Sights of Koh Tao - what to see. A complete guide to iconic places
Koh Tao is beautiful and picturesque island in the Gulf of Thailand. Its name is translated from Thai as “Turtle Island”. Used to live here a large number of turtles, but after Ko Tao became popular tourist resort, there are very few turtles. Apparently they found more quiet place. But there are still sculptures of turtles on the island. Koh Tao has many beautiful sandy beaches, coral reefs and greenery. Let's take a closer look at this island.
Koh Tao Island is quite small in size, its area is approximately 21 km². It is 67 km away from the nearest point of the mainland (Surathani province). Koh Samui is 64 km away and Koh Phangan is 35 km away. Koh Tao - inhabited island, the infrastructure is well developed here; if you wish, you can stay overnight. There are quite a lot of shops on the island, including 7-eleven, shopping malls with clothes, cafes, restaurants, pharmacies, ATMs, exchange offices, hotels and even houses for rent. That is, you can live quite comfortably here. But prices are higher than on the mainland.
There are very few attractions on the island, mainly tourists come here for beautiful beaches, tropical views, diving and snorkeling. The most popular attraction in Koh Tao is Observation deck Two View, it offers stunning views of the entire island. It is well equipped and almost every tourist strives to get here.
Another tourist spot is the square where the monument to King Rama V stands. The king came to the island and left his signature on the rock, and later his monument was erected here. This attraction is located in the southern part of Sairee Beach.
There is also a fishing museum and a nature conservation center on the island. And, of course, diamond caves. Favorite place many tourists.
Weather
The dry season on Koh Tao lasts from late December to April. This period is best time for a holiday on the island. From May the amount of precipitation increases, but it is not critical. Therefore, it is also quite good to vacation on Koh Tao from May to September. The most unfavorable months for traveling to this island are October, November and the first half of December. At this time, a large amount of precipitation falls and large waves rise in the sea.
Beaches
Koh Tao has a large selection of beaches. Everyone will find something for themselves appropriate place. There are crowded beaches and calm, secluded coves.
Sairee Beach is the noisiest and most crowded on the island. There are many bars, cafes, restaurants, hotels and shops, and in the evening there is a fire show on this beach. However, this is not the best place for swimming. The sea is shallow, and at low tide the water goes quite far. Sairee Beach is suitable for those who prefer fun and nightlife.
Mae Haad Beach be next to the pier. It is quite noisy and crowded here due to the constantly arriving boats. There are also many cafes, restaurants and shops on this beach. However, prices are lower than on the beach described above. Here you can find a budget hotel or guesthouse. The beach is suitable for those who want to find cheap accommodation and do not want to spend a long time getting to their hotel from the pier.
located in the north of Koh Tao. It is a picturesque and secluded bay. The beach is great for snorkeling. But getting to it is not easy, since there is no road along the coast to the beach, you have to go through the center of the island, and the path goes through the mountains.
Chalok Ban Kao Beach located in the very south of Koh Tao. It ranks second in popularity among European holidaymakers. Therefore, there are always a large number of tourists here. The Chalok Ban Kao beach has an excellent infrastructure: shops, bars, cafes, restaurants, nightclubs, etc. The sea is shallow, it is not very convenient to swim in it, but it is what children need. The beach is notable for the fact that there are large and unusual cobblestones that create a special charm for this place.
is a small secluded bay. It is located on the private property of the hotel, but anyone can visit it. The beach is clean and well-groomed, there is a lot of greenery and flowers. While swimming in the sea, you can see schools of colorful fish. This beach is very popular among snorkelers.
- a great place for swimming and snorkeling. There is crystal clear water here, a smooth sandy descent into the sea. The beach is quite calm, there are no noisy establishments here. There are several cafes on the shore where you can have a snack. Leuk Bay beach will appeal to those who love a calm and secluded holiday. This beach is located on the east coast of the island.
Diving and snorkeling
Most tourists come to Koh Tao to enjoy the beauty of its underwater world. And there really is something to see here. In the coastal waters of Koh Tao Island you can see turtles, stingrays, reef and whale sharks, and barracuda. There are several dozen diving schools on the island, where they will teach you everything you need.
Koh Tao mostly employs English-speaking instructors, but you can find a school that teaches in Russian. All necessary equipment is provided by the school. At the end of the lesson you will receive a diver certificate.
You can also rent a mask and snorkel on the island and go snorkeling. Koh Tao has many beaches that are ideal for snorkeling. For example, the beaches of Leuk Bay, Jansom Bay, Mango Bay, Freedom Beach.
Video review of Koh Tao
In the video you can see what Koh Tao Island is like.
Hotels
Koh Tao has a large selection of hotels, guesthouses and villas. Here you can choose accommodation according to your taste, budget and on the beach you like. One of the most luxurious hotels on the island is The Place Luxury Boutique Villas. There are several excellent hotels near the port: Sensi Paradise Beach Resort and Koh Tao Royal Resort. From more budget options I can recommend Montalay Beach Resort, Nadapa Resort and JP Resort Koh Tao.
It is better to book the hotel in advance, since Koh Tao is very popular among tourists and there may not be any vacancies. This is especially important before the New Year. Peak season best options They're selling like hot cakes.
I recommend booking a hotel on the Hotelluk website, as thanks to it you can find options at the most favorable price. I also leave you a map of the island with hotels, it will help you choose the hotel on the beach that you liked best.
Transport
You can get around Koh Tao Island by taxi. You can also use taxi boats; it is convenient to sail from one beach to another. But it's much more convenient to rent vehicle on Koh Tao. The most popular types of transport include motorbikes and ATVs. If you plan to explore the entire island, then it is better to take a quad bike, as most of the roads on Koh Tao have steep descents and ascents, and standard motorbikes do not always have enough power to drive uphill.
The cost of renting a motorbike is 150-200 baht, a quad bike - 800 baht.
However, you should rent a vehicle if you are completely confident in your driving skills. And be sure to check that the brakes work well; this is especially important in mountainous areas.
How to get there?
Getting to Koh Tao is quite difficult. There is no airport on the island and can only be reached by ferry or boat.
If you are flying from Russia or any other country, you will have to change planes in Bangkok or Phuket. Next, you can fly to Surathani province or Koh Samui, and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. There are also buses from Bangkok and Phuket to Surathani province, from where ferries depart to Koh Tao. On the website you can buy a comprehensive ticket to Koh Tao.
The easiest way to get to Koh Tao is from Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Ferries run daily from these islands to Koh Tao. You can also book an excursion on Koh Samui to Koh Tao. In this case, you will be picked up from your hotel and taken back, provided with snorkeling equipment, and the tour package also includes lunch and guide services. You can book a tour at.
See the map for the exact location of Koh Tao Island.
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Anyone, even those who have never tried scuba diving, can learn it at one of the diving schools that are located in every corner of the island. You can even get an official deep sea diver certificate. At the same time, the services of diving centers on the island are among the cheapest in the country (read more about). The young and reckless appreciate this, so Koh Tao is one of the youth resorts in Thailand. Something like islands or... on last time There are beach parties every month called .
Dive sites ( best places for diving)
Which coast of Koh Tao island to choose
Most lived-in West Coast Koh Tao islands. There are also two main beaches - Mae Haad and Sayri. Almost all of them are concentrated around them. tourism infrastructure, the main party life takes place there. But the beaches themselves are far from ideal - stones, rocks. Small sandy beaches on Koh Tao island located to the east and south. Going to East Coast, you will get the peace and quiet you desire. There are only two hotels and a restaurant attached to them. Mango Beach is the northernmost and most beautiful beach to Koh Tao, which is not so easy to get to due to the lack of a road along the coast, you will have to go through the very depths of the island.
Sairee Beach
Mae Haad Beach
Mango Beach
Cansom Beach
Each beach has a standard set paid entertainment. But the largest number of restaurants, massage parlors, bike rentals and shops are located in the west.
Program of stay on the island of Koh Tao
There are no historical sites on this piece of land in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand. But you will have something things to do on Koh Tao island. First of all, admire tropical nature. Both on the shore and under water. Beautiful waterfalls, observation decks. One of the most famous viewpoints is located on small island Nang Yuan, which is a private area. If you are not staying at a hotel there, then you have to pay 100 baht for a visit.
On each beach you can rent a jet ski, kayak, or go water skiing. Shopping in Koh Tao is not very exciting. There are several seven-even mini-markets and shops selling fruit. Shoes, souvenirs, and national clothing are sold in shops concentrated around the beaches. When shopping, it is important to know how to do it correctly.
The only party place where you can have a blast in the dark is the bars and discos on Sairee Beach.
Island hotels
Hotels on Koh Tao Island there are all kinds. For romantics, adherents of practicality, lovers of comfort, and those who are ready to spend the night under a palm leaf on the sand, just to be cheaper. Houses are located not only along the coast, but also on the rocks, among palm trees. On Nang Yuan Island there is a private resort with private beach. Even if you stay in a hut like the one in which Signor Robinson stayed, you will probably have free Wi-Fi. Read more about how to find and book a hotel on websites and.
A selection of the cheapest hotels on Koh Tao
Transport
It is possible that there is an islander conspiracy, but renting any transport on Koh Tao island costs from 150 to 200 baht (read more about). Regardless of the type - a bike at your disposal for the day or a boat delivering to Nang Yuan Island. The island is small, so if you are in good shape, you can walk around. But if you take a bike, then the most powerful one and with good brakes - the descents and ascents are quite steep.
Another feature of the island of Koh Tao in Thailand is the absence of an airport on the island (the nearest one). So if you are wondering " how to get to Koh Tao island", then get ready to take a rather long boat trip. Although this increases the attractiveness of travel. Ferries operate from the cities of Chumphon, Surat Thani province and Koh Samui. There are airports at these points, but none direct flight They do not accept from Russia. You will need to change trains in or on. The most popular route is from the capital. There you can purchase a comprehensive ticket (or through the company’s website), which includes not only air travel, but also on and. A little later we will write a more detailed article on how to get to Koh Tao island in Thailand.
Koh Tao Island is one of the resort islands that Thailand is rich in, located in the waters of the Gulf of Thailand. The distance from it to the nearest part of the mainland is 69 kilometers (in the province of Surratani), and to a large resort island Samui is about 65 kilometers. Despite the fact that Koh Tao's area is not the smallest (more than 20 square kilometers), only 2,000 people live here.
Resort in Lately is gaining more and more momentum. It is famous for its desolation, beautiful nature and a rich underwater world off the coast, which offers amazing opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
How to get there?
The only way to get to Turtle Island (Koh Tao) is by ferry. The only question is where your journey will begin. If you fly from Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan or any European country, then your plane will land in Phuket or in the capital of the Kingdom of Thailand - the city of Bangkok, and then you will need to transfer to domestic flights.
The nearest airports to Koh Tao are on Koh Samui, in the province of Surrat Thani, and also in Chumphon.
If you have reached Surratani within the country, then from there you can take a ferry to Koh Tao. From this city there are two flights to the island: one morning (travel time is about 4 hours) and one night (travel time is about 6 hours).
From Samui, through another tourist island - Koh Phangan - there is a connection with Koh Tao. Many of those who are tired of the noise are more large islands, go to Koh Tao in search of silence. Travel time is about 2 hours.
Ferries also depart from Chumphon to Koh Tao, but there is more choice here, as there are two transportation companies operating at once. Travel time is from 1 hour 45 minutes to two and a half hours (depending on the carrier).
Who should go?
Koh Tao is a rather specific island, which is not yet among the most popular resorts in Thailand. Many travelers do not go to Thailand to Koh Tao only because it is not very convenient to get here, and some are not satisfied with the peace and quiet of the resort.
It’s worth going to Koh Tao if you can’t imagine a holiday without good diving and snorkeling. If you add cheap prices for everything to this entertainment, your vacation can be more than wonderful. Moreover, most of the vacationers here are divers and those who want to join their number.
If you are an amateur beach holiday, then choose a hotel with caution, since the main beaches - Sairee and Mae Haad, where almost all the main infrastructure facilities are located, are not liked by all tourists, since the sea and sand here are not the most beautiful, and the proximity of the pier is not conducive to have a good rest off the coast.
Climatic conditions
The climate on the island, like that of neighboring larger and more popular island resorts, is humid tropical. This means that the average annual temperature in these latitudes is about +30 +32 degrees, while in the high season (from December to March) the weather is somewhat cooler and more comfortable for relaxation than in the rainy season. The rainiest time on Koh Tao is considered to be from October to December, and the driest from February to the end of April.
The water temperature off the coast does not drop below +27 degrees.
Beaches of Koh Tao
Thailand is famous good beaches, but on Koh Tao the most popular and populated beach areas of Sairee and Mae Haad are not one of them, as they are not distinguished by their natural beauty and landscapes of the surrounding area.
If you're not looking unprecedented beauty, then you will like it here. Moreover, those who want to retire to Koh Tao can look for beaches on the east or south coast of the island, where there are many sandy and rocky areas practically untouched by humans.
The vast majority of infrastructure is concentrated on the west and south coasts. The rest of the island has only a few hotels and restaurants.
If you want to feel like desert island, then you should go to the beaches of Chalok and Shark, where there are practically no people, a lot of living creatures and amazing wildlife.
If, when going to Thailand, you chose the beaches of Koh Tao, then keep in mind that:
— there are private beach areas, entry to which is not limited, but some rules apply;
— there are few sunbeds and umbrellas on Koh Tao, so many vacationers have to lie on a blanket under their own umbrellas. This is due to the fact that the island is more focused on the recreation of divers (more than 70% of them here), who, in principle, do not need sunbeds;
— if discos and noisy parties are important to you, then stay on the beaches closer to the port, since further away from them it is quiet and not nightlife;
— if you are going to the island for training and diving, then look for beaches where diving centers are located.
Be careful in the sea and if you like to swim, do it along the shore, without swimming far, as a rocky area with a muddy bottom begins a few meters from the coastline.
Accommodation
Thailand is a fairly popular country for our compatriots to organize vacations and holidays on the coast. Moreover, it is also very attractive in price. There are more than 100 hotels on the island of Koh Tao, and everyone will find an option that suits them in all respects, including cost.
Prices here start from 250 baht for a simple bungalow and end with large sums for luxury hotel options.
When planning a holiday in the Kingdom of Thailand on the island of Koh Tao, be sure to keep in mind that a few days before the full moon and a few days after it there may not be any available rooms on the island, since at this time a celebration takes place every month Full Moon Party.
A large number of budget options for hotels and guest houses are presented on the beaches of Mae Haad and Sairee. They are best placed for those who plan frequent walks or trips around the island, since swimming and sunbathing at the pier is not very pleasant or interesting.
What to do in Koh Tao?
The main reason why tourists traveling to Thailand choose a holiday on Koh Tao is the magnificent underwater world off its shores and amazing diving opportunities. On this fairly small island there are more than 50 diving schools, and the prices for all services are very attractive and low, especially when compared with similar services at resorts on the mainland of Thailand.
Very important point considered the fact that learning or improving skills is available not only to those who know Thai and English languages, but also for Russian-speaking vacationers.
In addition to diving and snorkeling, there are many other things to do on Koh Tao water activities: skis, kayaks, motorcycles, parachutes and much more. Many tourists, after lying on the beach during the day, prefer to spend time walking around the island in the evening. This way you can see something unusual, and also get to places where you cannot travel by vehicle.
The office of one of the largest in the state of Thailand is located on the island travel companies– “Good Time Adventures”. Its main advantage is that it offers a wide range of varied entertainment for every taste and budget: rock climbing for both beginners and professionals; diving; boat trips along the coast and to neighboring islands; snorkeling; services of a guide or guide around the island and much more. Here you can not only learn a new skill, but also rent all the necessary equipment and an instructor to help.
Koh Tao is not particularly different from other resorts in the Kingdom of Thailand in terms of nightlife: it also exists here. Of course, you shouldn’t expect the size of Pattaya, Phuket or Samui from a small quiet island, but you can still have fun here at night. All the main establishments open after sunset are located on Sairee Beach, but there are still not many of them. There are several bars, discos, restaurants, and transvestite shows available.
Another popular entertainment on the island is Thai boxing. On the main beach of the island - Sairi - there is a Thai boxing stadium, where courses on mastering the art of Muay Thai are even held.
The island is located in the eastern part of the Gulf of Thailand, north of the more famous tourist places- Koh Samui and Koh Pan Giang. Koh Tao has one of the most picturesque beaches in the world. Snow-white soft sand, clear azure sky, warm sea attract tourists from all over the world.
Koh Tao means "turtle island". In the past, the waters were rich in these animals. This is where the name came from. Many tourists know the island as Turtle Island. These animals are becoming fewer and fewer every year. Therefore, the Royal Thai Navy established a breeding program for green sea turtles. Over the past five years, the number of animals has doubled. Yet researchers offer a different point of view. The island was named Koh Tao because of its geographical contours. They look like a turtle.
History of the island.
For a long time, Ko Tao remained uninhabited. Only fishermen seeking shelter from the storm stayed there overnight. Royalty stayed on the island. For example, the monogram of His Majesty King Chalalongkorn has been preserved. She is worshiped even today and treated with great respect. The monogram is considered a relic of the island and is of great value.
Since about 1933, the island has been used as a prison. But soon the new Prime Minister of Thailand announced an amnesty and Ko Tao again became deserted. The first settlement appeared on the island only 20 years later. One fisherman decided to test his new sailboat. With a friend, they swam a distance of several hundred kilometers, came across beautiful island. They liked it so much that they moved their families there. This is how the first settlement of Koh Tao was formed. The people on the island led a calm, measured life. They fished, collected coconuts, and grew vegetables to sell. Already in the eighties, travelers discovered wonderful island. They decided to create a tourist network there, which grew quite quickly and turned Koh Tao into popular destination. Thanks to its rich, diverse underwater world, this place has gained popularity in the diving world. In the mid-90s, the young British writer Alex Garland, traveling around South-East Asia, was fascinated by the beauty of the island. Under the impression, he wrote his first novel, “The Beach,” which was a stunning success.
Island attractions
The visiting card of the island is the statue of a sea turtle. It is located right next to the main port and attracts tourists with its grace and splendor. There are no attractions in the literal sense of the word here. You will not find museums, palaces, or fortresses. People from all over the world come here to experience the exotic world wildlife. By and large, tourists actively engage in sports here: diving, mountaineering, paintball, water skiing, mini-golf. Many people want to take yoga and massage courses to receive an international certificate.
The island's nightlife is varied. These are nightclubs, cafes, restaurants. The menu pleases with its variety, and the prices are affordable.
The most popular beach on the island is Sairee Beach. He offers variety of entertainment. It is along its coast, for almost two kilometers, that there are hotels, cafes, shops, and bars. Here tourists can lie quietly on the beach or spend their day actively.
The path to Koh Tao is not easy. There is no airport on the island. You'll have a long boat ride from nearby Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. The trip will take 2-2.5 hours. The busiest seasons on Koh Tao are from December to March and from July to August. This place is quite popular among Thais, so on Thai holidays there may be absolutely no vacancies there. Inexpensive service makes everything more popular island Koh Tao among tourists.
Top 5! What to do on the island?
Diving and snorkeling island. Enjoy the beauty of the underwater world!
Rent a jet ski, mask and fins and go snorkeling on your own!
Just take a break from the city bustle and noise!
Enjoy traditional Thai cuisine in cozy cafes!
Be sure to go to the night disco! They are great here!
The origin of the name is that previously many sea turtles lived off the coast of Tau, and it was on its coast that they bred their offspring. But recently, turtles have practically disappeared. This is explained by the fact that newborn turtles tend to the most illuminated place (at night), which previously allowed them to find their way to the sea, but now the beaches are occupied by restaurants, hotels and diving centers, which disorients newborn turtles. Another version is that the outline of the island resembles a turtle. The sea turtle statue can be seen on the coast near the main port of the island (Mae Haad).
The main difference from neighboring islands is the marine environment, convenient for diving and snorkeling, and therefore diving centers are located on every convenient beach. In addition to the main activity on Koh Tao, diving, the island also offers freediving, rock climbing (bouldering), Thai boxing, and Thai massage. One of the islands that you can explore while staying in Koh Samui is the small island of Koh Tao. The main visitors to the island are divers, as the coastal waters here provide excellent opportunities for this exciting activity. The island is famous for its very picturesque underwater landscapes, as well as for the wealth of diverse marine life, including sharks, manta rays, groupers, and dogfish. In the waters of the island there is a place called “Shark Cape” - it is believed that these formidable inhabitants of the sea can always be found there. Diving can be organized both from Samui and directly on Koh Tao.
The best place for snorkeling is Tajote Bay, where at shallow depths you can see coral reefs and a huge number of colorful tropical fish. However, besides diving, there is something to do on the island. One of exciting travels you can do it here by kayak - it's The best way get acquainted with coastline islands.
Koh Tao - perfect place for lovers of long walks and hiking. There are many walking paths along the island that lead to its most beautiful places. The most high point The island is called “Two Views” and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
You can take in the panorama of the island from one more point - John-Suwan Viewpoint, located on the southern tip of the island. Its name was given to it by two friends who went looking for a place to build a house, but instead found a place that overlooks two beaches at once.
Another natural attraction is the rock formation called Jor Por Ror, which has a royal monogram carved into it as a sign that the king visited the island. Koh Tao is a haven for mountain biking enthusiasts; sports can be combined with exploring the surrounding area and enjoying the beautiful scenery. You can also go rock climbing on the island.
Koh Tao Island is located in the Gulf of Thailand, 69 km from mainland Thailand (Surat Thani province), and 64 km from Koh Samui. Has a total area of about 22 square meters. km, the local population is about 2,000 people.
Ko Tao (or simply Tao, since Ko is translated as “island”) is one of the most popular places in Thailand for diving and snorkeling. Unlike the Similan and Surin archipelagos, which are also popular for this, it is easier and cheaper to get here. The infrastructure on the island is much better developed and here you can not only dive, but also relax in comfort. There are all conditions for this - hotels, restaurants, massage parlors, bars on the coast, some types of water activities.
Ko Tao is translated from the local dialect as “Turtle Island”; it received this name for two reasons. Firstly, its shape resembles a turtle, and secondly, they lay their eggs here (or rather, they laid them in the past, now this phenomenon is rarely seen).
Koh Tao Island is a combination high mountains and lowlands covered with bush, granite boulders and dense jungle. Moreover, mountains occupy more than 65 percent of the entire area and form the basis of the landscape. According to archaeological data, in the past there was no vegetation on the island, only rocks, but over time the landscape has changed and today it is very a nice place, located in pristine purity, since there are no large buildings, etc.
Koh Tao on the map of Thailand
Story
For many millennia, the island of Koh Tao was deserted; there was not a single person here. This is due to the fact that it is located far from the mainland and other islands and is relatively small in size. Certainly, local residents knew about its existence, because it was they who gave it its name, but no one wanted to move here because of its remoteness. From time to time, ships and pirate schooners stopped on the island to rest before further travel or simply wait out the storm. For the same purposes, fishermen landed here in their small kayaks, which could easily capsize in inclement weather and drown all the fish caught during the day. But when the sea calmed down, they boarded their boats and returned to where they came from.
In mid-1899, the then king of Thailand, Rama V, sailing with his retinue on a ship past Ko Tao, decided to inspect it and landed at Jor Porror Bay, not far from the modern Sairee beach. This historical moment is evidenced by the inscription on a large stone left by His Majesty. Since the king is highly revered in Thailand, an altar was built near this place, to which flowers and fruits are offered daily as a sign of respect and devotion. Since then, the island has been under royal patronage. 
Until the 30s of the last century, political figures disliked by the authorities were exiled to Koh Tao and lived in makeshift thatched huts. At the beginning of 1947, they were all amnestied by order of the king and returned to their homes to their families. The island became deserted again, but this lasted only a few months.
The date of the first permanent settlement on Koh Tao can be considered mid-1947, when two twin brothers from the island of Koh Phangan sailed here on a new boat. They liked this quiet and serene place so much, with beautiful hills, coconut palms and a sandy coast, that they soon returned to the island with their families and built the first houses on the shore of the same Sairee beach. So for many years they lived by selling the collected nuts, vegetables and fruits, as well as the fish they caught, to neighboring islands. Over time, more and more people moved here, and several villages were formed.
In the early 80s of the last century, with the development of tourism in Thailand, travelers began to explore new places where Westerners had never set foot. One of these paradises turned out to be the island of Koh Tao. Every year it became more and more popular; many tourists really liked the idea of getting away from civilization to take a break from the hustle and bustle of cities.
Demand creates supply, so the Thai authorities decided to turn Koh Tao into a real resort. The first hotels, shops and souvenir shops, restaurants and bars appeared, in a word, everything that makes a comfortable stay among the tropical jungles and mountains.
Today, thanks to its beautiful coral reefs, the island is a place of pilgrimage for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts who come here from all over the world to swim among the abundance of strange marine life.
The proximity of large hotels and small bungalows, as well as the fact that the beaches are public, make affordable vacation both for wealthy people and budget tourists.
How to get to Koh Tao
There is no airport on the island; the closest ones are in Chumpon, Surat Thani and Koh Samui. You can fly directly from Russia, Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other countries only to Bangkok or Phuket, where you need to make a transfer.
Cheap flights to Bangkok
You can buy air tickets to Thailand as profitably as possible using special search engines that collect data from all airlines.
One of the most popular ways to get to Koh Tao is to buy a package ticket from Bangkok, which can include a flight or bus and transfer to your destination. .
Well organized ferry service with neighboring islands, Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, as well as the mainland, piers in Surat Thani and Chumpon.
Transport
Since Koh Tao is mountainous and paved roads are only connected to the main beaches, this imposes some restrictions on movement. The mountains are really high, so it’s better to forget about riding bicycles, and there are practically no bike rentals. Only experienced drivers can ride a motorcycle to remote beaches and viewing platforms, since the road there is dirt mixed with sand, plus steep descents and ascents, plus holes left by rainwater. And the real bummer is that at first you start driving on the asphalt, and about a kilometer before the desired place it breaks off, and extreme sports begin. In our opinion, this is the worst island in Thailand in terms of roads. Even the much-maligned Koh Phangan or Samet are much safer. The latter, by the way, is a bit similar in size and quality of roads.
On the other hand, moving around the island is not that important for those who just want to swim and sunbathe. Since it is small, you can move between the main beaches on foot. For example, from Mae Haad, where all the piers are located, Sairee Beach is easily accessible in just 10-15 minutes. The walk to the village of Chalok and its beach takes longer - about half an hour. These are the three most important settlements on Koh Tao, with the longest beaches and the most complete infrastructure.
If you decide to rent a motorbike, the easiest way to do this is right upon arrival, in the village of Mae Haad. Rental cost is 200 baht per day and 4000-4500 per month. Almost all mopeds are equipped with special tires designed for off-road driving. To refill your tank, there are several gas stations in the Mae Haad and Sairee area. The cost of one liter of gasoline in Koh Tao is 45 baht. They take a passport as collateral and upon return of the moped they carefully check it for scratches (which are quite possible to get on sharp turns and off-road climbs).
There are taxis on Koh Tao that can take you to any part of the island for a negotiable fee. Not only pickup trucks, like those in Pattaya, but also ordinary cars are used as taxis.
Who should go to Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a specific resort that you may or may not like. Its main advantage is pure water and rich underwater flora and fauna. If you add to this some of the cheapest prices for obtaining diving certificates, you can understand why Koh Tao is one of the most youthful resorts in Thailand, along with Phangan and Phi Phi.
If you have visited Egypt and then enjoyed the underwater life in other parts of the world and in Thailand itself, then at least you will not be disappointed here. There are a large number of certified diving schools on the island, where you can take courses from beginner to seasoned deep-sea diver and receive certificates of any level.
For beach lovers, the main thing is to choose the right hotel, since the coast of Sairee and Mae Haad, where all the infrastructure is concentrated, are not so pleasant for tourists. But nevertheless, there are excellent beaches on Koh Tao, you can find out about them in separate articles.
As a result, if you are a fan of deep-sea diving or great snorkeling, you simply need to come here.
What to do and what to visit
1. Attractions.
There are no special attractions on Koh Tao. Anything that may be of interest is related to natural beauties around: beaches, observation decks, waterfalls. Well, the most famous place- this is, perhaps, an observation deck and a beach on.
If you are not planning a trip only to Koh Tao, then we offer you.
2. Entertainment.
During the day, Koh Tao offers a good selection of water activities, such as water skiing, motorcycles and kayaks, and diving. You can rent a motorcycle or a boat and travel independently by land or water. Hiking is also very popular, in this case you will have access to places that cannot be reached by car or motorcycle.
3. Nightlife.
There is also nightlife, but it is concentrated only in its busiest part - on Sairee Beach, and even then only in some of its sections. There's even one of our own. If you are not a fan of noisy parties, then you can easily find a quiet place in the evening, for example, on many beaches, which become empty when the sun sets. Here you can sit quietly at the water's edge, enjoying the sea breeze, the sound of the surf and the night beauty of a tropical paradise. This is the ideal place for a romantic walk with your loved one.
4. Shops.
Shops on Koh Tao are mainly represented by 7/11 mini-markets, small shops with vegetables and fruits, departments of manufactured goods (where you can buy fans, tiles, etc.). No hypermarkets or shopping centers no, not even a mini Tesco Lotus. The only large supermarket (which is called Supermarket) is located on the main road between Mae Haad and Sairee. Near the main beaches there are shopping arcades with clothes, shoes and souvenirs. That's all shopping.
Beaches
The most populated place is the west of the island, here are the two main beaches of Sairee and Mae Haad - the most populated and popular, where there are quite a lot of people and there is “action”. But not the best for amateurs beautiful sea and sand. People looking for quiet and uncrowded holiday destinations on Koh Tao should turn their attention to the eastern and South coast. There are deserted beaches, both sandy and rocky.
