Koh Tao
Koh Tao Island means ‘Turtle Island’ and living by its name the island actually houses a lot of turtles along with colorful oceanic life. Due to this rich marine life, it becomes the ultimate destination for scuba diving in Thailand. With mesmerizing white sand beaches and turquoise blue water in the backdrop, you can witness Hawksbill and green turtles gather here to breed. The island is covered with dense woods, silky water, powdery sand, rock formations and an abundance of nature.
You ought to visit some viewpoints like John Suwan ViewPoint and West Coast Viewpoint to witness everything together. Moreover, there are some amazing tourist places in Koh Tao starting with attractive white sand beaches like Koh Nang Yuan and Sai Nuan Beach. The island also has some religious places like the Buddhist temple Wat Koh Tao, Yaai Mae and Taa Tao Spirit rocks.
There are a lot of other things to do in Koh Tao like snorkeling, hiking in the woods, witnessing the sunrise and sunset, partying on the beach and much more which can make your trip amazing. And we understand the need for a flawless plan of your vacation and that is why we have brought some sizzling Koh Tao Tour Packages with which you can save some bucks and time while making your vacation more exciting.
Koh Tao Packages
Koh Tao FAQ's
What are the best places to visit in Koh Tao?
1. Koh Nang Yuan: Koh Nang Yau is a scenic island that is just 15 minutes away from three teardrop islands, connected by a sand bar. This tiny piece of land is a hotspot for adventure lovers and for those looking for a day trip from Koh Tao. The island's immaculate white sand, blue waters, colorful fish and coral structures make it a fairyland that one cannot afford missing while holidaying in Koh Tao.
Location: 10-15 minutes away from Koh Tao.
Timing: Till 5 pm if you're not staying at the resort.
2. Ang Thong Marine Park: Ang Thong which translates to "Golden Basin" is an archipelago of 42 islands; the prominent ones being Koh Wua Ta Lap, Koh Mae, and Koh Sam Sao. The marine park has four distinct forest types that are home to a number of endangered and native species like langurs (long-tailed monkeys), hairy-nosed otters, pacific reef egrets, little herons, white-bellied sea eagles, iguanas, sea turtles, and pythons. The marine park also has decent diving spots that are good for activities like scuba diving and snorkeling and it also has trekking paths that let you explore the rich biodiversity of the islands.
Location: 45/1-2 Moo 1, Thongsala Koh Phangan, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
Timings: Open 24 hours
3. Yaai Mae and Taa Tao Spirit rocks: Tin Taa Toh is a group of boulders that resembles a human in sitting position and Hin Yaai Mae resembles a female boulder structure. Both Tin Taa Toh and Hin Yaai Mae are believed to be ‘spirit rocks’ by the local people and they consider these unique rock formations of Koh Tao to be a spiritual thing that protects them from natural calamities. One can see the photo of Hin Taa Toh in the houses of the local people where it is worshipped.
Location: Chalok Baan Kao Bay
Timings: Open 24 hours
4. Wat Koh Tao: Wat Koh Tao is the only temple in Koh Tao and it is dedicated to Buddha. The wat (temple) is perched cozily on a hilly terrain that has thick greenery and is built in pagoda style. Wat Koh Tao also serves as the residing place of Buddhist monks and fills the air with a strong spiritual aura. Being a place of worship, visitors are requested to dress appropriately with shoulders and knees covered. Visitors are also expected to turn off their mobile phones and maintain silence while inside the temple premises.
Location: North of Mae Haad Town
5. Love Koh Tao: Located at about a 15-minute drive from Sairee Beach, Love Koh Tao is one of the prominent attractions amongst couples and honeymooners. Located away from the hustles and bustles of the city, this romantic viewpoint offers stunning views of Tanote Bay and the @lovekohtao sign, the netted beds, and the big colourful welcome sign make this place a great choice for your Kodak moments.
Location: Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailand
Timings: 8 am to 12 am
Read More: Things To Do In Koh Tao
What are the best things to do in Koh Tao?
1. Go on a day trip to Koh Nang Yuan: At a stone's throw away from Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is a picturesque island with strikingly beautiful beaches, glittering blue waters, and abundant coral reefs. Enjoy a laid back day getting sun-kissed or indulge in adventurous water activities like scuba diving and snorkeling.
Location: Nang Yuan Island, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
2. Get closer to nature at Ang Thong Marine Park: Ang Thong Marine Park is a cluster of about 42 islands where you can witness white-sanded beaches, exotic coral structures, caves, and bays. This reserved area is home to a number of flora and fauna like dolphins, sharks, cuttlefish, manta rays, and marine birds which attracts many wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
Location: Thongsala Koh Phangan, Surat Thani, Thailand
Timings: Open 24 hours
Price: INR 435/THB 200
Click Here To Book: Ang Thong National Marine Park Tour
3. Rejuvenate with a Thai massage: Koh Tao has some of the best parlours in Thailand and their services and ambiance are outstanding. Choose one of the many therapeutic massages offered and feel each of your senses getting relaxed.
Location: Several spas like Spa Aurori, Impress massage, and Sukon massage offer best massage service
Timings: Varies with the parlour chosen
Price: Starts from INR 760/THB 350
4. Visit the famous Sairee Beach: Sairee Beach is the longest and most popular beach in Koh Tao that assures 1.8 km of serene shore that is pretty clean despite being crowded. You can sun-lounge, swim in the waters, play beach volleyball, click pictures or just sit back on the powdery white sand and soak in the beauty encompassing the beach.
Location: Sairee Beach, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280
Timings: Open 24 hours
Price: Free
5. Visit Chalok Baan Kao: Chalok Baan Kao Bay is the third-largest beach on Koh Tao and is one of the best places in Koh Tao to spend a day with family. The shallow waters of the bay that look extremely spectacular with blue waters in a quiet and immaculate environment make this beach a must-visit during your Koh Tao sojourn.
Location: South of Koh Tao
Timings: Open always
Price: Free
6. Enroll for Thai Cooking Classes: Thai cuisine is undeniably one of the most delectable cuisines in the world so why not learn to make such scrumptious dishes by yourself. Koh Tao has several professional cooking classes hosted by well-trained chefs. You can enroll in one such class or even request for private classes and become a Masterchef.
Location: Idjangs Kitchen & Thai Cookery, Tree House Cafe, Smiley cook cooking class
Timings: 8 am to 8 pm
Price: Starts from 3250/THB 1500
7. Kayak through Koh Tao's virgin waters: Koh Tao has amazing blue waters along the coast that is perfect for kayaking. You can kayak and enjoy the sight of colorful fish swimming along with you, unique cliffs rising out of the placid waters and feel the fresh sea breeze caressing your body.
Location: Sai Daeng beach, Tanote bay, Shark bay
Timings: 9 am to 5 pm
Price: Starts from INR 435/THB 200 per hour
Read More: Places To Visit In Koh Tao
What is the best time to visit Koh Tao?
How is Koh Tao as a holiday destination?
The availability of a wide range of accommodation from luxury villas and resorts to modest hotel rooms that fit in every traveler’s budget makes Koh Tao an affordable international holiday destination. The island experiences a tropical climate and hence, you can visit this wonderland all through the year.
What about the temperature in Daytime/Nighttime in Koh Tao?
What is unique about Koh Tao?
What is the transportation mode in Koh Tao?
Being an island with no airport, the only way to reach the island is by ferry services. While on the island, you can use one or all of the transportation modes -
- Taxis: Taxis are the fastest ways to commute from place to place. However, taxis are usually deemed expensive in Koh Tao.
- Rental scooters: Many shops in Koh Tao let you rent a scooter for a couple of hours to a full day. These are economical and let you have full control of your day’s itinerary.
- Walk: You can also walk through the length and breadth of this picturesque island checking out the beautiful sceneries engulfing this place. While choosing to walk to a place, always carry a couple of water bottles to yourself hydrated.
What are the best places to stay in Koh Tao?
- Sensi Paradise Beach Resort: Located on the western side of Koh Tao, Sensi Paradise Beach Resort redefines luxury and features all modern facilities in its premises. They also arrange boat tickets to Koh Tao and arrange several activities like island hopping tours, fishing, and short boat trips.
- Jamahkiri Resort and Spa: This resort is located in Thian Og Bay on the south side of Koh Tao in a serene environment at just about 10 minutes drive from the Koh Tao harbour. The resort has cooling pools, the Jamahkiri Spa, a fitness room, the marina, and private PADI diving club.
- Naroua Villas: Naroua Villas is a mountain villa that has 3 urban villas with kitchen in the densely populated Sairee Beach. For those looking for a home away from home, this posh destination is the place to be.
- Blue Wind: Blue Wind is a rustic, high-end, dive resort along Sairee Beach with sturdy bamboo huts. The huts are chic, large, tiled and have air-conditioned cabins and attractive rooms with balcony, hot showers and TVs. The kitchen is loaded with cookware, dishware, utensils, stovetop, microwave, and full-sized refrigerator/freezer.
- The Tarna Align Resort: This luxury 4-star resort is located near Sairee Beach in one of the prime areas of Koa Toh. The resort is perched cozily on a hilltop and promises spectacular sunset and beach views. The lavish rooms with all the latest facilities and oval swimming pool at the resort combined with unparalleled hospitality make your stay at The Tarna Align Resort totally blissful.
What are the best places to eat in Koh Tao?
- Barracuda Restaurant and Bar: The restaurant is particularly famous for its choicest seafood items and Thai style fusion dishes. The signature dishes of the restaurant like Thai fusion barracuda fillets, Sesame seared Tuna steak and pan-roasted salmon will make you come back again to this place. The restaurant has two outlets in Koh Tao - one at Moo 1 and the other at Darawan. The latter promises scenic sunset and ocean views from its rooftop.
- Coconut Monkey: This European restaurant has a chilled-out ambience and has a very earthy feel as it built from repurposed bamboo. The restaurant is popular for wraps and bowls and the 'Loaded Divers' Wrap' served is scrumptious and filling. The restaurant also serves fresh juices, shakes, desserts, lattes, and many others.
- P. Oy's: P. Oy’s is a no-miss restaurant in Koh Tao and offers the best Thai food. While the sticky chicken wings and spring rolls are zesty, the Massaman curry is the showstopper. Being a family restaurant, the food here is meticulously prepared so that you can feast on the delicacies guilt-free.
- SouthBeach Cafe: Serving Italian, American, and British cuisines, the cafe is the best place to relish on delectable pizzas, burgers, and sandwiches. The highlight of the place is their idea of being environmentally conscious by eliminating plastic; plastic straws, bags, and cutlery are completely avoided here.
- Vegetabowl: This urban salad bar is a heaven for vegans and serves colourful portions of salad bowls, noodle bowls, and rice bowls. You can also try the absolutely delicious pan-fried quesadilla and other items on the menu. The restaurant's vegan cookies that are baked fresh every day is a great choice for a souvenir.
What are the best beaches in Koh Tao?
- Sai Nuan Beach: Sai Nuan Beach is actually two beaches separated by rocky cropping. With powdered white sand and crystal clear turquoise waters, Sai Nuan Beach is a great place for scuba diving and snorkeling. The beach can be reached by hiking from Mae Hae.
- Ao Tanot Bay: Easily accessible by road, Ao Tanot Bay is a great place for scuba diving. The beach has a number of restaurants around and is easily accessible by road. This makes this tiny stretch of coast one of the best places to relax and sunbathe.
- Banana Rock: One of the secluded beaches in Koh Tao, Banana Rock beach looks postcard-like beautiful as the sun sets down the horizon. During low tide, the rock beds emerge out of the pristine waters making Banana Rock beach look mesmerizingly beautiful at sunset. The Banana Bar in its vicinity offers a few shares of beers.
- Sairee Beach: The most crowded and popular beach in Koh Tao, Sairee Beach is a family entertainer destination. You can swim, build sandcastles, play frisbee and beach volleyball or just soak in the warmth of bright sunshine. The beach gets vibrant at night with shops selling souvenirs and restaurants selling piping hot Thai food..
What is there to do in Koh Tao at night?
Marvel at the Fire Show: Several bars along the vibrant Chaweng Beach, organize fire shows at night which are a sheer delight to watch over a drink. You can book a show, take a seat at the blankets spread over the powdery sands and enjoy this amazing show.
Party hard and non-stop at the famous bars: Finest choices of beverages, galvanizing music and the party ambience of the numerous peppy bars call for eclectic nights every day in Koh Tao. Some of the best bars of the island that guarantee unlimited fun are Reef Sports Bar & Restaurant, The Beer Masons Koh Tao, and Fishbowl Beach Bar. Many famous international DJs play music at Koh Tao and if lucky enough, you can even click pictures with them during your holiday.
Enjoy Koh Tao Pub Crawl: Pub Crawl in Koh Tao is the biggest pub crawl in Asia. The pub crawl takes you to 4 electric pubs on the island and includes a Pool Party, Cabaret Show, Live Music, Beach Party, D.J’s and Beer Pong. The ticket fare is inclusive of free vodka bucket, free shots, a free shirt, exclusive drink specials, and discounts on various activities at the island. Koh Tao is one of the top 5 pubs crawls in the world and sees an average of 130 party mongers having unlimited fun every night.
What are the famous adventure activities in Koh Tao?
- Witness the underwater life with scuba diving: Koh Tao has an amazing coastline that is perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving and the clear waters make it easier to spot the colorful marine life even for newbie divers. Plunge into the deep ocean waters and swim along with schools of colorful fish like Butterflyfish, Saddleback clownfish and Yellowtail Barracuda.
Click Here To Book: Scuba Diving In Koh Tao
- Get adventurous with Trapeze Flying: If you would love to try your hand in Trapeze Flying, which something similar to the ones that we see in the circus where gymnasts fly in the air with the support of bar, Koh Tao has it. This adrenaline-rushing activity is performed under the supervision of experienced trainers with all safety measures.
- Sweat it out at Fraggle Rock and Laem Tien treks: Fraggle Rock and Laem Tien trekking trails take you through the untouched beauty of Koh Tao. The trekking path is challenging and the panoramic views from the vantage point make your hardship worth it.
- Get wild with Rock Climbing: Koh Tao has several small mountains that are ideal for rock climbing. You can test your strength by climbing on one such mountain and enjoy spectacular views of the island below. There are also cliffs in the middle of the sea on which you can climb and enjoy the arresting beauty of the blue waters below.
Is it safe to visit Koh Tao?
Are there any restrictions regarding anything which I need to take care of?
- Your passport has to be valid for at least six months from the date of entry to Thailand.
- There are no particular restrictions that you need to take care of while travelling to Koh Tao. However, there has been an increase in crimes against tourists in the recent past.
- Hence, do not try exploring the island by yourself all alone late in the night.
- If you plan to visit the Thai temples in Koh Tao, ensure you cover your shoulders and knees/ankles. Being places of worship, dress properly to avoid any prohibition.
Does Koh Tao have an airport? If no, then Which is the nearest Airport to Koh Tao?
Koh Tao does not have an airport. The nearest airports are Koh Samui international airport and Chumphon international airport. Both these international airports have swift and frequent ferry services to Koh Tao.
Koh Tao Reviews
