Top reasons to visit Koh Tao
- Stunning Beaches: Koh Tao boasts pristine beaches with soft sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Exhilarating Diving: Experience vibrant marine life through thrilling diving tours, making it a diver's paradise.
- Scenic Lookouts: Explore breathtaking viewpoints that offer stunning panoramas of the island's natural beauty.
- Charming Local Markets: Discover unique finds and local delicacies at vibrant markets, enriching your cultural experience.
- Varied Accommodations: Enjoy a range of lodging options, from charming hotels to luxurious resorts, catering to all preferences.
Find great hotels in and around Koh Tao
Koh Tao offers a delightful selection of accommodations, ranging from charming hotels to luxurious resorts, perfect for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether you’re planning a family getaway or a relaxing retreat, you'll discover a variety of options that cater to your needs. Explore the best Koh Tao hotels and resorts, complete with essential amenities and remarkable reviews to ensure a memorable stay on this idyllic island.
- Long Bay Resort: Long Bay Resort is a charming 3-star retreat located 39km from Koh Tao, ideal for families seeking a relaxing beach getaway. With a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, the resort boasts direct access to a pristine beach, providing an idyllic setting for sunbathing and seaside activities. Families will appreciate the dedicated amenities for children, including babysitting services and child-friendly breakfast options. The tranquil atmosphere and family-oriented services make this resort a suitable choice for a memorable vacation.
- Ban's Diving Resort: Situated in the heart of Koh Tao, Ban's Diving Resort is a popular 3-star destination with a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, catering to adventurous travellers. The resort offers direct beach access and a range of exciting recreational activities such as onsite snorkelling, as well as nearby sailing and fishing opportunities. This resort is an excellent base for those looking to explore the underwater world through boat tours or diving excursions, making it a perfect choice for thrill-seekers and ocean enthusiasts.
- Jamahkiri Resort & Spa: A luxurious 5-star establishment, Jamahkiri Resort & Spa enjoys a prime location in Koh Tao and boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. This resort combines adventure and relaxation, offering direct access to the beach alongside an array of activities, including onsite snorkelling, kayaking, and fishing nearby. Families will find ample amenities tailored for children, such as babysitting services and child-friendly breakfast options. The fusion of adventure and family-friendly services makes this resort a splendid choice for a memorable escape.
Where to stay in and around Koh Tao
Koh Tao, a stunning island in Surat Thani Province, offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Spend your days lounging on pristine beaches or exploring vibrant underwater life. Nearby Koh Samui provides additional shopping and cultural experiences for those seeking more excitement. Whether you're enjoying a week in Koh Samui or discovering the secluded charm of Koh Tao, you're sure to be captivated by its friendly atmosphere and breathtaking scenery.
- Nangyuan Island: Nestled approximately 3km from Koh Tao, Nangyuan Island boasts stunning natural beauty with its pristine beaches and scenic vistas. This tranquil island attracts visitors throughout the year, with peak arrivals occurring in January and the March to April period. Travellers flock here for a variety of outdoor activities, including swimming, hiking, and exploring the local golf course. The island is also home to picturesque bays and charming town neighbourhoods, offering a serene escape for those seeking relaxation and adventure alike.
- Haad Tian: Situated around 39km from Koh Tao, Haad Tian is a quaint village that provides a perfect blend of beach relaxation and outdoor exploration. Although moderately seasonal, visitor numbers peak from January to March, with a slight dip in May and October to November. The village is known for its vibrant market scene and stunning beaches, making it an ideal destination for swimming and shopping. Additionally, the nearby hot springs and national park offer unique attractions for nature enthusiasts, providing a delightful experience for those who venture to this charming locale.
- Ao Thian Og: Located in the vicinity of Koh Tao, Ao Thian Og is a captivating neighbourhood characterised by its stunning scenery and outdoor opportunities. With visitor numbers peaking from January to March and declining from September to November, this area provides a tranquil setting for beach lovers and adventurers alike. Popular activities include visiting local markets and enjoying a round of mini golf, while the proximity to beautiful beaches and national parks adds to its allure. Ao Thian Og is an excellent choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the laid-back island vibe.
Things to do in Koh Tao
Shopping
In Koh Tao, you can explore charming local shops for unique souvenirs and gifts. For a broader selection, head to the nearby shopping malls like Central Plaza Surat Thani, if you're up for a drive, or visit local markets for authentic Thai crafts and products.
Recreation
Vikasa Yoga Retreat offers a tranquil setting for yoga enthusiasts, with daily classes overlooking the sea, enhancing mindfulness and relaxation. Nearby, the Spa Retreat provides rejuvenating treatments, blending traditional Thai therapies with modern techniques for a refreshing experience amidst lush surroundings.
Adventure
Shark Bay offers thrilling snorkelling opportunities with vibrant marine life and coral reefs, while the stunning cliffs of Aow Leuk provide exhilarating rock climbing experiences. For a unique adventure, explore the underwater world through scuba diving at various dive sites, where you can encounter diverse aquatic species.
Nightlife
Koh Tao's nightlife offers a vibrant mix of beach bars and lively clubs. Enjoy cocktails at the popular Coconut Bar, or dance the night away at the lively AC Bar. For a more relaxed evening, the serene views at The Gallery provide a charming atmosphere to unwind.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a budget-friendly destination with free entry to its stunning beaches, like Ao Tanote. To save on accommodation, visit during the low season in May to June or November, and book a month in advance for the best rates. Saturday is the cheapest day to stay, while Tuesday tends to be pricier. Use Expedia to find great deals by filtering for your budget and preferences, and consider booking a package that combines flights and activities for added savings. Explore the island on a scooter for an affordable transport option.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Koh Tao are May to June and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to August and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Koh Tao is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Koh Tao is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay in Koh Tao is Tuesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you view the most affordable hotels at the outset. Furthermore, you can refine your choices by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation in Koh Tao with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is a paradise for beach and outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning scenery and exhilarating adventures. Highlights include its beautiful beaches, scenic lookouts, and tranquil bays. Visitors can explore the captivating island of Koh Tao, relax on its pristine shores, and indulge in various outdoor activities. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Koh Tao promises an unforgettable experience amidst its picturesque landscapes.
- Laem Thian: Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Laem Thian, a picturesque beach nestled within Koh Tao. With its soft sands and crystal-clear waters, it's an ideal spot for relaxation and soaking up the sun, providing an authentic beach vibe that invites you to unwind and appreciate nature.
- Tanote Peak: For those seeking adventure and romance, Tanote Peak offers stunning panoramic views of Koh Tao. The hike to the top is invigorating, making it a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts. Capture breathtaking sunsets and enjoy the sense of accomplishment as you take in the beauty surrounding you.
- Chang Wat Surat Light Beacon: This historic lighthouse stands as a beacon of maritime heritage on Koh Tao. Its striking architecture and coastal views make it a fascinating spot to explore, providing insight into the island's nautical past while offering lovely photo opportunities.
Best time to go to Koh Tao
The best time to visit Koh Tao is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. May is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Koh Tao
Reaching Koh Tao from the major airports is convenient. Samui International Airport (USM), situated 66km away, offers nearby hotels like the 5-star Hyatt Regency Koh Samui, 2km from the airport, and Amari Koh Samui, only 1km away. Surat Thani International Airport (URT) is 132km from Koh Tao, with options such as the 3.5-star Wangtai Hotel, 19km away, providing limited-hour airport shuttle services. Chumphon Airport (CJM), located 85km away, features hotels like the 5-star Sara Beachfront Boutique Resort, 3km from the airport, ensuring easy access for travellers heading to Koh Tao.