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  1. Thailand 🎫
  2. Koh Tao

Discover Koh Tao

About Koh Tao, Thailand

Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, part of the Chumphon Archipelago, located approximately 70 kilometers east of the Surat Thani coastline. With a population of around 1,500 residents, the island covers roughly 21 square kilometers. Known primarily for its vibrant marine life and coral reefs, Koh Tao has become a premier destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. As a travel destination, Koh Tao offers an array of natural attractions and activities suitable for adventure seekers and those looking to explore its unique coastal environment.

Main Points of Interest in Koh Tao
  • Sairee Beach: The island's longest and most popular beach, offering stunning sunsets and a lively atmosphere.
  • Shark Bay (Thian Og Bay): Known for its clear waters and opportunities to spot blacktip reef sharks while snorkeling.
  • Mango Viewpoint: Provides panoramic views of the island and surrounding sea, accessible via a short hike.
  • Koh Nang Yuan: A nearby island famous for its sandbars and excellent snorkeling conditions, accessible by a short boat ride.
  • Japanese Gardens: A popular dive site with a variety of coral formations and marine life.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Koh Tao

Koh Tao experiences a tropical savanna climate, with a drier and sunnier period from February to April, ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season runs from September to November, characterized by increased rainfall and cooler temperatures. Average temperatures on the island range from 27-30°C (81-86°F). The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the seas are calm and visibility for diving is optimal.

Budget and Travel Costs in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is relatively budget-friendly compared to other tourist spots in Thailand. Prices are estimates and subject to change (approx. 37 THB to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Hostel Dorm Bed: $10 - $20 USD (370 - 740 THB) per night.
    • Private Bungalow: $25 - $50 USD (925 - 1,850 THB) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Thai Restaurant Meal: $3 - $6 USD (110 - 220 THB).
    • Western Restaurant Meal: $8 - $15 USD (295 - 555 THB).
  • Activities:
    • Scuba Diving Course: $250 - $300 USD (9,250 - 11,100 THB).
    • Snorkeling Tour: $20 - $40 USD (740 - 1,480 THB).
Transportation To and From Koh Tao

Koh Tao is accessible primarily by boat, with no airport on the island.

  • Ferries: Regular services connect Koh Tao with Surat Thani, Chumphon, and nearby islands such as Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.
  • Closest Airports: The nearest airports are in Koh Samui and Chumphon, with connecting ferry services to Koh Tao.
  • Travel Routes: Visitors often travel to Koh Tao via ferry from Surat Thani or Chumphon, both of which are reachable by train or bus from major Thai cities like Bangkok.

Koh Tao Ferry Operators

OperatorDestinationsOffersMin PriceRating
2
2
$12.37
  4.5

Bus from Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
6
10:15
21:00
20h0m
$27.06
  4.3
1
2
09:30
11:00
6h0m
$32.47
  4.3
1
1
21:00
21:00
12h20m
$28.39
  5.0
1
1
11:00
11:00
5h0m
$44.84
  3.0
1
4
21:00
21:00
16h20m
$31.54
  3.0
1
1
14:30
14:30
27h30m
$69.58
1
3
21:00
21:00
14h30m
$29.38
1
1
11:00
11:00
6h0m
$49.48
  4.0
1
2
10:15
14:45
7h22m
$27.06

Ferry from Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
12
07:00
16:30
1h29m
$9.37
  4.7
1
10
10:15
21:00
15h22m
$21.28
  4.1
1
11
07:00
16:30
1h45m
$7.67
  4.5
1
2
10:15
14:45
1h37m
$12.77
  4.4
1
4
09:30
21:00
11h0m
$22.11
  4.5
1
4
07:00
21:00
8h45m
$27.22
  4.3
2
9
07:00
21:00
6h30m
$18.71
  4.2
1
3
09:30
21:00
7h20m
$27.83
  3.8
1
1
09:30
09:30
6h30m
$36.80
  4.6
1
2
07:00
09:30
4h0m
$15.31
  4.1

Van from Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
4
09:25
21:00
6h10m
$22.05
  5.0
1
3
19:00
21:00
12h0m
$23.19
  5.0
1
1
21:00
21:00
11h30m
$22.33
  3.0
1
6
09:30
21:00
11h30m
$22.05
  4.0
1
2
21:00
21:00
14h30m
$32.01
  5.0
1
3
09:30
09:30
11h0m
$52.57
  4.5
2
5
09:30
21:00
14h21m
$34.48
  4.0
1
1
21:00
21:00
13h0m
$27.83
  4.0
1
1
09:30
09:30
9h30m
$52.57
  3.3
1
1
21:00
21:00
10h30m
$27.83

Bus to Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
5
07:00
10:30
7h13m
$34.02
  4.2
1
10
09:00
19:00
19h0m
$32.07
  5.0
1
2
10:00
17:30
9h25m
$28.39
  4.2
1
11
07:15
11:00
6h43m
$34.02
  5.0
1
1
22:00
22:00
10h45m
$32.57
  3.3
1
5
06:00
13:50
16h30m
$31.54
1
2
08:00
08:00
9h0m
$46.39
  5.0
1
2
13:00
15:40
14h40m
$31.54
  5.0
1
1
09:00
09:00
9h0m
$42.99
1
1
09:00
09:00
23h45m
$57.65

Ferry to Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
12
08:00
16:00
1h30m
$9.37
  4.4
2
7
08:30
16:45
1h52m
$7.67
  4.7
1
6
06:00
21:00
12h15m
$21.28
  4.4
1
2
07:00
13:30
1h45m
$12.77
  4.5
1
3
21:00
22:00
8h0m
$21.65
  4.0
1
2
09:30
12:30
5h0m
$18.71
  4.2
1
3
07:00
09:30
8h5m
$27.22
  4.3
1
2
10:00
13:00
4h30m
$15.31
  4.1
3
13
08:45
15:00
9h43m
$29.78
  3.7
1
3
08:45
23:30
7h25m
$21.28
  4.3
1
2
11:00
15:00
3h0m
$12.77
  4.3

Train to Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
5
20:30
22:50
18h3m
$42.25
  3.5
1
1
02:09
02:09
11h6m
$46.70

Van to Koh Tao

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
8
08:30
18:00
11h0m
$23.50
  4.7
1
1
15:30
15:30
2h30m
$17.01
  4.5
1
1
14:00
14:00
4h0m
$20.41
  4.3
3
4
09:00
15:30
13h56m
$40.05
  3.8
2
3
09:00
15:30
10h45m
$37.11
  3.8
1
4
07:00
09:15
9h45m
$51.03
  4.5
1
30
07:30
18:00
8h40m
$23.50
  5.0
1
3
07:00
11:00
14h22m
$38.66
  3.0
1
1
08:30
08:30
6h0m
$23.19
  5.0

Popular Questions

How is Koh Tao ranked in tourists?

Koh Tao is a popular destination for tourists, especially known for its diving and snorkeling spots. It's a favored location for both beginners and experienced divers due to its clear waters and abundant marine life. The island offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels, making it accessible to various types of travelers.

Transportation: Reach Koh Tao via ferry from the mainland or nearby islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Tickets generally cost around 400-600 THB ($11-17).

Activities: Diving courses are a major draw, with prices starting at around 9,800 THB ($270) for an open water course. Non-divers can enjoy hiking, beach hopping, and exploring local eateries.

Water Quality: Tap water is not safe for drinking, so bottled water is recommended. Beaches are frequently monitored for cleanliness, providing a safe environment for swimming and water sports.

Koh Tao's reputation as a diving haven and its relaxed island vibe consistently place it among the top choices for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

How much do you need for 5 days in Koh Tao?

For a 5-day trip to Koh Tao, budget approximately 10,000 to 20,000 THB ($280 to $560) per person, depending on your preferences.

Accommodation: Budget options start at around 500 THB ($14) per night for a basic guesthouse, while mid-range hotels can cost around 1,500 THB ($42) per night.

Food: Local meals are affordable, averaging 50 to 150 THB ($1.40 to $4) per meal. Dining at more upscale restaurants can cost between 300 to 700 THB ($8 to $20) per meal.

Transportation: Renting a scooter costs about 200 to 300 THB ($6 to $8) per day, which is a popular way to explore the island. Taxis and long-tail boats are also available but can be pricier.

Activities: Snorkeling trips or dive courses are popular, with prices starting from 1,000 THB ($28) for snorkeling and around 9,000 THB ($250) for a diving course.

Miscellaneous: Additional expenses, such as souvenirs or entrance fees, may add another 1,000 to 2,000 THB ($28 to $56) to your budget.

How long does rush hour last in Koh Tao?

Koh Tao, primarily known for diving and its relaxed atmosphere, doesn't experience rush hours like larger cities. The island's limited size and population mean traffic congestion is minimal. The busiest times on the roads might coincide with ferry arrivals and departures, particularly between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM, when tourists arrive or leave the island. However, even during these periods, traffic is generally light. If you're planning to travel around the island, renting a scooter or using local taxi services are convenient options. Walking is also a practical way to explore, given the island’s small size.

What is the best place to live in Koh Tao?

Sairee Beach is a popular area for living in Koh Tao, offering convenience and amenities. It features a range of accommodations, from budget bungalows to upscale resorts, and provides easy access to dining, nightlife, and diving shops. The beach itself is ideal for swimming and enjoying sunsets.

Mae Haad is another option, serving as the island's main port and commercial hub. It offers slightly quieter living conditions while still providing essential services, including banks, grocery stores, and healthcare facilities.

Chalok Baan Kao, located in the south, is suited for those seeking a more relaxed environment. It has a smaller community feel with local restaurants and quieter beaches, making it appealing for longer stays.

Transportation around Koh Tao typically involves motorbikes or bicycles, which are affordable to rent. Monthly rental prices for housing can vary widely, from 10,000 to 30,000 THB ($280 to $840) depending on location and amenities. Tap water is not potable; residents usually rely on bottled water for drinking.

How much are alcoholic drinks in Koh Tao?

In Koh Tao, the price of alcoholic drinks varies based on the venue and type of drink. A local beer at a casual beach bar typically costs around 60-100 THB ($1.75-$2.90). Imported beers and cocktails at more upscale bars or restaurants can range from 150-300 THB ($4.35-$8.70). Happy hour specials often offer discounts, so it's worth checking for those deals. Keep in mind that prices can fluctuate slightly based on location and season.