Koh Tao: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Dive into Koh Tao: an island gem in the Gulf of Thailand
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Koh Tao, a tiny jewel in the Gulf of Thailand, is world famous for its scuba diving. Beyond the dive sites, you’ll find secluded beaches and a laid-back charm that draws visitors back again and again. Whether you’re here to get PADI certified, explore the island’s hidden coves, or simply sip a coconut while watching the sunset, this ultimate guide will help you uncover the very best of Koh Tao.
How to Get to Koh Tao, Thailand
Koh Tao lies in the Gulf of Thailand, and is accessible only by boat. Regular ferries run from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Surat Thani on the mainland. The fastest route is to fly into Koh Samui, then catch the Lomprayah High-Speed Catamaran, which then takes you to Koh Tao in about 1.5 hours.
Once on the island, getting around is part of the adventure! Scooters are the most popular mode of transport, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Taxis and longtail boats are also available for reaching more remote locations, but for the ultimate Koh Tao experience, a scooter or motorbike is highly recommended.
Sai Daeng Resort, Koh Tao
Where to Stay on Koh Tao
Sai Daeng Resort
Perched on its own private peninsula, Sai Daeng is a beautiful beach-front stay, where stylish, modern villas are tucked away beneath palm trees and scented wildflowers line the walkways that meander through the resort. The rocky promontory makes it perfect for snorkelling, and the design-led rooms include floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views over the turquoise seas below.
Jamahkiri Resort & Spa
Stepping away from the cliched thatched bungalows that permeate most Thai island accommodation, you’ll find a sleek, luxurious hilltop hideaway that prides itself on its world-class diving facilities, including a dive pool, a diving school and access to your own private beach. After exploring the underwater world, relax at their in-house spa before sampling a glass from their exceptional wine cellar.
The Best Beaches in Koh Tao, Thailand
Sairee Beach is the longest and liveliest beach on the island, lined with bars, restaurants and, of course, dive shops. Ao Leuk Beach is a postcard-perfect bay with powdery white sand and some amazing snorkelling at either end of the beach. Shark Bay is named after the harmless blacktip reef sharks that frequent the waters here, making this one of our favourite spots on the island to snorkel. Tanote Bay is a quieter, less crowded beach with a large rock for some dare-devil cliff jumping, and for that sought-after castaway vibe, head to Sai Nuan Beach – perfect for escaping the crowds.
Diving & Snorkeling in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is one of the world’s top destinations for scuba diving, thanks to its abundant marine life, warm waters and affordable PADI courses. If you want to get beneath the waves and discover a new underwater world, this is one of the best places to do it. The Chumphon Pinnacle is a deep-sea dive site famous for its schools of barracuda and the occasional whale shark sighting. Sail Rock is an iconic fixture on the Koh Tao dive circuit, with a famous vertical swim-through chimney.
John-Suwan Viewpoint, Koh Tao
Things to do on Koh Tao
Hike to Koh Tao’s Best Viewpoints
Koh Tao’s rugged interior makes for some spectacular hikes, and is the perfect antidote to days spent in the water. Stretch your legs and hike to the John-Suwan Viewpoint, a short but steep climb that rewards you with one of the best views on the island. West Coast Viewpoint is a lesser known hike leading to an unspoiled 360 degree view of the mesmerising coastline.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
Explore the island’s coastline at your own pace by renting a kayak or a paddleboard. Watersports are the name of the game here and you’ll find endless coves, beaches and snorkelling spots to uncover. Some of the best places to start your journey include Ao Leuk Beach and Shark Bay.
Rock Climbing & Cliff Jumping
For adrenaline junkies, Koh Tao has some great rock climbing, with both beginner and advanced routes available. Tanote Bay and Ao Leuk Bay are also popular spots for the cliff jumping dare-devils amongst you.
Blue Shark Brunch Cafe, Koh Tao
Where to Eat on Koh Tao
Barracuda Rooftop Restaurant & Bar – A beloved spot on the island, famous for its gourmet fresh seafood, modern dishes and killer sunset views, this is the spot to indulge in good food and great cocktails. Our favourites include fried whole snapper, Thai crab curry and the pan-fried barracuda. A romantic date night spot, or simply for hanging out with friends.
995 Duck – An authentic, local favourite serving the best duck noodle soup on the island. Everything a humble Thai eatery should be, the duck is juicy and perfectly crisp, the broths are full of depth and richness, and the vibe is buzzing. We love it here.
Blue Shark Brunch Cafe – Everyone who passes by Blue Shark inevitably has to stop for brunch. Maybe it’s the fresh smoothie bowls, topped with chia seeds and passion fruit. Or maybe it’s the scrambled eggs and maple-glazed bacon that keeps people coming back. The coffee is excellent, the vibe hits just right, and it’s one of our favourite spots on the island for a mid-morning pick me up.
Best Time to Visit Koh Tao
The best time to visit Koh Tao is between December and April, when the weather is dry and sunny, and the ocean conditions are perfect for diving and snorkelling. July to September also sees good weather, but occasional rain showers can occur and visibility reduces in the water. Avoid travelling here during the monsoon season (October and November) as you’ll find heavy rainfall and rough seas.
Things to Do
things to do
