Koh Tao is a beautiful island in the Gulf of Thailand. Many travellers are drawn here by the promise of adventure, pristine beaches, and some of the best scuba diving in the world. But Koh Tao offers more than just underwater magic; it’s a place where you can hike to viewpoints, relax on hidden beaches, or soak up the local nightlife. Whether you’re here for a few days or a full week, this guide to the best things to do in Koh Tao will help you make the most of your stay.
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Table of Contents
1. Try Diving Lessons
Koh Tao is famous for diving, offering some of Thailand’s best underwater experiences. For beginners, the island is a top choice to get certified, as many dive centres offer affordable 3-day PADI courses. Seasoned divers can enjoy vibrant reefs and a chance to spot sea creatures like turtles and, if you’re lucky, even a whale shark!
For holidaymakers who want to try diving for the first time, this 1-day scuba diving experience is a fantastic way to explore Koh Tao’s underwater world, guided by experienced instructors.
Good to Know:
- Beginner Courses: Dive shops around the island provide both open-water and advanced certification courses, with experienced instructors to guide you through.
- Best Dive Spots: Popular sites include Chumphon Pinnacle and Southwest Pinnacle, where you can see everything from reef sharks to beautiful coral gardens.
- Whale Shark Season: Whale sharks are typically seen between March and September, making it a prime time to visit if you’re hoping to encounter these gentle giants.
2. Snorkel Around the Island
If diving isn’t your thing, snorkelling is a fantastic way to enjoy Koh Tao’s marine life without the need for a tank. Several beaches and coves around the island are perfect for snorkelling, allowing you to see colourful fish and coral close to the shore.
Top Snorkelling Spots:
- Shark Bay: Known for sightings of blacktip reef sharks, Shark Bay offers a thrilling snorkelling experience.
- Aow Leuk Beach: This spot is loved for its clear waters and marine life, with plenty of fish and corals.
- Tanote Bay: An excellent location for both snorkelling and relaxing on the beach, with unique rock formations adding to its charm.
3. Explore Koh Tao’s Viewpoints
Koh Tao is dotted with stunning viewpoints, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the island’s beautiful coastline and surrounding waters. A bit of a hike might be needed, but the views are worth every step.
Must-See Viewpoints in Koh Tao:
- John Suwan Viewpoint: Located near Freedom Beach, this is one of the most famous viewpoints, offering sweeping views of two bays.
- Two View Rock: Less crowded than other spots, this viewpoint offers a peaceful retreat with great sunset views.
- Love Koh Tao Viewpoint: A popular spot with a café at the top, perfect for a break and a photo with the incredible scenery as your backdrop.
4. Relax on Freedom Beach
Freedom Beach is one of the best beaches on Koh Tao. It’s got a true island beach feel, with soft white sands, turquoise waters, and plenty of palm trees. This beach is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or snorkelling.
Why Visit Freedom Beach?
- It’s quieter than some of the island’s busier beaches, making it a great spot to escape the crowds.
- The shallow, calm waters make it perfect for a refreshing swim or snorkelling.
- The beach is also close to the John Suwan Viewpoint, so you can combine a hike with some beach time.
5. Enjoy the Nightlife
Koh Tao may be small, but it has a fantastic nightlife scene. From beach bars and fire shows to more relaxed lounges, there’s plenty to keep you entertained after dark.
Nightlife Highlights in Koh Tao:
- Beach Bars: Sairee Beach is the best place to go to experience Koh Tao’s nightlife, with bars offering fire shows and beach parties.
- Pub Crawls: Koh Tao’s pub crawl is one of the most popular activities, allowing you to experience the island’s best bars and meet fellow travellers.
- Chill Lounges: For those who prefer a quieter evening, head to one of the island’s beachside lounges for a relaxed atmosphere and cocktails with a view.
6. Kayak Around the Island
Kayaking is a fantastic way to explore the coast and discover hidden coves and beaches. Rent a kayak from many of the island’s beaches and paddle out on your own adventure.
Why Kayak in Koh Tao?
- It gives you the freedom to explore spots that aren’t accessible by land.
- You can paddle around to nearby islands or just enjoy the scenic coastline of Koh Tao.
- It’s a low-cost activity that doesn’t require any experience, just a sense of adventure!
7. Catch the Ferry to Nearby Islands
Koh Tao is perfectly situated for island hopping, with nearby Koh Samui and Koh Phangan offering their own experiences. If you’re up for exploring a bit more of the Gulf of Thailand, catching a ferry to these islands makes for a fantastic day trip or a multi-day adventure.
Koh Samui
Koh Samui is the largest of the three islands, featuring luxury resorts, beautiful beaches, and stunning jungle scenery. It’s also home to attractions like the Big Buddha Temple and the bustling Fisherman’s Village. The ferry from Koh Tao to Koh Samui takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, with prices ranging from 400 to 600 Thai Baht depending on the ferry service and season.
Koh Phangan
Koh Phangan is famously known for its Full Moon Parties, but it also has a quieter side with hidden beaches, yoga retreats, and beautiful hiking trails. The ferry ride from Koh Tao to Koh Phangan is shorter, taking around 1 to 1.5 hours, with tickets costing between 300 and 500 Thai Baht. Even if you’re not attending a Full Moon Party, Koh Phangan is worth a visit for its natural beauty.
Ferry Tips
- Ferry Operators: Popular companies include Lomprayah and Seatran, both offering multiple daily departures.
- Booking: You can book ferry tickets in advance online or at ticket offices around Koh Tao.
- Timing: If you’re planning a day trip, check the return ferry schedules to make sure you have enough time to explore.
8. Hike Through Koh Tao’s Trails
Hiking is another great way to see more of Koh Tao. The island offers several scenic trails that range from easy to challenging, providing you with excellent views and a bit of exercise along the way.
Popular Hiking Trails in Koh Tao:
- Mae Haad to Sairee Beach Trail: This beginner-friendly trail offers views of the coastline and is perfect for a leisurely walk.
- Mango Bay Trail: A bit more challenging, this trail leads you to a secluded bay where you can swim or snorkel.
- Chalok Baan Kao Trail: This path takes you through lush jungle and is ideal for nature lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Koh Tao
Is Koh Tao safe for solo travellers?
Koh Tao is generally safe for solo travellers, including solo female travellers. The island has a friendly community and is popular with backpackers, so it’s easy to meet people. Just follow usual travel precautions, especially if you’re going out at night.
Is it safe to swim in Koh Tao?
Swimming is generally safe in Koh Tao, especially at popular beaches like Sairee and Freedom Beach. However, be mindful of tides and currents, and avoid swimming alone or at night.
How many days should I spend on Koh Tao?
Three to four days on Koh Tao is usually enough to experience the main activities, like diving, snorkelling, and exploring viewpoints. If you’re keen to dive more or just relax, you could easily spend a week here.
Can you walk around Koh Tao?
Koh Tao is a walkable island, particularly around Sairee Beach and Mae Haad. For further distances, renting a scooter or using a taxi is recommended, as some areas have steep hills.
Which month is best for Koh Tao?
The best time to visit Koh Tao is typically from December to April, when the weather is drier and seas are calm. Whale shark sightings are more common from March to September if that’s a priority for your trip.
How much is a beer in Koh Tao?
A local beer in Koh Tao costs around 60-100 Thai Baht in a bar, but prices can vary depending on where you go. Beach bars and clubs may charge a bit more.
Can you see sharks in Koh Tao?
It’s possible to see reef sharks while snorkelling at spots like Shark Bay. Whale sharks, though rarer, can sometimes be spotted during dives at sites like Chumphon Pinnacle.
Are there mosquitoes on Koh Tao?
Like most tropical destinations, Koh Tao has mosquitoes, particularly around sunset. Applying insect repellent and wearing long sleeves in the evening can help prevent bites.
Is there police on Koh Tao?
Koh Tao has a police presence. There’s a station on the island, mainly located near Mae Haad. While Koh Tao is generally safe, it’s good to be aware of local laws and respect them.
Can you drink tap water in Koh Tao?
It’s recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Koh Tao. Stick to bottled or filtered water, which is readily available at convenience stores and restaurants.
Can you see turtles in Koh Tao?
You can spot turtles in Koh Tao, particularly while snorkelling or diving. The island’s name, “Tao,” actually means “turtle” in Thai, and you’ll have the best chance to see them at places like Ao Leuk and Tanote Bay.
How far is Koh Tao from Bangkok?
Koh Tao is about 400 km south of Bangkok. You can reach the island by taking a combination of bus and ferry, or train and ferry. Another option is to fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui, then catch a ferry to Koh Tao.
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