Koh Tao - Discovering Thailand

Travelling to Koh Tao

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Koh Tao, a pretty good destination in Thailand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Koh Tao and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Koh Tao, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Thailand, here's everything to know about Koh Tao for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, famous for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and abundant marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. The island is only 21 square kilometers in size, but it is packed with a variety of activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and island hopping. Koh Tao is also known for its relaxed atmosphere and vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and restaurants catering to visitors from around the world. The island is easily accessible by ferry from neighboring islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, as well as from the mainland of Thailand.

What to visit in Koh Tao

Sure, here are some tourist attractions to see in Koh Tao, Thailand: 1. Sairee Beach: This is the longest beach on the island and it is great for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. It is also a great spot for watching the sunset.
2. Chumphon Pinnacle: This is a popular spot for scuba diving with an abundance of marine life including whale sharks, barracuda and tuna. It is a deep dive site and only recommended for advanced divers.
3. John-Suwan Viewpoint: To get a stunning panoramic view of the island, you must visit John-Suwan Viewpoint. It can be accessed by hiking or renting a motorbike.
4. Mae Haad Pier: This is the main pier on the island and a hub for transportation to and from the island. It is also a great place for shopping and dining with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
5. Shark Bay: As the name suggests, this is where you can see blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat. It is a shallow and calm cove, making it a great spot for snorkelling.
6. Tanote Bay: This is a picturesque beach located on the east coast of the island. It is a secluded spot and is a great place for swimming, diving and snorkelling.
7. Koh Nang Yuan: This is a beautiful group of three small islands connected by a sandbar. It is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Koh Tao and is great for a day trip.
8. Hin Wong Bay: This secluded bay is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling. The coral reefs here are teeming with colourful marine life, making it a great spot for underwater photography.
These are just some of the main tourist attractions to see in Koh Tao. The island has so much more to offer and is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Thailand.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Thailand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Koh Tao.

When to go on holiday to Koh Tao

The best time to go to Koh Tao, Thailand is between December and March. During this period, the weather is generally drier and cooler making it ideal for outdoor activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and hiking. The sea is often calm and clear, providing excellent conditions for water sports and beach lounging. Avoid visiting Koh Tao from September to November as this is the rainy season and may cause some disruption to your holiday.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Koh Tao

The most common way to get to Koh Tao is to fly to Koh Samui International Airport or to the Chumphon Airport, and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. If you fly to Koh Samui, you can take a ferry from the Nathon Pier, which is about an hour's drive from the airport. There are several ferry companies to choose from and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the type of ferry you take.
Alternatively, if you choose to fly to Chumphon Airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to the Chumphon Pier, where you can catch a ferry to Koh Tao. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
Keep in mind that during the high season, ferries tend to get very busy and it is advisable to book tickets in advance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Koh Tao, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a beautiful island located in Thailand and renowned for its stunning beaches and coral reefs. The island also has a rich culinary culture that is worth experiencing. Here are some of the typical foods of Koh Tao with a short description of each: 1. Som Tum - This is a popular Thai salad made from crunchy unripe papaya, tomatoes, green beans, peanuts, and a spicy dressing of lime, fish sauce, and chili peppers.
2. Pad Thai - A classic Thai dish that is served everywhere in Koh Tao. It consists of stir-fried rice noodles, vegetables, peanuts, and either shrimp, chicken, or tofu. It is usually seasoned with tamarind juice, fish sauce, and palm sugar.
3. Gaeng Massaman - It is a delicious and hearty Massaman curry, which is a mild Thai curry with potatoes, peanuts, and chicken or beef. It is typically served with a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice.
4. Tom Yum Goong - Another popular soup in Thailand, it is made with prawns, lemongrass, chili, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and tomatoes. It has a spicy and sour taste that is perfect for the island's hot weather.
5. Khao Pad - Also known as fried rice in Thailand, Khao Pad is a simple, but delicious dish made with rice, eggs, and various vegetables or meats that are seasoned with soy sauce and fish sauce. It can be served as a meal on its own or as a side dish.
6. Gai Yang - This is a tasty grilled chicken dish seasoned with garlic, pepper, lemongrass, and fish sauce. It is usually served with sticky rice, som tam, and a sweet chili sauce.
7. Moo Ping - These are Thai-style pork skewers that are marinated in garlic, coriander root, soy sauce, and sugar, and then grilled until crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Enjoy your culinary journey on Koh Tao!
You can find general info about typical foods in Thailand here.

Is Koh Tao an expensive destination for tourists?

Koh Tao can be a bit more expensive than some other destinations in Thailand, but it is still relatively affordable compared to many other tourist destinations around the world. Prices can vary depending on where you stay and what activities you participate in, but overall, you should be able to find accommodation, food, and activities at reasonable prices. It's always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before booking your trip to Koh Tao to make sure you're getting the best possible deal.

Where to find accomodation in Koh Tao

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Koh Tao in Thailand are Mae Haad, Sairee Beach, and Chalok Baan Kao. Mae Haad is the most central location on the island and is close to the pier, making it easily accessible for those arriving by ferry. Sairee Beach is the busiest area with a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and bars. Chalok Baan Kao is a quieter area with a more relaxed atmosphere and is popular with divers and snorkelers. All three areas offer a range of accommodation options, from backpacker hostels to luxury resorts.
You can check hotel prices at Koh Tao here:
Booking.com

Is Koh Tao a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Koh Tao is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The island has a low crime rate and most visitors have a trouble-free experience. However, as with any destination, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety. Always be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone in isolated areas at night, and keep your valuables secured. Additionally, it is a good idea to research and book accommodations and activities with reputable companies. Overall, with some common sense and caution, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Koh Tao.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Thailand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Koh Tao.

What type of travelers will enjoy Koh Tao the most?

Koh Tao is a great destination for all types of travelers. However, it is especially popular among young people who are looking for fun and excitement. Couples can also enjoy a romantic and peaceful getaway on the island. Families with children may find the island a bit challenging as it is not very stroller-friendly and the beaches can be crowded during peak season. Nevertheless, families who enjoy outdoor activities such as snorkeling and diving will surely have a great time on Koh Tao. Overall, Koh Tao is a perfect destination for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those who want to experience the laid-back island lifestyle.

How to get around Koh Tao

The most common modes of transportation in Koh Tao are scooters/motorbikes, taxis, and long-tail boats. Rental agencies offer scooters that can go up and down the island's hilly terrain. Taxis are available for hire, but they tend to be more expensive. Long-tail boats can be rented for island hopping or snorkeling expeditions.

What to see around Koh Tao

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Koh Tao: 1. Koh Nang Yuan: A beautiful island located a short distance from Koh Tao. It's known for its stunning views, clear waters, and the famous triple beach.
2. Koh Samui: A larger island with many attractions to explore such as waterfalls, temples, beaches, and activities like zip lining, ATV riding, and snorkeling.
3. Ang Thong National Marine Park: This group of islands located north of Koh Tao is a popular destination for day trips. It's famous for its crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and scenic views.
4. Chumphon Archipelago: This group of islands is home to beautiful beaches, snorkeling spots, and marine parks. You can visit the islands of Koh Ngam Noi and Koh Ngam Yai for peaceful and scenic spots.
5. Hin Wong Bay: If you are interested in diving or snorkeling, Hin Wong Bay is a great spot for you. It's a beautiful coral dive site near Koh Tao with an abundance of marine life.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Koh Tao!
For every travel information about Thailand you can click here.

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