Koh Tao

Why visit Koh Tao?

Also known as “Turtle Island” – yes, because you can see and swim with turtles there! – Koh Tao offers a happy retreat after the commercialism of Koh Samui and the all-night parties of Koh Phangan. You’ll still find plenty of shopping and nightlife opportunities here, but everything is done at a slower, more relaxed pace. Almost like the green turtles that swim lazily around the island’s shores.

Many people visit Koh Tao island for scuba diving: either independently, by renting equipment, or as part of a dive tour. For those looking to complete their Open Water or Advanced PADI certification, Koh Tao is an ideal base to do so. Top dive sites include: White Rock, Twins, Hin Pee Wee, Hin Wong and Shark Island, with the chance to see triggerfish, green turtles and whale sharks.

Other travellers come for its happening nightlife: though think bare feet outside beach bars rather than high heels in clubs. Koh Tao is laidback, casual, and rarely boring.

Did we mention you can swim with turtles?! Well, it’s worth mentioning again. You won’t want to miss that experience.

Best things to do in Koh Tao

Exploring the island – by foot or bicycle – or lounging around on hidden beaches can easily take up your time here. But if you’re in need of other things to do on Koh Tao, here are our top picks:

• Scuba diving/snorkelling: Home to a few long-established diving operators, Koh Tao is a great base to get your PADI certification, if you haven’t already.
• Watersports: If you’d prefer to stay afloat, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking offer an ideal alternative to explore the coral reefs around the island.
• Boat trip to Koh Nang Yuan: Visit the pristine beauty of these three tiny islets, connected by a sandbar and teaming with vibrant coral reefs. It’s another diving/snorkelling haven.
• Koh Tao pub crawl: Maybe this activity isn’t to everyone’s taste; but it’s still a great way to hang out with fellow backpackers and enjoy the beach bar vibes
• Fire shows: The videos you’ve seen don’t do them justice – Koh Tao’s fire shows are a pretty impressive spectacle. Are you brave enough to volunteer?!
• Koh Tao Leisure Park: A perfect option for families, this park holds a miniature golf course, a cinema, a bowling alley and other amusements.

Ready for beach paradise?

Our local team know this special island inside out. We can advise you on the best time to visit and the best places to stay – you won’t be disappointed, as accommodation in little Koh Tao is surprisingly luxurious. We have partnered with a number of four-star resorts, hotels and private villas to make your trip to Koh Tao even more special.

We can also arrange your transfers and give you plenty of tips for when you arrive on Koh Tao – from finding the top sunset spots on the beach to uncovering the best snorkelling sites.

All you have to do is remember your sunscreen, and clear some memory space on your camera…with those incredible viewpoints, you’ll be glad you did.

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