Best time to dive in Tofo Beach

Optimal Diving Seasons

Peak Seasons

Tofo Beach is best experienced from May to September. These months provide optimal diving conditions due to calm seas, excellent visibility, and pleasant water temperatures. The peak season also aligns with the dry season, ensuring fewer rainy days and more sunshine, enhancing the overall diving experience. Additionally, this period is renowned for more consistent sightings of the famous whale sharks and manta rays that the area is known for.

Off-Peak Seasons

Diving during the off-peak seasons of October through April has its own set of pros and cons. On the pro side, divers can enjoy less crowded sites and often find better deals on accommodations and dive packages. The conditions can still be favorable as the water remains warm, and beautiful coral reefs vibrant. However, these months fall within the rainy season, leading to occasional heavy rains and reduced visibility underwater. Divers should also be cautious about the presence of stronger currents and tides, especially during the cyclone risk period from January to March.

Month-by-Month Guide

January to March: The start of the year brings warm water temperatures averaging between 27°C to 30°C. Visibility is excellent, often exceeding 30 meters, thanks to the calm sea conditions. Marine life is abundant with frequent sightings of whale sharks and manta rays.

April to June: As the temperatures start to cool slightly, dropping to around 24°C to 27°C, the visibility remains good but starts to decrease a bit, averaging 20 to 25 meters. This period is perfect for observing humpback whale migration, beginning in June. Divers can also spot other pelagic species.

July to September: Winter months bring cooler water temperatures of around 21°C to 24°C. Visibility can drop to 10-15 meters due to increased plankton. However, the marine life is thriving as the peak humpback whale season creates spectacular underwater encounters. Manta rays remain a common sight.

October to December: Water temperatures start rising again to around 25°C to 28°C. Visibility improves, ranging from 25 to 30 meters. Whale sharks and manta rays make a consistent appearance during these months, making it an ideal time for underwater photographers and enthusiasts keen on seeing large marine creatures.

Diving Conditions

Water Temperature

The water temperature at Tofo Beach is generally warm throughout the year, ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F). During the summer months (November to March), the water temperature tends to be on the higher end, often reaching up to 30°C (86°F). In the winter months (June to August), divers can expect slightly cooler waters averaging around 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F).

Visibility

Visibility at Tofo Beach varies significantly throughout the year. During the peak season, particularly from October to March, visibility can be excellent, often reaching up to 30 meters (100 feet). In the off-peak season, from April to September, visibility may decrease due to plankton blooms and can range between 10 to 20 meters (30 to 65 feet).

Currents and Tides

Currents at Tofo Beach can be quite variable. Generally, the dive sites experience moderate to strong currents, especially during spring tides. Tidal changes significantly influence diving conditions; thus, it is crucial to plan dives around slack tides to avoid strong currents. The best times to dive considering the currents are typically during neap tides when the water movement is minimal, providing safer and more enjoyable diving experiences.

Recap

Diving in Tofo Beach offers unique experiences throughout the year, providing an ever-changing underwater landscape. The best months to dive are June to September, due to calm seas, excellent visibility, and abundant marine life. Off-peak seasons, such as November to February, offer the excitement of encountering whale sharks but come with challenges like lower visibility. Overall, Tofo Beach caters to divers seeking diverse marine life and varying diving conditions year-round.