Making Waves: Ocean Store Thailand Joins the 2026 Swim for Sharks!

At Ocean Store, we believe the ocean isn’t just a place to play—it’s a home that needs our protection. That’s why we are incredibly proud to announce our official sponsorship of the 2026 Swim for Sharks event right here in Koh Tao!

Whether you’re a competitive open-water swimmer or a weekend snorkeler, this event is a chance to dive into conservation and make a real difference for the "silent guardians" of our seas.

What is Swim for Sharks?

Founded on Koh Tao in 2010, Swim for Sharks began as a grassroots effort by a group of passionate divers who wanted to raise awareness about the decline of shark populations. Today, it has evolved into a massive community event supporting Shark Guardian, a UK-registered charity at the forefront of global marine conservation.

Who is Shark Guardian?

Led by professional researchers and educators, Shark Guardian works tirelessly to:

• Protect Species: They were instrumental in the UK shark fin trade ban and continue to fight for similar protections worldwide.

• Education: They reach over 20,000 students annually, turning fear of sharks into fascination and respect.

• Citizen Science: Through their Thai Whale Sharks project, they use diver-submitted photos to track and protect the gentle giants we often see at Southwest Pinnacle and Sail Rock.

Event Details: How to Join

This year’s event is more than just a swim; it’s a weekend of ocean celebration!

• April 24, 2026: Shark Education Evening. Join the experts for a night of talks about why sharks are essential to our ecosystem.

• April 25, 2026: The Main Event. A 3.4 km challenge inspired by the classic swim around the beautiful Koh Nang Yuan.

How to Participate:

• The Competitive Swim: For those looking to test their endurance.

• The Fun Swim / Snorkel: Grab your fins and mask for a more relaxed pace.

• Support from Land: Even if you aren't getting wet, you can join the fundraising BBQ, raffle, and party!

Register Here for Swim for Sharks 2026

🎁 Exclusive Participant Offer: 20% OFF!

We want every swimmer to have the best experience possible. To celebrate the event, Ocean Store is offering a 20% discount on all swim products in-store at Koh Tao for all Swim for Sharks participants!

Whether you need to upgrade your goggles at the last minute or grab a fresh rash guard for the race, just show your event registration at our Koh Tao shop to claim your discount.

Gear Up with Ocean Store Thailand

Open-water swimming in the Gulf of Thailand requires the right equipment. To help you perform your best while staying protected, we’ve curated a "Conservation Collection" featuring top-tier brands:

Pro Tip: When choosing gear for Koh Tao, always opt for "Reef Safe" options. Our rash guards provide UPF 50+ protection, reducing the need for sunscreens that can harm the coral.

See You in the Water!

As a sponsor, the Ocean Store team will be on the ground (and in the water!) throughout the event. Come by our shop on Koh Tao to chat about the best gear for the race, claim your 20% participant discount, or just to share your latest shark sighting story.

Let’s swim for a future where our oceans remain wild, healthy, and full of sharks.

Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for live updates from the event!