Wildlife· Koh Libong· Thailand
Koh Libong Dugong Watching
7° 13.0′ N · 99° 23.6′ E
Thailand's largest dugong population, about 180 animals by a 2019 estimate, grazes the seagrass meadows around Koh Libong, and a hilltop viewpoint and community watchtower let you spot them without disturbing them.
Practical
Wikipedia: about 180 of Thailand's estimated 200 dugongs live off Ko Libong (2019); the seagrass meadows cover more than 12,000 rai and hold 11 of Thailand's 13 seagrass species; boat strikes and fishing gear are the main killers. Residents run a preservation zone where fishing and navigation are limited, watched from a tower. Southeast Asia Pilot: more than 40 dugongs graze the seagrass in the north bay. Never motor through seagrass at speed and keep well clear of any dugong; a hired local longtail or the viewpoint is better than chasing them in a dinghy. Position from the OpenStreetMap 'Point Dugong' viewpoint (Khao Batu Puteh).
Best for
Seeing wild dugongs, responsibly
Season
Year-round; calm mornings best
Nearby
- Ban Lang Khao Beach Restaurants (Koh Libong)1.6 NM away
- Ban Lang Khao Beach Landing (Koh Libong)1.8 NM away
- Ban Phrao (Ban Maphrao) Pier, Koh Libong2.5 NM away
- Koh Libong West Coast Anchorage2.8 NM away
- Koh Libong North Passage Anchorage3.9 NM away
- Kantang and Trang River Approaches5.3 NM away
- Hat Yao (Ban Chao Mai) Pier5.6 NM away
- Koh Lao Liang Climbing and Beaches6.9 NM away