Koh Tao
Welcome to Koh Tao
"Tropical diving and snorkeling paradise"
Koh Tao, also known as the 'Turtle Island', is the smallest of the three main islands of the Samui archipelago. The island of only 21 km2 is located approximately 1 hour sailing (40 km) northwest of Koh Phangan and approximately 2 hours sailing (85 km) from the mainland (Chumphon) in the Gulf of Thailand.
The island is mainly known for its beautiful beaches, coves, and great diving locations, which are suitable for both the novice and the experienced diver. The pleasant waters of the Gulf of Thailand are often calm, and you don't have to sail far to make beautiful dives. The pleasant fishing village of Ban Mae Haad is the gateway to the island.
Hai Sai Ri / Sairee Beach is the beach with the most diving facilities, a good place to start. If you have dived before, there are plenty of boats that will gladly take you to the most beautiful places such as Shark Island, Green Rock, Chumphon Pinnacle or South-west Pinnacle. Koh Tao is also a significant breeding ground for green turtles.
Click and Zoom to see more of the map above.
Beaches and Accommodation on Koh Tao
We offer you accommodation on most of the beaches listed below.
Mae Haad Beach
On the west coast, a small beach, and a short distance north of the Ban Mae Haad ferry pier.
Hotels: Sensi Paradise Beach Resort - 3 Stars (3/5) ; *Koh Tao Montra Resort & Spa - 3.5 Stars (3.5 / 5) : The Tarna Align Resort - 4 Stars (4/5)
Sairee Beach
On the west coast, north of Ban Mae Haad. The longest stretch of sandy beach of Koh Tao and with the most diving facilities. An idyllic beach, perfect for admiring spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand
Hotels: *Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort - 3 Stars (3 / 5)
Mango Bay
Located on the northern most shore of Koh Tao, Ao Mamuang or Mango Bay, is framed by two capes, one with a lighthouse, and backed with lush greenery. It has a shallow offshore reef which usually draws snorkelers on day trips. It is a great place to relax
Tanote Bay
On the northeast coast and just south of Laem Thian Cape is this isolated and beautiful beach. It is one of the most popular beaches on Koh Tao, largely due to the awesome snorkeling and cliff jumping and its fine sunrises
Hotels: Montalay Beach Resort - 3 Stars (3/5)
Shark Bay
Close to Koh Tao's southeasternmost point. The area has among the most beautiful beaches of Koh Tao and offers a variety of outdoor activities. Famous for its snorkeling and the Black Tip Reef Sharks that frequent the shallows in the early mornings. Main beaches are Haad Sai Daeng, Haad Tien Beach and Laem Tien Beach.
Hotels: Sai Daeng Resort - 4 Stars (4/5) ; Haad Tien Beach Club - 4 Stars (4/5) ; Haad Tien Beach resort - 4.5 Stars (4.5/5)
Cha Lok Bay
Situated in the southwest of Koh Tao. Cha Lok Bay is a large beach stretched by a long strip of white sand. Many dive shops are scattered along the stretch of the beach.
Hotels: View Point Resort - 3.5 Stars (3.5/5)
Koh Nang Yuan
As if Koh Tao itself wasn't enough, there is also the dream island of Koh Nang Yuan off the coast, which consists of three small islands that are connected by a strip of beach. The crystal clear, bright blue water and white sand beaches make this a very popular and photogenic spot. Tip: take the walk/climb to the lookout point at the top of the island. From here you can take insanely beautiful pictures.
Koh Nang Yuan
Snorkeling & Diving
View from Koh Nang Yuan on Koh Tao
Koh Tao - Relaxing on the beach