South Pinnacle

South Pinnacle, also known as South Tip, is a large underwater pinnacle situated approximately 150 metres off the southern end of Koh Racha Noi, Thailand. The pinnacle rises up 12 metres from the bottom, with depths ranging from 5 metres to 40 metres, and features huge boulders, drop-offs, and large rock faces that are closely compared to the scenery of the Similan Islands. The formations twist and turn to create dramatic underwater landscapes, with the entire structure covered in colourful soft corals and giant sea fans.

Marine life on the reef is varied across depths. The top of the pinnacle holds moray eels, lionfish, scorpionfish, and schooling fish, while deeper sections are where sharks and large stingrays are regularly encountered. The south of Koh Racha Noi experiences some of the strongest currents in the Andaman Sea, which draws manta rays and eagle rays to the site in January and February. Nudibranchs, squat lobsters, ornate ghost pipefish, seahorses, blackfin barracuda, and giant trevally are also found at this site.

The current at South Pinnacle runs strong to very strong, and the site is accessible only during certain tidal periods — it is not diveable during full moon and new moon phases due to extreme current conditions. Visibility is great when conditions allow. Because of the powerful currents, the site is recommended for advanced and experienced divers only.