The best of Koh Tao: Beaches, snorkeling, diving & island life
Welcome to Koh Tao, one of Thailand’s most beloved islands and a dream destination for beach lovers, divers, and nature enthusiasts. Known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back island vibe, Koh Tao offers unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler.
Where is Koh Tao?
Koh Tao (“Turtle Island”) is located in the Gulf of Thailand, just north of Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. The island is accessible by ferry or high-speed catamaran and offers a more relaxed, nature-focused alternative to its busier neighbors.
Getting to Koh Tao
Koh Tao is accessible by ferry and high-speed catamaran from neighboring islands and the Thai mainland. The most popular operators include:
Lomprayah High Speed Ferries – Fast and efficient catamarans from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, Chumphon, and Surat Thani.
Lomlahk Khirin – Speedboat transfers from Koh Samui and other locations.
Songserm Ferries – A budget-friendly option with island connections.
If you’re flying in from Bangkok, you have two main options:
Fly to Koh Samui and take a ferry from there (approx. 1.5–2 hours to Koh Tao).
Fly to Chumphon (usually cheaper) and connect with a ferry (approx. 1.5–2 hours crossing time).
Getting around
Koh Tao is a small island, and getting around is easy. You can rent a scooter to explore at your own pace, take local taxis, or walk between nearby beaches and restaurants.
Arrival & transfers
Dusit Buncha offers complimentary transport to and from the pier, making your arrival and departure seamless. Our team is also happy to assist in arranging airport transfers from Koh Samui, Chumphon, or Surat Thani, combining ferry and taxi service for a smooth journey to the island.
Stay at Dusit Buncha Resort – your perfect hideaway on Koh Tao
Perched on the northern cliffs of Koh Tao, Dusit Buncha offers stunning sea views, comfortable villas, rooms, and direct access to world-class snorkeling right from the resort. Enjoy peaceful surroundings, Thai and Western cuisine at our seaside restaurant, and sunsets that light up the sky.
From breakfast by the ocean to sunset cocktails at the pool bar, our dining options cater to every craving. Enjoy fresh seafood, Thai specialties like spicy papaya salad and green curry, and international comfort food throughout the day.
Our friendly reception team is happy to assist you in organizing scuba diving, snorkeling excursions, and other island activities. For more inspiration, visit our Activities page.
Our location is just minutes from the iconic Nang Yuan Island and a short ride to Sairee Beach.
Book your stay at Dusit Buncha and experience the magic of Koh Tao!
The best beaches in Koh Tao
Sairee Beach – The island’s most popular beach, lined with restaurants and bars. Perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Ao Leuk – A quiet, scenic bay with grainy sand and turquoise waters. Ideal for snorkeling and relaxing in peace.
Sai Nuan Beach – A hidden gem tucked between palm trees and boulders. Small and cozy, with grainy sand and a laid-back vibe.
Tanote Bay – A rugged bay perfect for adventurous swimmers and cliff-jumping. The beach has a mix of soft and coarse sand.
Hin Wong Bay – A rocky cove known for its excellent underwater visibility. The small beach has grainy sand, with a cozy beach bar and coffee shop nearby.
Shark Bay – Famous for its crystal-clear water and the chance to snorkel with blacktip reef sharks. Soft, paradise-like sand.
Freedom Beach – A small, popular beach near the John-Suwan Viewpoint, with soft sand and clear waters – ideal for swimming and enjoying the island vibe.
Best Snorkeling Spots on Koh Tao
Shark Bay – Known for sightings of blacktip reef sharks.
Ao Leuk – Calm waters and vibrant coral gardens teeming with marine life.
Hin Wong Bay – Great for spotting schools of fish and soft corals in crystal-clear water.
Tanote Bay – Clear and deep waters with diverse marine life, ideal for adventurous snorkeling.
Japanese Gardens (Nang Yuan Island) – A must-visit snorkel spot just off Koh Tao, easily reached by taxi boat from the Dusit Buncha pier.
Dusit Buncha – Offers excellent snorkeling right off the rocks in front of the resort, with a rich variety of fish and coral just steps from your villa.
Scuba diving in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is one of the most popular places in the world to learn how to scuba dive. With warm waters, excellent visibility, and a variety of dive schools, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. The island offers over 25 dive sites, including:
- Chumphon Pinnacle – A deep dive site known for its schools of barracuda and occasional whale shark sightings.
- Sail Rock – A famous vertical pinnacle teeming with marine life.
- Southwest Pinnacle – Great for spotting groupers, snappers, and colorful anemone fields.
The reception at Dusit Buncha Resort is happy to help arrange diving trips and certifications with trusted local dive schools, ensuring a safe and memorable underwater experience.
Koh Tao offers one of the highest chances in Thailand to see whale sharks (harmless filter feeders), blacktip reef sharks (non-aggressive and commonly spotted while snorkeling), and sea turtles, which can often be seen gliding through the water or resting on the reef.
Visit Nang Yuan Island Located just off the coast of Koh Tao, Nang Yuan Island is a postcard-perfect trio of islets connected by white sandbars. You can take a short taxi boat ride directly from the Dusit Buncha Resort pier.
Once there, you can snorkel in the famous Japanese Gardens, hike up to the panoramic viewpoint, or simply relax on the beach.
General info
City: Koh Tao
Location: An island off southern Thailand’s east coast
Province: Surat Thani (1 of Thailand’s 76 provinces)
Country: Thailand
Largest town: Mae Haad (located at the ferry port)
Area: 21 km² (8 mi²)
Maximum elevation: 379 m (1,243 ft)
Population: Approximately 1,500
Sea: Gulf of Thailand
Distances
Surat Thani (Donsak): 85 km (53 miles)
Koh Samui: 65 km (40 miles)
Koh Phangan: 43 km (27 miles)
Chumphon: 79 km (49 miles)
Bangkok: 564 km (349 miles)
Phuket: 290 km (180 miles)
Quick facts
Average ocean temperature: ~29°C year-round
Best time to visit: December to April is ideal, but Koh Tao is worth visiting year-round. Rain showers are usually brief.
Voltage: 220V with Type A, B, and C sockets (most commonly Type C)
Currency: Thai Baht (THB)
Internet: Wi-Fi widely available
Why visit Koh Tao?
- World-class snorkeling & diving
- Soft white-sand beaches
- Affordable island living
- Incredible sunsets
- Friendly, welcoming atmosphere
- Delicious Thai and international cuisine
