Sail Rock (Hin Bai),Thailand
Sail Rock (Hin Bai) is one of the Gulf of Thailand's premier natural dive landmarks — a solitary limestone pinnacle rising from deep water between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. It is highly valued for its rich marine biodiversity, dramatic vertical structure and excellent conditions for drift dives, making it a top site for underwater photographers and experienced recreational divers visiting the region.
Places to visit
- The Pinnacle — a dramatic vertical rock rising from ~30–35 m up toward shallow depths (~5–10 m), offering walls, ledges and bommies.
- The Chimney / Tunnel — a swim-through feature (subject to conditions) popular with experienced divers.
- Large pelagic gatherings — frequent schools of trevally, barracuda, jackfish and batfish; seasonal sightings of larger visitors (e.g., whale sharks reported occasionally).
- Vibrant corals & sea fans — extensive soft corals and fan corals that attract macro life and critters for photographers.
Unique Aspects
- Excellent drift-dive opportunities with strong, exhilarating currents (skill and good buoyancy required).
- Clear vertical relief that creates impressive underwater scenery and photography angles.
- Often used as a highlight dive on liveaboards and day-boat itineraries from Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and Koh Samui.
Things to do
- Scuba diving (most common; recommended for Advanced Open Water or equivalent due to currents).
- Drift dives and underwater photography.
- Boat day trips and liveaboard itineraries that include multiple dives at the site.
- Snorkeling is possible from boats but not as rewarding as diving because most attractions are deeper.
Best Time to Visit
Calmest seas & best visibility: generally considered late winter to spring months for the Gulf (roughly February–May). Diving is possible year-round but conditions (visibility and current) vary seasonally.
Weather Conditions
Tropical climate: warm air temps (~24–33°C / 75–91°F) and sea temps (~26–30°C / 79–86°F). Expect sudden sun, humidity and occasional rain depending on season.
Accessibility
Reachable only by boat from nearby islands: Koh Phangan, Koh Tao and day-boat departures from Koh Samui. Typical boat time: roughly 20–60 minutes depending on departure point and vessel. Nearest airports: Koh Samui (USM) for direct island access or Surat Thani on the mainland (then ferry). Dive operators on Koh Phangan and Koh Tao routinely include Sail Rock on their schedules.
Recommended Duration
Day trip possible (1–2 dives) but if you plan multiple dives or want to combine with other sites, allow 1–3 days. Many divers combine Sail Rock with 2–4 days on Koh Tao or Koh Phangan for acclimatization and additional diving.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, quick-dry clothing, reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses for the boat. For divers: complete dive kit if you prefer personal gear (mask, fins, SMB/DSMB, reef hook if used responsibly), thermal protection (thin 3 mm or shorty depending on season), and a dive computer. Bring a waterproof camera or housing for underwater photography.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Base yourself on Koh Phangan or Koh Tao for food and shopping. Try fresh seafood, Thai curries, and local beachside BBQs. Popular souvenirs include local handicrafts, island-themed apparel and dive-shop items (T-shirts, prints, memory cards with underwater photos).