Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
golden
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
moderate
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
20 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
mixed
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
required
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
200 m
Frequently asked questions
Shark Bay: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity crystal, average temperature +29.0°C, warms up to +31.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Shark Bay: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.2 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Shark Bay: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — moderate. The shallow area extends for 20 metres from the shore. Bottom — mixed. Special water shoes (aqua shoes) are required — the bottom has rocks, corals or sea urchins.
Shark Bay: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — golden. Texture — medium. Beach length — 200 metres.
Shark Bay: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in January. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is April. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Shark Bay: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Shark risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Shark Bay: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: blacktip reef sharks, sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Shark Bay: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: sunbeds, umbrellas, showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Shark Bay: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Shark Bay: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Shark Bay Restaurant, The Terrace. Cuisines available: Thai, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Shark Bay: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Water shoes, Snorkel mask, Cash.
Shark Bay: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for snorkelling is from January to September, when the water is warm and visibility is at its best. Fewer people and better underwater visibility in the morning.
Shark Bay: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Alcohol consumption on the beach, smoking and dog walking are prohibited. Do not touch marine life or corals.
Shark Bay: what activities are available?
The beach offers: snorkelling, diving, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Shark Bay: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts who want to see blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles in their natural habitat. Suitable for families with children thanks to the calm water. Not suitable for those seeking a secluded beach.
Shark Bay: what makes this beach unique?
A population of blacktip reef sharks resides here, using the shallows as a nursery. Sea turtles are also frequently spotted in the bay. The bay-s name comes from the local name “Ao Thian Ok”, meaning “shark bay”.
Shark Bay: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Crystal-clear water, Calm waters sheltered by rocks, Excellent snorkelling spot, Blacktip reef sharks near the shore, Sea turtles, Coral reefs just metres from shore, Suitable for families with children, Scenic bay. Cons: Small beach, Crowded in high season, Paid sunbed rental, Rocky shore in some areas, No lifeguards, Access through a resort (small fee).
Shark Bay: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Coral Reef, Viewpoint, Sai Daeng Beach. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Shark Bay: how do I get to the city of Koh Tao?
The beach is located near the city of Koh Tao. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Koh Tao.