Shark Bay, or known as Thian Og Bay to the locals, is often voted as one of the best snorkeling sites on Koh Tao. It is named Shark Bay due to the frequent visits of blacktip reef sharks very close to shore. Snorkeling can never be more fun and exciting with the possible encounter of the sharks contributing to the reputation of Shark Bay Koh Tao as a go-to destination for snorkeling due to this unique experience. Therefore, it is no wonder that tourists flock to Shark Bay with the primary purpose of encountering sharks while snorkeling.
The best time to spot the blacktip reef sharks is said to be from 7 am to 10 am. While the sharks have become the icon of Shark Bay, look out for green turtles too; you can find them every day on this part of Koh Tao. The green turtles are friendly creatures, although they are huge, measuring more than a meter long. Snorkelers will find it amusing as these creatures are not afraid of humans and tend to swim very close to them.
The blacktip reef sharks vary in size with the smaller ones often seen in the shallow waters near the beach of Shark Bay Koh Tao. At the same time, the more impressive and larger ones are found further down the sea. And it is worth mentioning that blacktip reef sharks are known to be harmless. They often swim peacefully above the sea bed, allowing for snorkeling besides. However, it is best to keep a safe distance from them in Shark Bay Koh Tao.
The sea bed around Shark Bay is painted with sea anemones and pink skunk clownfish. You can also encounter large schools of butterflyfish, parrotfish, and needlefish. For the lucky snorkelers in Shark Bay Koh Tao, they can even come across resident sea turtles.
