Koh Tao in Thailand, My Favorite Island in the South

Koh Tao stole our hearts the moment we stepped off the ferry, the turquoise water sparkling like a promise of adventure. It’s our favorite island in Thailand—hands down—and we’ve been back multiple times, each visit pulling us deeper into its magic.

Nicknamed “Turtle Island” for its shape and once-abundant sea turtles, this tiny gem in the Gulf of Thailand (just 21 sq km!) packs epic diving, chill beaches, and vibes that make you forget the world. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, couple, or thrill-seeker, Koh Tao’s got you.

As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission for purchases on the links provided at no extra cost to you – disclaimer. All the tours and services I recommend are carefully selected and I use them myself throughout our travels.

Koh Tao: Thailand’s Hidden Gem?

You’ll be surprised by how much Koh Tao, a small island in the Chumphon Archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, has to offer. It has a lot of individuality despite being much smaller than neighbouring islands Koh Samui or Koh Phangan.

It is well-known for its low priced diving schools and is a popular destination for scuba diving courses and reef exploration. After our initial visit, we were in love with this island and come back each time we visit Thialand.

Beyond diving, Koh Tao offers peaceful areas like Freedom Beach or Mango Bay for resting and bustling beaches like Sairee where you can feel the energy of the island. 

We’ve explored its paths many times, always finding something new—a great view from a hill or a tiny food stall with amazing noodles. Koh Tao feels real, less touristy than Samui (although, thats rapidly changing since our last visit in 2025) and calmer than Koh Phangan’s party scene. You can dive in the morning, hike in the afternoon, and just relax with a cold drink whenever you feel like.

With everything from budget hostels to nice villas and food from street markets to beachside restaurants, it suits all kinds of travelers. In 2025, the island is focusing more on eco-friendly diving and protecting its nature. Koh Tao feels like a special secret—a small place that always gives you more than you expect.

Why Visit Koh Tao in 2025

Koh Tao in 2025 feels like it’s found its groove again, and I can’t wait to tell you why it’s calling your name. After the pandemic shook things up, the island bounced back with a focus on keeping its beauty alive. Locals have been replanting corals in places like Aow Leuk Bay, and dive shops like Black Turtle are all about protecting the reefs.

There’s a small 20 THB fee when you arrive, but it goes straight to cleanups and conservation, which feels good to support. I’ve spent months here diving and just soaking it all in—it’s my go-to spot to hit reset and feel free.

If you love adventure, Koh Tao’s got you covered with amazing dive sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock (Hin Bai), where you can spot whale sharks if your lucky or blacktip sharks. Hikers can climb to viewpoints like John Suwan for jaw-dropping views. Couples can find romance in spades—think beachside dinners or cozy secluded villas.

There is enough to do for everyone, the city center is vibrant and truly alive with food stalls all around, beach restaurants and clubs along the beach. With its ideal size of not too big and not too small, making it a perfect trip in your Thailand itinerary.

Getting to Koh Tao & Best Time to Visit

Getting to Koh Tao is part of the adventure, and I’ve done it a few times, so let me break it down. Since there’s no airport on the island, you’ll combine flights, buses, or trains with a ferry.

Fastest and most expensive way:

Flying from Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi or Don Mueang) to Koh Samui.
Once arrived, you can hop on a ferry from the port with speedboat companies Lomprayah or Seatran (~1.5 hours, 600-800 THB).

Flying to Koh Samui is fast, but expensive as prices start normally around 4000 THB for one way from Bangkok, double that from other areas in SE Asia.

Option 2 – Fly to Surat Thani

This is what we normally do. We fly from where ever we come to Bangkok and then to Surat Thani. There we take the taxi (grab is cheapest) or you can go with a small van from the Ferry providers Lomprayah or Seatran for 500 THB per person. If your with more than 1 person, than its best to just take a grab taxi.

Last week we were late for our ferry and still didn’t wanna pay the 1000 THB transfer that all the touring agencies want to sell you. We booked a grab, waited 3 minutes and said to the driver we needed to hurry for the Ferry. He took that literally and raced to the docks. We made it and gave the driver a 100 THB tip.

Booked onsite the ticket to the ferry for 1100 THB per person to Koh Tao and took a 3 hours boat ride. First we stopped at Koh Samui, had a 30 minute break to grab a bite and a fruit smoothie and headed over to Koh Phangan and finally arriving 3 hours later at Koh Tao.

Option 3: The most budget way

For budget travelers, the overnight train from Bangkok’s Krung Thep Aphiwat to Chumphon (8-9 hours, ~1,000 THB) is scenic and comfy—book a sleeper berth. From Chumphon, grab a Lomprayah catamaran (1.5 hours, ~600 THB) directly to Koh Tao, so no stops at Samui or Phangan.

We have yet to explore Chumphon, but are considering it for when we leave Koh Tao before heading to Khao Wok national park (an absolute must visit).
Correct that, we have been to Chumphon, it was a truly (local) Thai experience, with very little tourists around. Some great spots to go to by scooter, but not really a recommended place to visit especially if you have limited time.

Arriving and Getting Around

You’ll land at Mae Haad pier, where you normally will have to pay a 20 THB eco-fee. We somehow missed this part, but it was recently introduced for eco tourism.

Koh Tao’s small and the best way to get around is by a scooter. Normal price on the island is 250 THB per day, 200 THB a day when you rent for a week and + 50 THB if you want some more power and get a 150cc.
I recommend getting the 150cc (if you have experience driving a scooter), as it will help you get up all the viewpoints. When you rent a scooter, make sure get a good helmet and always check brakes and tires first!

Pro Tip you likely didn’t know!
Thing you need to know is that your home or travel insurance won’t cover accidents when driving a scooter in Thailand, unless you have a motor license type A in your home country. Yeah it’s a tough fact, but true and pretty much no one knows this or just doesn’t care.

A car license doesn’t cover scooters / motors above 50cc. And 50cc bikes are difficult to find and won’t help you up these hills. So either explore getting a local insurance for scooters and double check if they pay out if an accident happens, or drive knowing you’re not covered.

Below the information based on my normal European (Dutch) drivers license. I know this for a fact, because I got stopped and fined, several times in Chiang Mai and discussed it in detail with the police officers on the road and in the office. Fines are between 500 and 1000 THB.

Now you normally don’t find any police in Koh Tao (you do in the cities), but it’s good to know that insurance won’t cover you when something bad happens.

Best Time to Visit

March to May is prime for diving—think whale sharks and clear waters. June to August is busy but dry, perfect for beach days. Avoid November to December; monsoons make ferries choppy, and I got stuck once due to a canceled boat.

Budget and Practical Tips

Daily costs on Koh Tao typically range from 1,500-3,000 THB, depending on your style. Sticking to hostels for (500 THB/night) and street food (50-100 THB/meal) keeps things affordable—think spicy som tam or roti pancakes at the center.

For a dream holiday, splurge on luxury resorts tucked away in quieter corners like Chalok Bay (3,000+ THB/night). Compared to Phuket’s sky-high prices or Koh Samui’s upscale scene, Koh Tao is still affordable, but it’s getting pricier.

On our August 2025 trip, we noticed rooms that once cost 500-600 THB (15-20 USD) 2 years ago for two, now start at 1,000 THB (30 USD), even in low season. Food prices have crept up too, like elsewhere in touristy Thailand, but you can still eat well for cheap if you stick to local spots.

Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Plan ahead: Book ferries early via 12Go Asia to secure schedules and avoid pier scams. I paid double once for a last-minute ticket.

Carry cash: ATMs are everywhere, but keep 500-1,000 THB for small vendors or remote beach stalls that don’t take cards.

Check visa rules: Most nationalities get a 30-day visa-free stay; confirm your country’s requirements before traveling. Check here

Use offline maps: Download Maps.me for hiking trails—saved me when my phone lost signal on a jungle path.

Get travel insurance: We use SafetyWing health insurance throughout our travels around the world and find them the most affordable with the best customer service. Get a free quote here

Bring a reusable water bottle: Saves money (refills 10-20 THB) and supports Koh Tao’s eco-friendly vibe by cutting plastic waste.

Pack light: Ferry luggage gets tossed around and a small backpack makes transfers so much easier. We normally travel only with a small backpack, next to our camera bag.

Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the corals you’ll snorkel and dive around—regular sunscreen harms reefs.

Learn basic Thai: Phrases like “sawasdee” (hello) or “khop khun” (thank you) make locals smile.

Scooter safety: Wear a helmet (it’s the law) and drive during the day to avoid tricky, hilly roads. Be careful with the viewpoints in Koh Tao. Most of them are pretty tricky!

Choose certified dive shops: Ensure your diving school is PADI or SSI accredited for safety. I have some pretty crazy memories when diving without a PADI certified school. It involves military shipping wrecks in the philipines, 120 meters long and at 30 meter deep without any nearby exits . . uhhum. Glad i survived that one.

Top Koh Tao Things to Do

Whether exploring its beaches and jungles or plunging into its underwater realm, Koh Tao is a paradise for adventurers. Every vacation feels like a fresh start, and I’ve spent several weeks here seeking thrills and relaxing. Here are some ideas from my personal experiences on how to fully enjoy Koh Tao’s charm, from world-class scuba diving to undiscovered hiking routes.

Scuba Diving: The Jewel in the Crown of the Island

Trust me, I fell in love with the water on Koh Tao, so it’s the place to dive. It is well-known for offering some of the most affordable dive certificates in the world and is ideal for both novice and experienced divers. Every dive is made remarkable by the colorful reefs and pleasant waters (28–30°C). Seeing a turtle on the first day of my first open-water course here changed my life.

• Courses and Costs: An Open Water course runs ~10,000 THB (3-4 days), Advanced is similar, and fun dives cost ~1,000 THB each. I recommend Big Blue for its fun vibe and great instructors—perfect for nervous newbies. Ban’s Diving is super professional, ideal for serious divers, while Black Turtle Dive focuses on eco-friendly practices, supporting reef conservation and having the best reviews & rating.
• Top Dive Sites: Chumphon Pinnacle is a must for whale shark sightings (March-May is prime). Japanese Gardens is great for beginners with shallow corals, and Sail Rock (1.45 boat ride) has schools of fish and epic drop-offs. I can recommend doing night dives here, it just adds to the experience doing everything in pitch black.
• Tips: Book early to avoid crowds, especially in high season. Morning dives have better visibility. Get DAN insurance for peace of mind—accidents are rare but possible. Check your gear fits well; I had a leaky mask ruin a dive once. For eco-conscious travelers, ask about coral restoration dives with shops like New Heaven.
• Recommendations: Bundle accommodation with dive packages at Big Blue or Ban’s to save cash. Try a night dive for a surreal experience, and always choose PADI/SSI-certified schools for safety.

Snorkeling Adventures

Not ready to dive? Snorkeling in Koh Tao is just as epic. The island’s bays are packed with corals and fish, and you don’t need a cert to jump in. I’ve spent hours floating around Shark Bay, spotting baby blacktip sharks—thrilling but totally safe.

• Best Spots: Shark Bay is a go-to for reef sharks and turtles; go at low tide for clearer water. Hin Wong Bay has corals close to shore, perfect for a quick dip. Mango Bay, on the north end, is quieter with crystal waters.
• Tours vs. DIY: Full-day snorkel tours (~650 THB, via Sangthong Tours or GetYourGuide) hit 4-5 spots, including Koh Nang Yuan, with lunch and gear included. DIY is cheaper—rent masks (~100 THB/day) at Sairee or Chalok shops and you don’t have to wait for anyone and just enjoy the coral as long as you want.
• Tips: Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the corals—Koh Tao’s serious about eco-tourism in 2025. Snorkel early or late for fewer crowds. Bring a waterproof bag for your phone; I learned this after a soggy camera incident. Check tide charts—low tide means better visibility.
• Recommendations: Book a private boat for small groups for flexibility. Try Aow Leuk for a quieter snorkel spot with tons of fish.

Hiking and Viewpoints: Epic Views

Koh Tao’s hills hide some of the best views in Thailand, and hiking them is a highlight. I’ve trekked these trails hungover and happy, and the payoffs are always worth it. The island’s compact size means you can combine hikes with beach stops for a perfect day.

• Must-Do Trails: John Suwan Viewpoint (50 THB fee) is a short, steep climb with insane views of two bays—my favorite sunrise spot. Mango Bay’s 40-minute hike rewards you with golden-hour magic. Love @ Koh Tao on the east side is less crowded, great for couples. I hiked John Suwan after a late night once; the sweat was brutal, but that panorama made it unforgettable.
• Other Routes: The coastal path from Mae Haad to Chalok winds past hidden bays like Sai Nuan, where I stopped for swims. Fraggle Rock is a rugged, adventurous trail—bring water and grit. Two View (West Coast Viewpoint) is less known but offers epic sunsets.
• Tips: Wear sturdy shoes—flip-flops won’t cut it on rocky paths. Bring 1-2 liters of water and snacks; there’s no 7-Eleven up there. Use Maps.me for offline navigation, as signs can be spotty. Avoid hiking in heavy rain—trails get slippery fast.
• Recommendations: Combine John Suwan with a dip at Freedom Beach afterward. Hit Mango Bay for sunset, and bring a camera for Instagram-worthy shots.

Other Land and Water Activities

Koh Tao’s not just about diving and hiking—there’s a ton to do on land and sea. Whether you’re into adrenaline or relaxation, the island’s got options to fill your days.

• Beaches: Sairee is the main hub, buzzing with bars and perfect for people-watching. Tanote Bay has cliff jumping (check depths first—I chickened out once). Freedom Beach is my go-to for a quiet swim and snorkel combo.

• Adventure: Try Muay Thai at Island Muay Thai (~300 THB/session). I took a class and could barely walk after, but it was a blast. Kayaking or paddleboarding (~200 THB/hour) lets you explore coves—rent from CV Divers for good gear.
• Wellness: Yoga at Blue Chitta (~400 THB/class) is perfect for morning stretches with sea views. Thai massages (200-300 THB/hour) at Kayo in Sairee are a must—I book one after every dive trip to unwind. Its fun to see literally dozens of people getting a massage at the same time here.

Koh Tao’s activities are what make it special—there’s something for every mood. Whether you’re diving with turtles, hiking to epic views, or just floating in a kayak, the island delivers moments you’ll talk about for years. Plan smart, and let Koh Tao work its magic on you.

Nightlife in Koh Tao

Koh Tao’s nightlife is a perfect mix of laid-back and lively, with something for every mood. Whether you’re after a quiet sunset drink or dancing on the sand until dawn, this island delivers. I’ve had some of my best nights here, from fire shows to unexpected singalongs, and it’s always got that free and fun energy.

Sairee Beach: The Heart of the Action

Sairee Beach is where it all happens. As the sun sets, the shore transforms into a party hub with bars spilling onto the sand. Fishbowl Beach Bar is a favorite—think beer pong, cheap buckets, and a crowd that’s ready to have fun. I spent one great night there playing Jenga with strangers who became friends by midnight.

Lotus Bar is iconic for its fire shows—performers twirl flaming batons under a palm tree stage, and the music pumps until late. Its a great place to start the evening, also because its the first beach club from the center.

Fizz Beach Lounge serves killer cocktails with ocean views; their mojitos are my go-to after a dive day. Most bars offer happy hours (6-8 PM, ~100 THB drinks), so start early to save cash.

Pub Crawls and Events

For a fun night out, join a pub crawl (~500 THB, check posters in Sairee). The pub crawl in Koh Tao is a legendary nightlife experience, known for its high-energy vibe, social bonding, and unique island flair. It’s not just a night out—it’s a rite of passage for backpackers and travelers looking to dive into Koh Tao’s party scene.

I can say it’s a whirlwind of fun, connecting people from all over the world in a way that feels part of the heart of Koh Tao

If you’re here during high season, look out for Full Moon Party after-parties, as Koh Phangan’s crowds spill over. Ban’s Diving Bar often hosts dive-themed events with live music—great for meeting other divers.

Tips for a fun night out

Koh Tao’s nightlife is safe but smart choices help. Buckets (local liquor mixes) are strong—share one to pace yourself. Watch your belongings in crowded bars; pickpockets are rare but real. Most spots close by 2 AM, but beach parties can go later. For 2025, check socials or local boards for pop-up events like DJ nights or eco-parties. If you’re staying in Sairee, noise carries—bring earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.

Restaurants in Koh Tao

For food you won’t come anything short in Koh Tao. There are restaurants everywhere along the beach when coming from the center, with street food in the afternoon and at night popping up for the Roti and Pad Thai, Burgers and other quick snacks. There is something for everyone, even the health nuts like us. We enjoyed the most Vegetabowl. They have the best smoothies we have tasted in Thailand, ever! Great bowls, salads and delicious soft taco’s, all vegan.

Nearby Islands and Day Trips

Koh Tao’s magic extends beyond its shores, with nearby islands perfect for day trips that pack in adventure and beauty. I’ve explored these spots over multiple visits, and each feels like a fresh escape. Here’s how to broaden your Koh Tao journey with unforgettable excursions.

Koh Nang Yuan: The Triple Island Gem

Just a 15-minute longtail boat ride from Koh Tao’s Sairee Beach (~300 THB round trip), Koh Nang Yuan is a must. This trio of tiny islands connected by a stunning sandbar is postcard-perfect. I visited last year and was floored by the turquoise waters and the iconic viewpoint—a 15-minute hike through jungle to a panoramic lookout. Snorkeling at Japanese Gardens and Twins is great, with colorful corals and fish galore.

The island’s privately owned, so there’s a 250 THB entry fee (120 THB for kids), and it’s open 9:30 AM to 5 PM. Bring cash, and skip plastic bottles—they’re banned to keep it clean. I recommend a morning snorkel tour (~500 THB, including lunch) via Sangthong Tours for a hassle-free trip, or book a private boat for flexibility.
Pro tip: Check tide schedules; the sandbar vanishes at high tide.

Ang Thong National Marine Park: A Wild Escape

A 1.5-hour speedboat ride (~2,500 THB, including park fees), Ang Thong’s 42 islands are a wilderness lover’s dream. I did a day tour with kayaking and was surprised by limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and emerald lakes like Talay Nai. Koh Wua Talap offers simple bungalows if you want to stay overnight, but day trips cover kayaking, snorkeling, and viewpoints.

Book through Viator or local operators like 100 Degrees East for small groups. Pack sunscreen and water shoes—rocks can be sharp.

Koh Phangan and Koh Samui

Koh Phangan, a 1-hour ferry ride (~400 THB), is famous for the Full Moon Parties and Jungle Parties (often a day before the full moon parties), but I also love its quieter beaches like Haad Yao. Perfect for a day of beach-hopping or yoga retreats.

Koh Samui, 1.5 hours by ferry (~600 THB), offers well known areas like Chaweng Beach and cultural sites like Big Buddha. Both are easy to reach via Lomprayah from Mae Haad pier. Or also possible if you have time, to go for a few days to Samui and explore the island a bit. Go to the touristic area around Chaweng beach, or explore the lesser visited areas around the island with a scooter.

These trips add variety to Koh Tao’s charm, blending adventure and relaxation. Whether it’s Nang Yuan’s views or Ang Thong’s wild beauty, or the party island Koh Phangan, there is plenty of entertainment in the area.

My recommended accommodations in Koh Tao

Since the island has gained so much popularity, i can recommend to book far in advance if your holiday or travel dates are set in stone. Check if you can cancel the booking a bit in advance if something unexpectedly happens, but most good places get sold out throughout the year.

Budget Accommodations

There are hostels throughout the island, but the best ones according to my experience are Savage hostel and

Savage Hostel is rated a 8.6/10 on Booking and prices start at around $20.
You can book it here

The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel, rated 8.8/10 on Booking and prices start at around $20. Contact them for a package when you want to get your Padi Open Water or just want to go diving.

Mid Range Stays

We are often looking into mid range stays, so we keep some money in our pocket to do more activities. The last time we stayed in Koh Tao, our fav place to stay was Aukotan Hotel.
Rooms were very spacious, clean and there was a super market under it which was super convenient. Price was also very reasonable for the quality, starting at 1000 THB a night $30

Rated a 8.8/10 this 3⭐ hotel you can book through this link

Luxury Accommodations Koh Tao

When you have more money to spend or just want a dream holiday with crystal clear water, private beach or great service, these 2 places are highly recommended.

Monkey Flower Villas: Rated 9.6/10 this 3 bedroom villa offers everything you desire from a dream holiday. Prices starting at $600 till $1000+ in the high season. This is the best rated and most desired villa on the island. Ideal if you travel with multiple families, or a group of friends so you can share the higher cost. This villa has the best view of the island:

Ecotao Lodge is a more affordable, yet still a very luxury accommodation. Rated 9.6/10 and one of the best views of the island, this is a great option if you have more money to spend.

The rooms are spacious (no its not a villa) but you do have a private little bungalow with exceptional quality furniture and again, a great view. They have an infinity pool and its perfect to enjoy the islands beauty from here. We definitely enjoyed staying here in 2023 and can recommend it for sure. Prices start at $230 dollar a night in low season.

Conclusion – Koh Tao Thailand

Koh Tao has a way of making you feel, well . . . Free. The sense of freedom, the late-night fun at Sairee Beach, or the peaceful time spent viewing a sunset from one of the amazing viewpoints are just as important as the azure waters or the excitement of diving with turtles.

I’ve returned several times, and each time I go, I’m a bit different. Something about hiking to John Suwan’s breathtaking viewpoint or hunting whale sharks (if your lucky) at Chumphon Pinnacle makes you feel alive. You may either push yourself to the maximum or just relax with a mango smoothie here; either way, it works.

Koh Tao still has that unadulterated, hospitable spirit in 2025, but its pulse beats faster with eco-friendly feelings and new experiences. My recommendation? Be open-minded, let the island surprise you, and don’t be surprised if you decide to remain longer. Koh Tao is waiting to win your heart over.

• Facebook
• X
• Pinterest

⭐⭐ Share this post. ⭐⭐

My Other Recommended Guides in Thailand

• 

  Grand Palace Bangkok Entrance, Tickets & Dress Code

• 

  1 Dollar to Thai Baht – Getting The Best Value

• 

  Krabi Night Market, This Treasure You Need to Experience!

• 

  Indonesia vs Thailand, Who Wins As The Best Destination