Khanom Pink Dolphins

The dolphins off Khanom are Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, Sousa chinensis, which are born grey and lose pigment as they age until adults appear pink or nearly white - the colour is skin showing through, not a pigment, and it deepens when they exert themselves and the blood flow increases. A resident population of somewhere around fifty uses the shallow coastal waters here, and local boats run trips out in the early morning when the animals are most active near the surface. Sightings are common but not guaranteed and are usually at some distance. The species is listed as vulnerable, and the pressures are the familiar ones: net entanglement, boat strikes, coastal development and water quality. Some operators approach too closely and chase, which is harmful; the reputable ones cut engines and keep back. Khanom itself is a quiet coastal town with beaches and very little tourism infrastructure.

What you actually see

• The pink dolphins - adults pale from age, deepening in colour when active.
• The boat trips - early morning departures from the local piers.
• The resident population - around fifty animals using these coastal waters.
• The quiet coast - Khanom's beaches, with little development.

When to go

November to April, and early morning - the animals are most active near the surface at first light and the sea is calmest.

Honest expectations

Sightings are likely but not guaranteed, and usually distant. Some operators chase and crowd the animals, which harms them - choose one that cuts engines and keeps back. Khanom has limited facilities and little English.

Nearby

Khanom town and its beaches are alongside; Ko Samui is offshore to the north-west.