

Best for beginner divers, 1-6m, shore entry, mild current.
Rainbow Reef at Koh Nang Yuan offers an accessible shore entry for both divers and snorkellers. The site features a shallow reef structure ranging from 1 to 6 metres in depth, with an average of 3 metres. Visibility varies between 5 and 25 metres, and water temperatures remain warm throughout the year. Divers and snorkellers can observe species including sling-jaw wrasse, longfin bannerfish, golden butterflyfish, blue-barred parrotfish, rock cod, rabbitfish, scissortail sergeant, moon wrasse, barred soapfish, and long-spined sea urchin. While currents are generally mild, they can strengthen unexpectedly. Visitors should be cautious of sharp coral in the shallows and avoid contact with the reef structure.
10.08920, 99.82460
Try to visit in the morning when the water tends to be calmer and visibility at its best. Be mindful of where you place your hands and feet near the coral, as the shallows bring you close to the reef structure.
Accessible by boat from Koh Tao.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 6m
Visibility
5-25m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
28-31°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Sep, Oct
Common sightings include sling-jaw wrasse, various wrasses, and rabbitfish. You may also encounter longfin bannerfish, golden butterflyfish, blue-barred parrotfish, rock cod, scissortail sergeant, moon wrasse, barred soapfish, and long-spined sea urchin.
Yes, Rainbow Reef is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth and shore access.
The depth ranges from 1 to 6 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres.
This is a shore entry site, allowing for direct access from the beach.
Yes, the shallow depths of 1 to 6 metres make this site appropriate for both snorkelling and diving.
Hazards include sharp coral and currents that can strengthen unexpectedly. It is recommended to wear protective footwear or a wetsuit and to check local conditions before entering the water.
Diving at Rainbow Reef in Koh Tao requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A rashguard or 2mm shorty is recommended for diving at Rainbow Reef in Koh Tao. Water temperatures range from 28°C to 31°C.
The best months to visit Rainbow Reef in Koh Tao are March, April, May, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Rainbow Reef in Koh Tao typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Rainbow Reef in Koh Tao typically ranges from 5 metres to 25 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.