My Secret Freediving Location on Koh Tao, Thailand

Sick of Sairee and looking for a freediving location on Koh Tao? There are many spots to choose from. However, if you are a beginner freediver, talk to one of the many schools that operate out of Sairee Beach. They will rent you gear and teach you the basics of freediving.

For those of you who have done a bit of freediving before and looking to practice your apnea skills, you might want to check out this secret local spot. It’s a little off the beaten path, but you will be rewarded with a secluded cove with rope buoys and some of the clearest waters on Koh Tao.

Although I don’t consider myself a freediver by any standards, I do enjoy the thrill and challenge that the sport provides. I also always practice with a buddy.

Where to find the Secret Freediving Spot

To get to this epic freediving location, you'll need to take a moped to a resort named "Moonlight Magic View Bungalow". You can reach this resort towards Cha Lok, and taking the left turn towards Tanote Bay.

Follow the directions below until you reach the resort.

Walking Down The Steep Stairs

Once you reach the resort you will be greeted with some epic views of the east coast of Koh Tao Island. Make your way into the premises until you see a makeshift bamboo path heading down towards the water. Follow this path down until you reach the rocks.

The last part is seemingly impossible to get down. However, once you get to the large rock, turn around and you will see a bamboo staircase that leads into the cracks in the rock. Squeeze through and walk down to the water.

I told you this was secret!

What to Expect at this Freediving Spot on Koh Tao

Although there are plenty of snorkeling spots on Koh Tao, this is one of the best for intermediate to advanced freedivers. A 20 m swim from the rocks leads out to water that is 30 m deep. There are several boat buoys with ropes that attach to the seafloor.

The first one is at 15 m, the second is at 20 m and the third is at 30 m.

The bay is also quite protected from Westerly winds. This makes it a calm spot with generally good visibility. You can also swim North along the coast where you will reach some submerged rocks with large groupers, schooling fish and barracuda.

Some Precautions

Freediving is a sport that requires precautions and vigilance. If you are a beginner, I would highly recommend contacting one of the many schools in Koh Tao. It is one of the cheapest places on earth to learn how to free dive.

Although not required to practice, I completed my PADI Advanced Open Water Freediving Course in Koh Tao. I was able to do this for free with one of my instructor friends on the island. This taught me the basics of safety, including the risk of shallow water blackouts and how to spot your buddy.

Remember: Always Free Dive with a buddy

This secret freediving spot is pretty secluded. During the many times I went here to practice, I never saw any other people besides some Thai longtail boats. Make sure to only freedive with a buddy. There have been several people who have died on Koh Tao from shallow water blackouts.

Watch out for Longtail Boats

The waters around this freediving location are frequented by fishermen and dive boats. Make sure to keep an eye out for any boats coming through. Most of these Thai boat captains will drive right over you. It's your responsibility to move out of the way.

Snorkeling & Underwater Life

The great thing about freediving and snorkeling on Koh Tao is that there are plenty of things to see. Y

ou will see giant barracuda, schooling fish, groupers, and anemone fish. It's also a good idea to keep an eye out for any turtles that might be cruising by. Although I didn't see any turtles when I was freediving in this spot, I'm sure that there are plenty that swim by from time to time.

Clean up Koh Tao

Whenever you go on an adventure or step into the ocean, make sure to never leave any trash. If you're interested in joining a cleanup movement and making a difference, why not Take 3 for the Sea? Just pick up any plastic, net or waste you see in or around the water and dispose of it.

Not only does this keep Koh Tao looking clean, but it also saves local marine populations and reef.

Say Thanks by Grabbing a Beer at Moonlight

After a long afternoon of freediving, make sure to thank the guys at Moonlight Resort for letting you use their staircase down to the beach. They are nice guys and won't ask for money to access the water from the steps.

However, they do appreciate you buying a beer or water from them to say thank you.

Where to Stay on Koh Tao

I hope that you enjoyed this epic Koh Tao freediving spot! If you made the trip to check it out, let me know by leaving a comment below!

Check out my guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!