tour naar koh tao

THE 10 BEST Koh Tao Tours & Excursions

Koh tao tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Multi-day Tours
• Private Tours
• Photography Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkel Tour (Speedboat from Koh Samui)

2. Full day snorkeling adventure around Koh Tao

3. From Ko Tao: Snorkeling Day Trip Ko Tao & Ko Nang Yuan with Meals

4. Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao by Speed Boat from Koh Phangan

5. koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan by Speed Boat from Koh Samui

6. 5 Islands Full-Day Tour Around Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan

7. Open Water Course - Become certified diver in 3 days

8. Koh Tao Snorkeling and Island Hopping Tour (Private)

9. PADI Discover Scuba Diving in Koh Tao - half day and two dives

10. Koh Tao & Koh Nangyuan by Speed Boat (Snorkeling trip from Koh Samui)

11. Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao 5 Point Snorkeling Tour

12. Koh Tao VIP Snorkelling Tour

13. PADI Discover Scuba Diving at Sail Rock From Koh Phangan (Beginners)

14. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan VIP Small Group Tour

15. Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan and the hidden bays of Koh Tao onboard the Oxygen

16. 7 hours Snorkelling Around Koh Tao and Nang Yuan

17. Full-Day Cruise of Koh Nang Yuan and Koh Tao From Koh Samui

18. Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan by Speedboat

19. Become certified diver in 3 days - PADI Open Water Diver course on Koh Tao

20. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Speedboat Tour from Koh Phangan

21. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling Trip By Speedboat From Koh Samui

22. Fun Diving Packages (Certified Divers)

23. South Thailand: See it All in 12 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

24. Snorkel Trip to Koh Nangyuan and Bays of Koh Tao By The Oxygen

25. Scuba Diving Trip to Sail Rock From Koh Phangan (Certified Divers)

26. Full Day Treasure Hunt on Koh Tao

27. Koh Tao & Koh Nangyuan Snorkeling Tour by Speedboat from Ko Samui

28. Basic Diver ( One Day Experience)

29. Koh Tao Snorkeling Tour to Hidden Bays and Koh Nang Yuan

30. Premium Snorkel Tour to the Bays of Koh Tao onboard the Oxygen

What travelers are saying.

• Full day snorkeling adventure around Koh Tao
• Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan Snorkel Tour (Speedboat from Koh Samui)
• From Ko Tao: Snorkeling Day Trip Ko Tao & Ko Nang Yuan with Meals
• Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan and Koh Tao by Speed Boat from Koh Phangan
• 5 Islands Full-Day Tour Around Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan
• Taco Divers
• Pura Vida Diving
• Ban's Diving
• Koh Tao Scuba Club
• Ocean Sound Dive & Yoga
• Crystal Dive Koh Tao
• Pearl Diving
• Unseen Tours Koh Tao
• We Travel Snorkeling Adventures
• Pimp My Dive Scuba Dive Center
• Assava Dive Resort
• Alvaro Diving
• Extreme Academy Koh Tao Water Sports Centre
• Big Blue Diving Koh Tao

Boat Trip Around Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling

Diamond tour, koh tao diamond tour.

Welcome to Koh Tao, a tropical paradise known for its stunning underwater world and vibrant marine life! If you’re a diving enthusiast or just curious about the wonders of the deep blue, you’ve come to the right place. Koh Tao is a world-renowned diving destination, offering crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and a diverse array of marine species.

Boat Trip Around Koh Tao& Koh Nang Yuan Snorkeling

Boat Trip Around Koh Tao & Boat Trip Around Koh Tao

Contact Us book a program

Come snorkel on koh tao. by the koh tao diamond tour team let's be fresh..

The 20 BEST Things to Do in Koh Tao, Thailand (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: December 19, 2023

The best things to do in Koh Tao, Thailand, from scuba diving and snorkeling to exploring local markets, hiking, and more!

Koh Tao is undoubtedly one of the best islands to visit in Thailand , along with Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and more.

The small tropical paradise of Koh Tao is most well-known for its scuba diving, as it offers some of the best diving conditions in South East Asia.

With calm, warm waters, mesmerising marine life, and plenty of dive schools to take a course or go fun diving, Koh Tao is the perfect place for introductory or certified divers.

Koh Tao is also surrounded by plenty of unique snorkel and dive sites, as well as truly magical islands.

Koh Nang Yuan is a beautiful location to spend the day and photograph, and Shark Island is an iconic dive site right off the coast of the best Koh Tao beaches.

When you’re not frolicking through the colourful underwater world, there is so much in store for you on land as well!

Koh Tao has all the iconic aspects of any Thai island or village. Delicious, flavourful cuisine, bustling markets, beach bars, rewarding hikes, and smiling locals are all abundant. And the beaches on Koh Tao are gorgeous as well!

So whether you’re an adventurous traveller looking for constant excitement, or you’d rather relax and soak in the serenity of this little oasis, Koh Tao has it all.

Check out our ultimate Thailand Travel Guide for more tips, itineraries, and recommendations!

Table of Contents

1) Learn Scuba Diving with an Open Water Course

2) upskill your dive certificates, 3) learn about reef conservation and do an ecological monitoring program with black turtle dive, 4) go snorkelling, 5) try rock climbing, 6) eat all the local thai cuisine, 7) hike to a panoramic koh tao viewpoint, 8) learn to cook authentic thai food, 9) focus on yoga and wellness, 10) explore the best koh tao beaches, 11) rent a scooter, 12) visit the turtle conservation center, 13) learn how to freedive, 14) experience the famous koh tao nightlife, 15) visit koh nang yuan island, 16) try kayaking and paddleboarding, 17) see a muay thai boxing match, 18) visit the local night market, 19) take a day trip to koh samui or koh phangan, 20) admire the wat koh tao temple, best hostel on koh tao island: taco shack diving hostel, best mid-range accommodation on koh tao island: ban’s dive resort, best luxury accommodation on koh tao island: freedom beach koh tao resort, the most awesome things to do in koh tao, thailand.

If you’re stuck on what to do in Koh Tao, Thailand, check out our complete guide to the island’s top activities!

From taking your first breaths underwater, to enjoying the view from the famous John Suwan Viewpoint, to lounging on Freedom Beach, Sai Nuan Beach, or the other stunning Koh Tao beaches, you’re going to love these top things to do in Koh Tao!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Alesha & Jarryd – TRAVEL (@nomadasaurus)

Koh Tao is one of the best places in the world to learn how to scuba dive! With a vibrant underwater world full of unique dive sites such as Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock, and Shark Island, there is no shortage of places to explore beneath the surface.

The waters around Koh Tao create the perfect environment for learning scuba diving. Warm temperatures, great visibility, and calm conditions are ideal for first-time divers.

In addition to the pristine and safe scuba diving conditions, Koh Tao is teeming with top-rated dive schools and dive shops.

There are lots of affordable options for getting certified and learning how to dive with excellent local instructors.

So if you’ve always wanted to learn how to scuba dive, Koh Tao is the place to be!

With top-notch dive schools that are also affordable, plus a wide range of fascinating dive sites and prime conditions, you can become an experienced diver in no time at this world-class diving destination.

So which scuba diving schools do we personally recommend?

The first one is Ban’s Diving Resort , who are not only the biggest dive school on Koh Tao, but one of the biggest in the entire world!

As a PADI 5 Star Career and Instructor Development Centre, you can be guaranteed of the attention to detail when it comes to education and their commitment to providing a fantastic experience for new divers.

Their on-site accommodation is also truly lovely, and while it’s a bit pricier than other options on the island, you get what you pay for.

The other Koh Tao dive school we recommend is Black Turtle Dive .

These guys are a bit more specialised and small-group focused than Ban’s, and their courses are world class.

Black Turtle focus heavily on conservation and sustainability, and these ethos are built into their products.

They also take safety extremely seriously, providing all students and fun divers with dive computers, and keeping guide to diver numbers limited.

We dove with both Ban’s and Black Turtle on our most recent trip, and honestly recommend both.

Wondering how to get to Koh Tao? Check out our guide to Transportation in Thailand !

If you’ve already completed your open water scuba course, you can further advance your dive skills in Koh Tao!

Many of the organisations that offer scuba courses also offer more advanced dive courses.

So if you want to take your skills to the next level, consider a more unique and challenging type of dive cert.

From general advanced open water courses, to rescue courses, to becoming a divemaster yourself, there are many ways to upskill your dive certificates in Koh Tao!

At the absolute minimum, if you love diving we recommend getting your advanced diver certification asap.

It allows you to dive to 30m, which opens up an entirely new world, and helps progress your skills.

The next we recommend is going for your enriched air (nitrox) and deep diver specialties.

Finally, if you feel as though diving is something you’ll do a lot, we highly highly suggest doing your rescue diver course.

This added an entirely new level of confidence for us, and made us feel so much more comfortable diving in any conditions.

Once you start diving, you’re going to fall in love with the ocean, reefs and marine life you find every time you head underwater.

If you’re anything like us, you’ll then start to form a deeper appreciation for conservation efforts, and may even want to contribute yourself.

Until recently the work of marine conservation was usually a task people only associated with marine biologists.

These days though anybody with some basic skills, passion and the ability to invest time can help out, and that is exactly what I did on my recent trip to Koh Tao.

I signed up for the Ecological Monitoring Program with Black Turtle Dive, which is a course designed by the non-profit Conservation Diver to learn how to conduct coral, invertebrate and fish surveys.

And wow, what a truly eye-opening experience.

The guys at Black Turtle have been monitoring the health of the coral reefs and fish around Koh Tao for decades, and are qualified to contribute their scientific findings to an official, global database. And that’s exactly what I learnt to do too.

For 3 days I studied all about the reefs and marine life of Koh Tao, then went out and did practical surveys in a designated part of the bay.

Over a 100m by 5m zone I’d document every single indicator species of coral, invertebrate or fish I could see on a slate, as well as the health and estimated numbers of each finding, and this information would be analysed against the years of data Black Turtle have uploaded.

This gives an overall view of the health of the reef and how things like tourism, sea temperatures and weather events affect the area.

As a passionate diver this opened up a whole new world for me. I developed a newfound appreciation for marine science and now want to be even more active in the conservation of the world’s reef and marine life.

Now I’m also certified to help out the team of biologists and conservation divers next time I’m here.

Black Turtle Dive are the only dive school offering the Ecological Monitoring Program course in Koh Tao, Thailand. If you love scuba diving, it’s well worth checking out!

Thanks so much Steve from Black Turtle Dive for stepping me through the course and taking photos while I focused on the survey.

• Address: 8 Moo 2 Mae Haad Koh Tao, Surat Thani 84360, Thailand
• Hours: 6:30am – 8pm

If scuba diving is not your thing, snorkelling is another fantastic way to discover the vibrant marine life of Koh Tao island.

Rent snorkel gear from one of the many dive shops in town and just walk down to the shores of the best Koh Tao beaches like Freedom Beach, Sairee Beach, Sai Daeng Beach, Sai Nuan Beach, Mango Bay, Tanote Bay, Ao Hin Wong Bay, or Aow Leuk Bay.

Shark Bay is another great snorkel spot. You have a good chance of spotting black tip reef sharks while you’re exploring underwater, hence the name Shark Bay!

In fact while I was scuba diving at this site, a whale shark came right by the island and the snorkellers above got just as good a viewing as I did from below!

Don’t want to just go from the beach? Never fear, because you can book a snorkelling tour on Koh Tao!

Guided snorkelling trips give you some extra mileage and insight because your local guide will take you off the coast to all the best snorkelling spots.

Learn from the locals and enjoy a bit of sightseeing in addition to epic snorkelling!

Popular snorkelling spots that require a boat to get there include Shark Island and the nearby Koh Nang Yuan Island.

Adventurous travellers looking for a fun challenge can try rock climbing while visiting Koh Tao.

The small island is packed with natural granite cliffs that offer the perfect landscape for climbing and bouldering.

There are rock climbing routes for both beginners and experienced climbers. Koh Tao is even home to a few climbing gyms where you can take lessons and practice indoors.

Otherwise, visit a local climbing shop to rent gear and book a lesson outdoors. Or just go for it if you know what you’re doing !

Top rock climbing spots on Koh Tao island include Mek’s Mountain and Secret Garden near Sairee Beach, as well as Jansom Bay and Lang Khai.

READ MORE: Check out what else to get up to in the Land of Smiles with our expert guide to the best things to do in Thailand!

Another one of the best things to do in Koh Tao is, of course, eat Thai food !

Full of fresh veggies and aromatic spices, Thai cuisine is one of the most beloved around the world.

When you visit Koh Tao, be sure to try as much authentic local food as you possibly can!

Indulge in delicious dishes such as Pad Thai, Green Curry, and Mango Sticky Rice at the many restaurants and street food vendors.

Most restaurants are centered around Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Pier, but there are hidden gems scattered all over Koh Tao.

Read next: The Ultimate 1, 2, and 3 Week Thailand Itinerary

Get some exercise while visiting Koh Tao and go for a hike! Koh Tao is covered in rich forests and hills, meaning there are some fun trails and amazing viewpoints if you are willing to put in the effort.

One of the island’s most impressive hikes is the one to John Suwan Viewpoint .

Offering panoramic views of Shark Bay, Shark Island, Chalok Baan Kao Beach, and more, the observation deck at the end of this hike is well worth the effort.

The hike to John Suwan Viewpoint is steep but short. Find the starting point for the hike from the Freedom Beach car park at the southern end of the island.

In addition to the famous John Suwan Viewpoint, the Love Koh Tao Viewpoint is another easy and rewarding hike.

Located in the centre of the island near Sairee Beach, the Love Koh Tao Viewpoint offers a nice view of the jungle and surrounding Koh Tao beaches.

Mango Viewpoint and Fraggle Rock Viewpoint are more fun hikes with panoramic views of Sairee Beach and the Koh Tao coastline.

Many viewpoints are free, but some, like the Mango Viewpoint, have an entrance fee of 100 Thai Baht, so carry a bit of cash with you while hiking.

If you love scenic viewpoints and a good workout, hiking to one of these viewpoints is one of the best things to do in Koh Tao!

When visiting any Thai island or city, do yourself a favuor and take a Thai cooking class!

Learn all about the local cuisine and get a crash course about how to prepare your favourite Thai dishes so you can impress your friends back home.

This is one of the best things to do in Koh Tao if you want to meet locals and learn about the secrets behind the most iconic Thai dishes.

Thai Cooking with Joy and Parawan Thai Cooking Class are two local businesses near Sairee Beach Koh Tao that host cooking classes.

Make sure you arrive on an empty stomach because you’ll be sampling all the food you make!

Rejuvenate your body and mind with a yoga class or massage therapy session at one of the many wellness centers on Koh Tao.

All around the small island of Koh Tao, you can find businesses offering yoga classes, spa treatments, and Thai massage.

Prices are very affordable in Thailand, so treat yourself to a day of wellness and relaxation!

Thai massage is a unique type of massage that focuses on acupressure and twisted yoga poses so it’s not your traditional relaxing massage. But it is a cool experience to have in Thailand!

After a long day of exploring the hiking trails and beaches on Koh Tao, a massage or a zen yoga class may be exactly what you need!

The beaches in Koh Tao are out of this world, so make sure you spend ample time soaking in the sun and swimming in the pristine waters.

Sairee Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches on Koh Tao.

Surrounded by hotels, bars, and restaurants, this beach is almost 2km long and has everything you need nearby!

Sai Daeng Beach is a quieter alternative to Sairee Beach. With fringing coral reefs and a lovely view of Shark Island, Sai Daeng Beach is a great spot to spend an afternoon. Chalok Baan Kao Bay is also a beautiful and chill option nearby.

Sai Nuan Beach is another secluded spot. Just 15 minutes away from Sairee Beach, Sai Nuan Beach consists of two uncrowded and breathtaking little beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel.

Some other stunning Koh Tao beaches include Haad Tien Beach, Shark Bay Beach, Tanote Bay Beach, and Freedom Beach.

Pretty much all of the beaches in Koh Tao are fringed with palm trees and calm, glistening blue waters, so you really can’t go wrong!

Another one of the best things to do in Koh Tao is rent a scooter!

Hiring a motorbike and zipping around the countryside is pretty much synonymous with Southeast Asia.

From Vietnam to Cambodia to Indonesia, you’ll meet few travellers who haven’t explored Asia by scooter!

Renting a scooter allows you to travel further and explore the island at your own pace.

Drive beneath palm trees and granite cliffs, travel past beautiful beaches and coves, and admire the rich jungle scenery discovering hidden gems around Koh Tao.

Ride over to the remote corners of Tanote Bay, Mango Bay, Ao Hin Wong Bay, or Sai Nuan Beach, or just wind through the hills of Koh Tao and explore without a plan.

Between the busy tourist areas of Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Pier, you can find lots of rental places.

Just make sure you follow all of the safety precautions and drive safely while you explore Koh Tao on two wheels!

And remember, if you don’t have a motorbike licence in your home country, you won’t be covered by travel insurance if you have an accident.

Planning a trip elsewhere in Thailand? Our guide on what to do in Phuket is great place to start!

New Heaven Reef Dive School and Conservation Program is an education and tourism center located in Chalok Baan Kao Bay on Koh Tao.

Offering diving courses for beginner and advanced divers, freediving courses, yoga classes and teacher trainings, and even accommodations , New Heaven has so many incredible things to offer travellers in Koh Tao.

One of the most rewarding activities you can try is learning about sea turtle conservation efforts at the New Heaven Reef Conservation Program.

“Koh Tao” in English means “Turtle Island”, and the waters surrounding the beaches in Koh Tao are full of green sea turtles.

Get up close with these fascinating creatures and learn about protecting them at the Turtle Conservation Center!

The organisation also has reef building and coral spawning in addition to turtle protection efforts, so you can really get involved in the inspiring research and conservation practices during your Koh Tao trip.

• Address: 48 Chalok Baan Kao Bay, Koh Tao, Surat Thani, Thailand

In addition to scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, Koh Tao is known for yet another water activity: freediving!

This challenging and meditative sport involves the art of breathwork and endurance as you dive deep underwater without any scuba gear.

It’s a truly fascinating way to experience the coral reefs of Koh Tao, but it requires a good amount of training and preparation.

To try this unique activity, take a freediving course to learn how to explore the underwater world in a single breath!

There are some great local Koh Tao companies that offer safe courses with pool and ocean training, including Apnea Total and Black Turtle Dive .

Like many other locations in Thailand, Koh Tao has a bustling nightlife.

With year-round warm weather, beachfront bars and clubs, cheap prices, and a healthy international tourist population, the nightlife here is incredible!

Whether you want to dance all night at a club, have a few casual drinks, or take yourself on a self-guided Koh Tao pub crawl, there is no shortage of options for you.

The main walking street beside Sairee Beach is a great place to start. There are clubs and bars galore, with Fishbowl Beach Bar, Lotus Bar, and Fizz Beach Lounge being some top spots on Koh Tao.

Read next: The 22 Best Things To Do In Koh Samui, Thailand

Koh Nang Yuan is a tiny island off the coast of Koh Tao that also offers incredible snorkelling and diving.

Famous for its unique sandbar connecting three separate islands, taking a day trip over to Koh Nang Yuan Island is easily one of the best things to do in Koh Tao island.

Snorkel, sunbathe, kayak, or hike up to the Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint for a breathtaking panorama.

You can reach Koh Nang Yuan via a short boat ride from Koh Tao. Or you can book a guided day trip to Koh Nang Yuan and have all your transport and activities organised for you, which is what we recommend.

On this top-rated day trip, you can go paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling in the turquoise waters surrounding Koh Nang Yuan.

You’ll also get to explore Mango Bay, Hin Wong, and Ao Leuk Beach, and lunch is included.

Get a new perspective of the Koh Tao island coastline by trying some water sports!

Paddle past the stunning white sand beaches on Koh Tao on a kayak or paddleboard. For an extra burst of colour, try it at sunrise or sunset!

The sea around Koh Tao is usually very calm, so you can explore the island’s hidden coves and secret beaches and bays with a kayak or paddleboard!

Rent your gear at any local tourism or water sports operator in town! CV Divers is a popular business that has decent prices on board rentals.

Make the most of your time in Koh Tao by watching the country’s most beloved spot: Muay Thai boxing.

This unique form of martial arts is a fascinating sport, and most towns around the country have local matches that you can attend.

Around the main streets of Sairee Beach and Mae Haad, there are a few local venues where you can buy tickets to a Muay Thai boxing match.

Prices can vary, but the entrance fee for a match is usually around 1,000 or 1,500 Thai Baht.

Grab a drink, sit back, and get ready to observe Thailand’s national sport!

Or go a step further and learn Muay Thai yourself! There are plenty of gyms you can join on the island for everything from one-hour sessions right through to monthly intensive programs.

Visit the local Koh Tao night market to experience authentic Thai culture, try street food delicacies, and shop for unique souvenirs to take home.

One of the best things to do in Koh Tao is checking out the night market across from Koh Tao Leisure Park.

Full of aromatic street food and some local trinkets, the night market is a great place to spend a night in Koh Tao.

Though the night market is centrally located, you’d be surprised to find few other tourists here.

This is a popular spot for locals, so prepare to learn a few Thai phrases and taste some truly authentic dishes!

Depending on how long you plan to stay on Koh Tao island, it’s definitely worth venturing to some of the neighbouring Thai islands as well (if you aren’t already coming from them via Surat Thani or Koh Samui airport).

Most people visit Koh Tao as part of a Thailand island hopping adventure. But some people solely visit Koh Tao island for scuba diving courses.

Either way, try to dedicate at least one day to visiting either Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Both of these islands are just a short boat ride away from Koh Tao, and they are both incredible!

Koh Samui is a relaxing holiday destination with waterfalls, abundant marine life, markets, and temples to check out.

Koh Phangan is more famous for its nightlife, and it is home to the famous Full Moon Party!

But even if you don’t want to party, Koh Phangan has lots of epic hiking, snorkelling, and sightseeing to be done as well.

Another must-do in Koh Tao is take a look at the island’s majestic temple located right in downtown.

Wat Koh Tao Temple is a modern Buddhist temple that reflects the local religion, art, and traditions.

With its impressive architecture, serene atmosphere, and ocean views, this beautiful temple is one of the most amazing landmarks on Koh Tao.

Even if you just pop by quickly on your way to hit up the Koh Tao beaches, it’s still worth checking out! There is no entrance fee as well.

• Address: 3RPG+GVG, Koh Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand

The Best Places to Stay in Koh Tao, Thailand

Now that you know what to do on Koh Tao, Thailand, it’s time to look for a place to stay.

There are incredible options for all budget ranges and travel styles, and most accommodations can have you within walking distance of the best Koh Tao beaches and amenities.

Let’s take a look at the best places to stay in Koh Tao island!

If you want to save money, make friends, and learn how to dive, this is the perfect Koh Tao hostel for you!

Taco Shack Diving Hostel is just 5 minutes away from the bustling hub of Sairee Beach and is close to other top Koh Tao beaches, and it has glowing reviews from over 1,600 travellers on Hostelworld.

Travellers love that this hostel offers cheap dorm prices in addition to excellent dive courses.

Enjoy delicious food from the on-site restaurant, relax with other travellers on the rooftop and terraces, or make the most of the fun games and activities on offer.

Another incredible accommodation option for those looking to take a dive course on Koh Tao is Ban’s Dive Resort .

This 4-star hotel has onsite restaurants, a bar, and a pool, as well as a professional dive center where you can sign up for classes.

Plus, the rooms are beautifully designed and have all the best amenities, including private balconies with lovely views of Koh Tao and air-conditioning. You can get all these amazing features for decent prices as well!

Freedom Beach Koh Tao Resort is one of the top places to stay on Koh Tao if you want a bit of luxury!

Located just a 2-minute walk from Freedom Beach, and within walking distance of Shark Bay Beach, Chalok Baan Kao Beach, and Sai Daeng Beach, this lovely hotel puts you right near some of the best Koh Tao beaches and snorkelling spots.

Freedom Beach Koh Tao Resort has rooms with ocean views, bungalows, and villas perfect for families or couples looking for a magnificent stay.

Enjoy a free airport shuttle, an on-site restaurant and bar, a garden, and a picnic area to enjoy when you’re not out exploring Koh Tao!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

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The Ultimate Travel Guide to Koh Tao, Thailand.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book something through these links I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more about my disclosure and affiliate policy   here .

Heading to the Gulf of Thailand? Don’t miss a visit to Koh Tao, the so-called Turtle Island and smallest of the trio with Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Though small, Koh Tao is jampacked with cool things to do and see – above and below the water. For some of my personal favorites read on – my very biased travel guide Koh Tao!

My Personal Koh Tao Travel Guide

Table of contents:.

• Best time to travel to Koh Tao

How to get to Koh Tao

• Getting Around
• Koh Tao Accommodation

Things to do in Koh Tao

• Thai Immigration

I admit that I’m very much a creature of habit and while there are many great islands to explore in Thailand, Koh Tao is still one of my favorites. I usually come here for at least a month, do dive training, eat my way around the island , and find an ‘office’ with a beach view to work from. Whether you come for a week or planning a longer stay, Koh Tao should not be missing from any Thailand itinerary. After almost 10 trips to Koh Tao and many months spent on the island here are my best tips for your trip.

Best Time to Go to Koh Tao

It seems that every month has its perks for a Koh Tao holiday depending on what you are looking for. The hottest weather is between March and May, but these months are also best for Whale Shark spotting. It gets quieter with balmy temperatures in June through early September and vibey and busy for the Christmas season, January, and February. The only month that is really not recommended is November for that is monsoon time.

Also do check the Koh Phangan full moon party schedule as a lot of party goers stay Koh Tao and just hop over for the night, so accommodations and ferries tend to get rather crowded for big party dates.

Alternative check out The Sanctuary Thailand on Koh Phangan if you are looking for a secluded retreat and yoga haven. 

The easiest way to get to Koh Tao is to board a flight from either Bangkok or Phuket and fly to Koh Samui. At the airport, you can easily get a ferry ticket with a transfer to the pier and either take the ferry. In case you are an anxious traveler like me, you can book your tickets online before, but in most cases, you should be fine just getting them once you land. Just give yourself enough time to get off the plane, get your luggage, and an hour to get from the airport to the pier. And of course, check the ferry times beforehand to make sure you can still hop over to Koh Tao on your arrival day! Samui has the prettiest airport, orchids and cute boutiques included, so if you need to spend some time there until your ferry leaves, don’t despair. The ferry takes about two hours and stops in Koh Phangan on the way.

Once you need to leave Koh Tao, allocate enough time and then some because ferries do run late at times. And needless to say, if you miss the connection for your flight you will have to pay for it.

Alternatively, you can take a bus/ferry combo with Lomprayah from Bangkok to Koh Tao or Phuket to Koh Tao . The Lomprayah crew will pick you up at your hotel or you start directly from the airport. A few hours on the bus and then you will need to take the ferry again – after all, you are going to an island so there is no way around it. Unless, of course, there is a helicopter pad I didn’t know about?!

To be honest, this option isn’t the most comfortable depending on what kind of bus you get (sometimes you will get a comfy minivan). However, if you are on a budget it is by far the cheapest option and will take about the same time as a domestic flight & ferry considering how much time you will spend waiting around at the airport.

There is also a night ferry to/from Koh Tao, however, it takes quite a long time compared to a ferry ride during the day. I would only consider this option if you need to make use of every waking moment of your holiday and don’t mind getting only a few hours of uncomfortable ferry-sleep.

How to get around on Koh Tao

Once you have arrived on Koh Tao there are a few options to get around:

a) You are an expert on a scooter. And by expert I mean expert – roads are not the best and I saw quite a few people getting nasty injuries. Regardless of what you see other drivers do, please please wear a helmet and make sure that your insurance covers any scooter-related incidences – many don’t so check the fine print!

b) Ride a bicycle. I guess a bike is as good a way to get around Koh Tao as any other, however, the island does get quite hilly.

c) Take a taxi boat. This is the perfect option to get from one secluded bay to another and is quite scenic. Mind you, you will have to pay a bit more as fares go for a boat. Thus this option is best if you are traveling in a group and can share the costs.

d) Take a taxi. And by taxi, I mean a 4×4 bakkie, perfect for larger groups and Koh Tao roads. However, unlike other places, they are quite expensive for Thailand standards thanks to a taxi cartel. Negotiate your fare before and be prepared to be windswept – you will most likely sit on a bench in the open back.

Where to stay in Koh Tao

There are plenty of accommodation options in Koh Tao for all sorts of budgets and travelers. If you come for diving like most visitors and don’t want to break the bank you should check with your dive center beforehand as many have their own hostel/guesthouse or can liaise with a hotel nearby for great prices. Many even offer package deals for courses & accommodation that are great if you want to save some money.

If you want to stay longer you should check with a hotel you like as many still offer great deals for weekly or monthly stays. While you can arrange these deals in advance chances are you want to check out the area and the rooms first so I recommend booking a couple of nights beforehand and checking options in person once you have arrived.

First, you need to decide where you want to stay: Chalok Bay, Mae Head, Sairee Beach, or somewhere up in the hills. I would only recommend the latter if you have decent motorbike skills. 

Chalok Bay is a somewhat sleepier but oh-so-beautiful area in the south of Koh Tao. Resorts that offer good deals for a longer stay are Tropicana or the Greenery. Alternatively, head to New Heaven Dive Center as they offer accommodation right on the beach in Chalok. 

If you wanted to treat yourself stay at Baan Talay, their jungle resort up in the hills. It is secluded, to say the least (they do offer a daily shuttle to/from the dive center though) but incredibly beautiful. It is perfect for someone who wants to disconnect or if you are looking for a romantic place to stay in Koh Tao. One word of caution – there is some wildlife to consider. If you are a complete princess or have an animal phobia, it may not be for you, for everything else there are mosquito coils. It truly is one of the  best hotels in Koh Tao albeit with a twist .

Want to know my favorite hotel in Koh Tao? Check out the Big Tree Boutique Hotel & Cafe. The little hotel between Mae Head and Chalok is a total gem and simply beautiful. If you don’t need a sea view and are looking for a proper design hotel in Koh Tao this is the place you should go. The service is impeccable, the price is just right, and the on-site cafe makes one of the best brekkies on the island.

If you rather want to be a bit closer to the action, Sairee Beach is the place to stay. I like staying at Prik Thai which is the perfect choice as it is right by the ‘promenade’ and close to all the bars and restaurants yet tucked away to be quiet enough. My room was clean and spacious and perfect for the price. I just found out that friends of mine stayed there as well so my choice is not as random as it seemed – Mama Prik Thai is well-known on the island. 

I recently stayed at Silver Sands and got an awesome deal on a monthly rental. Check with them before booking where your room is – in the building behind Big Blue Diving it can get quite loud at night from adjacent party street while the building behind Chu Chu is great plus the rooms are nicer. 

If you are looking for a hostel in Koh Tao – Savage has reopened! Especially if you are looking for a cool party hostel this might be the spot for you. In addition, they have an awesome pool on their roof and the interior is very sleek and modern. That said, I am not sure I would recommend it if you want privacy as their single rooms are tiny and expensive for what they are. 

Alternatively, there are plenty of other  Koh Tao hostels here  that you can check out.

If you wanted to stay a bit fancier I recommend Blue Tao, a new-ish boutique hotel in Sairee. The rooms are sleek and simple, they have great coffee, and if you want to splurge – the bottom rooms even have a small balcony with a hammock overlooking the beach.

If you are looking for more of a luxury hotel in Koh Tao I recommend you check out Tarna Align or the View Point Resort .

What to do in Koh Tao? Massage, swim, snorkel or diving, yoga or a  pub crawl in Koh Tao . Repeat in random order and as often as necessary. Oh and don’t forget to eat your way around the island! There are some great food options on Koh Tao – from vegan to fancy to the best pizza in Thailand!

One of the things to do in Koh Tao is, of course, scuba diving. I spent a lot of time diving here and I still think it is a good and easy spot to get certified. You cannot beat the prices for courses and the dive sites, as well as conditions, are perfect for beginners. 

If you are already a certified diver ask when they do trips to places like Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock – some of the best scuba diving in Koh Tao!

Whether you are brand new or looking to get advanced certifications, I wholeheartedly recommend  Big Blue Diving . They also have their own tec diving division for those who are inclined to dive deeper or penetrate a wreck or two – ask for Fiona and Andrew!

Snorkel & Freedive

Even if you are not a diver, you can still enjoy the crystal clear waters and Koh Tao’s amazing underwater world. Many companies offer snorkel boat trips around the island, usually visiting 4 – 5 sites in a day. I did it once and must honestly say that it wasn’t my cup of tea – too many people scattered around in life vests, scaring the Nemos. I’d recommend you check with the dive schools instead as they sometimes take snorkelers at a fraction of the price. Just make sure that the dive sites of the day, usually depending on weather conditions, are also suitable for snorkeling so you will have enough to see. Great options are Japanese Garden and Shark Bay where I got lucky and saw baby reef sharks while snorkeling. If bigger trips are on the agenda you may even get lucky and snorkel with a whale shark.

For those interested in freediving head to Apnea, one of two exclusive freedive shops, or speak to JP, Big Blue’s freediving instructor who is absolutely amazing.

Beach Hopping

Rent a scooter and go beach hopping in Koh Tao! While I am perfectly content with lounging at Sairee Beach all day long there are many beautiful bays to explore all around the island. Mind you, to get to most you will need a boat or at least a scooter. Some local favorites are Mango Bay, Shark Bay, Freedom Beach, or the little beach by Siam Cookie Bungalows (yes, that is their name).

There are many amazing viewpoints around Koh Tao and if you are done with all the water fun, hiking is a great alternative. If you want to combine them both, head to Nangyuan Island which is off the coast of Koh Tao. You can snorkel, tan, and also climb the hill on the island for a great view of this pretty little bay. Plenty of boats and tours will offer to take you there, make sure to go early to avoid the masses or at least save yourself a sun lounger on the sandbank which connects both parts of Koh Nang Yuan.

Get a workout

If diving and hiking aren’t enough for you, you will also find an above-average amount of gyms in Koh Tao. Many locals head to Monsoon Gym & Fight Club or Pankom Muay Thai on the main road. If you are into CrossFit check out The Box Koh Tao.

Yoga in Koh Tao

Most of the Koh Tao yoga studios have reopened – hurrah! I recommend you check what is in your vicinity and try a few classes, as those things are quite personal. 

I will recommend you go to Blue Chitta at least once. They are both a freediving school and a yoga studio but also offer some amazing workshops throughout the week. 

I went for my first ice bath session which I was terrified of. Instructor Tara was super patient and kind and there was a wonderful camaraderie in our little group. So much so that I managed 3 minutes and 5 minutes in the ice bath and felt exhilarated afterward. 

In addition, I did a sound-healing session at Blue Chitta, a beautiful experience that requires nothing but a slightly open mind from you. You literally just lie on the floor and listen, and let the sounds do their magic. 

Get pampered

There are plenty of great little massage places around, depending on where you stay in Koh Tao. For the perfect massage remember your Thai: nàk-nàk if you like it harder and bao-bao if you are, ahem, sensitive like me and prefer it softer. Go for an aloe massage if you got too much sun!

Koh Tao spas aren’t really fancy as such but luckily there is  Majestic Spa  in Sairee which is as good and as fancy as it gets. They offer both an open area for foot treatments and Thai massages, as well as a more private room in the back for oil massages and waxing.

While prices are definitely on the higher end for Koh Tao massages, they are worth it if you are looking for some serious pampering. In addition, they do a great Brazilian wax, usually not so easy to find on a small Thai island.

I also always liked Kayo as it is airy with a nice ocean breeze and I had two of the best massages there thanks to therapist Pen. Both the Thai and the oil massage she gave me were amazing and perfectly bao bao for my liking.

Island Massage is newly opened and almost looks like a copy of Kayo Massage, and is basically next door to it. While I wanted to be faithful to the former, eventually I caved and walked into Island Massage. 

Unlike Kayo they have a special coconut oil massage at the same price as a regular oil massage and they have proper massage beds with a donut for your face. This is what tipped the scales for me as I like oil massages and find them quite uncomfortable when done on the floor. Ask for Toy here!

Thailand Immigration

For all that want to stay longer in Koh Tao or Thailand overall, there is good news: Koh Tao now has its own immigration office. If you want to extend your tourist visa you won’t have to leave the island anymore and can forgo a trip to Koh Samui – hurrah!

The office opens at 8.30 am and is usually very quiet and chilled. At the bottom of the road, you will find a little coffee shop where you can make copies of your passport (you will need a copy of the main page, entry stamp, and your departure card). You will also need to bring a passport picture. The officers can show you which forms you will need, depending on your visa and the extension you are applying for. A regular 30-day tourist extension is 1,900 baht + 100 baht office fee.

Is it safe to travel to Koh Tao?

To round up this travel guide Koh Tao I want to touch on the subject of safety. I didn’t think I had to, but there have been a lot of rumors about the island’s safety and many ask: Is Koh Tao safe? I cannot possibly comment on it and what is true and what isn’t, I do not know. All I will say is that I have always felt really safe there and have heard the same from many others who lived on Koh Tao for a while. Obviously, each place has its issues, however, I always felt safe while applying a good dose of common sense.

The one issue I had was my health. There was something about being in the water all the time and the humidity that was really hard on my body. Even small mosquito bites got infected and wouldn’t heal, I had tonsillitis, and then for some unknown reason, my joints started swelling. Not fun! In addition, a lot of the nurse’s stations you can find everywhere are a bit too liberal with the antibiotics and according to my friend the only real clinic couldn’t even diagnose a broken toe. If you have an issue, I suggest heading to Sawasdee right next to the Chalok Bay 7Eleven. Fai, the nurse there, is amazing and takes a more holistic approach to health and well-being.

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This was super helpful thanks for posting! I’m headed to Thailand to do my IDC at either Koh Lanta or Koh Tao. mY partner is coming with and is a professional bartender so we want to find the place that fits us both. We’re worried about working under the table in Koh Lanta but know that a lot of foreigners get away with working in bars in Koh Tao. I’d prefer to do my IDC in Koh Lanta so it’s more personal to koh Tao, but i have also found a small shop in Koh Tao that should be okay. I’d love to hear about your opinion as you didn’t have a great experience doing your DMT in koh Tao. Also were there lots of foreigners working in koh Tao in the Bar scene and do you know what its like in koh lanta?

Hey Alanna, glad you liked my post 🙂 I would be very very careful with working under the table anywhere in Thailand to be honest. I was just back in Koh Tao and heard so many stories how foreigners ‘get carded’ by the police and have heard it before, it only seems to be increasing so that is not something I would risk. I guess for your partner that would mean to get a job at a bigger resort rather than a bar as they would take care of a work permit?! In Koh Tao I saw very few foreigners at bars and such and Koh Lanta I honestly cannot remember, I was there many years ago. In regards to your IDC – I just did my solo diver course (post still in the works) at Big Blue on Koh Tao. They are not small, quite the opposite, but it was amazing. I cannot recommend them highly enough actually – speak to Fiona and Andrew at the tech side, they are both incredible teachers.

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Koh Tao itinerary: How to spend 3 days on Koh Tao island

Situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is a place that combines gorgeous beaches, lush jungles and turquoise waters brimming with marine life. Although quite small in size, the island has a lot to offer and this 3-day Koh Tao itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

Located just a short boat ride from its neighboring islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Koh Tao is an excellent destination for those seeking a quieter and less touristy island. It is also one of the top scuba diving destinations in Thailand so if you’ve ever been curious about experiencing the underwater world as a diver, this is the place to try it out. 

I really enjoyed my time on this island (especially the diving!) and in this itinerary post, I’m sharing my favorite spots and things to do if you have 3 days in Koh Tao. You’ll also find my tips on how to get around and which hotels to stay in as well as a map that gives you an overview of where all of the best places are located.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How to get to Koh Tao

The only way to get to Koh Tao is by boat. Ferries and speed boats to Koh Tao depart from Chumphon and Surat Thani on the mainland and from the islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

Here’s how to get from Bangkok to the different ferry departure points:

• Chumphon: You can either take a bus or a train or fly from Don Muang Airport. 
• Koh Samui: You can fly from Suvarnabhumi Airport.
• Surat Thani: You can fly from either Don Muang Airport or Suvarnabhumi Airport.

The best website to see the bus and ferry schedules and book your tickets is 12GoAsia . The website also allows you to buy combo tickets that combine buses and ferries, which makes it super easy to book your transportation to Koh Tao.

We decided to fly from Bangkok to Surat Thani as the flights there were significantly cheaper than those to Koh Samui and the schedule suited our travel plans better. From Surat Thani, we took a night ferry to the island of Koh Tao. The ferry departs at 10pm and arrives at Koh Tao at 6am. 

Unlike the modern ferries that run during the day, the overnight ferry is very old and basic. Besides toilets and the large room with bunk beds where you’ll sleep during the night, there are no amenities on this ferry so don’t expect anything luxurious if you choose this option.

How to get around

The best way to get around Koh Tao is by renting a scooter or an ATV. Although it’s quite a small island, the distances between the different beaches and points of interest are too long to walk. Therefore, it’s handy to have a scooter as it gives you the flexibility to go wherever you want and you can be in control of your schedule.

There are lots of places on the island where you can rent scooters. We rented our scooter from the hotel we were staying at and paid 200 THB (6 USD) per day, which seemed to be the standard price. 

If you don’t want to drive a scooter, you can also use taxis to get around or take taxi boats to the different beaches around the island.

3-day Koh Tao itinerary

Day 1: explore the south of the island.

On the first day of your Koh Tao itinerary, rent a scooter to explore the best spots in the southern part of the island.

June Juea Beach

For the first stop of the day, head to the beautiful June Juea Beach (marked as Aow June Juea on Google Maps). Surrounded by towering palm trees and lush jungle, this small secluded white sand beach is one of my favorite beaches in Koh Tao . Surprisingly, there were no other people on this beautiful beach when we were there. If you want to escape the crowds, this is the place to be!

It’s a great spot for snorkeling since the water is crystal clear and there are lots of colorful fish right by the shore. There’s also a small restaurant and a bar on the beach but during our visit in September, they were closed.

John-Suwan Viewpoint & Freedom Beach

Next, drive to the very southern tip of the island to visit John-Suwan Viewpoint. The entrance fee here is 50 THB per person and you’ll have to hike for 15 minutes to get to the viewpoint on top of a hill. 

The hike up is not particularly hard but the trail is steep and requires climbing some large rocks so I recommend wearing sturdy shoes. At the top, you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of Koh Tao and its lush green landscapes.

The entrance fee also gives you access to Freedom Beach and Taa Toh Beach, which both are located near the start of the trail. We briefly stopped at Freedom Beach, which is a small beach with super calm water, a nice beach bar and lots of trees offering shade from the sun.

In the afternoon, head to Shark Bay. With its turquoise water, long strip of white sand and rows of palm trees, this beach is often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on Koh Tao . 

What makes this bay special is that you can often see green sea turtles and harmless blacktip reef sharks there. I was told that the best time to see the turtles is around 3-4pm. Unfortunately, when we were there, the sea was too rough for snorkeling so we couldn’t go look for the sharks and turtles. 

To get to Shark Bay Beach, you have to enter through Haad Tien Beach Resort (which looked like a pretty amazing place to stay!). The entrance fee is 100 THB, which includes wifi and shower. Alternatively, you can access Shark Bay free of charge through On The Rock Bar but then you won’t have access to the large sandy beach.

Sairee Beach

Round off the first day of this Koh Tao itinerary by watching the sunset at Sairee Beach. This is the biggest and most popular beach on Koh Tao. Here you’ll find lots of beachfront restaurants, bars, shops and tour operators. You can also watch fire shows on the beach in the evening.

Read my detailed Sairee Beach guide for more info on the best things to do there and my recommendations on where to stay and where to eat.

Fun fact: The name ‘Koh Tao’ means Turtle Island in the Thai language. Some say the reason behind this name is that the island is shaped like a turtle (I can’t see it though), whereas others say it’s because the island used to be home to large populations of hawksbill and green sea turtles.

Day 2: Diving or snorkeling tour

On Day 2 it’s time to experience the amazing underwater world of Koh Tao. With its abundant marine life and kilometers of coral reef, the island is a fantastic destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Koh Tao is one of the cheapest places in the world to get a diving certification and you’ll find many companies offering scuba diving courses on the island. If getting a scuba certificate is something you’re interested in doing, be aware that you’ll need more than 3 days in Koh Tao.

If you don’t have a diving certificate but you’d still like to see the vibrant marine life, you can do this half-day Discover Scuba Diving experience.

As we already had our diving licenses, we did several dives around Koh Tao. The visibility was excellent and we saw countless beautiful corals and cool sea creatures – from barracudas and titan triggerfish to turtles and blue-spotted rays. It was definitely the highlight of our Koh Tao trip! The dive sites we visited were Tanote Bay, White Rock and Twins.

If you visit the island between March and June, you might even see whale sharks.

Note: If more than 6 months have passed since your last dive, the diving companies will probably ask you to do a short Scuba Review course before you can go diving in Koh Tao.

Snorkeling tour

If you’re not into diving, go on a snorkeling tour instead. On these tours, you will typically sail around the entire island of Koh Tao and stop at the best snorkeling sites along the way. This highly-rated 7-hour snorkeling tour includes hotel transfers, snorkeling equipment, 5 different snorkeling stops and a traditional Thai lunch.

Massage or a spa experience

In the evening, after a long day of swimming, you might want to treat yourself to a massage or some other spa treatment. There are lots of little massage parlors on Koh Tao, especially at Sairee Beach, and the prices are very affordable. 

We went to this beachfront massage parlor at Sairee Beach and paid only 300 THB (8 USD) per person for a really good aloe vera massage. During the day, you can often just walk in and get a massage right away but in the evening there might be some waiting time.

Day 3: Koh Nang Yuan or Koh Tao east coast

On your final day, visit the gorgeous Koh Nang Yuan Island situated next to Koh Tao. However, if you took a snorkeling tour on Day 2 and it already included a visit to Koh Nang Yuan, you might want to explore some cool spots on Koh Tao instead (more on that below).

Koh Nang Yuan Island

Koh Nang Yuan is a group of three small islands connected by a white sandbank and surrounded by pristine blue water. It’s a true slice of paradise and although it tends to get a bit crowded, it’s a must-visit spot that should be on every Koh Tao itinerary.

Here you can sunbathe, swim and snorkel to your heart’s content in the crystal-clear sea full of colorful fish. Visit also the Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint for one of the most famous views in this part of Thailand. It’s a 15-minute hike through a steamy jungle to get there and the views are totally worth the effort.

Getting from Koh Tao to Koh Nang Yuan takes just 15 minutes on a taxi boat. At Sairee Beach, you’ll find many guys with longtail boats offering to take you to the island. The price for a round trip is 300 THB per person. In addition to that, all visitors have to pay a 250 THB entrance fee upon arrival at Koh Nang Yuan.

Be sure to check the tide schedules before visiting Koh Nang Yuan because the beautiful sandy beach disappears during high tide. Read my detailed guide to Koh Nang Yuan for more important information on visiting the island.

More beaches and viewpoints on Koh Tao

In case you already visited Koh Nang Yuan on your snorkeling trip the day before, then stay on Koh Tao, rent a scooter and discover the east coast and the interior of the island instead.

Two beaches that you should check out on the east coast are Tanote Bay and Ao Hin Wong Beach. Both of them are beautiful secluded beaches with clear water and good conditions for snorkeling. For an amazing panorama of the island, visit the Mango Viewpoint and the Exotic Hive Viewpoint. They’re both great spots for watching the sunset.

Where to stay in Koh Tao

The best area to stay in Koh Tao is Sairee Beach if you want to be close to restaurants, bars, shops and tour operators. However, if you prefer a more secluded location, staying on the south coast of the island – at Chalok Baan Kao Bay or Shark Bay – might be a better option for you.

Below are my Koh Tao hotel recommendations for different budget levels.

BUDGET: Savage Hostel Koh Tao For those looking for affordable accommodation with a great social atmosphere, Savage is the place to be. Located at Sairee Beach, it’s the best hostel on the island and a popular choice among backpackers.

MID-RANGE: Ban’s Diving Resort This is where we stayed. It’s a big resort with multiple beautiful pools, lovely gardens and spacious rooms. Despite its central location at Sairee Beach, in the heart of all the action, the resort is very quiet.

MID-RANGE/LUXURY: View Point Resort This gorgeous beachfront resort has a quiet location near Chalok Bay and is surrounded by verdant jungle. They have a variety of accommodation options – from affordable bungalows to stunning luxurious villas with private pools and ocean views.

LUXURY: Phandara Luxury Pool Villas Located on a hill overlooking Sairee Beach, this property features stylish Bali-inspired villas with private pools.

Koh Tao itinerary map

Below is an interactive map showing all of the best places to visit on Koh Tao Island and the hotels I mentioned in this blog post. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Other activities to add to your Koh Tao itinerary

If you’re staying on the island for longer than 3 days or you’re simply looking for other things to do in Koh Tao, here are some activities to consider:

• Take a cooking class – Learn to make traditional Thai food with a local chef at Thai Cooking with Joy or Parawan’s Cooking Classes. 
• Take a yoga class – Find your zen in one of the yoga studios on the island, such as Blue Chitta or Shambhala Yoga.
• Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park – This remote archipelago of 42 islands is home to tall limestone cliffs, unspoiled beaches and exotic wildlife. You can visit it on a 2-day boat trip from Koh Tao.
• Go freediving – Besides scuba diving and snorkeling, Koh Tao is also a great place for freediving and has several schools offering freediving courses.
• Go to a jungle party – If you’re looking to experience the nightlife of Koh Tao, attend the Escobar Jungle Party , a rave in the middle of the forest with several stages and even a rodeo ride!

You might also want to visit the nearby islands of Koh Samui and Koh Phangan either before or after visiting Koh Tao. The former is known for its nice resorts and is more family-friendly whereas the latter is famous for its Full Moon Party and has a relaxed hippy/backpacker vibe.

And that’s it – I hope that you found this itinerary for Koh Tao helpful for planning your trip. With 3 days on the island, you can see all the main highlights, relax on beaches, do some snorkeling or scuba diving and visit the best viewpoints.

If you have any questions about visiting Koh Tao, leave them in the comments and I’ll do my best to answer them.

Looking for more Koh Tao travel inspiration? Then read my other posts about visiting the island:

• Koh Tao beaches guide
• What to do at Sairee Beach
• Nang Yuan island travel guide

Pin this Koh Tao itinerary!

Visiting Koh Nang Yuan Island in Thailand: A complete guide

Sairee Beach, Koh Tao: A complete travel guide

Most beautiful beaches in Koh Tao, Thailand

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3 Day Koh Tao Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)

Looking for a 3 day Koh Tao itinerary? Here’s our in-depth travel guide on the best things to do in Koh Tao including which dive company to book with, where to stay and the best restaurants in Koh Tao. With 3 days in Koh Tao you can explore the beautiful underwater world, hike to spectacular viewpoints and relax on the beaches around the island . Let’s plan your Koh Tao 3 day itinerary!

Koh Tao is one of Thailand’s most popular islands and we’re going to show you why! Close to the famous Koh Samui and Koh Phangnan, Koh Tao is located in the Gulf of Thailand and you’ll need to take a ferry to get there. There are so many things to do in Koh Tao that will make the journey worth it!

The island is covered in gorgeous palm trees, rock formations and crystal-clear snorkelling spots . Koh Tao literally translates to Turtle Island which is the perfect name for one of the best places in the world to learn how to dive.

Koh Tao is home to beautiful coral reefs, hawksbill and green sea turtles, blacktip reef sharks and much more! You can spend weeks on the island visiting all the amazing dive spots and discovering unique species!

With 3 days in Koh Tao, you’ll have enough time to see the main highlights and spend at least one day diving or snorkelling. So let’s get into the helpful travel tips to create the perfect 3 day Koh Tao itinerary.

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

Planning a 3 Day Koh Tao Itinerary

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

• Thailand Currency  – Thai Baht  (Compare the currency  here )
• Thailand Power Voltage  – Plugs A & C (220 V)
• Cash or card  – Koh Tao is mainly a  cash-only  island but some places may take cards!
• Simcard  – True Move at 7/11

Here’s a quick list of things you can check or book before your trip!

• Check for any public holidays in Thailand ( check here !)
• Book your flights ( check prices here! )
• Book your accommodation ( book here for hotels  &  here for hostels !)
• Planning the rest of your trip? Here’s our 2 Week South Thailand Itinerary !
• Also, check out 11 + Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand (2024) !

Travel Insurance  –  SafetyWing  is a flexible monthly-rolling travel & medical insurance to help you stay covered during your trip to Koh Tao or anywhere in the world! –  Find out more here!

Best time to visit Koh Tao

The best time to visit Koh Tao is from November to April which is the dry season in Thailand. Koh Tao has a tropical and hot climate all year round with the wet season from May to October .

It’s possible to visit Koh Tao any time of year, however during the wet season ferries and boat trips can be affected by heavy storms! The busiest time to visit is usually December and accommodation may be slightly more than usual.

How to get to Koh Tao

The best and only way to get to Koh Tao is by ferry and speedboat ! Chumphon and Surat Thani are the two main ferry terminals to get to Koh Tao and there are also stops at Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. These ferries are often overnight and can take

Flight  – Koh Tao does not have an airport. If you want to fly to Koh Tao the closest airport is Koh Samui or Surat Thani, which are both a ferry ride away. Check flights on  Skyscanner !

How to get from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao – There are usually a few speedboats a week and sometimes daily. Head to Thong Sala pier and you’ll arrive at Mae Haad in Koh Tao in 1.5 hours.

How to get from Bangkok to Koh Tao – Get a bus to Chumphon and then take a ferry. The journey can take up to 10 hours altogether.

How to get around Koh Tao

Although Koh Tao is a small island, it’s definitely a little too big to walk. If you’re located near the pier or Sairee Beach then you won’t need transportation when you arrive. However, some of the beaches and viewpoints around the island are along hilly roads and it’s best to catch a ride or rent a scooter.

Renting a scooter : The best way to get around Koh Tao is by scooter as it gives you so much freedom! We highly recommend Red Power Motor ( Here’s the location ) for great service and prices close to 200 Baht. We had our international driver’s permit with us and rented the scooter for 1 week.

Longtail boats: These are a great way to get around the island, especially to Koh Nang Yuan. You’ll usually find them along beaches offering tours to go snorkelling.

Taxi: The taxis in Koh Tao are pick-up trucks and another great way to get around the island if you don’t want to rent a scooter. They usually charge per person and some hotels in Koh Tao can arrange transportation for you.

As Koh Tao is a small island, the best things to do in Koh Tao involve beaches, diving, snorkelling and a few hikes around the hilly island. Here’s how you can plan your 3 day Koh Tao itinerary!

Day 1 – Viewpoints, Sharks & Beaches

On Day 1 of your 3 day itinerary in Koh Tao, you’ll want to arrive and drop your bags off at your accommodation. If you’re staying near the pier or Sairee Beach it should be a pretty easy walk and there’s a long path to follow with shops, cafes and restaurants!

If you’re after some lunch when you arrive, we highly recommend Vegetabowl  for some healthy delicious food!

Take in the scenery at John-Suwan Viewpoint

The first activity on this Koh Tao itinerary is one of the best viewpoints in Koh Tao – John-Suwan Viewpoint! It’s totally possible to grab a taxi here, however, we recommend renting your own scooter to get around the island easier. We rented one Red Power Motor for a great price!

John-Suwan Viewpoint is definitely worth adding to your 3 days in Koh Tao. It’s a short 10 – 15 minute hike up to the viewpoint but it does involve some rock scrambling. It’s really not too hard but it’s best to not wear flip-flops.

Once you reach the top you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the island, including palm trees, turquoise waters and long stretches of beach. We visited on a very windy day, so we had to be extra careful at the top!

There is a small price of 50 baht to enter the area, but it also includes a beach which we’ll show you next! Here’s the location –  John-Suwan Viewpoint

Relax at Freedom Beach

Just around the corner from John-Suwan Viewpoint is Freedom Beach. The 50 baht entry covers both of these activities and you’ll pay from the car park.

Honestly, we could have spent all day at Freedom Beach. There’s such a chill vibe with music, friendly dogs and crystal-clear water to snorkel in. The water here really is turquoise! It’s a beautiful place to visit during your 3 days in Koh Tao and if you visit in the afternoon you can take shade under the trees.

Snorkel at Shark Bay

We highly recommend visiting Shark Bay on your 3 day itinerary in Koh Tao as you’ll have the opportunity to swim with black-tip reef sharks! They are not dangerous in most cases and are quite shy sharks (which can make them harder to find).

Green Sea Turtles also live at Shark Bay including many other tropical fish, it’s best to visit early morning before 10 am for a high chance of seeing them.

We visited here multiple times on our Koh Tao itinerary to see turtles or black-tip reef sharks. The more times you visit, the higher chance you have of seeing one! Luckily Dan spotted a black-tip reef shark swimming straight past him and we both saw so many turtles!

Tip – The turtles nest in the area so you may see them pop up for air! We saw quite a few come to the surface whilst lounging on the nearby rocks.

How to get to Shark Bay? – Head to Taatoh Seaview Resort  and walk down to the ocean passing guesthouses on either side. There’s a ladder to get into the ocean, but be very careful of the waves! There’s a restaurant nearby renting snorkels and finds. Find the location here –  Shark Bay!

Watch the sunset at Sairee Beach

After an adventurous first day, it’s time to head to Sairee Beach to watch the sunset.

Sairee Beach is the main beach in Koh Tao and it’s where a lot of the best restaurants and bars are. Check out La Pizzeria  or any of the Thai restaurants in the area. There’s also a main strip with many shops if you’re in need of anything! Here’s the location for  Sairee Beach .

Day 2 – Go Diving or Snorkelling

As Koh Tao is famous for its amazing diving, we have to add a day of diving to this 3 day Koh Tao itinerary. If diving isn’t your thing, take a snorkel trip instead to similar spots around the island. The ocean is beautiful in this area of the world!

Diving is ultimately one of the best things to do in Koh Tao and you can spend a whole week or more exploring new dive sites or getting a diving certification. Koh Tao is one of the most affordable places to get your PADI license which means you can go diving in many locations around the world.

We did our PADI Open Water and Advanced Open Water whilst on Koh Tao with Ocean Sound Dive & Yoga and honestly had the best time!

It’s such an amazing experience to add to your 3 day Koh Tao itinerary and you can see fish such as Triggerfish, Pufferfish, Rays, Anemonefish, Trevally, Angelfish and if you’re really lucky it’s possible to see whale sharks!

You won’t have to worry about any diving gear as the companies on Koh Tao have all the equipment you need! Just bring your swimsuit, a reusable water bottle and some snacks!

Some of the dive sites in Koh Tao include:

• Southwest Pinnacle
• Shark Island ( a spot to see turtles and sharks )!
• HTMS Sattakut ( shipwreck )!
• Chumphon Pinnacle
• Junkyard Reef – (a wonderful artificial reef built with unwanted objects such as old gym equipment, old cars and toilets)!

At the end of day 2, you will have successfully gone diving in one of the best locations in the world! Once back on the island of Koh Tao, find a lovely restaurant or bar to end your day. We recommend Tukta Thai Restaurant for delicious Thai food!

Day 3 – More Islands, Viewpoints & Beaches

On the last morning of your 3 day itinerary in Koh Tao, it’s time to take a little boat trip to a beautiful island just next to Koh Tao. We also recommend you spend your afternoon at one of our favourite beaches in Koh Tao before leaving the island.

Take a trip to Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan is a small island covered in jungle trees and long strips of beach joining the islands together. It’s an incredible day trip from Koh Tao and can be seen in a few hours. It’s best to visit at low tide so you can see the beaches!

The viewpoint on Koh Nang Yuan is one of the most famous and photographed panoramas in Thailand – and it’s definitely worth a visit on your 3 day Koh Tao itinerary.

It’s a steep but short hike up to the viewpoint and make sure you have water! Sadly we missed out on this viewpoint, so the best photo we have is the one below (the viewpoint is the rock on the right). Here’s the location for the island, although it’s not hard to miss –   Koh Nang Yuan Location .

How to get to Koh Nang Yuan – Although it looks far away from Koh Tao, it’s only a 15-minute boat ride away! Head to Sairee Beach and ask any of the long-tail boats for a ride to the island. The rides can be around 300 baht for a return trip and it’s often cheaper with more people onboard!

Once you’re finished at Koh Nang Yuan, head back to Koh Tao for your final stop of this Koh Tao itinerary.

Chill at Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay is one of our favourite beaches in Koh Tao. Like most areas on the island, the snorkelling is amazing here and you can even see turtles here. The coral starts almost immediately so be very careful when getting in the water, but there’s tropical fish everywhere!

There are a few restaurants in the area offering snorkel and fin rentals for around 100 – 150 baht. Of course, they also offer drinks and food.

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s a rock in the water that people were jumping off. It looks pretty tricky to get up there but there are ropes to guide you up and the water is deep enough!

It’s also another great spot for sunset in Koh Tao, although it’s perfect to visit all day. Here’s the location for Tanote Bay .

That’s the end of your Koh Tao 3 day itinerary! It’s possible to mix these days up and do these activities in a different order but this is a great start to planning your Koh Tao itinerary.

More days on your Koh Tao Itinerary?

• Hike to Mango Bay
• Spend more days diving or get a diving qualification !
• Discover more beautiful beaches in Koh Tao
• Day Trip to Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park
• Snorkel at Ao Hin Wong

Planning on visiting more of the Thai Islands? Here’s our  2-week South Thailand itinerary !

Where to stay in Koh Tao

The best area to stay in Koh Tao is Sairee Beach and Mae Haad . These locations are close to the pier and all the best restaurants in Koh Tao! Another great area to stay in Koh Tao is the chilled-out Chalok Baan Kao Bay , it’s more laid back than the popular bars around Sairee Beach.

Koh Tao Hotels, Hostels & Guesthouses

Budchui Village2  $ (Sairee Beach) – Lovely private rooms with a pool, close to the beach! We stayed here for a week and loved it! –  Find here on Booking.com !

Aiya Resort Koh-Tao  $-$$ (Sairee Beach) – Another lovely resort with a pool! –  Find here on Booking.com !

Sairee Hut Resort Koh Tao-SHA Plus  $$ (Sairee Beach) – This place also has a pool and a great option for 3 days in Koh Tao. –  Find here on Booking.com !

Best Restaurants in Koh Tao

• Vegetabowl  $-$$ (Sairee Beach) –  Our favourite restaurant in Koh Tao
• La Pizzeria  $$ (Sairee Beach) –  Best Italian restaurant in Koh Tao
• Coconut Monkey  $-$$ (Mae Haad Pier) –  A huge menu with great prices
• La Carotte Qui Rit  $-$$ (Mae Haad Pier) –  Great Thai food near the pier
• The Factory Cafe  $$ (Sairee Beach) –  Amazing vegan cakes, coffee and brunches

We’d love to create a Koh Tao vegan guide! Here’s a Top 8 Vegan Restaurants in Koh Samui, Thailand 2024 and Ultimate Vegan Restaurants in Phuket – Vegan Food Guide in Thailand we’ve already put together. Thailand is home to some of the best food and that includes Koh Tao!

3 Day Koh Tao Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1 – Viewpoints, Shark Bay & Beaches / Day 2 – Go Diving or Snorkelling / Day 3 – Koh Nang Yuan & Tanote Bay

How many days to spend in Koh Tao

We’ve shown you how to spend 3 days in Koh Tao and we definitely think that’s the minimum amount of days you need to spend in Koh Tao. As it takes a little while to get to Koh Tao, it’ll feel quite hard to leave after only 2 days.

If you want to get your PADI diving certificate, you probably want to spend 4 to 5 days in Koh Tao as the diving course takes around 3 days (and it’s pretty exhausting)!

Best dive companies in Koh Tao

Before 2020, there were 70+ dive companies in Koh Tao and sadly not all of them made it through 2020 when the toursim stopped. However, there are still around 30 dive companies on the island and it’s still growing! It can be pretty hard to choose as all dive companies offer the same thing for similar prices.

After a lot of research, we highly recommend booking with Ocean Sound Dive + Yoga !

We did our P ADI Open Water Diver Course with one of Ocean Sounds lovely instructors and ended up loving it so much that we also booked our PADI Advanced Open Water Diver Course with them and extended our Koh Tao itinerary! All of the team are great and they share a boat with other dive companies, so there’s a fun atmosphere.

Here’s Ocean Sounds Website where you can find up-to-date information and prices. In 2024 they’re currently offering PADI Open Water Diver courses for 9,900 and a discount on your PADI Advanced Open Water Diver (usually 10,000) if you do both courses with them. Also here’s Ocean Sound’s location !

Prices include: All equipment and dive computer rental, PADI certification fee, PADI digital manual/logbook and dive Insurance coverage!

What to pack for 3 days in Koh Tao?

Koh Tao has a tropical climate so you’ll need summer clothes and swimwear! It’s also a good idea to bring a rain jacket as the showers are heavy in Thailand, especially in the rainy season. Here are a few travel essentials we love:

• International Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – The ultimate adaptor when travelling to multiple countries.
• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The best way to pack your bag for a 3 day trip to Koh Tao.
• Sawyer Mini Water Filter  – Save plastic and use a water filter to clean the tap water in Thailand.
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – The best travel item you can bring is a reusable water bottle.
• Waterproof Bag 20L with Waterproof Phone Case  – Keep your valuables safe on boat trips!
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – The ultimate lightweight tripod to take photos independently. We have a  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A6000 !

Is Koh Tao a party island?

Koh Tao isn’t known as a party island, but there are definitely parties to find. On Sairee Beach you’ll find a strip of restaurants, shops and bars – this is where to find the best places for a drink!

Is Koh Tao worth visiting?

Yes! We spent more than 3 days in Koh Tao exploring the beaches, and diving spots and just relaxing. There’s a huge diving community here and it truly is one of the best places to learn how to dive. It’s easy to find delicious Thai food and cafes with international cuisine.

We didn’t get a chance to visit Koh Tao on our first trip to Thailand, so we made it a priority on our second trip and are so glad we did! If you have the time, definitely add Koh Tao to your Thailand itinerary. It’s a great idea to pair it with visiting Koh Phangan or Koh Samui.

Is Koh Tao worth visiting if you’re not a diver?

If you’re not interested in diving whilst in Koh Tao, don’t worry, there are plenty of things to do! Although diving is a popular activity here, you can snorkel to see the marine life or just relax on the beaches! The nightlife is pretty good and there are many restaurants, shops and cafes to spend your days in. Hopefully, this 3 day Koh Tao itinerary helped you plan your trip!

Don’t forget about Travel Insurance! –  SafetyWing  Nomad Insurance

SafetyWing  is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your Koh Tao itinerary and anywhere in the world.  Find out more here!

Check out our other  Thailand Posts :

• The Best 2 week South Thailand Itinerary (2024)
• 3 Day Koh Samui Itinerary: The Best Koh Samui Guide
• Ultimate Vegan Restaurants in Phuket – Vegan Food Guide in Thailand
• The Best 4 Day Phuket Itinerary: What To Do (2024)
• Volunteering at Lanta Animal Welfare: Thailand (2024)
• 3 Day Koh Lanta Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)
• 11+ Best Thailand Travel Tips: Things to Know Before Visiting Thailand (2024)

Top 8 Vegan Restaurants in Koh Samui, Thailand 2024

• Or browse our  travel blog  for more inspiration!

That’s the end of our  3 Day Koh Tao Itinerary: Best Things To Do (2024)! Have a fantastic time in Koh Tao and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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15 EPIC Things To Do In Koh Tao, Thailand (2024 Guide)

Are you searching for the best things to do in Koh Tao?!

Arguably the best island in Thailand, and one of the best tropical destinations in South East Asia, Koh Tao is not to be missed on your itinerary.

There are many awesome things to do on Koh Tao Island (Turtle Island) which is one of the most popular diving destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting scuba diving lovers from all over the world.

However, as a non-diver, there are many tourist spots in Koh Tao Island to discover – from white sand beaches to panoramic viewpoints, there is something here for everyone!

Read on to discover the best things to do in Koh Tao Thailand.

Table of Contents

15 EPIC THINGS TO DO IN KOH TAO

John suwan viewpoint.

John Suwan viewpoint is the best viewpoint on the island and is not to be missed!

It’s an easy 20-minute hike to reach the top of the viewpoint for sunrise and you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view at the top.

WHERE IS JOHN SUWAN VIEWPOINT AND WHAT TO EXPECT

John Suwan Viewpoint is a 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach, the main tourist hub of Koh Tao.

Click here to see the location on Google maps.

There is decent road access and when I visited this spot for sunrise there were no parking or entrance fees. However, some people told me they hiked to the John Suwan viewpoint during the day and had to pay a 50 Baht entrance fee, so just keep that in mind.

When you arrive in the car park at the jump-off point to John Suwan, you’ll see a sign with ‘viewpoint’ written on it and an arrow pointing the way.

Along the trailhead, you’ll come to an intersection with three different roads branching off. Be sure to take the middle road which is the correct trail to take to reach the viewpoint.

Full blog post: John Suwan Viewpoint

The trail is rocky with some make-shift stairs and you’ll also come across a few spots where there are ropes anchored in place to help you scale some bigger boulders, which was my favorite part of the adventure!

The hike is not that strenuous, and it takes approximately 20 minutes from bottom to top for the average person.

When you reach the summit you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of two beaches on either side of the palm tree covered ridge, one is Chalok Baan Kao Bay and the other is Shark Bay Koh Tao .

There are a few other viewpoints that can be found here, so don’t rush back down to the bottom, spend some time exploring the area and you’ll be sure to come across more epic views of the island and its coastlines.

BEST TOURS IN KOH TAO

Sairee beach.

Sairee Beach is the biggest, busiest, and most popular beach on Koh Tao’s west coast.

The beach is the main tourist hub on the island, and it has it all, from beachside bars and restaurants to dive shops and night markets.

If you’re here for scuba diving, I highly recommend checking out Big Blue Diving, one of the best dive schools on the island.

Also, if you’re coming from Koh Phangan or Koh Samui, this is where you’ll arrive, which is something to note.

Oh, and I forgot to mention, Sairee Beach is one of the best locations on the island to watch the sunset with a few bars, and take a dive boat!

WHERE IS SAIREE BEACH AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Sairee Beach is a 5-minute drive from the Mae Haad Pier. Sairee Beach has easy road access and when I visited there were no parking or entrance fees. It’s a stone’s throw from the jump-off point to the beach.

As I mentioned earlier, Sairee Beach is the biggest beach on this small island, stretching 1.8km along the western coastline.

During the day, it has a few fun things to do including tree swings, beach volleyball, sunbathing, and snorkeling out on the reef to see the marine life.

Another great thing about this beautiful beach is that you don’t have to go far to get some lunch or drinks as there are restaurants (try the Pad Thai!) and bars all the way along the beach, each with stunning views of the bay and neighboring islands.

Full blog post:  Sairee Beach Koh Tao

Apart from that, I recommend checking out Infinity Koh Tao, which gave me a fantastic Thai massage!

In the mood for yoga classes? Blue Chitta is the best spot for you here, and you’ll love having a retreat in Thailand !

The nightlife at Sairee Beach is always buzzing and it’s the best place to be on the island for all things happening!

Night markets, streetside food vendors, and beach bars line the streets and I guarantee you will be far from bored during a night out.

For diving enthusiasts, all the dive shops on Koh Tao can be found here. Just pop your head in, say hello, and organize your scuba diving trips in advance.

Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!

We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.

Heymondo offers low-cost Travel Insurance to keep you covered on all your adventures.

FREEDOM BEACH 

Freedom Beach is my favorite beach on the island and it is rated one of the best places to see by locals and tourists!

WHERE IS FREEDOM BEACH AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Freedom Beach is a short 10-minute drive from Sairee Beach and it has decent road access with no parking or entrance fees. It’s a short 2-minute walk to the beach from the jump-off point.

Freedom Beach Koh Tao is one of the smaller beaches but the beauty and scenic vibes make up for its size. Freedom Beach is a must-see location on your list of things to do in Koh Tao!

This fine white sandy beach is tucked away under a shady palm tree and mangrove jungle with some of the clearest, bluest water on the island.

Full blog post:  Freedom Beach Koh Tao

A shallow reef can be found just off the shoreline at Freedom Beach with an abundance of corals and schools of fish which is known to be one of the best Koh Tao snorkeling spots!

Freedom Beach is one of the smaller Koh Tao beaches but the beauty and scenic vibes make up for its size.

Next on this list of Koh Tao things to do is Shark Bay (also known by the local name Thian Og Bay) which is rated one of the best snorkeling spots on the island.

Shark Bay aptly gets its name from the frequent blacktip reef sharks that enter the bay.

WHERE IS SHARK BAY AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Shark Bay is a 15-minute drive from the main beach. Shark Bay can be accessed through the Haad Tien Beach Resort. Park out the front of the resort and then follow the signs pointing the way to the beach.

There is lots of exploring to do at Shark Bay and you MUST go snorkeling to try your luck at spotting a blacktip reef shark.

The sharks are harmless so you don’t have to worry about being bitten, just be sure to give them their space to move around.

Also, keep a sharp eye out for some green turtles and the abundant marine life that frequent the bay!

Unfortunately, I didn’t encounter any black tip reef sharks at Shark Bay but I was lucky to swim with a turtle that I spotted cruising around.

Full blog post:  Shark Bay Koh Tao

If you don’t have your own snorkel gear, you can rent a set from the resort or the Thai food restaurant down on the beach.

Also, I highly recommend renting a kayak or taking a local boat out to Shark Island to explore the outer reefs.

There is an abundance of colorful corals and schools of friendly fish circling around under the water, so if you have a GoPro camera be sure to take it with you.

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The new GoPro HERO 11 boasts 5.3K video, 27MP photo, HyperSmooth stabilization, and waterproof up to 10m!

LOVE KOH TAO VIEWPOINT

Love Koh Tao viewpoint is one of the most popular things to do in Koh Tao, boasting panoramic views overlooking Tanote Bay and the east coast of the island.

WHERE IS LOVE KOH TAO VIEWPOINT AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Love Ko Tao Viewpoint is located in the center of the island, just a 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach. It has good road access and a large car park at the top of the hill.

There is an entry fee of 20 Baht to take photos at the Love Koh Tao viewpoint or alternatively, if you buy something to eat or drink then the entry fee is waived.

Love Ko Tao viewpoint is a fantastic spot to watch the sunrise as it faces east over the Gulf of Thailand . If you’re not a morning person, no worries, it’s also a great spot for lunch and freshly squeezed fruit juice.

There are a number of great photo opportunities at the Love Koh Tao viewpoint, including the @lovekohtao sign, the netted beds, and the big colorful welcome sign.

The viewpoint is one of my favorite things to do on Koh Tao, for a short visit in between beach hopping.

Full blog post:  Love Koh Tao Viewpoint

SAI NUAN BEACH

Sai Nuan Beach is one of the best, most unspoiled beaches to visit when you explore Koh Tao. It’s the perfect hideaway from the more popular beaches on the island.

WHERE IS SAI NUAN BEACH AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Sai Nuan Beach is a 15-minute drive from the main beach, and it has decent road access.

There are no parking or entrance fees when visiting Sai Nuan Beach and is a short 2-minute walk to the beach from the jump-off point.

MUST-READ: 3-WEEK THAILAND ITINERARY

I visited Sai Nuan Beach around 2 pm one afternoon and I was stoked to have discovered this tropical paradise that is isolated from the more touristy beaches.

I first arrived at Sai Nuan Beach 2 and took some photos of the beach and seaside restaurant before following the shoreline around to Sai Nuan Beach 1.

Sai Nuan Beach 1 is my favorite pick of the two beaches because of its awesome tropical vibe about it!

A cozy bay is shaded by a coconut palm tree forest with a slackline and a tree swing between the palms! Sounds fun right?!

Sai Nuan Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a day out with friends and family to soak up some sun, snorkel around the rocks, and beach bum while listening to the sounds of the waves and coral wind chimes.

THE 2 BEACHES AT SAI NUAN BEACH

There are actually two beaches to be explored at this location, Sai Nuan Beach 1 and Sai Nuan Beach 2.

If you happen to park in the first car park on the left-hand side at the end of the road, follow the walking trail down from here and you will emerge on Sai Nuan Beach 2.

To get to Sai Nuan Beach 1, follow the shoreline around the corner, walk through the restaurant beneath the palms and you will arrive in less than 2 minutes.

Full blog post:  Sai Nuan Beach Koh Tao

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TAA TOH BAY

Taa Toh Bay is a magnificent cove hidden under a palm-fringed forest on the south coast of the island.

Taatoh Bay is the ultimate spot to relax on the beach for some peace and quiet away from the more popular attractions.

WHERE IS TAA TOH BAY AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Taa Toh Bay is a 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach with decent road access and when I visited there were no parking or entrance fees. It’s a short 2-minute walk to the beach from the car park.

I could have easily spent an entire day at Taa Toh Bay. There is so much to do including snorkeling, kayaking, beach volleyball, hiking, and hammock chills!

When I visited, there were only four other people on the beach, which surprised me as it was peak season on Ko Tao.

Full blog post: Taa Toh Bay

KOH NANG YUAN ISLAND

Koh Nang Yuan is one of the most stunning neighboring islands a unique tropical island in southern Thailand and one of the best day trips to be had here.

Experience the ultimate serenity and tranquillity on Nang Yuan Island, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, panoramic viewpoints, and some of Thailand’s best scuba diving sites.

HOW TO GET TO KOH NANG YUAN

Koh Nang Yuan is only accessible by taxi boat and the most popular route to get here is by organizing a day trip from Ko Tao.

The boat trip from Koh Tao takes approximately 15 minutes across the channel.

Find All :  Hostels & Resorts in Koh Tao

Here are a couple of options to book a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan listed below:

OPTION #1: ASK A LOCAL

I found the easiest and cheapest way to get over to Koh Nang Yuan is to head down to the northern end of Sairee Beach where all the boats are lined up and find a local who has a boat that is willing to take you over the channel.

My friends and I did exactly this and we were able to barter a price of 1000 Baht between the five of us (200 Baht per person) for a return trip to Koh Nang Yuan.

OPTION #2: TOURIST OFFICE

You can book a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan from any of the tourist information offices dotted around the Mae Haad Pier and Sairee areas.

Expect to pay between 250-350 Baht per person if you book with this option as the boat tour companies charge more so they can make a commission.

Also, this is one of the best dive sites around, so they’ll be able to give you a few tips before you book your scuba diving trip.

The BEST Affordable Camera For Travel

If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II .

This tiny camera fits in your pocket, captures high-quality photos and videos, and has Wi-Fi so you can instantly transfer to your phone!

ARRIVING AT KOH NANG YUAN

Koh Nang Yuan is open 7 days a week from 10 am to 5 pm. I recommend spending at least half a day here to enjoy exploring as much of the island as you possibly can.

Make sure to arrange a time with your taxi boat driver for when you want to be picked up again to make the return trip back to Ko Tao.

There is a 100 Baht entry fee per person to visit, and you must leave no later than 5 pm unless you are staying at the Nangyuan Island Dive Resort .

Also, plastic water bottles and the flying of drones are prohibited on the island.

WHAT TO EXPECT AT KOH NANG YUAN

The nearby Koh Nang Yuan is very popular nowadays, so you can expect there to be quite a lot of tourists on the island.

Regardless of the herds of people, I still had a fantastic time swimming at the unique sandbar beach and hiking to the famous viewpoint.

If you would like to experience the island without the crowds, I recommend booking one or two nights at the  Nangyuan Island Dive Resort .  This way you will have the beaches and viewpoints all to yourself before the gates open to tourists each day.

There is a restaurant attached to the Dive Resort which is the only place to buy food and drinks, however, the prices here are much higher than the average Thai restaurant.

Full blog post:  Koh Nang Yuan Island

KOH NANG YUAN VIEWPOINT

One of the best adventurous things to do in the region is hiking to the famous Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint that overlooks the entire island.

It’s an easy 15-minute hike to the viewpoint via a concrete path that leads the way through a small forest, up some stairs, and then a quick scramble along a couple of large boulders, finally emerging at the viewpoint.

Incredible panoramic views await at the top of the viewpoint, with an aerial perspective overlooking Nang Yuan Island and a glimpse of the beautiful western coastline.

CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY

Chalok Baan Kao Bay is the perfect location for an entire day of exploring, beach bumming and relaxing.

I visited Chalok Beach at around 4 pm in the afternoon and the long white sand beach was practically empty.

WHERE IS CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Chalok Bay is a short 10-minute drive from the main beach and one of the top things to do in Koh Tao. It has great road access, and parking spots are available all along the beach.

There are no parking or entrance fees here, and it’s a stone’s throw from the road to the beach.

There are a number of beach bars, bean bags, and restaurants along the beach where you can enjoy some afternoon drinks at sunset.

I explored the bay from one end to the other, stopping numerous times to take photos of the palm trees and the boats bobbing around in the shallow waters.

All in all, it is definitely one of the quieter beaches to visit, and with the convenience of food and beverage options right there too.

Full blog post: Chalok Baan Kao Beach

MANGO VIEWPOINT

Mango Viewpoint is rated as one of the best viewpoints on the island and a great spot to spend a couple of hours chilling in a hammock, reading a book, playing board games, or sipping on freshly squeezed juice.

WHERE IS MANGO VIEWPOINT AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Mango Viewpoint is located high in the hills in the north of the island. It’s a short 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach.

It has decent road access, but it is very steep and you may end up having to walk up the hill if your scooter doesn’t make it.

When you arrive, there is an entrance fee of 100 Baht, which is a higher cost than other viewpoints but the view is definitely worth the money, in my opinion!

Incredible panoramic views welcome you upon arrival, and a small restaurant with fresh seafood, as well as a juice bar, is on the hillside.

My friends and I made ourselves comfortable on the large cushions while we took in the awe-inspiring views of Koh Tao’s western coastline and the beautiful Sairee Beach.

Full blog post:  Mango Viewpoint

Tanote Bay is surrounded by rolling hills and large boulders. There is also a rock formation at Tanote Bay Beach that is well-known as the best rock jumping spot around Koh Tao Island.

WHERE IS TANOTE BAY AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Tanote Bay is located on the eastern coastline of the island, a short 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach.

Tanote Bay has decent road access and when I visited there were no parking or entrance fees. It’s a short 2-minute walk to the beach from the jump-off point.

Tanote Bay is the best place to watch the sunrise on Ko Tao Island as this bay faces east over the Gulf Of Thailand.

I visited Tanote Bay around 10 am to explore the beach and the rocky points before going for a swim and of course some rock jumping.

Full blog post:  Tanote Bay Full Guide

The weather was unfortunately very overcast on the day that I visited Tanote Bay but I still had an amazing time exploring this coastline.

There are a couple of beachside restaurants and resorts along the beach, the perfect spot to get something to eat and drink without having to leave the oceanside.

Also, I highly recommend snorkeling in Tanote Bay as it’s said to be one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, with a variety of colorful corals and reasonably large fish just a few steps into the water.

SAI DAENG BEACH

Sai Daeng Beach is another picture-perfect location to visit during your stay.

Located on Koh Tao’s south coast, Sai Daeng Beach is the perfect spot to spend a day snorkeling the reefs, kayaking in the bay, and working on your tan!

WHERE IS SAI DAENG BEACH AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Sai Daeng Beach is a 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach. Sai Daeng Beach can be accessed through the Sai Daeng Resort .

Park out the front of the resort and then follow the signs pointing the way down the stairs to Sai Daeng Beach. There are no parking or entry fees when visiting.

I personally stayed at the  Sai Daeng Resort  for 3 days and 3 nights and was lucky enough to visit Sai Daeng Beach every morning for a swim and snorkel.

Full blog post:  Sai Daeng Beach Koh Tao

Some of the clearest, turquoise waters can be found here at Sai Daeng Beach and colorful coral reefs are only a stone’s throw away from the palm tree fringed shoreline.

It’s also the closest bay to Shark Island, which is one of the best snorkeling trips on the island. There are kayaks and snorkel sets available to rent from the restaurant located down on Sai Daeng Beach.

Paddling out to Shark Island in a kayak takes approximately 10 minutes and there is a floating buoy to tie off your kayak before jumping in the water for a snorkel.

SUNSET VIEWPOINT

Ko Tao Island has some pretty incredible viewpoints but I have to say that Sunset Viewpoint is my favorite.

Located high in the hills at the northern end of the island, Sunset Viewpoint offers incredible west-facing views overlooking the popular Sairee Beach

WHERE IS SUNSET VIEWPOINT AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Sunset Viewpoint is a short 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach. There is decent road access, but it’s very steep and you may end up having to walk up the hill if your scooter doesn’t make it.

Look out for the ‘High Rock View Point – Sunset Point’ sign on the left-hand side of the road as you come up the steep hill and make a left turn here.

If the track is muddy you may have to walk. Otherwise, you can drive all the way up and over to the viewpoint.

Full blog post:  Sunset Viewpoint Koh Tao

There are large boulders at Sunset Viewpoint that make for a perfect photo opportunity with panoramic views of the western coastline of the island.

There are also some hammocks tied up between the trees for a very comfortable chill session while you wait for the sunset.

The day I visited, it was very cloudy and overcast so unfortunately, I didn’t get to experience a good sunset.

However, the incredible views at the top still made the adventure worthwhile and it’s not to be missed on your list of things to do on Koh Tao!

HIN WONG BAY

Hin Wong Bay on Koh Tao Island is a beautiful beach surrounded by large boulders and crystal clear waters, offering one of the best snorkeling spots.

I perused my map in search of a beach away from the more popular beaches and I discovered Ao Hin Wong Beach on the eastern coastline of Ko Tao.

WHERE IS HIN WONG BAY AND WHAT TO EXPECT

Hin Wong Bay is a short 10-minute drive from Sairee Beach with very easy to access as the main road leads all the way down to Ao Hin Wong Beach and there is a small car park at the bottom.

There are no parking or entrance fees and it’s a short 2-minute walk to the beach from the jump-off point.

Full blog post:  Hin Wong Bay Koh Tao

I was surprised to see no more than 10 people down on Ao Hin Wong Beach, knowing that there were thousands of tourists on the island during this holiday season.

If you’re looking for a quiet beach away from crowds and one of the best Koh Tao snorkeling spots, head to the east side of the Island and discover the beauty of Hin Wong Bay, where the jungle meets the sea.

HOW TO GET TO KOH TAO

Koh Tao Island is only accessible by fast boat or ferry. From the mainland, there are daily boats leaving from Chumphon and Surat Thani .

Lomprayah is reputably the best boat/bus company to travel within Thailand, offering bus transfers and fast boat services to the islands.

Check out the 12Go Asia website to search for all bus and boat services to Koh Tao and book online ahead of time to get guaranteed the best rates.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT KOH TAO

The best time to visit Ko Tao Island is debatable because it has great beach weather all year round except in October and November, the wettest months.

The peak season in Koh Tao is typically between December and February and you can expect prices for hotels and other activities to be more expensive during this time.

On that note, you’ll want to be sure to book your accommodation well in advance if you choose to visit during the peak season before everything gets booked out.

WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO

Ko Tao has dozens of accommodations to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to suit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:

Luxury: Sai Daeng Resort Koh Tao

Mid Range: Wind Beach Resort

Budget: Indie Hostel

FOR ALL OTHER PLACES TO STAY IN KO TAO, SEARCH ON BOOKING.COM

What to pack for koh tao.

When visiting Thailand, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

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Reusable Water Bottle

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FINAL THOUGHTS – WHAT TO DO IN KOH TAO

I hope you enjoyed this guide and if you have any questions at all about what to do in Koh Tao, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can!

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

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The only guide you need to prepare for a trip to Thailand! Find out about visas, insurance, vaccinations, currencies, SIM cards, airport taxis and loads more.

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Koh Nang Yuan: How to visit the iconic Koh Tao beach viewpoint

Koh Nang Yuan (เกาะนางยวน) is one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands. Located just a few hundred meters off the coast of Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan consists of two small islands covered in jungle and studded with granite boulders, and connected in the middle by a thin strip of white sand. There is a restaurant, coffee shop, dive center, and a hotel all located on the island.

The one big drawback of Koh Nang Yuan is its popularity. It can get quite crowded here. In this guide we’ll give you a few tips for getting photos with fewer people, but truly the best way to experience it is to stay in the island’s resort.

The island is closed to everyone but guests from 5pm to 9:30am, meaning you can have the beach and viewpoints mostly to yourself during the golden hours. You can check availability or book a room here on booking.com .

Entrance price

Entry to the island costs 200 Baht for foreigners, and 30 Baht for Thais. If you booked a room in the resort, entrance to the island is included in that price.

Staying at the resort

As we mentioned at the top, the best way to see this island is to stay there. Day-trippers are only allowed on the island from 9:30 am – 5 pm, so you can have the beaches all to yourself during the morning and evening golden hours.

You can watch both the sunrise and sunset from the beach here, which is pretty cool, but only if you stay on the island.

If you’re on a backpacker budget, the price here will be a bit steep, but you might find it’s worth the splurge.

Note: The rooms here are pretty nice, but a good chunk of the the price is for the location. If you only have one splurge night in your travel budget, you should weigh staying here against staying in a much nicer luxury hotel somewhere with a less exclusive location.

Room prices range from 2000-4800 Baht during the low season*, and 2500-6000 Baht in high season*. These rates include breakfast, beach chair use, and boat transfers to and from the island.

*The resort uses this odd schedule

Koh Nang Yuan activities

Diving and snorkeling.

Koh Nang Yuan has a PADI 5 star IDC dive shop called Nangyuan Easy Divers. We have never dived with them so we can’t vouch, but they do seem to be fairly well-reviewed.

The local dive sites just offshore here are good enough that dive boats from Koh Tao visit them daily.

There is pretty good snorkeling directly out from the beach, and snorkeling gear can be rented on the island, or you can bring your own.

The viewpoint

The main attraction on the island is the viewpoint, which is a 15-minute walk up from the beach. At peak times it can get crowded enough that a line forms, but most of the time it’s fine.

The best time to get a great photo from up there is after 4:30 pm (but before 5pm if your boat is leaving!) when there are fewer people on the beach.

Bring your mosquito spray if you have it as it can get buggy up there.

What not to bring

Single-use plastics and foam containers are not allowed on the island. This means you can’t even bring a water bottle, unless it is a reusable one. This applies to day-trippers and resort guests.

Resort guests are not allowed to bring outside food. If you’re trying to keep your budget low you can sneak some in, but if you do please makes sure you dispose of all the plastic packaging properly.

Also, please do not use standard suncreams that are not labeled as “reef-safe” if you plan on getting in the water. The chemicals in sunscreen are very bad for coral reefs.

If you’re traveling heavy, it might be a good idea to leave some things at a hotel on Koh Tao if you can. Most of the rooms are located on the hill with the viewpoint, and getting there from the pier means crossing the beach. During very high tides, you will be walking in ankle-deep water.

You are not allowed to fly drones on the island, so don’t bring it along, or if you have to, don’t try to fly it.

What you should bring

Bring a hat, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, your own snorkel if you have it, a towel or beach mat, and water if you have a reusable water bottle.

How to get to Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan is easily reached from Koh Tao. From Koh Phangan it’s an hour in a speedboat, and from Koh Samui it takes around an hour and a half. Here’s how to get to the island from each:

If you are staying in the resort, the boat to and from the island is included in the price.

From Koh Tao

Most snorkeling and boat tours in Koh Tao will stop at Koh Nang Yuan, so booking one of these will get you there. You can also take a longtail boat from Sairee Beach. This should cost 300 Baht roundtrip, and you will need to schedule your pickup time in advance as the boat driver will not just sit and wait for you.

You can also kayak to Koh Nang Yuan from Dusit Buncha Resort ( location in Google Maps ), but do it for the adventure, not to save money because a longtail will be cheaper.

Tours from Koh Tao

You can see Koh Tao tours here

Visiting Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Phangan

From Koh Phangan you can charter a speedboat to create your own custom tour, or book ahead on one of these tours

Getting to Koh Nang Yuan from Koh Samui

From Samui, you can charter a speedboat for your trip, but it will be fairly expensive. To save money, book one of these tours

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Home / Destinations / Thailand / The Ultimate Guide to Getting to & Around Koh Tao

The Ultimate Guide to Getting to & Around Koh Tao

Find the ride you need in.

Going to Koh Tao? Here’s a rundown of the most popular routes and best transportation options, from flights to buses, minivans and ferries.

Dive shops cluster in Koh Tao or Turtle Island. Villas dot palm-fringed beaches. And Koh Nang Yuan, the neighboring islet, beckons with amazonite waters and hilltop views. It is well-known for its crystal sea and once-in-a-lifetime dives. Aside from various rays, green and hawksbill turtles call the island’s tropical coral reef home, and with a bit of luck, you may spot a whale shark.

Whether you head down from Bangkok or travel from nearby shores, we break down all your options to get to Koh Tao. In addition, we’ll give you a flavor of what transportation is like on this small island.

• Where is Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is off the east coast of Thailand, in the Gulf of Thailand. Take a look at this map so you can envision just how easy it will be to get there.

• When is the best time to go? 

Koh Tao sees tourism all year, but the masses thin out in the rainy season, typically from late October to mid-December. While heavy rains are a deal-breaker for some, others are fine with spending time indoors every so often. Traveling on a shoestring? Do crowds put you off? Then, the off-season is for you. 

After all, every season in Koh Tao has its own appeal. Mid-December to February is dry, so expect peak-season prices. However, catching rays is best in the high season because rainfall is rare.

• What’s the best way to get to Koh Tao? 

That depends on where you are traveling from and how quickly you want to get there. There are buses, minivans, ferries and flights to choose from.

Flying is how to get there from Bangkok if you’re in a hurry. You’ve already seen Thailand’s capital, marveled at the glittering temples, and witnessed the backpacker haven of Khao San Road. But since there’s no airport on the island, you’ll have to fly from  Bangkok to Koh Samui or Suratthani first and then hop on a bus or ferry.

The thing is, Bangkok Airways has a monopoly on flights to Koh Samui, and that means cheap flights are scarce. Don’t be surprised if they cost more than double what you’d pay for a route of a similar distance in the region. 

Riding a bus (plus bus and ferry) to Koh Tao

Riding a bus to Koh Tao from Bangkok is possible and cheaper than a flight to Koh Samui. 

You can recline your seat, sit back, watch the scenery roll past, and then drift off to sleep, as it’s usually a journey overnight. You’ll get a snuggly blanket, and there’s a TV and toilet onboard the air-conditioned coach. Also, there will be stops for a total of two hours so you can stretch your legs and rest. 

Buses usually leave from Sai Tai Mai, Bangkok’s Southern Bus Terminal.

Taking a minivan or private ride to Koh Tao

Need some privacy and don’t mind shelling out some cash? A private ride comes with benefits: no rushing to the bus station, no pesky music, no arctic air-conditioning, and stops whenever you need them.

Minivans have space for eleven people.

Taking a ferry ride

Wondering how to get there from Koh Samui? Or from Suratthani? It’s a no-brainer. You can choose from several ferry operators multiple times a day, even in the off-season.

Also, while there are ferries from Suratthani to Koh Tao , no car ferry is available. The ferry ride takes about four hours and 30 minutes.

 You can also get from Chumphon to Koh Tao by taking a ferry ride.

• Popular routes to Koh Tao

Here’s a rundown of the most popular routes and the best transport options.

The most favored routes include  Koh Samui to Koh Tao  and  Suratthani to Koh Tao . Of course, you can also explore the area of Suratthani and do a once-in-a-lifetime jungle tour, then hop on a bus and get from  Khao Sok to Koh Tao .

While most travelers visit the three islands in the Gulf of Thailand (Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao), don’t forget about all the things to do in Phuket . Thankfully, it’s relatively easy to get to Koh Tao from Phuket .

Or what about following in DiCaprio’s footsteps in Koh Phi Phi and then getting from Koh Phi Phi to Koh Tao ? 

Looking for the ultimate place for self-reflection? Koh Lanta is only a stone’s throw from Koh Phi Phi. You can also visit Koh Lanta and lounge on long, secluded beaches that stretch along the West Coast as far as the eyes can see. Then, get from Koh Lanta to Koh Tao via bus or minivan before hopping on a ferry. 

Similarly, you can unwind in Hua Hin, Thai people’s beloved beach location close to Bangkok, and then jump on a bus from Hua Hin to Koh Tao .

Other popular routes include: 

• Bangkok to Koh Tao by bus + ferry, minivan + ferry or flight + ferry.
• Koh Phangan to Koh Tao via ferry.
• Krabi to Koh Tao by bus + ferry or van + ferry.
• Don Sak to Koh Tao (Suratthani) via ferry.
• Getting around in Koh Tao

Now that you’ve made it to the island, you can explore the its multicultural influences, chill out with piglets at nearby Koh Madsum, watch trendy fire-spinning shows, and, of course, dive until your heart’s content .

Aside from meandering through stalls, a fresh coconut juice in hand, you can get around the island in different ways. You can hop on a songthaew, a covered pickup truck with two benches in the back, Thailand’s cheapest mode of transport. 

Or you can hail a cab or ride a motorbike taxi. Alternatively, rent a scooter and explore the island on two wheels by yourself.

Whichever way suits your fancy and budget, you’ll find a ride for any journey.

January is a great time for long sunny days with no rain.

It’s a small island so you could spend 3-4 days and explore it all.

There is no airport on Koh Tao, but next door Koh Samui as one.

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Getting to Koh Tao

The only way of getting to Koh Tao is by boat. Services run from the mainland, leaving Chumphon or Surat Thani and from the islands of Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. There is no airport, bus or train station on Koh Tao.

Getting to Koh Tao from Bangkok

There are 3 alternative ways:

1. Fly to Koh Samui

This is the fastest way of getting to Koh Tao. Bangkok Airways offers flights between Bangkok and Koh Samui. Flights depart every half an hour from 06:00 to 22:00. Check the ferry timetables before you book your flight. Lomprayah Catamaran and Songserm Express provide high-speed ferry services three times daily from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. The boat journey is between 1:30 and 1:45 hours.

2. Bus and Ferry combined ticket

The combined ticket is the cheapest and most popular way of getting to Koh Tao from Bangkok. Currently, only one company offers this service: Lomprayah Catamaran High-Speed Ferry. Their air-conditioned bus departs from Khaosan Road in Bangkok and arrives at their pier in Chumphon. The boat journey to Koh Tao, arriving at Mae Haad Bay , is 1:45 hours.

Book Koh Tao Ferry Ticket

3. Sleeper train to Chumphon

Travelling on the sleeper train is usually more comfortable than the bus. You will almost have a proper bed to sleep in during the journey. The ferry company provides free transfers between their pier and the train station. From Bangkok, you must arrive at Chumphon station before 06:00 as the ferry departs at 07:00. Delays are possible on this train, so you may have to get the afternoon boat with Lomprayah Catamaran High-Speed Ferry. To Bangkok, it’s better to take an afternoon boat from Koh Tao to catch the first sleeper train from Chumphon at 19:30.

Getting to Koh Tao from Koh Phangan or Koh Samui

Two ferry companies operate between Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. They are Lomprayah Catamaran High-Speed Ferry and Songserm Express.

Ferry ticket can be purchased here

Getting to Koh Tao from Chumphon or Surat Thani

Chumphon is the closest part of the mainland to Koh Tao, so travel time by boat is the quickest and shortest compared with Surat Thani. Lomprayah Catamaran High-Speed Ferry offers services between the mainland and the island. Additionally, there are night ferries, often referred to as “night boats” or “sleeping boats,” which provides comfortable air-conditioned cabins with dormitory-style beds. Journey time on these night ferries is approximately 6 hours from Chumphon and 9 hours from Surat Thani.

If you’re looking to fly from Bangkok, you can find flights to Chumphon operated by Air Asia . Surat Thani provides flight services through Air Asia, Nok Air , Thai Lion Air and Thai Vietjet Air .

Koh Tao Ferry Timetables 2024

Route: bangkok > chumphon > koh tao > surat thani.

Route: Surat Thani > Koh Tao > Chumphon > Bangkok

Getting away to Andaman Coast or Southern

If travelling to the Andaman Coast or lower Southern of Thailand, the connections are from the mainland out of Chumphon and Surat Thani, where you go by bus, van or train. Check with travel agencies on Koh Tao for information. Ferry companies also provide combined tickets for certain popular destinations along the Andaman Coast, like Khao Sok, Khao Lak, Ao Nang, and Krabi.

The trains from Chumphon to the south only go to Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Trang, Phattalung, Songkhla, Hat Yai, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Hardly any of the Andaman coast is accessible via train. Going by road is the only way. There are also flights from Koh Samui directly to Phuket and Krabi with Bangkok Airways .

Koh Tao boasts stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life, combined with a relaxed lifestyle, making it an unforgettable destination for thousands of visitors per year.

Koh Tao Beaches and Bays

Koh Tao beaches and bays are perfect for snorkeling and diving, with shallow coral reefs only a short distance from the shore.

Scuba Diving Koh Tao

Scuba diving Koh Tao lets you experience weightlessness while exploring the stunning visual display of the underwater realm.

Koh Tao Hotels

Koh Tao Hotels offer a wide choice of places to stay, from simple beach bungalows to budget dorm hostels to luxury pool villas.

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Backpacking Koh Tao Itinerary: What To Do & Travel Tips

Find out how to see the best of this paradise island with our perfect backpacking Koh Tao itinerary. Let’s talk about the best things to do, restaurants, where to stay, and more for your 2 days in Koh Tao!

If you’re looking for a quiet island to relax on in Thailand surrounded by incredible marine life look no further than Koh Tao. There are plenty of things to do here which will really allow you to experience the beauty of this place. This includes amazing snorkeling, incredible diving, mind-blowing viewpoints, and palm tree-covered beaches. It’s certainly a must when backpacking Koh Tao.

This Koh Tao itinerary will include where to stay, where to eat, and what to do. Basically, it’s all you need to know to have an incredible time backpacking Koh Tao!

Koh Tao is famous for being a diving hot spot in Thailand and one of the cheapest places to become PADI certified. If this is something you are interested in then there are numerous dive schools around the island that will be able to sort this for you. Though for the focus of this backpacking Koh Tao guide and Koh Tao itinerary I will be focusing on travel tips and what to do if you have limited time on this island.

Backpacking Koh Tao: My 2 Day Koh Tao Itinerary

How many days to spend on koh tao, day 1 of 2 days in koh tao itinerary, day 2 of 2 days in koh tao itinerary, other things to do while backpacking koh tao.

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Cost Per Day To Travel Koh Tao

• Where To Stay While Backpacking Koh Tao
• How To Travel To Koh Tao
• Getting Around Koh Tao
• Where To Eat In Koh Tao

Safety While Backpacking Koh Tao

• Where To After Koh Tao

Before you find out the Koh Tao itinerary and check out my backpacking Koh Tao travel tips. First off, we need to figure out exactly how many days to spend in Koh Tao. This place is an island paradise where some people spend weeks and where many digital nomads relocate to. Though I understand I am not the majority, nor is that a reasonable amount for most people when you are on an adventure to explore the whole country.

Honestly, I recommend spending about 2 days in Koh Tao during your Thailand itinerary . Though this will depend on how many islands you plan on a visit before or after. As if you are beach hopping your way down Thailand 2 days will be enough.

Personally, I think that Koh Tao is a beautiful island, though it certainly wasn’t a stand-out on my trip. There were other islands which had better beaches and were easier to travel around etc. Though again, this is just my personal opinion and you may have a completely different experience.

Spending 2 days in Koh Tao will also you to spend some time checking out the incredible viewpoints, experiencing nature, and enjoying the beaches.

Morning- Koh Nang Yuan

For the perfect introduction to your Koh Tao itinerary, I recommend booking a snorkeling tour around the island . This will showcase the best Koh Tao has to offer both above and below the water. Though before we get too far ahead of ourselves it’s best to start the day with a delicious breakfast that will have you energized.

Make your way to Coconut Monkey which is located in the main town in Mae Haad Beach. They have an extensive menu that includes vegan and vegetarian options.

The main pier is just a short walk away making it easy to board the snorkeling tour. There are plenty of tour operators and travel agencies on Koh Tao that offers snorkeling tours. Personally, I went with Oxygen Tours Koh Tao . Though this was simply because they were the only company operating over the Thai New Year.

The first stop was the famous Koh Nang Yuan . This is a small set of islands off the coast of Koh Tao which is connected via a sandbank. It is a real Instagram hot spot in the Gulf of Thailand and as a result, is a very popular spot when it comes to tour groups. If you can’t do large tour groups then you can hire a long tail boat to take you here and do your own DIY style snorkeling tour. Though if you are on an organized tour you will visit this island as well as Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay, Aow Leuk, and Sharks Bay. There will be a variety of underwater life to explore which plenty of coral reef systems to check out. Lunch is also included as the tours generally run until the afternoon.

Personally, the only downside of the tour was that we booked going into the wet season which meant to in the afternoon the waters got quite choppy and visibility wasn’t good as storms rolled over. Of course, this is of no fault of the company, but just something to be aware of. Sharks Bay, which isn’t a sheltered cove, was not suitable for people not confident swimming. I have also read that the best chance to see sharks here is in the morning, but we visited in the late afternoon.

Afternoon- Sunset Viewpoint

With getting back from the snorkeling tour between 4pm and 5pm it doesn’t leave much of the afternoon free which is why we are keeping it simple. The Sunset viewpoint in Koh Tao is the perfect way to chill out at the end of a busy day. Though we will need to get there first.

To do so, you will need to hire a motorbike which we will also be utilizing tomorrow. Day hire is around $4.92 / 150 THB. Though just make sure to research for a reputable bike hire company as there are a few different scams operating around the island. Though we will cover a bit more on that below.

Once you have your bike it’s a quick 15-minute drive to the viewpoint. Be aware that Koh Tao is a very mountainous island with some steep uphills. You may just find yourself having to push the bike up.

At the sunset viewpoint, there is a bar where you can buy drinks and chill out while watching the sun disappear below the clouds in the distance.

Evening – Sairee Beach

If you still have a bit of energy and aren’t ready to end your first-day backpacking Koh Tao, then head to Sairee Beach. First off it’s time to get dinner. It’s definitely worth checking out La Pizzera da Claudio which is a gorgeous European restaurant specializing in French cuisine. This place certainly isn’t cheap but it’s worth it. Though if you are on a budget check out Baia Burger Concept .

After a delicious meal makes your way down to the beachfront for a beer. There are always fire shows going on here so it’s the perfect way to end a day and relax.

Morning- John Suwan Viewpoint & Freedom Beach

Grab a cheap and cheerful breakfast from Zest Coffe Shop before jumping on your motorbike and continuing our backpacking Koh Tao itinerary.

Our first stop of the day is across the island at John Suwan Viewpoint. This is approximately 15 minutes from the tourist hub of Sairee Beach. You can park at Freedom Beach or Taa Toh Bay and then walk the 20 minutes or so to the viewpoint.

There is an entrance fee of $1.63 / 50 THB. This palm tree-laden spot is super popular with other travelers. Though getting there first thing in the morning you should have it to yourself. Once at the viewpoint look back inland and check the incredible view of Koh Tao surrounded by blue water.

Hike back down to Freedom Beach to spend the rest of the morning relaxing on one of the best beaches on Koh Tao. There are plenty of hammocks to relax on or grab some snorkeling equipment and check out life under the water.

Afternoon- Beach Hop

After you have finished checking out Freedom Beach head to the neighboring bay, Shark Bay, to find some friends. You’ll definitely need some snorkeling gear to find the blacktip reef sharks which call this beach home. Afterward, head to P.Oy’s Place for some delicious Thai food for lunch.

Sai Nuan Beach is the next beach spot which is a short drive away. This is a super chill low key spot that I happened to randomly stumble upon. There only ever seem to be a few groups here at a time so you still get quite a bit of privacy. There is a restaurant and a small resort here. Though for the most part is seems like a piece of secluded paradise.

Driving away from the south part of the island make your way to Tanote Beach. This is actually one of the best places you can go snorkeling on Koh Tao. There are plenty of corals around as well as quite a few large fish.

Evening- Love Koh Tao

After a busy day exploring some of the amazing coastlines around Koh Tao, we will head for sunset at the famous love Koh Tao spot. This has incredible views over Tanote Beach and is the perfect spot to relax after a busy day backpacking Koh Tao.

There is a $0.65 / 50 THB entry fee to Love Koh Tao. Though this is waived if you purchase drinks or food. It’s unlikely you will visit without grabbing a cold beer while watching the sun drop below the horizon.

After chilling out at Love Koh Tao head to The Gallery Restaurant for an authentic Thai meal to finish off our Koh Tao itinerary. Overlooking the island

If you’re staying longer here there are so many other things to do so you can extend your backpacking Koh Tao itinerary. Whether you are a water lover or not Koh Tao has an assortment of activities and attractions to keep you entertained.

Get PADI Certified

One of the most popular things to do in Koh Tao and why many people travel here is to get PADI certified. Koh Tao is known as one of the cheapest places to get your PADI license in the world. As a result, it attracts thousands of backpackers every year looking to gain some new skills exploring life under the water. With so many dive schools on the island, it helps keep the price low. It can cost as little as $300.00 to become certified here.

The 2 most popular diving schools are Big Blue Diving & Ban’s Diving School . If you decide you would like to become PADI certified while you are backpacking Koh Tao then make sure you set aside 3-4 full days to complete this.

Ang Thong Marine Park

If you snorkeled all of the beaches while backpacking Koh Tao why not head out a bit further afield on a day trip to Ang Thong Marine Park. It is made up of 42 separate islands and is one of the best spots to snorkel in the Gulf of Thailand.

Prices generally start around $30.00 for the day trip on a group tour.

Cooking Class

Before coming to Thailand I had never taken a cooking class . Though having done a few now I completely understand the appeal. It is a great way to experience a new location, interact with locals and gain some new skills.

There are a couple of different cooking classes located here which will teach you how to make delicious curries and stirfries.

Being such a small island with relatively limited things to do, partaking in the famous Koh Tao pub crawl has become a bit of an institution for backpackers in Thailand. It a pretty cheap thing to do here and you will also receive a free teeshirt or singlet. You will also meet a bunch of new people so it’s definitely worth adding to your Koh Tao itinerary.

Koh Tao Night Market

How the Koh Tao night market isn’t huge but is enough to keep you busy for a couple of hours. You will find it down my Sairee Beach which numerous street food vendors set up selling favorites such as pancakes, kebabs, and pad Thai.

When To Travel Koh Tao?

Located in the Gulf Of Thailand, Koh Tao, has 2 distinctive seasons, the dry season and the wet season.

The dry season runs from late December through to March. This is when you will have hot dry sunny days and is the peak of the tourist season. Because of this, many accommodation providers increase their nightly rates so you may find yourself spending a bit more than planned. Though this is basically the case for anywhere you travel around the world.

Personally, I traveled to Koh Tao during Songkran in April. Their monsoon rain generally only hit once per day during the afternoon. This rain would only just around 20 minutes and then as quickly as it came, it disappears again.

The wet season, also known as the monsoon season, is from April to November. These days will be hot, humid, and wet. Downpours are frequent, though they never seem to last long and always seem to be followed by blue skies. Though from September to November this is when the weather truly starts to get bad with seemingly constant downpours. The only problem you may have will be getting to and from Koh Tao as the waters may be too rough for the ferry companies to safely operate. Though there is nothing wrong with being stranded in paradise for a couple of extra days. The prices during the wet season are also a lot cheaper than during the dry season. Making it a lot easier on your backpacking Koh Tao budget.

Being more towards the southern end of Thailand as well as being an island prices here are generally a bit more than on the mainland. This is because of 2 reasons. Number one, the South of Thailand is more touristy, when backpacking Chiang Mai , its incredible value for money. Though down here in Koh Tao it is unfortunately not as much. The second reason is because of the cost of transporting the goods from the mainland across the water to the island. Though this is essentially the same for any island around the world. Prices will just generally be more expensive which isn’t the best for your Thailand budget .

When it comes to accommodation there are so many options available and at widely different price ranges. The cheapest hostels start at around $5.00 per night. Though this is for a room you’ll be sharing with 12+ people. For smaller-sized dorm rooms, you’ll be paying around the $10.00 mark per night.

For a private room, you can plan to spend around $12.00 to $25.00 for a fan room in a decent guesthouse. This may not be a beachfront room, but you will never too far from a dip in the ocean. Best to do a bit of research though as the options for private rooms are endless as there are so many available. I stayed in Baan Rock Inn for $20.00 per night which I shared with my partner. Push up your budget by an extra $10.00 or so and you can find yourself in a beautiful bamboo fan room with an oceanfront view.

Personally I never really fell in love with any particular restaurant in Koh Tao and found it quite pricy as this was my first experience in Southern Thailand. Most meals we ate at Yang Thai Food as it was one of the cheapest spots around a nearby our accommodation. Meals were around $3.92 / 120 THB.

Overall I would budget approximately $30.00 per day for backpacking Koh Tao to stay on the safe side. This will allow you a decent bed to sleep in, a few beers, and scooter hire so you can travel around.

Where To Stay While Backpacking Koh Tao?

Unless you have a rather large budget it’s likely you will be staying in the main township in Koh Tao. This is where I stayed and where you will find the more affordable accommodation.

Sairee Beach: Sairee Beach is one of the more popular places to stay in Koh Tao simply because this is where the majority of accommodation options are located. There are some quaint bungalows here as well as a handful of hostels for backpackers on a budget.

Mae Haad: Mae Haad is the main area of Koh Tao and where all the ferries depart from. There isn’t too much of a nice beach here due to boat pollution. I stayed in this area on my first trip to Koh Tao and found the options quite limited. There are more hostels here as well as a few affordable resorts. I stayed in Baan Rock Inn for $20.00 per night which I shared with my partner.

Chalok Baan Kao: Away from the township in a more peaceful location is the area of Chalok Baan Kao. Here you will find more affordable beachfront bungalows. This is definitely an area for backpackers who want to be more in nature and the seaside without having to pay ridiculous prices.

Ao Thian Og: If budget isn’t a limit for you, it’s likely you will be staying in Ao Thian Og. This is a super-luxurious area with some of Koh Tao’s best resorts and hotels. A night here will cost you a few hundred dollars.

Here are my top picks for the backpacking Koh Tao travel guide:

Getting To Koh Tao From Bangkok

Unfortunately getting to Koh Tao from Bangkok isn’t the easiest. This is because, no matter which type you choose, you will need to take multiple types of transport to get to the island. Though don’t worry too much about it because it gives you an opportunity to break up a lot of travel over multiple days, or to make things easy you can book the entire journey through a travel agency who will make sure everything runs smoothly. I recommend checking out 12.Go Asia for booking such trips. I have done a detailed breakdown of how to travel from Bangkok to Koh Tao which explains fully how to get there and how much it costs.

Traveling Around Koh Tao

Koh Tao is not a large island. Though it is relatively mountainous so you’ll need some good shoes if you plan on walking. Sure if you are happy chilling on the beach next to your resort or in the main town you should be fine hanging in the same spot. Though if you are wanting to travel around and explore some of the best sights of the island you will need to take some sort of transportation.

I highly recommend downloading the offline map of Koh Tao on the Maps.Me app for your cell phone. It’ll be super helpful navigating your way around if you do not have data. This is one thing I always make sure I have before arriving at a new destination.

I did not quite a lot of walking in Koh Tao and in all honesty, this was definitely not the easiest way to get around. It is a super hilly place so you do need decent shoes. If you are staying in the main town it is a crazy long walk to the viewpoints or beaches on the southern part of the island.

There are no footpaths on the main road and I would only recommend walking them during daylight. If you’re happy chilling at your resort and staying put you will be fine walking. Though if you’re like me and wanting to check out the best beaches this awesome tropical island has to offer you’ll need to have some form of transport.

Not always the biggest scooter fan (generally because they often can get wound up in scams). Though if you are in Koh Tao you are going to need one to get around. This was one of my biggest regrets during my visit is that I didn’t hire one. Though there are plenty of scooter hire shops around the island. Just remember to look at reviews online or ask the staff in your accommodation for recommendations.

There are both long-term and short-term hires available in Koh Tao. For the longterm, you will get a much better rate per day. Though for the short term expect to pay around $4.92 / 150 THB per day.

Make sure you take a video of your bike when you first get it highlighting any damage. Also, be aware that Koh Tao is a relatively hilly island. Many people end up with broken bones and a visit to the hospital for choosing this as their place to learn how to drive a scooter.

Where To Eat & Drink In Koh Tao

From beachside restaurants to delicious local eateries there is a variety of places to eat in Koh Tao. The main town has plenty of healthy options with smoothie bowls galore. These are my top picks for my backpacking Koh Tao guide:

Cheap Eats In Koh Tao

There are some great cheap eats in Koh Tao. These are for the most part in the form of small locally run restaurants. One of the most popular and cheapest restaurants on Koh Tao is Tukta Thai Food in the center of the island. Here you can enjoy affordable Thai stirfries and curries. Most meals here are around $2.60 – $3.92 / 80 – 120 THB.

For cheap western food check out the delicious Italian restaurant which is Gambero Rosso Andrea . With a beautiful beachfront location, you can enjoy your pizza or pasta with your feet in the sand.

Western Food In Koh Tao

As with many places around Thailand, Western food is a whole lot more expensive than eating local meals. This is because a lot of the ingredients are harder to come by and generally cost more as it is imported from overseas. It may not be the best on your Thailand budget, but it may just help with that little bit of homesickness.

The French Market : If you are looking to splurge a bit you can’t go past The French Market. They have a delicious menu featuring many French specialties such as fondue and various rotisserie meats.

The Hacienda Bar & Grill : If you are after a taste of home this is one of the best spots for Western food in Koh Tao. Whether you are after meat pies, Sunday roast, or a full English breakfast. This place will have you reminiscing about home.

VegetaBowl: If you are looking for something and somewhere a little bit more instagrammable head to Vegetabowl for a healthy meal.

Koh Tao is a relatively safe place. Though has gained a bit of an infamous reputation in recent years, gaining the nickname “murder island”. You can keep yourself safe and well by using common sense and not putting yourself in difficult situations.

The water here is not drinkable. Though you are able to brush your teeth with it. You can buy cheap bottles of water from 7/11. Or even better book accommodation with a refillable water station. This is something which a lot of hostels these days have on offer.

As mentioned a bit above a common scam throughout Thailand are motorbike scams. Usually, this involves blaming travelers for scratches and other marks on the motorbike and making them pay for this. To avoid this happening make sure you hire through a recommend and highly rated company. You can also document the state of the bike via video prior to taking it so you can always refer back to that if you get blamed.

All in all, it’s best to just avoid drugs completely in Thailand. Now let’s get into the second part, alcohol. It’s cheap here in Thailand and you can very quickly consume too much and find yourself in a difficult situation. You are best to stay away from the buckets as they are lethal, instead just stick with beers.

Where To After Koh Tao?

After your backpacking Koh Tao itinerary has come to an end you have a couple of different options of where you could go:

Other Nearby Islands: Koh Phangan and Koh Samui are two other islands that are in the same area. An hour or so ferry ride will take you between islands. Koh Samui and Koh Phangan are quite different islands if you’re trying to decide between the two. Koh Phangan has been made popular thanks to the full moon party, though it is a pretty chill place. On the opposite side is Koh Samui which is the largest of all these three islands. It is more modernized and set up for tourism. There is also an airport which will be able to transport you to locations further afield.

North: If you’re planning to head north of Koh Tao your next natural location would likely be Bangkok . I wouldn’t recommend traveling any further North in one go as that is already one long trip. Best to break up your journey with a night or two backpacking Bangkok .

South: This is the route I took and recommend if you’re looking to head further south from Koh Tao. Make your way to Krabi in Southern Island. There are awesome things to do down here and you’ll be able to check out the incredible and photogenic Railey.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

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Photo credit: “ Koh Tao, Thailand Sunset ” ( CC BY 2.0 ) by Goran Has .

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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How to travel from koh phangan to koh tao – full guide 2024.

Table of Contents

In this article, we’re going to tell you everything you need to know about traveling from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao in 2024.

Koh Phangan and Koh Tao are both among our favorite islands in Thailand, so if you are planning this trip, you’re doing something right already. We have included loads of details to help you plan your trip.

The trip from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is relatively straightforward and easy to plan once you know where to start. However, there are a few important things that you do need to know to save stress, money, and time. We really hope that this article helps you plan your trip so that you can enjoy Koh Phangan and Koh Tao as much as we do.

Koh Phangan to Koh Tao – In Brief

Koh Tao is located around 36 km northwest of Koh Phangan. There are no airports on either of these islands; therefore, the only way to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao is by boat. There are TWO ferry companies that currently operate on this route: Lomprayah and Songserm, and the price is 500 baht – 600 baht (roughly £12 – £15 or $15 – $18).

Why Visit Koh Tao?

Don’t miss our full guide to the BEST things to do in Koh Tao

There are lots of great reasons to visit Koh Tao. We highly recommend that you take a trip to Koh Tao, even if you are only able to stay for a few days.

Firstly, Koh Tao is a beautiful small island. It has beautiful green jungle-covered hills with a couple of stunning viewpoints . It is also one of the cheapest places in the world to qualify as an Open Water scuba diver. There are plenty of diving schools on the island offering a range of different courses and experiences. You can also learn to free dive in Koh Tao. This beautiful island is surrounded by stunning clear waters, a tropical reef, and the biodiversity is genuinely very impressive. You can take a very affordable snorkeling day trip around the coastline of Koh Tao. This is also a great place to see blacktip reef sharks and turtles.

Koh Tao is also relatively affordable, and while the prices are a little higher than the mainland Thailand, you can still get a lot for your money on this island. There are some very beautiful resorts on Koh Tao. What’s more, there is a wide range of food available, including delicious local Thai food and Western food. There is also a great nightlife at the hotel, especially along Sairee Beach (the main beach). This is a beautiful place to see the sunset, and there are plenty of bars, cafes, and restaurants along the beach.

How Much Does It Cost to Travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao?

Ferry ticket prices range between 500 baht – 600 baht (around £12 – £15 or $15 – $18). This is a fixed price, so it is not possible to barter this price down. You can always try, but it is worth being aware that locals will probably dig their heels in and won’t shift on the price. There is no discount for your return ticket (but you can buy your return journey in advance when you buy your out bound tickets).

Also, with only two companies, it isn’t really possible to find any cheaper ways to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao. Ferry tickets for children (2 – 11 years old) are half price, and children under 2 are FREE. Children 12 years and older pay full price.

Outbound Ferry Schedule: Koh Phangan to Koh Tao

Ferries from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao run throughout the year, every day, including weekends, public holidays, and even during periods of bad weather.

NOTE: The budget slowboat (Raja Ferries) does not operate on this route.

Return Ferry Schedule (Koh Tao to Koh Phangan)

TOP TIP: If you take the 9.30 am Lomprayah from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan, you will arrive in Koh Phangan in time to take the 11 am Raja ferry to Surat Thani. You can quickly change ferries in Koh Phangan (same dock). This is cheaper than taking Lomprayah all the way back.

What Things Can You Take on the Ferry with You?

It is not possible to take a car or motorbike on the ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao. It is, however, possible to take sports equipment like bicycles and surfboards. If you’re planning to bring larger items like this, we recommend that you speak to your travel agent when you purchase your tickets. Prices for bringing things on Lomprayah:

• Large water sports equipment: 300 baht (around £6 or $8)
• Bicycles: 500 baht (around £12 or $15)
• Pets: 200 baht per animal (around £4 or $5)

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao

1 purchase your tickets.

If you’re planning to travel from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao, we strongly recommend that you book your tickets at least two or three days in advance, especially if you’re planning to book around the full moon or half-moon party time during the high season and around the full moon party. It may even be worth booking as much as a whole week in advance. The cheapest way to book tickets is to book directly from an agent at the ticket office situated at the ferry terminal in Koh Phangan.

TOP TIP: You can reserve tickets by messaging Ann (Friendly Tour) on WhatsApp: +66 6510 64 609. They will let you reserve your tickets in advance and then pay on collection at their office in the corner of the Koh Phangan Ferry Port ticket hall (near the entrance of the port).

2 Arrive at the Ferry Terminal in Koh Phangan

We recommend arriving at the Thong Sala ferry port at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. There are plenty of staff around who will check tickets and direct you where to wait. There is a car park located at the ferry terminal. Many taxis pick up and drop off in the area too. There is a Seven Eleven shop nearby, so you can stock up on snacks and drinks for the journey.

3 Board the Ferry & Find a Seat

The staff at the ferry port will tell you when to board the ferry. You need to take all of your bags onto the ferry with you. The ferries tend to have plenty of seats, including outdoor sections and air-conditioned sections. There is also a place to leave your larger bags on the ferry, normally toward the front of the air-conditioned section.

4 Disembark in Koh Tao

Once you arrive in Koh Tao, you can disembark from the ferry. This may take a little time while the ferry docks. The Ferry Terminal in Koh Tao is located in the main town area to the east of Sairee Beach (the main beach in Koh Tao).

5 Find a Taxi or Walk to Your Accommodation

When you first get off the ferry in Koh Tao, it can be a little intense. Locals will be very keen to get you to take their taxi. Prices are always the highest right by the ferry terminal, so we recommend walking a little before you talk to a driver to agree on a price. Taxi prices in Koh Tao generally range between 100 baht – 300 baht, depending on how far you want to go.

What Facilities and Amenities Can You Get on the Ferry to Koh Tao?

The ferry from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao has very good facilities and amenities. There are toilets on board the ferry, and they have both indoor and outdoor seating areas, including air conditioning. The Songserm is slightly larger and more comfortable than the Lomprayah Ferry. However, Songserm is also a slower ferry. Both ferries have small shops where you can buy simple snacks and drinks. If you are planning to take a ferry over a mealtime, we recommend that you buy some food in advance, or make sure you eat before you get on the ferry. There is not a wide range of choice, and the food is pretty simple on the ferry.

How Do You Get to Your Accommodation in Koh Tao?

Once you arrive in Koh Tao, there are several options to travel to your accommodation. The best option depends on exactly where you’re staying and also on your own personal needs and preferences.

If you have booked a place to stay on Sairee Beach, the best option may be to walk to your accommodation. There is a footpath that leads all the way along the beachfront. However, taxis and cars cannot use this route. If you have booked accommodation on a different part of the island, you will either need to use car rental, bike rental, or a taxi. 

2 Take a taxi

It is not possible to use taxi apps on Koh Tao, so you will need to make a deal with a local driver. There are plenty of taxis waiting around the ferry port in Koh Tao. We recommend walking a little further away to get a better deal with a local driver. Taxi prices in Koh Tao generally range between 100 baht – 300 baht (roughly £2 – £6 or $2.50 – $8). 

3 Rent a bike

When we arrived in Koh Tao, we chose to rent a bike straight away, which cost around 250 baht per day (roughly £5 or $6). This enabled us to get to our accommodation without needing to pay for a taxi. Renting a bike to get to your accommodation has advantages and disadvantages. The main disadvantage is that you will need to carry your own bags, and this could be quite challenging and potentially dangerous if your bags are large. The main advantage is that you can use your bike rental to return to the ferry terminal at the end of your time in Koh Tao. If you do plan to rent a bike, remember to wear a helmet and ride carefully. You should be able to negotiate a better deal if you are planning to stay for longer.

TOP TIPS for Traveling from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao

• Remember to arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. This will allow you sufficient time to find your ferry and follow boarding instructions.
• Make sure you purchase your tickets early. This is especially important around the full moon and half-moon party time. Try to get your ticket at least two or three days in advance.
• We recommend bringing some snacks and drinks on the ferry with you.
• If you’re prone to seasickness, we recommend taking some anti-nausea medication before you get on the boat. Although the journey is not normally very rough, there can be significant swell in the ocean, especially during periods of bad weather, and this can cause seasickness.
• When you arrive in Koh Tao, don’t be put off by the intensity of the locals. Just be confident and walk a little way from the ferry port to find a taxi.
• If you’re planning to spend some time on the deck, remember to wear sunscreen, as the natural breeze can make it feel cool, and you may be unaware of burning in the intense tropical sun.

Best Places to Stay in Koh Tao

Don’t miss our FULL and in-depth guide to the BEST places to stay on Koh Tao

If you have not yet found a great place to stay in Koh Tao, here are a few of our favorite hotels on the island:

• The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel – Clean, light, and well-kept. Excellent range of budget options. One of the best hotels in Koh Tao for a budget. Book a room on Agoda or on booking.com .
• The Ecotao Lodge – Budget nature bamboo huts with great views and natural vibes. One of the best eco-hotels in Koh Tao. Book a room on Agoda or on booking.com .
• Naroua Villas – Big range of villas with amazing views. Luxurious, clean new property. Book a room on Agoda or on booking.com .
• Overthemoon Luxury Pool Villas – Super stylish luxurious villas with private pools and an amazing view. Book a room on Agoda or on booking.com .
• Phandara Luxury Pool Villas – Large spacious rooms with beautiful views (as seen in the picture above). Book a room on Agoda or on booking.com .

How Is Koh Tao Different from Koh Phangan?

Koh Tao is smaller than Koh Phangan; however, it is still a very popular destination and very developed for its size. Koh Tao has a good range of amenities, including ATM machines, convenience stores, a small supermarket, and there is even a local hospital on the island. 

There are cars and taxis on Koh Tao, and the roads are much quieter compared to Koh Phangan. The waters around Koh Tao are much better for snorkeling, swimming, and diving. If you want to dive in Koh Phangan, you need to take a trip to Sail Rock (most dive schools in Koh Phangan use this area for lessons and trips).

As a larger island, Koh Phangan does have a wider range of shops, cafes, restaurants, and resorts. This island is also famous for the full moon and half-moon parties. Koh Phangan also has a large community of full-time family travelers, hippies, digital nomads, and expats who love the island life.

Life loving, adventure chasing, Mum of 3 who loves travel. Over 10 years of travel writing experience. Emma now loves to give the best tips to help other travel loving parents plan adventures with their kids. Whether you need to find the best accommodation or just need to know how to pack your bag Emma is that travelling mum who love to help you.

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How to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao: Complete Guide

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

Categories THAILAND , TOURS

Koh Tao is the smallest out of the Chumphon Archipelago islands within the southern area of Thailand, yet that doesn’t depreciate the magical moments it is filled with or amazing scuba diving spots that it hosts – being known for some of the top ones in the country. Surrounded by crystal clear blue waters, wonderful marine life and a beautiful mountainous backdrop, it’s a picturesque paradise that is well worth visiting. To start planning your trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao, the best way is by booking your ferry via 12Go . This will take you over from one of the piers on Koh Samui to Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao.

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH TAO

This blog post is going to delve into the details of all the options available for you to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao , this will then make it easier for you to plan and book your journey across.

The commute from one island to the other is made via ferry, there are approximately 6 running per day, with the earliest departing at 8.30am and the latest at 3.30pm from either Maenam or Na Thon pier on Koh Samui. There is also an option of booking a taxi transfer that will take you from your accommodation on Koh Samui down to one of the piers prior to you hopping on a  ferry. The average price per ticket for a ferry is around $30 and you will arrive at Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao.

One of the best ways to book your ticket for the trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is with 12Go . Here you will be able to compare prices, travel times and find the most suited departure pier for your journey.

BEST WAY TO BOOK YOUR TICKET FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH TAO

If you are ready to start planning your trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao and want to book your ticket now without reading this whole article, then you will want to check out all of the options available on 12Go . This is one of the best ways to purchase your ticket as it shows all of the departure and arrival times, the commuting length, where you will depart from and arrive at, plus the travel operator, transport type and finer details you will need to be aware of.

However, if you want to know more about this information before booking your journey from Koh Samui to Koh Tao and having to search through each option yourself, then you will want to carry on reading this blog.

First let’s touch on a few key points that are worth knowing before booking your trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao…

The cheapest ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao For the most affordable ferry there is a high speed ferry from Na Thon Pier at 10.30am with Songserm travel operator which takes 4 hours travel time before arriving in Koh Tao, costing $25.

The quickest ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao For the fastest commute which only takes 90 minutes and costs $30 each there are three options with Lomprayah travel operator, these are;

• The earliest catamaran from Maenam Pier at 8.00am
• The afternoon speedboat from Maenam Pier at 2.30pm 
• The latest catamaran from Na Thon Pier at 3.30pm

Arrival time before ferry departure All ferries require check-in (at the latest) 30 minutes before departing from the port. However, to ensure that you have everything you need and do not need to wait in long check-in queues before going from Koh Samui to Koh Tao, I suggest you arrive at the port at least 2 if not 3 hours before the ferry departure time. To choose your ferry, you can find all available options via 12Go .

Luggage allowance for the ferry When taking a catamaran or speedboat for the journey from Koh Samui to Koh Tao, each passenger is allowed 20kg of luggage included within their ticket booking. Anything over this and up to 30kg will be charged for.

When travelling with a high speed ferry, each passenger is allowed 1 hand luggage item and 1 extra large suitcase within their ticket booking, for an extra piece of luggage you will be charged.

To book your ferry, check out 12Go , which includes all specific details regarding each commute.

Combined taxi and ferry tickets If you are looking to take a taxi transfer from your accommodation to the pier of departure for the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao then you will need to book the Taxi+Ferry ticket via 12Go . This way you will be guaranteed to make it in time for the ferry once leaving your accommodation. Please note, the taxi will not be able to reach the exact location of all accommodations, so this will need to be clarified before booking.

ROUTES FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH TAO

There are a two options of ports to depart by when travelling from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. Here are the choices available…

Maenam Pier From Maenam Pier there are catamarans and speedboats available with the operating company of Lomprayah. These journeys take between 1 hour and 30 minutes up to 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on which option you choose. There are also journeys which include the taxi transfer from your hotel to the pier before catching the ferry from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. To book your ticket from Maenam Pier, find all options available via 12Go .

Na Thon Pier At Na Thon Pier you can take a catamaran which is 1 hour and 30 minutes of travel time, or a speedboat which is 2 hours of travel time, both with the travel operator of Lomproyah to get from Koh Samui to Tao There is also the option of taking the 4 hour long high speed ferry journey with travel operator Songserm. As well as from Maenam Pier, there are options of booking the taxi transfer to the pier before heading over to Koh Tao by ferry. If you would like to book your ferry from Na Thon Pier, check out the options through 12Go .

HOW TO GET TO DEPARTURE PORTS ON KOH SAMUI

There are several options to travel around Koh Samui with, making it accessible and easier to get the pier you need to depart by when going from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. Booking the taxi+ferry ticket via 12Go is the best option, as it will take you directly to the specific pier for the right time and either exactly from your accommodation or a point nearby it.

If you have rented a car whilst on the island and have the option of using it to get you to the pier then that will be the most convenient choice for you to use. Other transfers to the pier can be made by booking a taxi, you can choose between a motorbike, scooter, songthaew (a fun and authentic way to get around the island), or a normal car.

Before organising your transportation to take you from your accommodation to the pier, ensure that you have planned enough time to arrive there 2-3 hours before the departure of your ferry.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR TICKET FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH TAO

The simplest way to book your ticket is to plan the time you would like to arrive in Koh Tao and search via 12Go for the most suited trip. The benefits of using this platform to book your tickets from Koh Samui to Koh Tao are that you can see the specific times, types of transport and different commute lengths available, this will also mean that you are guaranteed to get the exact journey that you want. If you were to wait until you are at the port, there may be queuing times to purchase your ticket as well as the chance that you will miss out on the ferry you were thinking of.

SCHEDULE AND PRICE FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH TAO

There are usually at least 6 ferries that leave from Koh Samui to Koh Tao per day, with the earliest departure from Koh Samui at 8.00am and the latest 3.30pm. Ticket prices for these are $25-$30 dependent on the pier you depart from and with which travel operator you book with. 

If you would like to purchase the taxi+ferry combined ticket , each day has approximately 3 booking slots available. The earliest option available is around 6.45am, with the latest being around 10.30am. These commutes can cost between $32-$36 and take between 2 hours 45 minutes to 6 hours 15 minutes.

HOW TO GET TO YOUR FINAL DESTINATION ON KOH TAO

Once you arrive at Mae Haad Pier in Koh Tao you have a few options of how to then commute to your final destination. If you know where you need to go and how to get there then renting either a scooter or motorcycle would be a good choice, or if you don’t need to go far you could go by foot. As the island is only 21 sq km, there are no options for public transport or renting a car.

If you are unsure of exactly how to get to where you need to be, booking a taxi would be a good choice for you, these are either via motorbikes or pick up trucks, which are also known as songthaews. Alongside these options, there is also the chance to take a longtail boat depending on your final destination location, as this form of transport only goes to certain bays.

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KOH TAO

Depending on what you are looking to do on Koh Tao, depends on which is the best time to visit. The two months that are not encouraged for travellers to go are October and November as these are known for being their monsoon season.

If you are looking to experience great diving, the best weather conditions and not too many tourists, then the month you will want to visit is February. However if that doesn’t suit you but you want to have clear waters for diving, July through to and including August is also a great time to go.

HOW LONG TO SPEND ON KOH TAO

You want to ensure that you have at least 3 full days on the island of Koh Tao to really enjoy all of the amazing water activities, breath-taking viewpoints and golden sand beaches. For that extra insurance of not leaving before you are ready to, you can easily spend 4 days here. Famous for having world class snorkelling and scuba diving spots, spectacular sunset views plus their mouth watering Thai cuisine, you may never want to leave this little paradise at all. Booking an early ferry over from Koh Samui to Koh Tao will also allow you more time to spend exploring this paradise island.

THINGS TO DO IN KOH TAO

Scuba diving and snorkelling This has to be on the top of your to-do bucket list in Koh Tao. With over 25 diving spots located around the island, and over 60 diving schools to take you to them, you are going to be left with a very memorable experience.

Check out mango viewpoint Known for being the highest viewpoint on Koh Tao, here you will be able to see an incredible panorama of the island with views overlooking every direction. It can be a bit of a mission getting up there but is definitely worth the trip.

Kayaking over the ocean If you are looking to spend some time out on the crystal clear waters but don’t fancy taking a diving trip, kayaking is the next best thing. You will be able to explore close to the island and around the other bays, if you’re feeling more daring, try out a paddleboard.

Take a cooking class To embrace the culture of Koh Tao, attending a cooking class is perfect to learn more about the flavours of the island whilst understanding how you can then recreate them after your visit. It’s a fun experience to do and by the end you will have learnt how to create three authentic Thai dishes.

Go beach hopping With 20 beaches situated across the island, spending a day or two checking them out is a must. Golden sands, vibrant blue waters and beautiful views, this is a great way to soak up the Koh Tao atmosphere. You can also snorkel within the bays to explore some of the underwater world.

MORE THAILAND BLOGS

If you are looking for more places to visit in Thailand, how to get there and the best activities to do, then these are some great blogs you will want to check out…

20 BEST OVERWATER BUNGALOWS IN THAILAND

HOW TO GET FROM KOH SAMUI TO KOH PHANGAN BY FERRY: COMPLETE GUIDE

15 AWESOME VIEW POINTS ON KOH SAMUI, THAILAND

10 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON KOH LANTA, THAILAND

12 BEST ECO RESORTS IN THAILAND: COMPLETE GUIDE

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How to Get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao (& Vice Versa)

The distance between Koh Samui and Koh Tao is about 68 kilometers (42 miles). The only way to get to Koh Tao from Koh Samui is by boat. The journey takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours. The ferry ticket is about 15–20 USD.

Ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Tao (& Vice Versa)

You can take a ferry from Koh Samui's three piers: Maenam Samui, Marine Passion, and Na Thon.

Ferry Schedule from Koh Samui to Koh Tao

Ferry schedule from koh tao to koh samui.

You can take a ferry from Koh Tao's two piers: Mae Haad (with more ferries) and Marine Passion.

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Day Trips from Koh Samui to Koh Tao

A day trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is practical and very popular. Many tour companies provide day tour packages including snorkeling at Koh Tao.

You can also go to Koh Tao on your own. But you may not be able to make the most of your day because you have to match the time of the ferries with your other arrangements.

A Sample Koh Samui and Koh Tao Itinerary

Our island-hopping tour of Koh Samui and Koh Tao takes 7 days.

Koh Tao is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, which usually takes 1–3 days for sightseeing and activities.

Its nearby Koh Nang Yuan is ideal for a peaceful vibe, stunning sea views, and great resorts. It is usually combined with a tour to Koh Tao.

• Day 1: Koh Samui arrival + free exploration
• Day 2: A day tour to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan with snorkeling
• Day 3: A day tour to Ang Thong Marine Park with kayaking
• Days 4–6: Koh Samui free days
• Day 7: Departure

Customize Your Tour

All our tours can be adjusted. We can create an ideal Thailand trip for you based on your group size, time, budget, interests, preferences, and other requirements.

Or you may want to use one of our popular itineraries as a starting point:

• 10-Day Best of Thailand with Koh Samui
• 7-Day Koh Samui Tour
• More Thailand tours

Get Inspired with Some Popular Itineraries

At Asia Highlights, we create your kind of journey — your dates, your destinations, at your pace. You can have any trip tailor made for your travel.

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