Thailand Dive Sites

Koh Tarutao

Tarutao National Marine Park, formed in 1974 and Thailand's oldest national park, is in Southern Thailand in the Andaman Sea, near to the Malaysian border. It is about 32 nautical miles northwest of Langkawi.

Koh Tarutao consists of Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, Koh Lipeh, Koh Dong, Hin Ngam, Koh Yang and Koh Bitsi islands. These islands with crystal clear water are still unknown to tourists. Explore the underwater world around these islands for some of the best snorkelling spots and diving in Thailand. The clear waters support rich coral reefs, lobsters, and around 25% of the world's tropical fish species, including lionfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, groupers, trumpetfish and others. Dolphin encounters are common and rare dugong encounters are possible too.

It is said that the Ghost of Hin (stone) Ngam Island will curse those who take these stones. Koh Lipeh Island is home to the Chao Leh (Sea Gypsies), who traditionally roam the islands harvesting fish, shellfish, coconuts and vegetables. The Chao Leh have their own language, culture and animist religion.

• Map of Thailand

Koh Tarutao Reef Basics: Encounters with dugongs and dolphins
Depth: 10 - 40m
Visibility: 15 - 35m
Currents: Can be strong
Surface Conditions: Can be rough
Water Temperature: 28 - 30°C
Experience Level: Intermediate
Number of dive sites: >10
Diving Season: November to April
Distance: ~180 km south of Phuket (9 hours), 30km west of Satun
Access: Thailand diving liveaboards from Phuket
Recommended length of stay: 3 - 4 days

Other nearby sites that can only be dived on extended Koh Tarutao liveaboard cruises:

Use our short form to grab your best options
• Thailand scuba diving enquiries

• Back to Thailand diving sites index