Over two days, you’ll complete five adventure dives with one of our experienced instructors in a small group of no more than four students. You’ll choose the dives that interest you most, such as Wreck Diving, Night Diving, and more. Deep Diving and Navigation are key components of the course, with your certification allowing you to dive up to 30 metres worldwide.

Professional Level Programs / Courses

Koh Tao Divers

Assistant Instructor

01 Dec 2025

The Assistant Instructor rating is the next step after becoming a Divemaster along the scuba instructor pathway. It allows you to collect valuable teaching experience, practice briefings, teach academics, and conduct in-water training. If you want to further your career as a dive professional, you can finish the Instructor Training Course, pass the Instructor Evaluation, and become an Open Water Diving Instructor.

Professional Level Programs / Courses

Koh Tao Divers

Open Water Instructor (Instructor Training Course ITC)

05 Dec 2025

Start today - You need to be a Divemaster or equivalent to join SSI´s 3-Step Instructor Training Approach. The training process starts with joining the Assistant Instructor / Instructor Training Course combination accompanied with Digital Learning. After successful completion of the Instructor Training Course (ITC) you will enroll in an Instructor Evaluation (IE) to qualify as an SSI Open Water Instructor. This 10 day training program entitles you to teach various key SSI programs independently like Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, Diver Stress & Rescue and Dive Guide. For those who want to take more time to learn and to gain valuable teaching experience between the training programs the 3 parts can also be taken as single steps - Assistant Instructor, Instructor Training Course (ITC) and Instructor Evaluation (IE) one after the other at own pace and with a flexible schedule.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

The Coral Tribe

Advanced Open Water Diver

05 Dec 2025 + 1 more

If you cannot decide which specialty programs are the best choice for you, join the SSI Advanced Open Water Diver program! You will try Deep Diving and Navigation plus a variety of 3 more specialty areas of choice before committing to full specialty training. It is a great way to experience what advanced diver training is all about and how valuable it can be to your diving adventures. During the Advanced Open Water Diver Program, you will experience 5 different specialties by completing one open water training dive per specialty after a comprehensive briefing with your SSI Instructor. By taking this program you will have total freedom to explore. You can complete the full Specialty trainings any time in the future and credit your Advanced Open Water Diver training towards them.

Instructor Evaluation

SSI Service Center Thailand (East Coast Region)

教练评估 - IE

06 Dec 2025

从今天开始 - 您需要成为潜水长或同等资格人员才能参加 SSI 的三步教官培训方法。培训过程从参加助理教练/教练培训课程开始，并结合数字学习。成功完成教练培训课程（ITC）后，您将参加教练评估（IE），以获得SSI开放水域教练资格。在为期 10 天的培训课程中，您可以独立教授 SSI 的各种主要项目，如水肺潜水员、开放水域潜水员、高氧空气潜水员、潜水员压力与救援以及潜水向导。

对于那些希望花更多时间学习并在培训课程之间获得宝贵教学经验的学员，也可以按照自己的进度和灵活的时间安排，将助理教练、教练培训课程（ITC）和教练评估（IE）这三个部分作为一个单独的步骤来学习。

Diver Level Programs / Courses

The Diver’s Boat

Open Water Diver

08 Dec 2025

This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

The Diver’s Boat

Open Water Diver

08 Dec 2025

This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

Instructor Evaluation

SSI Service Center Thailand (East Coast Region)

Tauchlehrer-Bewertung - IE

16 Dec 2025

Beginne noch heute - Du musst Divemaster oder gleichwertig sein, um an der 3-stufigen Tauchlehrerausbildung von SSI teilzunehmen. Der Ausbildungsprozess beginnt mit der Teilnahme an der Kombination Assistant Instructor / Instructor Training Course, begleitet von Digital Learning. Nach erfolgreichem Abschluss des Instructor Training Course (ITC) nimmst du an einer Instructor Evaluation (IE) teil, um dich als SSI Open Water Instructor zu qualifizieren. Dieses 10-tägige Trainingsprogramm berechtigt dich dazu, verschiedene wichtige SSI-Programme wie Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, Diver Stress & Rescue und Dive Guide selbstständig zu unterrichten.

Wer sich mehr Zeit zum Lernen nehmen und zwischen den Ausbildungsprogrammen wertvolle Unterrichtserfahrung sammeln möchte, kann die 3 Teile auch in Einzelschritten absolvieren - Assistant Instructor, Instructor Training Course (ITC) und Instructor Evaluation (IE) nacheinander im eigenen Tempo und mit flexiblem Zeitplan.

Instructor Evaluation

SSI Service Center Thailand (East Coast Region)

Tauchlehrer-Bewertung - IE

16 Dec 2025

Beginne noch heute - Du musst Divemaster oder gleichwertig sein, um an der 3-stufigen Tauchlehrerausbildung von SSI teilzunehmen. Der Ausbildungsprozess beginnt mit der Teilnahme an der Kombination Assistant Instructor / Instructor Training Course, begleitet von Digital Learning. Nach erfolgreichem Abschluss des Instructor Training Course (ITC) nimmst du an einer Instructor Evaluation (IE) teil, um dich als SSI Open Water Instructor zu qualifizieren. Dieses 10-tägige Trainingsprogramm berechtigt dich dazu, verschiedene wichtige SSI-Programme wie Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, Enriched Air Nitrox, Diver Stress & Rescue und Dive Guide selbstständig zu unterrichten.

Wer sich mehr Zeit zum Lernen nehmen und zwischen den Ausbildungsprogrammen wertvolle Unterrichtserfahrung sammeln möchte, kann die 3 Teile auch in Einzelschritten absolvieren - Assistant Instructor, Instructor Training Course (ITC) und Instructor Evaluation (IE) nacheinander im eigenen Tempo und mit einem flexiblen Zeitplan.

Diver Level Programs / Courses

Goodtime Adventures

React Right - Course Combination (FA, CPR, AED, O2)

05 Jan 2026

React Right is SSI’s emergency first response course and provides you with the training and knowledge you need to act as a first responder in a medical emergency. In this flexible dive program, you can choose which subjects you want to learn about, including primary assessment, first aid, CPR and primary stabilization techniques. You can also learn about oxygen administration in diving emergencies and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) basics. Using a combination of academic sessions and practical training scenarios, this program will give you the tools and confidence you need for emergency response. By the time you are certified, you will be able to act as an emergency first responder, provide first aid and CPR, administer oxygen and provide AED support in a medical emergency. Earn your SSI React Right specialty certification. Get started today!

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★★ Chumphon Pinnacle

The main pinnacle of Chumphon Pinnacle comes as shallow as 14 meters and the deepest point of the site goes as deep as 45 meters. Offering great opportunities for divers at Open Water level through to XR level.

106,602
Logs
51,462
Divers
24.0 m
⌀ Depth
16.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Jansom Bay

Jansom Bay dive site is located on the western side of Nan Yuan Island, adjacent to Koh Tao. Even on days when the ocean is rough and the waves are to the east, this dive site is in the shadow of the island, providing a calm environment for diving.

672
Logs
415
Divers
8.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★★ Southwest Pinnacle

30 to 45 minutes southwest of Koh Tao, these large pinnacles range from 30 to 5 m. Sandy ocean floor with big rocks on the south side. many cracks on the pinnacles where small wildlife can be found. The shallower parts of the pinnacles are covered in magnificent anemones.

45,545
Logs
25,869
Divers
21.0 m
⌀ Depth
15.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Shark Island

Shark Island ranges from a depth of 0 to 25 meters, making it one of Koh Tao’s most versatile dive sites. Currents can be strong around this site, but divers can usually take refuge in the lieu of the island and enjoy a relaxed dive.

32,536
Logs
19,121
Divers
17.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Junkyard

Junkyard ranges from 10 to 12m in depth. It contains a lot of artificial items such as a Jeep and a toilet seat, all of which are new marine life habitats, so please don’t touch!

22,984
Logs
14,988
Divers
11.0 m
⌀ Depth
8.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★★ HTMS Hanhak Sattru 312, Wreck

Just on the mouth of the bay, this newly sunk wreck is 44.9M long, 7M wide, is a high speed attack ship. Belonging to the Gulf Patrol Fleet, Royal Thai Navy and built by Singapore Ship Building and Engineering Co., Ltd.

4,319
Logs
3,011
Divers
24.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Hin Pee Wee

Large rock formations and smaller pinnacles (shallowest point is about 7m). Lots of soft corals and whip corals. Gets to 22m+. Not a lot to see if limited to 12m. Next HTMS Sattakut wreck and can both be dived in the same dive.

37,527
Logs
25,975
Divers
20.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★★ HTMS Suphairin 313, Wreck

Lying just 15M north of No Name Pinnacle, this newly sunk wreck is 44.9M long, 7M wide, is a high speed attack ship. Belonging to the Gulf Patrol Fleet, Royal Thai Navy and built by Singapore Ship Building and Engineering Company Limited.

18,269
Logs
10,556
Divers
24.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Japanese Gardens Koh Tao

Japanese Gardens is located on the east side of Koh Nanguan. Its protected and a very calm and easy site. The sandy area off. Its a very calm and easy site. The sandy area off the island gradually gets deeper and deeper, and you can wall dive along the island to the north. The depth ranges from just a couple meters to about 16 meters.

157,003
Logs
70,001
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Green Rock

This “drift“ dive site is located on the north side of Nan Yuan Island, adjacent to Koh Tao. The name “Green Rock“ comes from the fact that the roots near the surface of the water look green. The depth ranges between 10 and 25 meters and 30 to 40 meters depth can be found with a short swim to the West.

23,397
Logs
14,618
Divers
19.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ HTMS Sattakut 742, Wreck

The HTMS Sattakut is a wreck that rests at a max depth of 35m, with the top of the tower at 18m. The wreck is 48 meters in length and lies just south of a neighboring pinnacle dive site, Hin Pee Wee, a favorite destination for safety and deco stops after exploring the wreck.

58,696
Logs
33,005
Divers
26.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Hin Wong Pinnacle

Hin Wong Pinnacle is located on the east side of Koh Tao, off the coast of Hinwon Bay. We recommend this site for intermediate and above divers because the current is relatively strong on many days. The main rock is not very large, but the entire dive site is wide and has a few scattered rocks.

5,800
Logs
4,375
Divers
21.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Twins Koh Tao

Dive into a world of wonder at Twins, aka Twin Peaks - the ultimate Koh Tao dive site! Explore 2 massive underwater rocks from 7 to 20 meters deep, perfect for divers of all levels. Ideal for stunning underwater photography, with consistently good visibility. Don’t miss out on this gem near Koh Nangyuan!

169,349
Logs
84,043
Divers
14.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Buoyancy World

Buoyancy World ranges from 10m to 16m deep, with most divers choosing to remain in the shallower side of the site to truly test their buoyancy skills.

6,081
Logs
4,742
Divers
14.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Mango Bay Ko Tao

Great site for training dives as there is a big sandy area ranging from 1m to 16m deep. There are two different areas of huge artificial reef concrete cubes good for buoyancy or tech training. An abundant and dense hard coral reef area is on the east side and rocky sloping reef is on the west side.

95,728
Logs
51,672
Divers
9.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

Diving in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a renowned diving hotspot, offering a variety of unforgettable underwater experiences. Among the standout features are its spectacular wreck dives, specifically the HTMS Sattakut and MV Trident, which cater to advanced divers. These wrecks provide a thrilling glimpse into history beneath the waves. For those seeking vibrant marine life and topography, dive sites like Japanese Gardens and White Rock promise colorful reef diving, teeming with tropical fish and coral gardens.

Shore dives are less common on Koh Tao, with most sites accessible only by boat. Speedboats and larger diving vessels transport divers to numerous exciting locations around the island. Among these, Green Rock offers a maze of swim-throughs and caves for adventurous explorers. Additionally, Koh Tao is famous for its UV night diving, where the underwater world transforms into a glowing spectacle. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced diver, Koh Tao's diverse sites offer a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty.

The best Months to dive in Koh Tao

Koh Tao offers excellent diving conditions year-round due to its tropical climate. The island experiences three main seasons, each providing unique diving experiences. From February to May, during the hot and dry season, divers enjoy warm waters around 30°C/86°F and calm seas with good visibility. This period is ideal for spotting whale sharks. The hot and windy season, from May to October, brings slightly cooler waters at 29°C/84°F. Though some dive sites may become inaccessible due to big waves, visibility often reaches 30 meters, making it a favorable time for those seeking a cooling breeze. The wet season from October to February, despite occasional rain, still offers diving opportunities. Water temperatures can dip to 26°C/79°F, and visibility may vary, but marine life remains vibrant, with whale sharks still visible.

Statistics

Historical data and trends

Dive Activity & Environmental Conditions

Centers Map

Crystal Dive

7/1 Moo 2, Koh Tao, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Dive Wishes & More Koh Tao

2/78 M.2 T.Koh Tao A.Koh Phangan, 84360 Suratthani, THA

Rainbow Fish Divers

1/14 Moo 1 Sairee Beach, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Finsanity

9/27 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

PURA VIDA KOH TAO

9/24 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Deep Blue Divers Koh Tao

83 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

New Way Diving

24/2 Moo 1 Sairee Beach, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Koh Tao Diving Academy

22/28 Moo 3, Koh Tao, 84360 Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, THA

Koh Tao Swim

11/16 Moo, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

The Coral Tribe

7/1 Moo 2, Koh Tao, 84360 Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, THA

Seashell Divers

9 Sairee Beach, 1, Tambon Ko Tao, 84360 Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, THA

Dive Point

16 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Mojo Divers Koh Tao

15/3 Moo 1, Sairee Beach, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

AquaTao

8/12 Moo2 Mae Haad, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Koh Tao Scuba Club

8/21 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, Surat Thani, THA

Enterprise Scuba Diving

27 Moo 2, 84360 Koh Tao, THA

Big Blue Diving Chaba

14/126 Moo1, 84360 Koh Tao, Surat Thani, THA

Hang Loose Divers

9/303 Moo 1, Koh Tao, 84360 Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, THA

Jamahkiri Diving Club

21/2 Moo 3, 84360 Surat Thani, THA

Ihasia Diving Kohtao

50/15 moo 3, 84360 Koh Tao, THA