Scuba Diving in Koh Chang
Explore Koh Chang's underwater wonders in the Gulf of Thailand! Dive into pristine reefs & historic wrecks. Your diving adventure starts in Koh Chang!
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Scuba Diving in Koh Chang
Koh Chang is located in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Chang is 5 hours drive from Bangkok and has a border next to Cambodia. This distance from the major city, making the island still intact in pristine diving conditions. Koh Chang has a unique location as it is nestled along the coast line, protecting it from a strong wind. Hence, the island has calm and clear water suitable for divers at all skill levels. With stable conditions, Koh Chang underwater scene is bustling with marine life from coral reefs, tropical reef fish, and schools of fish. Scuba Divers can also add a renowned WWII Chang shipwreck into the mix when visiting Koh Chang.
Dive into this guide to discover Koh Chang's premier dive sites, the rich marine life you'll meet, and the best seasons for diving, helping you prepare for the diving experience around Koh Chang.
Diving Season in Koh Chang
The best diving season in Koh Chang is from November - April. During these periods,scuba divers enjoy the calm and stable sea conditions, water temperatures around 27°C to 30°C. The underwater visibility can extend up to 20 meters. While diving in Koh Chang is available year-round, this period offers the most favorable conditions for a comfortable and comprehensive exploration.
Top Dive Sites in Koh Chang
Koh Chang's dive sites are renowned for their beauty and diversity:
HTMS Chang Wreck
Is the largest shipwreck in Thailand. The wreck lies off Koh Chang's coast The shipwreck offers a captivating dive for advanced explorers. This former U.S. Navy ship is scuttled to create an artificial reef. And, it now hosts a diverse ecosystem. Divers will be amazed by the school of million fish covering the shipwreck. The fish species includes batfish, barracuda, fusilier, yellow tail and giant trevally. The wreck's size and complexity present an exciting challenge for wreck enthusiasts.
Koh Rang
Is Situated within Koh Chang's marine park. Koh Rang marine park status helps it protect and preserve good diving conditions. Koh Rang has crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs. Scuba divers will find many species ranging from colorful soft coral gardens, hard coral, reef fish and school of fish. The dive site is a perfect spot for both wide-angle and macro underwater photography.
Koh Wai
Koh Wai offers serene dive sites, as it has soft corals and many species of small to medium-sized marine creatures. This dive site is suited well for beginner divers and snorkelers. It has clear and shallow waters, which provide a safe and gentle introduction to diving. While it offers plenty to explore, including sea turtles and reef fish.
Secret Reef
Is a hidden gem near Koh Chang. The dive site is known among seasoned divers for its untouched beauty and abundant marine life. This dive site features a variety of hard and soft corals. And it is home to a vibrant array of tropical fish, nudibranchs, and occasional pelagics. With moderate depths and currents, it's suitable for intermediate divers seeking a less crowded dive experience.
Koh Chang Diverse Marine Life
Whale shark
Blacktip reef shark
Eagle ray
Anemone fish
Box fish
Octopus
Shrimp
Sea anemone
Soft Coral
Hard Coral
Dolphins
Turtle
Barracuda
Butterflyfish
Lionfish
Parrot fish
Koh Chang Marine Life Sighting Calendar
HHigh chance
MMedium chance
LLow chance
-No sighting
 Whale shark | L | L | M | M | L | L | L | L | L | L | L | L |
 Soft Coral | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
 Anemone fish | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
 Shrimp | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
 Sea anemone | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
 Lionfish | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
 Butterflyfish | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H | H |
The marine life in Koh Chang's waters is both abundant and varied. It offers diverse encounters with a wide array of species. The most excited species would be whale sharks, as the gentle giant often visits the area. Koh Chang local reef has plenty of color from tropical reef fishes, soft coral, sea fan and anemone. Divers can expect a medium size action from rays, eels and sea turtles. Large school of fish like around Koh Chang is mesmerizing, as it dances synchronously. School of fusilier, batfish, yellow tail and barracuda is expected.
Koh Chang Diving Conditions
Recommended scuba diving level
Beginner and above
Water temperature27°C - 30°C
Underwater visibility5M - 25M
Underwater currentMild to Moderate
Depth15M - 30M
WeatherTemperature: 28°C - 35°C
Monsoon season: Jun - Oct
Underwater hazardDown current
Water Temperature: Warm throughout the year for comfortable dives.
Visibility: Peaks during the dry season, providing excellent conditions for underwater exploration.
Currents: Vary across dive sites, with options suitable for all levels of experience.
Depth: Ranges from shallow coral gardens to deeper wrecks, catering to novice and advanced divers alike.
Weather: Best diving conditions are experienced from November to April, though Koh Chang is a great diving destination year-round.
Hazards: Normal precautions should be taken for boat traffic and natural marine life interactions to ensure a safe diving experience.
Diving in Koh Chang offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Gulf of Thailand's underwater world. Whether exploring the majestic HTMS Chang wreck or marveling at the coral reefs of Koh Rang National Park, Koh Chang promises an adventure that divers will cherish.
Explore Which Experience Is Best For You
Discover your perfect Koh Chang scuba diving tour with Giant Stride! We offer a variety of options and price ranges to fit your budget and diving style. Browse our collection of dive center vendors to find your ideal experience.
Ready To Book Your Adventure With Giant Stride?
Giant Stride is the destination for booking and comparing scuba diving adventures and prices in Koh Chang and across Thailand. Explore our website to find the perfect experience for you, from beginner dives to advanced expeditions.