Lighthouse Pinnacle
Marine life at Lighthouse Pinnacle...
Situated just offshore from Lighthouse Bay on Koh Tao’s northeast coastline, Lighthouse Pinnacle is a submerged granite pinnacle rising from deeper water to within a few meters of the surface. The site begins around 5–8 meters on the upper sections before descending to approximately 25–30 meters at its base. Unlike the gently sloping reef of Lighthouse Bay, this dive revolves around a dramatic rock formation, creating a more dynamic underwater environment with greater depth, structure, and fish activity.
Currents & Conditions
Located on the northeast side of Koh Tao, Lighthouse Pinnacle is most commonly dived during the southwest monsoon season when conditions on the east coast are at their best. Currents can range from mild to moderate and are often slightly stronger than those experienced in Lighthouse Bay, helping to attract larger schools of fish around the pinnacle. Visibility typically ranges from 10–25 meters, with water temperatures remaining a comfortable 27–30°C throughout the year. Conditions can vary from calm and easy to more exhilarating when fish life and currents combine.
Underwater Landscape & Marine Life
The pinnacle itself is made up of large granite boulders stacked into a dramatic underwater tower covered in soft corals, sponges, and anemones. Swim-throughs, cracks, and sheltered ledges create endless hiding places for marine life. Schools of yellowtail barracuda, fusiliers, and trevally often circle the structure, while giant groupers patrol the deeper sections. Moray eels, lionfish, and scorpionfish are frequently spotted tucked amongst the rocks, while cleaner shrimp and nudibranchs reward divers who take the time to explore the finer details. The site is particularly known for its dense fish life and three-dimensional terrain, giving it a more adventurous feel than many of Koh Tao’s shallower reef dives.
Skill Level & Certification
Lighthouse Pinnacle is best suited to certified divers. Open Water divers can comfortably enjoy the shallower sections of the pinnacle, while Advanced Open Water divers can take advantage of the deeper areas and fully explore the site’s varied topography. Good buoyancy control and awareness of changing depth are recommended due to the site’s vertical structure and occasional currents.
Access & Logistics
Lighthouse Pinnacle is often scheduled as a morning dive when conditions are at their calmest and marine life activity is at its peak. Diving begins with a short taxi transfer to Koh Tao’s east coast, where we board our shuttle boat to reach the main dive vessel. Travel time is typically around 15–20 minutes. The site is frequently paired with nearby east coast favorites such as Hin Wong Pinnacle or Aow Tanote, creating an exciting two-dive itinerary that showcases some of Koh Tao’s most scenic and fish-filled underwater landscapes before returning to shore around 12:30pm.
