Koh Tao is a small, isolated island in the Gulf of Thailand. Its sheltered location makes it ideal for beginner divers, while still offering incredible underwater biodiversity. You can enjoy diving in Koh Tao all year round, thanks to its generally calm and warm waters. But the rainy season typically falls between November and December, which might bring a bit more wind, waves, and reduced visibility. The island is surrounded by a variety of dive sites, either on the west coast or the east coast.
When it comes to seasonal winds in Koh Tao, it’s good to know how the weather conditions can affect your diving experience. As mentioned earlier, November to December is the tropical monsoon season, bringing more rain and wind.
From January to April, Koh Tao experiences the Northeast monsoon. During this time, the eastern dive sites, beaches, and bays can get a bit rough, and underwater visibility might be limited. Then, from May to October, the winds shift to the Southwest monsoon, which means the west coast of the island can have stronger waves.
No matter the season, though, Koh Tao always offers sheltered dive spots somewhere around the island, which is why we have two different locations for our Freediving session! Making it a great year-round diving destination with plenty of underwater beauty to explore in a single breath!
Where and When?
Between December to April, our Freediving session will be hosted at New Heaven Dive School, in Chalok Baan Kao Bay, the southwest part of the island. The Northeast monsoon allows this location to be sheltered and perfect for Freediving sessions. The bay is home to stunning coral reefs and is suitable for all levels of freedivers. If you’re lucky, you might even spot sea turtles during your underwater adventures!
The good thing is that after your freediving session, you can unwind on the peaceful beach or explore the nearby cafes, bars, and restaurants. Two of our recommended spots, Koppee Beach Club and Asiamood Restaurant, are part of our family-run businesses, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the island vibe after a day in the water.
During the southwest monsoon season from May to October, our Freediving sessions move to Baan Talay Resort, a wellness center and another one of our family-run businesses. Nestled in Aow Leuk Bay on the southeast side of Koh Tao, this location is beautifully sheltered, making it an ideal spot for freediving during these months. Aow Leuk Bay is known for its vibrant coral reefs, rich marine life, and calm, clear waters. It’s also one of the best places on the island to spot baby blacktip reef sharks in their natural underwater habitat!
Baan Talay Resort is more than just a freediving location; it’s a place to relax, recharge, and feel truly free. As a wellness center, it offers a peaceful environment where you can enjoy healthy meals, homemade bakery treats, and take part in a variety of activities like yoga classes, ice baths, sauna sessions, and arts & crafts workshops. With breathtaking sea views and a calming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to relax and have fun after a day of freediving and exploring the underwater world.
Join us for a Freediving course or a Line training session
Book now via our email: info@newheavendiveschool.com