Koh Tao

Koh Tao, also translated as Turtle Island, is a paradise for divers and snorkelers. In addition to a beautiful underwater world, the island is known for white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. So clear that you can see underwater from as little as 15 to 20 meters. Whether you're a fan of diving, snorkeling, sunbathing or just want to relax in paradisiacal surroundings, Koh Tao has something for everyone.

What to do on Koh Tao?

From diving to relaxing, this small island has plenty to keep you entertained!

Diving

Koh Tao is a popular destination for divers because of its beautiful coral reefs and diverse marine life. There are numerous diving schools on the island where you can learn to dive or improve your diving skills. Snorkeling is also a great way to explore Koh Tao's colorful underwater world, with many snorkeling spots accessible from the beach.
 

I myself learned to scuba dive and got my openwater diving certification, more on that in this blog!

Relax on the beach!

Diving is pretty intense, so relaxing on the beach certainly doesn't hurt. Koh Tao has several beautiful beaches to explore. From the popular Sairee Beach, known for its sandy beach and lively atmosphere, to secluded coves like Shark Bay and Freedom Beach, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.


Need to unwind even more? Koh Tao has several yoga studios and wellness centers scattered around the island. Enjoy relaxing yoga sessions, massages and other wellness activities to pamper your mind and body.

    Enjoy panoramic views at Mango Viewpoint

    Offering spectacular panoramic views of the island's west coast, Mango Viewpoint is a beautiful spot on the island to enjoy breathtaking views and the sunset. The viewpoint has several platforms with seating where you can relax and enjoy the view. For example, bring a snack and a drink and enjoy the moment the sun sets.


    You can get there by scooter; should you not have a scooter, there are plenty of cabs that are only too happy to take you to the viewpoint. The entrance fee is 100 Baht (€3.00).

     

    Note that there are several viewpoints in the area, such as the View Bar and High Rock Bar and. Some pretend to be Mango Viewpoint and charge you 50 Baht (€1.65) entrance fee. They can still be fun and say the road is impassable or the viewpoint is closed. Inform in advance with your fellow travelers or at the hostel and don't get distracted by this well-known tourist lure.

    Island hopping: Koh Nang Yuan

    A very small paradise island close to Koh Tao known for the 3 strips of sand connecting the islets: Koh Nang Yuan. Are you lucky and it's low tide? Then you can walk across the sandbar! If it is high tide you will have to walk through the (low tide) water. This unique landscape makes Koh Nang Yuan a popular destination for photography and offers the opportunity to enjoy panoramic views of the islands and the ocean.

    Viewpoint

    On the island you can go to the well-known viewpoint to enjoy a beautiful view of the island. Easy to walk, in fact, within about 10 minutes you are already there! It is mostly stairs, so you can even walk up on your flip-flops.

     

    Going later in the day? Then it can be so crowded that you may have to stand in line to take a picture.

    Snorkeling and diving

    Koh Nang Yuan is also a great place for snorkeling and diving. The island is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs that are home to an abundance of colorful tropical fish and other marine life. Snorkelers and divers can enjoy exploring the underwater world and admiring the beautiful corals and fish. Japanese Garden is a very famous spot for this purpose where the average diving course will definitely stop!

    Furthermore, on Koh Nang Yuan you can relax and enjoy the sun. The soft white sand and crystal clear water make it an ideal place to swim, sunbathe and relax in a relaxing environment.

     

    Good to know before visiting Koh Nang Yuan

    • You are not allowed to bring plastic bottles or cans onto the island to protect nature.
    • Koh Nang Yuan is a private island, so you will have to pay (about €7.50) to explore the paradise island.
    • The island only opens around 09:30 and closes around 16:00. Only guests who stay overnight in one of the bungalows can stay on the island.
    • You can score boat tickets at Sairee Beach for 300 baht (round trip) per person.

    Beach party!

    Sairee Beach is popular for partygoers, with several bars and clubs hosting parties with live music, DJs and fire shows. You visit this beach as part of the Koh Tao Pub Crawl, an organized pub crawl that also takes you to a Ladyboy Cabaret show and about 2 more pubs. You can find more information about dates and tickets on the Koh Tao Pub Crawl Facebook & Instagram page.

    Good to know!

    • Koh Tao is a particularly small island, which can mean that at times the water pressure may not always be as good as on the mainland.
    • Furthermore, prices are also somewhat higher; for example, for my favorite 7-Eleven sandwich, I paid 20% more.
    • Many backpackers head to Koh Tao to dive after the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan, so should you go diving, it's smart to make a reservation in advance. You won't encounter any surprises on the island.

    From Koh Tao you can go to:

    • Bangkok: 10.5 hours with transfer from ferry to bus
    • Surat Thani: 2 hours by ferry
    • Koh Phangan: 1 hour by ferry
    • Koh Samui: 1.5 hours by ferry