Aow Mao
Marine life at Aow Mao...
Situated on Koh Tao’s southeast coastline, Mao Bay (Aow Mao) is a sheltered bay featuring a gently sloping reef interspersed with granite boulders, coral gardens, and sandy patches. The dive typically begins in shallow water at around 3–5 meters and gradually descends to approximately 18–20 meters. Its calm profile and diverse underwater terrain make it an enjoyable and relaxed dive site, while still offering plenty to discover for certified divers.
Currents & Conditions
Protected from prevailing winds for much of the year, Mao Bay is known for generally calm conditions and minimal current. Visibility commonly ranges from 8–20 meters depending on the season, with water temperatures remaining between 27–30°C throughout the year. The sheltered nature of the bay makes it a reliable option when conditions elsewhere around the island become less favourable, providing comfortable diving for both new and experienced divers.
Underwater Landscape & Marine Life
Mao Bay offers a varied underwater environment where coral-covered rocks blend into sandy seabeds and scattered bommies. Healthy colonies of hard corals provide habitat for butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, and schools of snapper. Larger granite formations create small swim-throughs and overhangs where moray eels, lionfish, and groupers are frequently encountered. Blue-spotted stingrays are often seen resting on the sand, while careful observers may spot nudibranchs, cleaner shrimp, and other fascinating macro life hidden amongst the reef. Green turtles occasionally visit the bay, adding an extra highlight to already enjoyable dives.
The site has a peaceful, unhurried feel underwater, making it ideal for divers who enjoy taking their time to explore the reef and appreciate the smaller details of Koh Tao’s marine ecosystem.
Skill Level & Certification
Suitable for all certification levels, Mao Bay is particularly well suited to Open Water divers, refresher dives, and underwater photography. The shallow sections provide excellent training opportunities, while certified divers can comfortably explore the deeper reef areas. Gentle conditions and straightforward navigation make it one of the island’s more accessible dive sites.
Access & Logistics
Mao Bay is typically visited as part of our east and southeast coast dive schedule, often paired with nearby sites such as Shark Island, Leuk Bay, or Aow Tanote. Diving usually begins with a short boat journey from the main pier, with travel times of approximately 15–20 minutes depending on sea conditions. Its sheltered location, diverse marine life, and easy diving conditions make Mao Bay a dependable and enjoyable addition to any two-dive trip around Koh Tao.
