When to dive in Koh Tao ?
Koh Tao has calm, bright waters, providing stable conditions throughout the year, with around 300 days of sun and water temperatures never dropping below 84°F/29°C, making it a popular diving destination with year-round diving.
January to May
The start and the peak of the dry season in Koh Tao. We ask visitors to use water responsibly during this time, as rainfall is at its lowest. During this period, the island experiences tranquil seas, warm temperatures, and excellent underwater visibility, creating optimal conditions for divers. Water temperatures typically hover around 28°C (82°F), and visibility often exceeds 30 meters (100 feet), providing fantastic opportunities to observe various marine life, turtles, and colorful coral formations. March and April are great times to visit, as it’s one of our Whale Shark seasons. If you enjoy hot weather, the hottest period is from March to May, until the monsoon winds bring the temperature down.
May to October
We experience our monsoon and windy season which brings much-needed relief after the hot weather. The temperature remains high at around 34 degrees, while the ocean temperature hovers around 29 degrees and gradually cools towards the end of the windy season. During this time diving conditions in Koh Tao change (typically from July to September) and our dive site schedule may need adjustments to avoid diving in big waves. During this time of year, we utilize the dive sites off the East Coast of Koh Tao, which are well sheltered from the Westly winds, allowing diving conditions and visibility to remain optimal, for us to still enjoy daily dives.
October to January
We have calmer seas, pleasant temperatures, and better visibility on Koh Tao. In November, we get thunderstorms in the late afternoon, which gives us a welcome drop in temperature. Diving conditions gradually improve, with water temperature around 28°C (82°F) and improving visibility, making it an ideal time to witness the rejuvenation of coral reefs. November is also a great time to dive with Whale Sharks. During this time, the island experiences fewer tourists, providing a more tranquil and exclusive diving experience. While January to March is considered the best time to dive, there is no bad time to explore Koh Tao’s underwater treasures. Each season offers its own charm and different dive sites to discover, ensuring plenty of opportunities to experience the beauty and marine life of the island.