Red Rock
| Rating | Open Water |
|---|---|
| Depth | 2-20m |
Marine life at Red Rock...
Positioned just west of Koh Nang Yuan and only 10 minutes from Koh Tao, Red Rock Pinnacle is a striking granite tower that rises dramatically from around 18–20 meters to within just 2 meters of the surface. Dropping down the pinnacle then heading west to 12 meters deep swim thru/ cave & then a nice reef dive along the side of Nang Yuan through into Japanese Gardens make this a great dive.
Currents & Conditions
Red Rock Pinnacle is typically calm and accessible, making it suitable for divers of all experience levels. However, during full moon periods currents can strengthen, often bringing nutrient-rich water that boosts marine activity. Visibility commonly ranges from 10–25 meters, and water temperatures remain a comfortable 27–30°C year-round.
Underwater Landscape & Marine Life
This is classic pinnacle diving — bold granite covered in life from base to summit. Whip corals sway gently along the reef while soft corals and impressive table corals create layered habitats for reef fish. Blue-spotted stingrays are a regular sight here, especially in the crack of the pinnacle, often resting deep in the wedge, while large groupers peer out from the many cracks and crevices that define the whole divesite. Turtles are occasionally spotted grazing among the coral or resting in the crack of the pinnacle, adding an extra touch of magic to an already rewarding dive. Be sure not to miss Red Rock Cave, a long and scenic swim-through under fallen boulders which form most of the coastline west of the pinnacle and into Japanese Gardens. The site is perfect for a Drop-off — many dives begin at Red Rock before following the reef toward the famous Japanese Gardens, where the boat awaits your arrival. It’s effortless, scenic diving at its best.
Skill Level & Certification
Ideal for Open Water divers thanks to its approachable depth, yet engaging enough for experienced divers who appreciate structure-rich reefs and the chance for a gentle drift. When currents pick up, attentive dive planning ensures the site remains enjoyable for everyone.
Access & Logistics
Just minutes from Koh Tao by boat, Red Rock Pinnacle delivers the feeling of an offshore pinnacle without the long journey. We meet at 12:15pm and typically return by 5:30pm. Each trip includes one dive at Red Rock Pinnacle, followed by a second dive at another nearby site selected based on the day’s conditions — keeping every morning fresh and varied.
When We Dive Red Rock Pinnacle
Trips run almost every other afternoon, as we regard it as an easy dive to get you back into diving if its been a while! Conditions are generally favorable except from June to August & from mid November thru to early January.