Koh Doc Mai literally means “flower island”. This little limestone island stretches vertically down 24-28 m, creating a wall all around. There are many cracks and crevices along the walls at all depths, but the most frequented visit is a big cave and small cave located on the east side of the island. There is no access onto the island.
A good variety of small creatures make this site a favourite for dive operators. Tiger-tail seahorses, ornate ghost pipefish and anglerfish are among the species frequently found along the walls. Go slowly and check crevices in the wall or the sea fans, and you may spot them when they move.
The walls are also a paradise for macro photographers, as colourful nudibranch, flatworms, tiny white-eyed morays and groups of 10 or more dancing shrimp are guaranteed to make an appearance. Do examine cracks and small crevices for giant morays, and enjoy the schools of yellowline snapper, trevally and fusilier that usually swim along the wall.
Dive slowly if you do not want to miss the small creatures this dive site is famous for.
