Hin Chalam

Samae San Marine Park

Hin Chalam Samae San Marine Park

Learn about Hin Chalam Samae San Marine Park Dive Site

Hin Chalam, translating to “Rock Shark,” is a premier dive site in the Samae San area. Renowned for its exceptional visibility and dense marine life, it offers an unforgettable diving experience.

Location: A ways out from the main dive area, closest to Koh Chan
Depth: Max 22 meters, Min 5 meters – Average 14 meters
Type of Site: Rocky formations with coral banks, a wall section, and a small cave-like inlet
Level: Suitable for all diver certifications
Conditions: Generally good all year round, offering fun drift dives
Average Visibility: 10 meters to 30 meters

Where are the dive sites at Hin Chalam?

Hin Chalam features several distinct diving areas:

Southern Wall: A 12-meter wall section with a small cave-like inlet, perfect for exploration.
Northern Tip: A flatter open area starting around 10 meters, ideal for spotting Bamboo Sharks and other marine life.
Reef Drop Off and Sand Bar: Deeper around 18 meters, this area you can stare into the deep blue and also contains test ordnance used for target practice by the Royal Thai Navy.

What Aquatic Life is Common at Hin Chalam?

Hin Chalam is teeming with marine life, including:

Black Tip Reef Sharks and Bamboo Sharks: Regularly sighted around the dive site.
Whale Sharks / Mabula Rays: Occasionally spotted, making for an exciting dive.
Nudibranchs: Abundant and colorful, perfect for macro enthusiasts.
Barracuda: Including juvenile Yellow Tails and fully grown great barracudas.
Snapper, Damsels, Fusiliers, and Jack Fish: Commonly found schooling around the reefs.
Queenfish and Giant Grouper: Rarer sights but more than possible to encounter.

A Chance to See Larger Pelagic Marine Life

As you venture further into the Gulf of Thailand and deeper waters, the chances of encountering larger pelagic marine life increase. Divers may be graced by visiting Whale Sharks, Eagle Rays, Manta Rays, and even the huge Jenkins Whipray. Hin Chalam offers an exciting opportunity for unforgettable marine encounters.