While diving or snorkeling around Koh Tao I have encountered or have confirmed sightings of several species of sharks off Koh Tao. One thing we’ve noticed is that shark behavior is very much influenced by various factors, including water conditions, availability of prey, and human activities. The shark populations on dive sites and bays have changed over time due to natural fluctuations and environmental factors, so don’t expect to see a whale shark on every dive or ask why you didn’t see sharks at Shark Island!
Some of the different shark species we’ve dived with around Koh Tao over the years:
Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus):
The Gulf of Thailand is known for its seasonal aggregations of whale sharks, especially around Koh Tao and Chumphon. These gentle giants are filter feeders and are considered harmless to humans. Dive sites around Koh Tao where we have seen whale sharks are mostly at Sail Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle, Southwest Pinnacle, Green Rock and Shark Island.
Blacktip Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus melanopterus):
These relatively small sharks are commonly found in shallow, tropical waters and are easily recognizable by the black tips on their fins. They are generally not aggressive towards humans. Don’t expect to see these guys on scuba as they’re in super shallow water. Perfect for snorkelers. Head out to Aow Leuk, Shark Bay, Freedom Beach, and Hin Wong Bay for your best chance to snorkel with black tips.
Grey Reef Sharks (Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos):
These sharks are more commonly seen by scuba divers exploring deeper waters. They are generally shy and not considered a significant threat to humans unless provoked. We don’t see too many of these and I’ve only heard of them twice for a period of about a week on each visit. Once at Chumphon Pinnacle and once at Sail Rock, of course!
Leopard Sharks (Stegostoma fasciatum):
Also known as zebra sharks, these beautiful creatures can sometimes be seen resting on sandy bottoms or swimming gracefully near coral reefs. Prior to Koh Tao’s massive tourist boom, leopard sharks were relatively common around Aow Leuk and Shark Island. Seen a few times at Southwest Pinnacle too, but not really seen around Koh Tao for about 20 years.
Bull Sharks (Carcharhinus leucas):
Bull sharks are known for their ability to tolerate freshwater and can sometimes be found in estuaries, rivers, and coastal areas, and are considered one of the more aggressive shark species and have been involved in some shark-related incidents worldwide. Not seen in the schools of them we had once around Barracuda Rock at Chumphon Pinnacle. Between 2002- 2006, schooling Bull sharks were pretty common before they literally disappeared overnight and were never seen again.
Guitarshark (Rhynchobatus djiddensis):
This species of guitarshark can grow quite large, reaching up to 3 meters in length. They are often found in sandy or muddy areas close to coral reefs. I’ve never heard of these guys in our waters but we’ve had a few sightings this year 2023, around Chumphon Pinnacle.
If you plan to scuba dive or snorkel in the waters around Koh Tao or anywhere in the Gulf of Thailand, it’s essential to be aware of the potential presence of surface activity including speedboats and longtails so come in and have a chat with us at the dive shop for our expert tips and recommendations and safety guidelines for diving or snorkeling in the area.
Want to know more about the marine life around Koh Tao.
