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Aow Leuk

Aow Leuk Bay (often spelled Ao Leuk or Aow Leuk) is one of Koh Tao’s most beautiful and accessible dive and snorkel sites, especially known for its calm conditions and excellent visibility.

Overview
Aow Leuk is a sheltered bay on the southeast coast of Koh Tao, making it ideal when other sites are affected by wind or rough seas. Its gently sloping reef and sandy bottom make it a favorite for training dives and relaxed explorations.

Depth & Conditions

  • Depth range: ~2 to 20 meters
  • Visibility: Often 15–30 meters (one of the best on the island)
  • Currents: Usually very mild or none

Topography
The bay features a wide sandy bottom with fringing coral reefs on both sides. As you go deeper, scattered coral bommies and small reef structures appear, creating an easy, open dive profile without tight spaces or overhead environments.

Marine Life
Aow Leuk is great for spotting:

  • Blacktip reef sharks (commonly seen cruising the shallows)
  • Green sea turtles grazing on seagrass
  • Schools of fusiliers and trevally
  • Parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish
  • Occasional stingrays resting on the sand

Because of the calm water, marine life here is often relaxed and easy to approach.

Dive Experience

  • Best suited for: Beginners, Open Water students, and snorkelers
  • Highlight: Shark and turtle encounters in clear, shallow water
  • Caution: Boat traffic and swimmers near the beach—stay aware