So, you’re thinking about going to Koh Tao? Excellent choice! Forget the intensity of the Bangkok streets and the full-moon party chaos for a minute—Koh Tao is the chill, adventurous little sister of the Thai islands, and we’re completely obsessed.
Nicknamed “Turtle Island” for its once-abundant sea turtle population, Koh Tao is now the world’s capital for getting your scuba diving certification. But guess what? You don’t have to be a diver to fall in love with this place. It’s a stunning mix of jungle-covered hills, postcard-perfect bays, and a laid-back vibe that makes it way too easy to stay for a week… or three.
Some of the links might have affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you book through then, with no extra cost for you.
Why Koh Tao? What’s the Vibe?
If you’re looking for a place where your biggest decision of the day is whether to go snorkeling or read in a hammock, you’ve found it. The energy here is relaxed and social. You’ll find a mix of aspiring divers, digital nomads, and backpackers all there to enjoy the simple beauty of island life. It’s easy on the wallet, incredibly beautiful, and just the right size to explore without feeling overwhelmed.
Where to stay
- Sairee Beach: The main hub! This is where you’ll find most of the restaurants, bars, dive shops, and accommodation. It’s long, sandy, and perfect if you want to be in the heart of the action.
Book The Cactus Hostel on Booking.com
Book The Ibiza Beach Club on Booking.com
- Chalok Baan Kao: A quieter, more laid-back bay on the south side. Great for families, couples, or anyone wanting a more relaxed vibe. It has a lovely beach and some fantastic local eateries.
Book the Koh Tao Tropicana Resort on Booking.com
Book Emerald Gulf Resort on Booking.com
- Mae Haad: This is where the ferry arrives. It’s a practical area to stay if you have an early ferry, but it’s not as charming as Sairee or Chalok.
Book DPM Koh Tao Diving Hotel & Bar on Booking.com
Book Nadapa Resort on Booking.com
Top Things to Do in Koh Tao (It’s not only Diving)
But yes, this is an excellent place for diving! That’s why number one activity is:
1. Get Certified (Or Go Fun Diving!)
This is Koh Tao’s main claim to fame. It’s one of the most affordable and popular places in the world to get your PADI Open Water certification. The water is warm, the marine life is fantastic, and the dive sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Southwest Pinnacle are world-class. If you’re already certified, just book a fun dive trip—you won’t regret it.
I myself did my freediving certification there, a modality in which you dive with your full lungs and no breathing equipment, only apnea. I actually took the workshop twice in two different places, but didn’t complete the first one and can’t recommend the school, as I found the second time was held in a much better way. The classes were more complete, we had pool sessions, and the instructor is excellent and made the class feel very confident (compared with the first one).
The name of the school is Freedive Koh Tao (not an affiliate link).
Tip: Do your research on dive schools! There are tons of great ones. Look for ones with a strong focus on safety and small class sizes.
2. Snorkel Your Heart Out
Not ready to dive? No problem! Grab a snorkel and head to Shark Bay (yes, you can spot friendly blacktip reef sharks!), Ao Leuk, or Mango Bay. The coral and fish life in the shallow waters are spectacular. You can join a cheap snorkel tour or just rent gear for the day. But attention: never go snorkeling alone!
3. Hike to John-Suwan Viewpoint
This hike is a short but steep climb up a rusty orange ladder and ropes, but the view from the top over Freedom Beach is arguably the best on the island. Go for sunrise or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Your Instagram feed will thank you.
There are other viewpoints you can enjoy in Koh Tao as well, but maybe you will want the help of a vehicle here – either a motorbike or a car.
4. Enjoy the Nightlife
Sairee Beach is where the whole action is happening. Every night, the main party is in a different beach bar, and you can just follow the crowd there. Fire performances are also happening most days. Another typical attraction is the Cabaré performance (I haven’t been, but most people says good things about it!).
The best way to find your path around is joining a pub crawl.
5. Take a Boat Trip to Koh Nang Yuan
This tiny island, just a 10-minute longtail boat ride from Koh Tao, is famous for its stunning sandbar connecting three small islands. It’s a must-see! Note: There’s an entrance fee, and it gets crowded, so go early in the morning to enjoy it in peace.
Important to notice that many snorkel tours also include the island and enough time to take a picture from the most beautiful viewpoint in Thailand!
Getting Around This Little Island
Koh Tao is small! Your main transport options are:
- Scooter Rental: The most fun and flexible way to explore. Just be cautious on the hilly roads!
- Songthaews (Shared Taxi Trucks): These pick-up trucks run set routes and are an (mostly) affordable way to get from A to B. The last time I was there, they charged me 300 baht to take me from the pier to Sairee beach.
The Food Situation: What and Where to Eat
You are in Thailand, so the food is going to be amazing. Don’t just eat at Western cafes (though they’re great for a comfort food fix!).
On the beach front, you will find more high-end restaurants, with lots of seafood and a combination of Thai/Western.
If you go more into the side streets, you can find family-owned restaurants that are more affordable and authentically Thai <3
Koh Tao Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Best Time to Go: The dry season (December – April) has the best weather for diving and beach time. The monsoon season (Sept-Nov) can bring rain, but it’s also quieter and cheaper – maybe a bit more challenging for diving.
- Book Your First Night in Advance: Especially in high season, book your first night or two of accommodation ahead of time.
- Pack Light: You’ll live in swimsuits, shorts, and flip-flops. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen and a good insect repellent.
Koh Tao has a special kind of magic. It’s the beaches, the sunsets, the social life. You will never forget it.
Have the most incredible time on Turtle Island
Have you been to Koh Tao? Share your own tips and favorite spots in the comments below!
