Shark Point (Hin Musang)

Shark Point, Phuket: Thailand's Premier Leopard Shark Dive

Shark Point (Hin Musang) is a protected marine sanctuary located approximately 25 kilometers east of Phuket, making it one of Thailand's most popular and rewarding dive sites. Named for its resident population of leopard sharks (zebra sharks), this series of submerged limestone pinnacles is draped in vibrant purple and pink soft corals, sea fans, and anemones. The site consistently delivers colorful diving with excellent marine life encounters.

Dive Details

Depth, Visibility, and Temperature

Shark Point consists of three main pinnacles with depths ranging from 5-24 meters (16-80 feet). The shallowest pinnacle breaks the surface at low tide, marked by a beacon. Visibility varies seasonally from 10-25 meters (30-80 feet), with the best conditions typically from November to April. Water temperature ranges from 27-30°C (80-86°F), allowing comfortable diving in a 3mm wetsuit or shortie.

Difficulty Level

Shark Point is suitable for Open Water certified divers, though Advanced certification is beneficial for exploring the deeper sections. Currents can range from mild to moderate depending on tidal conditions, and the site is occasionally exposed to swells. Good buoyancy control is important to avoid damaging the fragile soft corals. Most dive operators offer this as a day trip suitable for all experience levels.

Marine Life

Leopard sharks (also called zebra sharks) are the main attraction, often found resting on sandy bottoms between the pinnacles. These docile sharks with their distinctive spotted pattern allow close approach for photography. The pinnacles teem with life: schools of yellowtail barracuda, trevally, and fusiliers patrol the water column. Moray eels peer from crevices, cuttlefish display their color-changing abilities, and ornate ghost pipefish hide among the sea fans. Seahorses, nudibranchs, and decorator crabs reward macro enthusiasts, while occasional manta rays pass through during plankton-rich periods.

Best Time to Visit

The best diving at Shark Point is during the dry season from November to April, when visibility peaks and seas are calmest. Leopard sharks are present year-round, though they're easier to find during cooler months (December-February). The monsoon season (May-October) can bring reduced visibility and rougher surface conditions, but the site remains diveable and often less crowded. Early morning dives typically offer the best chance of seeing sharks before they become active and leave the sandy areas.

What Makes It Special

Shark Point's protected status as a marine sanctuary has allowed marine life to flourish, making it one of the healthiest reef ecosystems in the Phuket region. The combination of guaranteed soft coral gardens, high probability of shark encounters, and excellent macro life creates a complete diving experience. The site is often combined with the nearby King Cruiser wreck and Anemone Reef for a full day of varied diving. The beacon-marked pinnacle creates a dramatic entrance as you descend into a kaleidoscope of color.

Practical Tips

• Day Trip Standard: Most operators run day trips combining Shark Point with King Cruiser wreck and Anemone Reef—excellent value for varied diving.
• Watch Buoyancy: The soft corals are delicate and easily damaged. Perfect your buoyancy before approaching walls.
• Check Sandy Areas: Leopard sharks rest on sand patches between pinnacles, especially in the morning. Scan these areas carefully.
• Macro Lens Ready: The site offers exceptional nudibranch, seahorse, and ghost pipefish opportunities for macro photographers.
• Current Awareness: Start upcurrent and drift with the flow. Your divemaster will brief on conditions.
• Protected Area: Fishing and anchoring are prohibited. Help maintain this protected status by never touching or standing on the reef.