Hin Wong

Hin Wong is a vast and varied site on the northeast coast of Koh Tao. It is essentially split into two distinct experiences: the shallow, protected Hin Wong Bay (ideal for beginners and snorkelers) and the deeper, more dramatic Hin Wong Pinnacle located just offshore.

1. Hin Wong Pinnacle

This is the “big brother” of the area—a submerged seamount that offers some of the most vibrant coral life on the island.

• Depth: 10 to 32 meters.
• Skill Level: Advanced Open Water (due to depth and potential currents).
• Visibility: 2 to 25 meters (highly unpredictable).
• Topography: A series of massive granite boulders running on a North-South axis. The southern end features a “table-top” rock that serves as the shallowest point.
• Marine Life: * The “Purple Forest”: The site is famous for its stunning fields of purple soft tree corals, gorgonian sea fans, and curly wire corals.
  • Residents: Look for large Brown Marbled Groupers, Blue-ringed Angelfish, and Hawksbill turtles.
  • Activity: You’ll often see schools of Striped Squirrelfish and Black Damselfish darting around the brain corals. Banded Sea Kraits and Jenkins Whiprays are also common in the deeper sandy areas.

Location

10.11261, 99.85216 Get Directions

2. Hin Wong Bay

The bay itself is a horseshoe-shaped sanctuary that provides a more relaxed, shallow dive or snorkel.

• Depth: 2 to 14 meters.
• Skill Level: Open Water / Beginner.
• Topography: A fringing reef made of granite boulders fused with hard corals, interspersed with sandy patches and small caves.
• Marine Life:
  • The “Bait Balls”: The bay is famous for massive schools of Yellowtail Fusiliers that can sometimes be so thick they block out the sun.
  • Shallows: Home to Blacktip Reef Sharks (often seen in the very shallow parts), Parrotfish, and Sergeant Majors.
  • Cave Exploration: There is a small, easy-to-navigate cave in the corner of the bay that is popular for light swim-throughs.

Location

10.10226, 99.85057 Get Directions