Hon Thom – Phu Quoc Dive Site
Site Overview
Hon Thom is the premier dive site of the An Thoi archipelago south of Phu Quoc, offering gently sloping coral reefs at depths of 5 to 18 metres that showcase the productive marine ecosystems of the Gulf of Thailand. The site features extensive hard coral formations including staghorn and table acroporas that create a three-dimensional underwater landscape supporting diverse tropical fish communities. Schools of fusiliers stream above the reef in shimmering blue curtains, while butterflyfish and angelfish patrol the coral bommies in constant activity. Bluespotted stingrays glide across the sandy channels between coral formations, and cuttlefish display their remarkable colour-changing abilities as they hunt small crustacean prey. The shallow depth profile and gentle conditions make Hon Thom an outstanding site for beginners and Open Water training dives, while the biodiversity ensures experienced divers remain engaged with the rich marine life. The protected position within the An Thoi island group ensures calm conditions throughout the dry season, with visibility consistently reaching 15 to 25 metres. Water temperatures remain warm at 27 to 30 degrees Celsius year-round, and the coral health reflects the improving conservation efforts around Phu Quoc's southern islands. The site offers an exceptional underwater experience with diverse marine habitats ranging from shallow coral gardens to deeper reef walls where larger pelagic species patrol the blue water. Hon Thom represents one of Vietnam's finest diving destinations in the Phu Quoc region, combining healthy coral ecosystems with abundant tropical fish life and consistently warm water temperatures throughout the diving season. The well-preserved marine environment supports a remarkable biodiversity that includes both resident reef species and seasonal visitors, making every dive a unique encounter with Vietnam's rich underwater heritage. Whether you are exploring the colourful shallows or venturing deeper along the reef structure, the combination of excellent visibility, warm water, and diverse marine life creates an unforgettable diving experience suitable for beginner divers and beyond.
Dive Briefing
"Descend from the dive boat to the main reef slope at approximately 10 metres and orient to the gentle gradient descending toward deeper water. Begin exploring the coral bommies and sandy channels that characterise the site, swimming along the reef edge where fish diversity is highest. Fusilier schools concentrate in the current above the reef, while butterflyfish and angelfish work the coral formations for food. Bluespotted stingrays are found resting on the sandy channels at all depths, requiring careful fin placement to avoid disturbance. Cuttlefish hunt actively across the substrate, displaying extraordinary camouflage and colour changes. The shallow sections at 5 to 8 metres feature the brightest coral growth and are ideal for the safety stop and snorkelling. Navigate along the main reef line following the island contour, noting the transitions between hard coral, soft coral, and sandy habitats. Check isolated coral heads for moray eels and juvenile fish sheltering in the branches. Conclude with a gradual ascent to the shallow reef for a safety stop at 5 metres before deploying your DSMB."
Signature Marine Life
Stingray
Taeniura lymma
Best: November, December, January
Cuttlefish
Sepia sp.
Best: November, December, January
Fusilier
Caesio sp.
Best: November, December, January
Staghorn Coral
Acropora sp.
Best: November, December, January
Butterflyfish
Chaetodon sp.
Best: November, December, January
Safety & Hazards
- Bluespotted stingrays resting on sandy channels requiring careful fin placement to avoid contact
- Fire coral on shallow reef formations requiring buoyancy control during photo composition
- Boat traffic in the An Thoi channel requiring DSMB deployment and ascent awareness
- Sea urchins on coral rubble patches requiring careful foot placement during shallow sections
- Strong tropical sun between dives requiring hydration management and reef-safe sunscreen application
Traveler Notes
Who is this for?
Hon Thom is ideal for Open Water certified divers and beginners seeking their first Phu Quoc diving experience. The gentle slopes, calm conditions, and abundant marine life create a rewarding environment for building confidence. Underwater photographers will find excellent wide-angle and macro opportunities with diverse subjects in good natural light. The site also serves as an outstanding snorkelling destination, making it perfect for mixed groups of divers and non-divers. Families with young divers will appreciate the shallow sections with colourful coral and accessible marine life.
Quick Stats
Dive Logistics
- Rainbow Divers Phu Quoc
- Phu Quoc Diving Center
- On The Rock Divers
Photography Info
Best for: wide_angle, reef, macro
Nearby Stay
JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay
Khem Beach • 15km away
Salinda Resort Phu Quoc
Long Beach • 5km away