Welcome to Koh Tao ultimate guide
Koh Tao is located on the eastern side of the coast of Surat Thani with two neighboring islands, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Koh Tao in English, means “Turtle Island” from the island’s connection to the fact that it is inhabited by sea turtles. While not as abundant as they used to be, green and hawksbill turtles can still be found today in some areas such as Thian Og Bay. The shape of the island is also believed to resemble a turtle as seen from Koh Phangan. The island’s natural beauty both above and below the water, with its towering coral reefs and abundant marine life in clear, warm waters, attracts thousands of visitors each year, making it an unforgettable destination for divers, adventurers and travellers. This, combined with the relaxed atmosphere and way of life has attracted people here for over 40 years and it is now a warm second home for many. Koh Tao has developed in many ways and with its thriving diving industry, is now one of the leading centers of diving education in the world.
How to get to Koh Tao?
Fly to Koh Samui airport
Since Bangkok Airways is owner of the airport, they are the only company operating flights to Samui airport; therefore flights can be expensive. Their flights from Bangkok depart every 30-60 minutes each day from approx 6am till 10pm. Once you land you’ll find Lomprayah counter where they sell combo tickets ( van + boat) to Koh Tao. Check in advance boat timetables to match your flights with boat lines.
Alternative you can use some of low cost carriers ( Air Asia, Thai Lion Air, Nok Air, Thai VietJer ) that fly to mainland airports such as Surat Thani or Chumphon. From these airports you can buy combo tickets van + boat to Koh Tao.
Get a bus from Bangkok
Take a convenient bus and ferry transfer between Bangkok and Koh Tao. From Bangkok City, you will board a bus that will take you directly to Thung Makham Noi Pier. From there, Koh Tao is only an hour and a half away. Grab the chance to get along with other travelers who are as excited as you to explore the natural scenery of Koh Tao. Sit back and relax as you watch the stunning scenery from the comfort of a modern and air-conditioned cabin during the trip. Make sure to check out the relaxing view from the deck and bask under the tropical sun.
Book your ticket and check timetabele hereSleeping train from Bangkok to Chumphon
Traveling by sleeper train is usually better than taking the bus. you almost have a good bed to be able to sleep during the trip. Ferry companies offer free transfers between their ports and train stations. From Bangkok, you will arrive at Chumphon Airport at 06:00 as the ferry departs at 07:00. There may be delays on this train, you can use Lomlahkkhirin High Speed Ferries to catch an afternoon ferry. For Bangkok, it is best to take the afternoon ferry from Koh Tao to catch the first sleeper train to Chumphon at 7:30 pm.
Getting to Koh Tao from Koh Phangan or Koh Samui
There are two ferry companies operating between Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. These are Lomlahkkhirin High Speed Ferries (formerly known as Lomprayah Catamaran) and Passion Marine.
Book your ticket and check timetabele hereGetting to Koh Tao from Chumphon or Surat Thani
Chumphon is the closest part of the sea to Koh Tao, so the cruise time is the fastest and shortest compared to Surat Thani. Two ferries provide service between the mainland and the islands; Lomlahkkhirin High Speed Ferries and Water Attractions. There are also night boats (aka “night boats” or “sleeping boats”) available that offer different levels of comfort such as beds and bunk beds. Travel time on these boats is approximately 6 hours from Chumphon and 9 hours from Surat Thani.
Book your ticket and check timetabele hereGetting to Koh Tao from Krabi or Phuket
Book your ticket and check timetabele here – Krabi Book your ticket and check timetabele here – Phuket
Where to stay and beaches of Koh Tao
Sairee beach
Sairee Beach is the longest beach on Koh Tao, stretching almost 2 km along the west coast. It is the most popular and busiest beach on Koh Tao and offer a wide range and variety of accommodation, bars, cafes, diving centres, restaurants, , shops and many night clubs.There is also a house reef just 30m off shore for snorkelling, and with plenty of sand and shallow water.
Sairee Beach is one of the best area to stay in Koh Tao to party! A backpacker’s paradise, this bustling seaside town is always packed with tourists looking to work on their tan by day and check out the party scene by night. The beach is beautiful and has a house reef just offshore. You’ll always find Sairee Beach busy with people, so if you’re looking for a quiet beach experience, set your eyes elsewhere. Many people visit Sairee Beach to watch the sunset, and there are many bars and restaurants right on the water, making Sairee Beach the perfect place to watch a sunset and relax.
There are also many dining options at Sairee Beach. You can opt for an upscale dinner or try some of the local dishes. Since this is a popular spot for backpackers, Sairee Beach has some very reasonably priced dining options. At night Sairee Beach comes alive for the party!
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Mae Haad
Mae Haad Beach will be the first place you see when you arrive in Koh Tao. If you are looking for the perfect swimsuit or a beautiful sarong, you will find them at Mae Haad. There are many options, so don’t be afraid to shop around. Mae Haad Beach is home to a famous wreck, popular with divers. Fish flock to the wreck, so if you’re looking to see wildlife in a unique location, Mae Haad is the place for you!
Mae Haad has a range of restaurants specializing in Western and Thai cuisine as well as plenty of accommodations for budget travelers.
The only downside for some travelers is that Mae Haad don’t have the party vibe like some of the other beaches and the tranquility of some of Koh Tao’s more secluded spots.
Koh Nang Yuan
Actually small island next to Koh Tao is frequent sopot visited by tourist on Koh Tao. Probably one of most posted beaches on social networks from Koh Tao
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Shark Bay (Ao Thian Og)
When you think of paradise, you think of Ao Thian Og. The beaches are more beautiful than words. One of the best parts is that, while everyone else is coming to Sairee Beach in Mae Haad, you can get the beauty yourself!
Ao Thian Og is an untouched part of Koh Tao. It is the best beach resort, managed by John Suwan, the perfect place to reflect on the Gulf of Thailand. If you prefer something a little more adventurous to stick to the beach, jump into the water with some predators. Blacktip reef sharks frequent Ao Thian Og. In fact, it is known locally as Shark Bay! Brave swimmers can dive into the water with these sharks. They are not aggressive, but at over six meters tall they are truly terrifying!
Ao Thian Og sharks are one of the most iconic in the area, but they are far from the only ones! The beaches in this beautiful area are the best resorts you will find in Thailand. If you like to be pampered and stay in shape, Ao Thian Og is the place for you. Backpackers will want to stay away though. Houses in this part of Koh Tao are not suitable for those who do not have a small budget.
Aow Leuk beach
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