The Whale Shark in Thailand

Thailand offers a rich diversity of marine life and underwater scenery. The reefs of the Similan Islands are renowned worldwide, while Phuket, Phi Phi, and Koh Tao draw both divers and sun seekers. However, at the top of most divers' wish lists is the chance to encounter a whale shark.

Several dive sites in Thailand offer regular sightings of these magnificent creatures. The most famous location is Richelieu Rock, near the Surin Islands, but don’t forget to keep an eye out wherever you dive. Hin Daeng has also become a notable spot for large pelagic species. While whale sharks are not guaranteed, you might be fortunate enough to spot one.

The best chance to see a whale shark in Thailand is on a liveaboard dive trip.

Best Time to See Whalesharks in Thailand

The highest number of whale shark sightings typically occur in April, with some sightings in February and March if you’re fortunate. Most of these sightings happen at Richelieu Rock, which is included in the itinerary of most Similan Islands Liveaboards.
In addition to whale sharks, recent seasons have seen a rise in Manta Ray sightings. However, the 2022-23 season experienced fewer encounters, with mantas being observed on only a limited number of trips, most commonly around Koh Bon and Koh Tachai.
Please remember, sightings of whale sharks are never guaranteed. Liveaboards operate from mid-October to early May, but in recent years, more sightings have been reported later in the high season – particularly late April and into May, and even extending into the low season months of June and July.

Where to See Whalesharks in Thailand

Whale shark sightings can happen almost anywhere, but these gentle giants are still considered rare. The best spots for encounters are Richelieu Rock, Hin Daeng, and Chumphon Pinnacle in the Gulf of Thailand. While sightings had slightly decreased since 2021, the last few seasons have been promising, with occasional sightings even at Phuket dive sites such as Shark Point and Koh Doc Mai.

About The Whaleshark

The whale shark (Rhincodon typus) is the largest fish in the world, reaching lengths of up to 12 meters (40 feet). Despite their immense size, they are harmless creatures, feeding on plankton and small fish, which are filtered from the water as they cruise the world's oceans. Whale sharks are found in warm waters globally, including Australia, Mexico, Honduras, Hawaii, and Thailand. In these regions, the giant sharks are treated with the respect they deserve, and many divers are awed by their serene presence.
Sadly, in some countries like India and the Philippines, whale sharks are hunted for their meat, which is sold as an expensive delicacy to the affluent in Taiwan and China. This practice has certainly reduced their numbers. However, due to the sharks' migratory patterns, it is incredibly challenging to track and count them accurately. There was progress in 2002 when the CITES conference listed the whale shark and basking shark among species considered to be at risk. While this does not yet mean a fishing ban, it marked an important first step. Hopefully, future divers will witness the positive impact of these efforts!

Whaleshark update 2024

Whale shark encounters were relatively limited during the 2023–2024 season. The best chances of sightings remained at Richelieu Rock and Koh Tachai, though there were also occasional encounters at Hin Daeng and even local dive sites around Phuket and Phi Phi. Some lucky divers on liveaboard trips over the past few years were fortunate to share the water with these gentle giants. The 2022–2023 season saw slightly more sightings, while 2021 was an exceptional year, especially from March to May 2022, with numerous encounters reported.
So far this season, we’ve had a few sightings in the Similan Islands, as well as around Phuket and the Phi Phi Islands. The prime time for whale shark encounters in Thailand is typically February to April.
If you're fortunate enough to witness one of these majestic creatures in the wild, it’s an experience you'll never forget. A little excitement is natural—but please resist the urge to touch or ride a whale shark. Passive interaction is far healthier for marine life and helps ensure they remain calm and curious. Often, if you remain still and simply observe, the whale shark may approach you on its own.
Interested in diving in Thailand? Get in touch with us—who knows, with a little luck, you might just have your own unforgettable whale shark encounter! Please note that we do not offer dedicated “swim with whale shark” trips. Your best chance of seeing them is on a liveaboard to the Similan Islands and Richelieu Rock.
We hope to welcome you aboard soon!

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