Shark Point
Swim with blacktip reef sharks and explore vibrant coral gardens at Shark Point, a must-visit snorkeling destination in Phi Phi.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sharks are more active
Shark Point
Best Time
Sharks are more active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Swim with blacktip reef sharks and explore vibrant coral gardens at Shark Point, a must-visit snorkeling destination in Phi Phi.
"Remarkable reef and super accessible way to see black tip reef sharks."
🎯 Go Early for Sharks
Mornings or evenings are best for shark sightings. Sharks are more active then!
🚤 Use Responsible Tours
Opt for tours using moorings to protect coral. Anchors damage the reef.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Blacktip Reef Sharks
Offshore from Long Beach
Encounter these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. A thrilling opportunity for snorkelers and divers alike.
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Around Shark Point
Explore a diverse underwater world teeming with colorful corals and a variety of tropical fish.
Abundant Marine Life
Near Long Beach
Beyond sharks, discover schools of fish, including Nemo and butterflyfish, adding to the underwater spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Shark Sightings
Respect the Reef and Marine Life
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Go Early for Sharks
Mornings or evenings are best for shark sightings. Sharks are more active then!
🚤 Use Responsible Tours
Opt for tours using moorings to protect coral. Anchors damage the reef.
🤿 Snorkel from Long Beach
Swim out from Long Beach for easy access. Mind boats and currents.
🐠 Respect Marine Life
Don't touch coral or stand on it. Observe respectfully.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Go Early for Sharks
Mornings or evenings are best for shark sightings. Sharks are more active then!
🚤 Use Responsible Tours
Opt for tours using moorings to protect coral. Anchors damage the reef.
🤿 Snorkel from Long Beach
Swim out from Long Beach for easy access. Mind boats and currents.
🐠 Respect Marine Life
Don't touch coral or stand on it. Observe respectfully.
⚠️ Watch for Jellyfish
Be cautious of stinging jellyfish, especially during afternoon tides.
🦈 Small Sharks, Big Thrill
Blacktip reef sharks are generally small and harmless.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shark Point is a popular snorkeling spot known for potential blacktip reef shark sightings and vibrant marine life. While some visitors have been thrilled by shark encounters and the colorful reefs, others have been disappointed by the lack of sharks. The importance of responsible tourism and reef preservation is frequently highlighted.
"Black Tip Reef Shark Point in Phi Phi Island is known as a potential shark sighting location. During our two visits, we weren't fortunate enough to see any sharks, but we were delighted by the abundance of other marine life, including beautiful fish like Nemo and vibrant corals. While we didn't spot sharks, it's still a worthwhile snorkeling spot in Phi Phi for its diverse underwater scenery."
Nithin Gerard Mendonsa
"Great place to snorkel and potentially see numerous black tip reef sharks. Please, get long tail to long beach (ask for Blue Moon or Phi Phi The Beach Resort - 100Bht pp from Tonsai Pier) and snorkel out from beach, or use a tour company that use a mooring and doesn’t throw an anchor! Sad to see boats anchors ripping through coral and visitors standing on it (hence I’ve dropped a star). Very short sighted and maybe one day the reef will be damaged too much and no more sharks!? It’s easy 300/400metre swim from beach. Be aware for Long tail boats etc passing in the two channels. To be fair they seem to be on the lookout for snorkellers more than snorkellers for them. Never saw or experienced an issue. Sharks for me were more numerous during morning low tide in the second channel, slightly left of rocks. Current was usually right to left but light. Snorkel round the small island, to the right large shoals of larger fish (no sharks that I saw). A few choppy waves but nothing much for an ok swimmer. To the rear of larger rocks nice large Porites boulder coral and some table top coral. Loads of colourful Clams in the shallows to the left. Please be responsible so others can enjoy in years to come!"
Chris Alabaster
"Remarkable reef and super accessible way to see black tip reef sharks. I usually just swim out from the closest shore. Just mind the current and boats passing by. It’s best to go in the morning to see the sharks, but you probably will if you swim around long enough anytime of the day. I did however encounter a huge swarm of stinging jellyfish when the afternoon tide came in, wouldn’t recommend it.
Don’t touch or stand on anything and be respectful to the reef and its inhabitants."
Axel T.Andersson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
To reach Shark Point, you can take a longtail boat from Tonsai Pier to Long Beach. From Long Beach, you can either swim out to Shark Point (approximately 300-400 meters) or arrange for a tour company that uses moorings. Some recommend asking for Blue Moon or Phi Phi The Beach Resort for boat services.
Yes, it's possible to snorkel to Shark Point from Long Beach. The swim is about 300-400 meters. Be aware of passing longtail boats and potential currents.
Many visitors suggest swimming out from Long Beach. Alternatively, tour companies offer trips, but ensure they use moorings to protect the coral reef.
Yes, tour companies often include Shark Point in their Phi Phi Island itineraries. It's advisable to choose operators who practice responsible tourism by using moorings.
Longtail boats are the primary mode of transport for reaching various snorkeling sites like Shark Point from the main piers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There isn't a specific entry ticket for Shark Point itself. However, you will need to pay for transportation, such as a longtail boat, to get there. Tour packages may also include access fees.
Shark Point is an open natural site, so there are no official operating hours. However, the best times to visit for shark sightings are early morning and late afternoon.
No, there is no direct entrance fee for Shark Point. The costs are associated with boat transportation to the location.
Yes, you can book snorkeling trips to Shark Point in advance through various tour operators in Phi Phi or online. This is recommended during peak season.
The main restriction is to be respectful of the marine environment. Avoid touching or standing on coral, and do not feed the marine life.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see blacktip reef sharks, various colorful fish like Nemo and butterflyfish, and vibrant coral formations.
Yes, Shark Point can be suitable for beginner snorkelers, especially when swimming from Long Beach where parts are shallow. However, be mindful of currents and boat traffic. +1
Water visibility can vary, but it is generally good, especially when the sun is out. Clear water enhances the underwater viewing experience.
Be aware of boat traffic passing through the channels. Some visitors have encountered stinging jellyfish, particularly during afternoon tides. +1
Bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer, sunscreen, a hat, and a waterproof camera to capture the underwater scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Shark Point is a natural snorkeling site and does not have any food facilities. You'll need to eat before or after your visit, likely on Long Beach or back in Tonsai.
While you can bring your own food and drinks, it's crucial to take all your trash with you to keep the area clean and pristine.
The closest dining options are typically found on Long Beach or back at Tonsai Pier, where numerous restaurants and cafes are available.
After snorkeling, many visitors head back to Long Beach or Tonsai Pier for a meal. You can find a variety of Thai and international cuisine.
You can have a picnic on Long Beach before or after your snorkeling trip, but ensure you clean up thoroughly afterward to preserve the natural beauty.
📸 📸 Photography
Using a GoPro or an underwater camera is ideal for capturing sharks and marine life. Ensure your camera is waterproof and set for underwater photography.
Yes, Shark Point offers excellent photo opportunities with its clear waters, diverse marine life, and coral formations.
An action camera like a GoPro is highly recommended for its durability and underwater capabilities.
Early mornings and late afternoons, when the light is softer and sharks are more active, can be ideal for photography.
Underwater flash can sometimes be too harsh. Natural light is often preferred, but experiment with your camera settings for the best results.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to go with a reputable tour operator who can ensure safety and provide guidance. Ensure children understand the importance of not touching marine life and staying close to adults. Consider visiting during calmer weather and calmer tides for a more comfortable experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
While some tours might seem appealing, compare prices and what they include. Remember that responsible tourism practices, like choosing operators who use moorings, might come at a slightly higher cost but are crucial for preserving the site for future visits.
💑 Couples
Consider a private longtail boat charter for a more intimate experience, allowing you to set your own pace and spend as much time as you like exploring the underwater beauty. Pack a waterproof camera to capture your shared memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Encountering Blacktip Reef Sharks
To increase your chances of seeing them, it's recommended to visit during the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Some travelers have noted that sharks were more numerous during morning low tide. While sightings are common, it's not guaranteed on every visit, as some reviewers have unfortunately missed them.
Remember to maintain a respectful distance and avoid any actions that could disturb or provoke the sharks. The goal is to observe them in a way that ensures their well-being and allows future visitors to have similar experiences.
Responsible Snorkeling Practices
When choosing a tour, look for operators who use moorings instead of dropping anchors. Anchors can cause significant damage to the reef. Travelers have expressed disappointment seeing boats damaging the coral, highlighting the long-term impact on the environment and the potential loss of shark habitats.
Beyond reef protection, be mindful of other marine life. Avoid feeding fish or disturbing any creatures. The collective effort of responsible visitors ensures that Shark Point remains a vibrant and healthy marine sanctuary for years to come.
Navigating the Waters and Currents
Another significant factor to consider is boat traffic. Longtail boats frequently pass through the channels between the shore and Shark Point. While they generally seem to be on the lookout for snorkelers, it's crucial for snorkelers to also be aware of their surroundings and stay visible.
Some visitors have also encountered unexpected conditions, such as choppy waves or swarms of stinging jellyfish, particularly during afternoon tides. It's advisable to check the weather conditions and be prepared for varying water states.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit