Learn in sheltered bays, chase whale sharks at the pinnacle.
The dive
One of the world's busiest places to learn to dive: sheltered bays for training, granite pinnacles for fun dives, and a chance of whale sharks at Chumphon Pinnacle.
When to go
Calmest and clearest from March to October; the north-east monsoon brings rougher seas late in the year.
Readiness
Open Water-level site — suits Open Water divers and up. Typical requirements:
Not sure you're ready? Read our readiness guide or check yourself in the planner.
Logistics
| Getting there | Flight to Samui or Chumphon + ferry. Fly to Koh Samui (USM) or Chumphon, then ferry to the island. |
|---|---|
| Where to stay | Dive resort / guesthouse. Sairee Beach or Chalok Baan Kao dive resorts, budget to boutique. |
| Operator to look for | Reviewed Koh Tao dive schools with small classes and good safety records. |
Sources
Links checked 29 September 2026. They cover the site's location, protection status and background. Costs, difficulty and season windows are ScubaRogue's editorial estimates, so confirm them with your operator before you book. How we research
Keep exploring
Open WaterAustralia · Asia Pacific
Swim with whale sharks off a desert coast.
AdvancedThailand · Asia Pacific
A purple pinnacle and whale-shark roulette.
Open WaterTanzania · Indian Ocean
Whale-shark season in a quiet marine park.