Shark Bay Koh Tao Thailand
Discover Shark Bay, Koh Tao's gem for swimming with sea turtles and enjoying pristine waters amidst stunning rock formations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Turtles feed, fewer crowds
Shark Bay Koh Tao Thailand
Best Time
Turtles feed, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Shark Bay, Koh Tao's gem for swimming with sea turtles and enjoying pristine waters amidst stunning rock formations.
"The highlight of Koh Tao is swimming with turtles at Shark Bay!"
Free Entry Hack
Look for the 'Free entrance to shark bay' on Google Maps to avoid paid entry fees.
Turtle Spotting Tip
Late afternoon is best for turtle sightings as they come to feed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Swim with Sea Turtles
Shark Bay
Witness majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat. A truly unforgettable encounter for snorkelers and divers.
Crystal-Clear Waters
Shark Bay
Enjoy the pristine, clear waters perfect for swimming and observing marine life. Ideal for a relaxing beach day.

Unique Rock Formations
Shark Bay coastline
Admire the dramatic coastal scenery with striking rock formations against the turquoise sea. A photographer's delight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Turtle Sightings
Navigating Shark Bay Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry Hack
Look for the 'Free entrance to shark bay' on Google Maps to avoid paid entry fees.
Turtle Spotting Tip
Late afternoon is best for turtle sightings as they come to feed.
Protect Your Feet
Wear water shoes due to sharp coral fragments and rocks.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from turtles and avoid touching them.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry Hack
Look for the 'Free entrance to shark bay' on Google Maps to avoid paid entry fees.
Turtle Spotting Tip
Late afternoon is best for turtle sightings as they come to feed.
Protect Your Feet
Wear water shoes due to sharp coral fragments and rocks.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from turtles and avoid touching them.
Follow the Boats
Snorkel and tour boats can help you spot where turtles are.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Shark Bay is praised for its beautiful clear waters and the incredible opportunity to swim with sea turtles, a highlight for many visitors. While some find the snorkeling decent and enjoy the unique rock formations, others note that the coral can be damaged and the bay gets crowded. Accessing the free entrance is a popular tip for budget travelers.
"Great atmosphere and crystal-clear water. Be careful though, there are lots of coral fragments and rocks, I cut my foot here. Snorkeling is not too impressive, but you might get lucky and see a big turtle, which is amazing. The place is quite busy, but food and drinks are available at reasonable prices."
track boyt
"Amazing diving spot with great views. Went here with a snorkeling tour which I would highly recommend. Were able to see many corals, fish and even huge sea turtles!!"
Pim Van Benthem
"We have been here as a stop of a guided tour and has been the best one!
We manage to watch 2 turtles and to get close to a huge one.
Unfortunately is full of died corals so better to wear water shoes."
Stefano Niespolo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shark Bay is accessible by various means on Koh Tao. Many visitors rent a bicycle or scooter to reach it, which is a popular and convenient option. Taxis or songthaews are also available. For those looking to save money, following directions to the 'Free entrance to shark bay' on Google Maps is highly recommended.
Yes, there is free parking available at the free entrance to Shark Bay, making it easy for those arriving by scooter or car.
While possible, walking from Sairee Beach to Shark Bay can be a significant distance and may take over an hour. Renting a scooter or bicycle is generally more practical for reaching Shark Bay from Sairee.
Yes, many snorkeling and boat tours around Koh Tao include Shark Bay as a stop. These tours can be a great way to see the bay and its marine life, and guides can often help spot turtles.
Accessing the snorkeling spot from the paid entrance can be challenging for those with mobility issues, as it involves stairs. The free entrance offers a more straightforward access point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a paid entrance fee for one section of Shark Bay. However, many visitors opt for the 'Free entrance to shark bay' location found on Google Maps, which allows access without a fee.
Shark Bay is generally accessible throughout daylight hours. For the best wildlife viewing, consider visiting in the late afternoon for turtle sightings or early morning for potential baby shark encounters.
Online booking is typically not required for general access to Shark Bay, especially if you use the free entrance. If you opt for a guided tour that includes Shark Bay, booking that tour in advance might be necessary.
Some visitors find the paid entrance worthwhile for easier access to the snorkeling areas. However, the free entrance offers a comparable experience for many, especially if you're comfortable navigating slightly more rugged terrain.
At the paid entrance, you might find some facilities. The free entrance area also has a nice cafe with staff who can look after your belongings while you snorkel.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The main activities at Shark Bay are snorkeling and swimming. It's renowned for the chance to see sea turtles and potentially baby sharks. Relaxing on the beach and enjoying the scenery are also popular.
Yes, Shark Bay is named for the potential to see blacktip reef sharks, particularly baby sharks. While sightings aren't guaranteed, early mornings and late afternoons are often cited as good times.
The late afternoon is widely considered the best time to see sea turtles at Shark Bay, as they often come into the bay to feed.
Snorkeling at Shark Bay can be good, with opportunities to see various fish and corals. However, some reviews mention that the coral can be dead in places, and it's best to wear water shoes. The presence of turtles often makes the snorkeling experience memorable.
Shark Bay can get quite crowded, especially during peak times and when tour groups arrive. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid the largest crowds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located at the free entrance to Shark Bay that offers food and drinks at reasonable prices.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own snacks and water to most Thai beaches. However, supporting the local cafe is a good way to contribute to the area.
The cafe at Shark Bay typically offers standard beachside fare. For a wider variety of dining options, you would need to travel back towards the main areas of Koh Tao like Sairee Beach.
📸 📸 Photography
Shark Bay offers stunning photo opportunities with its clear turquoise waters, unique rock formations, and the chance to capture sea turtles underwater. The coastline itself provides beautiful scenic shots.
Yes, with good lighting and a waterproof camera or phone case, you can capture excellent underwater photos of marine life, especially turtles.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, can offer beautiful lighting for landscape photography of the bay. Midday provides the clearest water for underwater shots.
There are no specific restrictions mentioned regarding photography at Shark Bay, but always be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🐢 Wildlife Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thrill of Swimming with Turtles
While some tours offer dedicated turtle-spotting excursions, you can often have a fantastic experience simply by snorkeling from the shore, especially if you utilize the free entrance. Keep an eye out for snorkel and tour boats, as they can often indicate where turtles are currently feeding. The sight of a large turtle gracefully swimming is a truly magical experience that many visitors cherish.
It's important to note that while the bay is named for sharks, sightings of blacktip reef sharks are less common than turtles, though some visitors have reported seeing baby sharks, particularly in the early morning. The clear waters make for excellent viewing opportunities, but be prepared for the possibility of dead coral in some areas.
Navigating Shark Bay: Access and Costs
For those arriving by scooter or bicycle, free parking is available at the free entrance. If you're staying in Sairee Beach, renting a scooter or bicycle is highly recommended, as walking to Shark Bay can be quite a long trek. Some visitors have noted that the paid entrance might involve stairs, which could be a consideration for individuals with mobility challenges.
Regardless of the entrance you choose, the primary draw is the opportunity to snorkel and swim in the clear waters. The presence of a cafe at the free entrance also provides a convenient spot for refreshments and a place to leave your belongings while you explore the bay.
The Natural Beauty of Shark Bay
The beach itself offers a relaxing environment, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the serene atmosphere. While the primary attraction is the marine life, the visual appeal of Shark Bay is undeniable. The clear water allows for excellent visibility, enhancing the overall experience of being in this beautiful cove.
Many visitors are drawn to Shark Bay not just for its snorkeling potential but also for its overall aesthetic. The blend of natural elements, from the palm trees to the rock formations, contributes to its reputation as one of Thailand's most beautiful beaches.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit