Koh Tao
Drift away to simpler times in the diving haven of Koh Tao in the western Gulf of Thailand, indulge yourself with a lifetime journey. The fatigue of the long journey to Koh Tao seems to vanish on the spot when visitors catch a glimpse of the poetic beauty of Ko Nang Yuan islets. Around the island are small and beautiful beaches such as Ao Tanote, Sai Ri, Sairee, June Juea bay, Nang Yuan Island. The Three Rocks, Tanote Bay and Hin Wong Bay are the best places for you to enjoy snorkeling. Chumphon Pinnacles is the best scuba diving site, the HTMS Sattakut Dive Site and the White Rock Dive Site are also great. Have a bird eye's view of the beauty of Koh Tao by reaching the top of John-Suwan or Ko Nang Yuan viewpoint.
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Travel guide
Time to visit
July to September: The best time for diving in Koh Tao with warm weather and great visibility. The island during this time is busier so you’d better book accommodation in advance.
February to May: If you don’t mind the heat, February to May is also a good time to visit Koh Tao. The skies are clear, sunny all day. Whale Shark is common in this period.
Accommodation
Accommodation in Koh Tao tends to be higher than other parts of Thailand due to its small size and popularity with scuba divers. It is advised to reserve accommodation well in advance as if you show up without, you may wander the island for a long time with no place to sleep! Particularly, if visitors plan to take a scuba diving course on the island, then most of the centers here have their own resorts that offer discounts or are included in the package when you book ahead.
Food
Experience traditional food with unique seafood twists in Koh Tao, most importantly, Kaeng Khiao Waan, a green curry made from coconut milk and a variety of herbs and vegetables. The green color comes from the use of fresh green chilies while fish is used as the main protein source.
Other curries to try include Massaman and Panang curry, slow-cooked Arabic-inspired dished with steamed mustard greens, pickles, sweet-sour chili sauce, raw garlic, fresh bird’s eye chilies, juicy chicken and boiled eggs, served with steamed rice.
Transport options
Walking, bicycles, motorcycles, Songthaews, taxis, longtail boats.
Generally, getting around Koh Tao requires carefulness whether you are walking or driving because there are not many concrete roads. Walking and cycling are great ways to indulge in the beauty of this island, but also more challenging due to some certain hilly paths. Motorbike rental rates start at 5 USD/day for a manual, and 5 – 7 USD for an automatic. While Songthaews can be found anywhere during a day, taxis are only available in the main road that runs through the middle of the island. Otherwise, jumping on a traditional longtail boat to visit hidden bays is also an amazing experience, with the price is around 50 USD/day.
How to get to Koh Tao
Air + ferry
There is no airport in Koh Tao, so if you are planning to fly, book a flight to Ko Samui or Surat Thani. Then catch a ferry to reach the island.
Bus/train + ferry
From Bangkok, catch a bus or train to Chumphon, then do a boat journey to Koh Tao. Daily ferries depart from nearby islands, Ko Samui and Ko Phangan, book the ticket at least one day in advance to secure your slot.
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Vivian Nguyen
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