Koh Tao (เกาะเต่า) is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand known for turquoise water, coral reefs and laid-back village life. Whether you’re here to learn to dive, chase viewpoints, or just find the perfect sunset on Sairee Beach, this guide keeps everything up to date — how to get here, when to visit, the best beaches, dive sites, places to eat, and practical tips to make your trip easy.

Plan Your Trip (2-button CTA)

• Getting Here: Fly to Koh Samui (USM) with Bangkok Airways, then connect by high-speed ferry — or travel via Surat Thani or Chumphon by bus/train + ferry. Schedules change seasonally; always recheck times before you go. → Read the full guide Bangkok AirwaysDirect FerriesSiamTickets

• When to Visit: Expect warm temps year-round; sea conditions vary. Calm, clear water is common Jan–May and July–Sep; the monsoon usually peaks late Oct–Nov. → Weather tips

Beaches & Viewpoints
From Sairee (long sunsets and beach bars) to Ao Leuk (calm, clear, fishy) and Tanote (granite boulders & snorkel from shore), beaches are close and easy to hop between. Don’t miss John-Suwan Viewpoint for that classic two-bay panorama, and consider a half-day trip to Koh Nang Yuan for the famous sandbar view. → Explore beaches & viewpoints

Diving & Snorkeling
Koh Tao is one of the world’s most popular places to learn to dive and it’s equally great for fun dives. Highlights include Chumphon Pinnacle, Southwest Pinnacle, White Rock, Shark Island, and (on day trips) Sail Rock. Expect schools of barracuda, batfish, and the odd whale shark in season. → Dive guide & schools Justyn Jen

Things To Do (beyond diving)
Take a Thai cooking class, try Muay Thai or yoga, rent a kayak/SUP, book a snorkel tour, or just café-hop in Sairee. Nights are easygoing — sunset bars on the beach and occasional fire shows. → See all activities

Food & Nightlife
You’ll find great local Thai food, seafood grills on the beach, vegan cafés, and a handful of popular bars. We keep an updated short-list so you can avoid decision fatigue. → Where to eat & drink

Practical Info
ATMs & money exchange locations, SIM cards & eSIM, clinics & pharmacies, motorbike rental tips, and island etiquette (reef-safe sunscreen, no stepping on coral, take your trash). → Essential tips

What’s New on Koh Tao

• Ferry frequency increases around peak weeks; confirm departures a day before travel. → Latest ferries Direct Ferries

• Nang Yuan viewpoint limit: arrive early/late to avoid crowds; entry fee applies.