Lagoon (sheltered water inside reef)

A lagoon is the body of water located behind a protective coral reef. This area remains calm because the outer reef breaks the heavy ocean swells. You often find lagoons in places like Koh Tao or the Maldives. Depths usually range from 3 m to 15 m depending on the local topography. The water stays warm and the currents are almost non-existent. Beginners love these spots for training sessions. However, you must watch your buoyancy carefully since there is little current to hold you in place. Many divers drift into the sand because they lose control in the still water. Always keep an eye on your depth gauge if you dive near the reef edge. This prevents accidental ascents into the surge zone.