This dive site, known as Hin Ta or Grandfather Rock, is located south of Khram Yai island in Thailand. It features a distinctive horseshoe-shaped rock formation, visible from the surface, with a small white sandy beach that emerges during low tide. Underwater exploration primarily involves navigating along the rock wall and over the adjacent sandy bottom, offering a straightforward and pleasant experience for divers, especially those new to the sport. There is no specific historical narrative associated with the dive site beyond its descriptive nickname.
The marine life at Hin Ta is diverse, particularly for small creatures found thriving on the wall and the sandy areas, making it an excellent spot for macro photography enthusiasts. Divers frequently encounter sea turtles, which are a highlight of the site. The typical marine environment includes various species of reef fish, soft and hard corals adhering to the rock formations, and a range of invertebrates in the sand.
Hin Ta is highly suitable for beginner to intermediate divers due to its shallow maximum depth of 11 meters and generally mild conditions. The site is also ideal for snorkeling and freediving, with an average depth of 5 meters allowing easy access to marine life. The best time to visit for optimal diving conditions typically aligns with Thailand's dry season, from November to April, when water clarity is generally at its best.
