This detailed Koh Tao guide has everything you need to know for an unforgettable island adventure.
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao, which means “Turtle Island,” is a must-visit tropical paradise. Renowned among dive enthusiasts for its affordable scuba diving courses and vibrant coral reefs, Koh Tao also charms visitors with its laid-back vibe, pristine beaches, and compact size. It’s one of those hidden gems in Thailand that deserves a spot in any well-planned travel itinerary.
Though Koh Tao is small—just over 7 km at its longest point—it’s packed with experiences. From snorkeling spots teeming with marine life to scenic hiking trails and vibrant nightlife, there’s no shortage of things to do. Whether you want to explore secluded beaches, enjoy the local cuisine, or unwind at a beach bar, Koh Tao promises something for everyone.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know, from the best places to stay and eat to top activities, including diving, hiking, and nightlife. Use the table of contents to skip ahead, but I recommend reading it all—you might discover hidden spots you’d otherwise miss.
Koh Tao for the first time?
What is Koh Tao really like? With its small size, it’s common to wonder if it’s worth visiting. If you love beachy, laid-back vibes, nature adventures, and having plenty to do on a compact island, you’ll absolutely love Koh Tao.
Atmosphere: The overall vibe is relaxed, even in busy areas like Sairee Beach and Mae Haad. It only gets lively during the peak season or when travelers flock here after a Full Moon Party.
Beaches: From lively shores like Sairee Beach to secluded coves and snorkeling bays with abundant marine life (think reef sharks, turtles, and even whale sharks if you’re lucky), the island is a beach lover’s paradise.
Landscapes: Covered in lush greenery, Koh Tao’s hiking trails lead to stunning viewpoints, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of Thailand.
Hotels and Resorts: Whether you’re looking for luxurious beachfront villas, cozy mid-range hotels, or budget-friendly hostels, Koh Tao has accommodation to suit every traveler’s taste.
Restaurants: Like any top Thai destination, food is a highlight. You’ll find everything from international cuisine to authentic Thai eateries, plus plenty of hip cafés.
Nightlife: Laid-back doesn’t mean boring. Koh Tao offers vibrant nightlife, with beach bars, parties, and events that keep the island buzzing long after sunset.
When is the best time to visit Koh Tao?
While the dry season in Thailand typically begins in November, for the islands on the east it comes a little later and the dry days in Koh Tao begin around January until May. In particular the peak months January and February are attractive due to the comfortable temperatures. Alternatively, mid December is an interesting time to visit Koh Tao as rainy days are less frequent and tourists are still minimum with some really good hotel deals on offer.
How to get to Koh Tao?
There are various options to reach Koh Tao including by bus, train or by air, all followed by a ferry. Regardless where you’re traveling from, the easiest thing to do is to search the route on the 12Go platform and view every possible option with prices and departures.
Bangkok to Koh Tao
The most hassle free and affordable option are the bus and ferry combo tickets. There are morning and evening departures from near Khaosan road with a travel time between 9 and 12 hours. For more savings take the evening departures as it will save the cost of a hotel. →view bus departures
Otherwise travel from Bangkok to Chumphon by ordinary or sleeper train and then take the ferry from Tung Makham pier.
Flying to Koh Samui and then taking a ferry from Bangrak or Maenam is also possible. But it is the most expensive option and will still take a total of 7 hours+. →check flights
Koh Samui to Koh Tao
The ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Tao depart Maenam and Bangrak piers in north Koh Samui which are preferred due to their location close to tourist areas like Chaweng and Bophut. The airport is also just 10 minutes drive away. The travel time is between 90 minutes and 2 hours.
Koh Phangan to Koh Tao
Similarly there are direct ferries from Thongsala pier in Koh Phangan. The journey takes between 1 hour and 90 minutes with Lomprayah offering the quickest trip. →view departures
Phuket to Koh Tao
The journey from Phuket to Koh Tao is similar with bus and ferry combo options available and departures from Phuket old town locations. You can view all options on 12Go. Alternatively a flight to Koh Samui followed by a ferry can be considered.
How to get around Koh Tao?
the best way to explore Koh Tao is by scooter. This is what most tourists use, including myself. There are a few rental shops in Maehaad close to the port and other tourist area. And while driving license is not required for the rental, there will be serious consequences if an accident were to happen. Including no coverage by the insurance company.
Taxis in Koh Tao come in the form of pick-up vans with benches in the back. A 10 minute ride will cost around THB 400, but this can be split by the group. Taxis boats are also an option which is more fun especially if you plan visiting beaches.
KOH TAO AT A GLANCE
Food and Drink →
The Factory Cafe
Blue Shark
Da’s Sandwiches
Thaita Italian Restaurant
The French Market
Sandbar
Breeze Koh Tao
Mama Piyawan’s
House of Pad Thai
Things to do on Koh Tao
While Koh Tao is small, it packs loads of fun things to. Beyond the gorgeous beaches and colorful snorkeling spots in Koh Tao, consider hiking to stunning viewpoints, perhaps diving, boat tours and the lively nightlife in Sairee.
Koh Tao Beaches
The tropical beaches on Koh Tao have it all. From lively to secluded, rocky or sandy bays, and loads of snorkeling and diving opportunities, choose 1 or explore them all, after all, it is a small island here.
Sairee beach – On the west coast of Koh Tao, Sairee is the longest beach and a sandy bay that spills into clear waters. It’s also the most popular beach on the island with lots of places to eat, drink and watch sunsets.Shark Bay
Shark bay – In the South of Koh Tao, Shark bay is a popular spot for snorkeling with abundant marine life including black tip reef sharks and turtle.Ao Leuk
Ao Leuk – Perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Tao is Ao Leuk. It’s tucked away at the bottom of lush hills on either side. Make sure to bring your snorkeling gear as below the surface is equally stunning.Tanote Bay
Tanote bay – If you’d rather go to a rocky beach, Tanote Bay has both and sandy patch and rocks. Huge boulders give that Seychelleque feel and is one of the few (if not only) places for cliff jumping.Freedom Beach
Freedom beach – This small bay is on a small peninsula that stretches out from Chalok Ban. While the beach is public, in most cases you’ll need to pay a THB 50 to get in which will also give you access to John Suwan viewpoint.
Sai Nuan beach – This beach is small and chill and rarely gets busy. Plus there is a cool bar to hang out. Come in the evening for the dramatic sunset and chill vibes.
Explore the Colorful Marine Life
From all the beaches and islands I have visited in Thailand, Koh Tao, without a doubt, has the best opportunities for underwater activities. Wether you prefer snorkeling or diving or possibly even free diving, beneath the clear waters is a colorful world.
I particular the waters around shark bay are known for various marine life. Among the fish and corals, we also got to see a turtle and a black tip reef shark (apparently these are not dangerous, or so we were told). But also, boat tours sometimes also see whale sharks and bigger fish.
Hikes and Viewpoints
It is a 20 minute hike to John Suwan viewpoint. It’s a stunning spot on the island as you can see 2 oceans, I mean 2 bays. On one side is Chalok Ban and the other side is Shark bay. Definitely one of the best things to do on Koh Tao. Just make sure to go early and avoid the heat.
However, I think Mango viewpoint in northern Koh Tao is even better. This place offers sweeping views that go over Sairee beach and all the way down to Shark Bay. It’s both stunning and gives a sense of how small Koh Tao really is.
Take a boat to Koh Nang Yuan
What is the best thing to do in Koh Tao? Leave the island! But only for a few hours. Just of Sairee beach, Koh Nang Yuan is an island and popular tourist attraction. The island is tiny. In fact it is just 2 hills covered in lush greenery and connected by a sliver of sand where you can swim, snorkel photos. And while you’re there make sure to hike up to the viewpoint which takes about 10 minutes.
To get there you can buy boat tickets from most places in Sairee. However, if you just walk up to a boatman on the beach, the price is significantly cheaper. Expect to pay between THB 300 and THB 600 for a return trip. An additional THB 250 also applies to enter the island as it is privately owned. An alternative is to book a boat tour which will include other spots.
Experience the Sunsets
Small tropical islands are synonymous with epic sunsets. And Koh Tao is no exception. It happens that Sairee beach is on the west coast and faces directly the sun dipping behind the horizon. So what to expect? From my experience, the sunsets are usually pretty dramatic. A constant change of hues in the sky from yellow to orange, purple and pink. The best way to (almost) end the day in Koh Tao.
Grab a chilled beer or cocktail and sit on the beach while everything unfolds. Or stay at a beach bars such as Fishbowl or Maya beach club. But be there early to find a front row seat. Alternatively, drive up to Mango Viewpoint, the view is breathtaking from up there.
Nightlife in Koh Tao
The best thing to do in Koh Tao to end the day is to enjoy the nightlife. Wether that is at a nice restaurant followed by drinks, maybe a beach party or an event. Koh Tao is just as eventful after the sun goes down. Sairee beach is the main area for nightlife. There’s restaurants, bars, beach lounges and lots of other places to hang out and make new friends. Maehaad also has somewhat of a nightlife scene but is much tamer. And the rest of the island is sleepy at night.
→Jump to hotels and hostels on Koh Tao
The Best Restaurants, Cafes & Bars in Koh Tao
There are loads of places where to eat in Koh Tao, and equally, lots of party bars in Koh Tao. Sairee is the center of everything on Koh Tao with dozens of healthy cafes, sandwich bars, restaurants and places where to drink in Koh Tao. If you want to venture out of Sairee, there are also options in Maehaad and Chalok Baan which are both relatively close by.
Best Cafes for Breakfast and Sandwiches Koh Tao
Da’s Sandwiches: This is my favorite place for both breakfast or lunch. It’s a small stall and they make the best sandwiches. Definitely try the sandwich stuffed with crunchy chicken.
KoPPee Espresso Bar & Restaurant: Located in Chalok Baan, this chill cafe serves some serious dishes with an amazing view.
The Factory Cafe: Want a healthy salad bowl, a chilled ice coffee, maybe a seriously good shakshuka? Try the factory cafe along the main Sairee beach.
Blue Shark Brunch Cafe Koh Tao: From healthy smoothie bowls, toasts, wraps and flaky pastries. You’ve got to try this cafe when in Koh Tao.
Tree House Cafe: With sweeping view over the jungle and Ao Leuk beach, and serving really good local dishes and curries.
Croissant & Ko: This is another of my favorites near Chalok Baan. Famous for their croissants and pastries and pies, equally good sandwiches.
Best Restaurants for dinner in Koh Tao
Mama Piyawan’s: Perhaps the most popular Thai restaurant in Sairee. Serving local dishes like Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green curry, all at budget prices.
Thaita Italian Restaurant: Authentic Italian cuisine at its best with their pastas taking the spotlight. It’s a fancy place so they don’t serve pizzas.
La Pizzeria da Claudio: Obviously they serve pizza here and it’s really good with a thick crunchy outer crust and topped with quality ingredients.
Whitening Restaurant: This is one of the upscale restaurants in Sairee (although a dentist comes to mind with that name) From their starters, fresh oysters and grilled meats and even amazing range of cocktails, everything is really good.
Best Lounges and Bars in Koh Tao
Fishbowl Beach Bar: This place is our favorite spot in Koh Tao because of the mixed lively atmosphere. We always make sure to get here at around 5pm to find a place on a table of bean bag to watch the colorful sunset unfold. This is the most famous sunset beach bar in Koh Tao, so make sure to come early or come late as the party keeps going into the night.
Maya Beach Club Koh Tao: Another of our favorites and also on Sairee beach. Expect chill beach vibes during the day and it gets livelier after sunset.
Bamboo Beach Bar: Located in Maehaad and close enough to Sairee beach and with a really chill atmosphere. Come for the hammocks and sunsets.
Leo Beach Bar: If you happen to be in Koh Tao make sure to check if there is an event here. It’s a fun night out and the location is rather secluded on the gorgeous Sai Nuan Beach. Check their website for events here.
Chopper’s Sports Bar: Like any sports bar expect a lively and fun atmosphere. Their food is also really good, like the THB 50 tacos. And they even have a happy hour. This place is on the Pub Crawl Trail.
Where to stay: Hotels and Hostels on Koh Tao
There is a nice mix of hotels and hostels on Koh Tao, both in Sairee beach and elsewhere. Affordable hostels such is Isla Tortuga Diving & Hostel are great if you’re a backpacker on a budget and want to meet new friends. But there is also luxury option like Jamahkiri Spa & Resort which is still reasonably priced (if booked in advance). And if budget is of no issue, a private villa could also be considered.
Lücke Boutique Hotel – Mid Range
Located close to the pier in Maehaad, Lücke Boutique is an adults only hotel with direct access to this peaceful beach. The rooms are spacious have air condition and have a fresh design.
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Beach Club by Haadtien – Mid Range
We divide our 1 week trips to Koh Tao and generally spend 2 or 3 days Beach Club by Haadtien after Sairee for the laid back vibe and snorkeling in shark bay. There is also a pool and the rooms are gorgeous with open sea views. Plus the price is always reasonable.
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Sensi Paradise Beach Resort – Mid Range
Another mid range option in Maehaad. Sensi Paradise has stilted huts tucked away in the trees and offering views over the beach all the way to Sairee. And with a huge outdoor lounge and pool are perfect for lazy afternoons.
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The Ava Resort – Luxury
Perhaps The Ava Resort is the most luxurious property in the Sairee. With its sweeping ocean views, a mix of luxury and minimalist suites and villas and a big outdoor. While not on the beach, the setting doesn’t get much better.
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The Fisherman’s Villas – Luxury
Nothing says luxury dream vacation more than these villas. The Fisherman’s Villas are a series of villas perched on a hill by the sea, each has its own private pool with unbelievable views. Staying here will set you back around $400 a night during peak season.
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In Touch Resort – Budget
In Touch resort is more like a social hostel with both bunk beds or private rooms for those introverts like myself who want to meet others but also need their space away from from humans.
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Revolution Koh Tao – Budget
Another social hostel which offers a combination of dorm beds and private rooms. Revolution Koh Tao a social place known for the fun atmosphere.
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Savage Koh Tao – Budget
The coolest and trendiest hostel/hotel in Sairee is Savage Koh Tao. With private rooms or bunk beds, a hangout space and rooftop pool.
Book NowFor your trip to Koh Tao
Since you’re planning Koh Tao you may want to enhance your experience. Check out these activities.
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