Nurse Shark Thailand February – Encounter Guide & Best Sites

Best visibility at Koh Tao. Nurse sharks resting under ledges at multiple dive sites. Easy encounters from shore.

Encounter overview

Diving or snorkelling with nurse sharks in Thailand during February is high season, with an encounter probability of approximately 75% under normal conditions. Nurse sharks are the most approachable large shark species in the ocean – slow, docile, and often found sleeping under reef overhangs in clusters. They are a perfect confidence-builder for divers new to shark encounters.

Best sites

• Koh Tao (Shark Bay)
• Sail Rock
• Chumphon Pinnacle

What to expect

Nurse sharks are nocturnal hunters and spend much of the day resting on the seabed or under coral ledges. They are sluggish when approached but will defend themselves if harassed or stepped on. Harmless under normal circumstances.

Water conditions in February

Water temperature in Thailand typically ranges 26-30°C. Visibility at Koh Tao (Shark Bay) in February is generally good; check local liveaboard or dive operator reports the week of your trip for specific conditions. Pinnacles, liveaboard similan islands is the primary dive style in Thailand.

Practical tips

Do not touch or grab – nurse sharks have been known to bite if provoked. They are not venomous but have extremely powerful jaws. Observe from 1-2 m, keep movements slow, and they will remain completely relaxed.

Getting there

Fly into Bangkok (BKK) or Phuket (HKT). Similan islands, koh tao, whale sharks, leopard sharks, richelieu rock. 30-day visa exemption for many nationalities. Currency: Thai Baht (THB).

Is February a good time to visit Thailand for nurse shark?

Yes – February is high season for nurse sharks in Thailand. Encounter probability is around 75% on a dedicated trip. Best sites include Koh Tao (Shark Bay), Sail Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle. Check availability at Koh Tao (Shark Bay) as spaces fill quickly in peak months.