Which are the best areas to stay in Koh Tao?

Sairee Beach is the most popular area for travelers wanting easy access to nightlife, dining, and beach activities. For a more relaxed and quiet stay, Mae Haad offers convenient access to the main pier, while Chalok Baan Kao Bay is ideal for families and budget travelers seeking peaceful shallow waters.

What are the must-visit attractions on the island?

Nangyuan Island, located just off the north coast of the main island, is famous for its unique three-way stretch of beach and excellent snorkeling. Other top spots include Sairee Viewpoint for panoramic vistas and beautiful beaches like Haad Sairee and Ao Tanote Beach.

When is the best time to plan a trip to Koh Tao?

The ideal time to visit is from December to February, when the weather is dry, warm, and perfect for outdoor activities. July to September is also a great period for diving, as visibility is high, while the monsoon season typically peaks between October and November.

How do travelers get to Koh Tao?

Since Koh Tao does not have its own airport, visitors fly into Koh Samui, Surat Thani, or Chumphon and take a high-speed ferry to the island. Ferry services operate daily, bringing passengers directly to Mae Haad Pier, which is the main entry point on the island.

What local dishes should visitors try on the island?

Travelers should try local Thai seafood dishes, such as grilled red snapper, Pad Thai, and Massaman curry, served fresh at beachfront restaurants. Fresh fruit shakes and classic Thai desserts like mango sticky rice are also widely available and highly recommended.

What is the best way to get around Koh Tao?

Renting a scooter is the most common way to explore the island, but visitors should proceed with caution due to some steep and unpaved roads. Alternatively, local taxi boats are perfect for hopping between secluded bays, and songthaews function as land taxis for longer trips.

Recommended Hotels in Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province | from $25

Top Koh Tao Hotels You Should Book

Koh Tao (เกาะเต่า) is a popular tropical island located within the Surat Thani Province of Thailand, famous for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Historically a quiet fishing community, the island has transformed into a globally renowned destination for diving enthusiasts and travelers seeking a laid-back coastal escape. The island's diverse areas offer distinct vibes, ranging from the bustling beachfront atmosphere of Haad Sairee on the west coast to the tranquil, secluded shores of Ao Leuk and Ao Tanote Beach on the east. Visitors can spend their days exploring scenic viewpoints like the Sairee Viewpoint or taking a short boat trip to the iconic Nangyuan Island located just off the north coast. Planning your perfect island getaway is simple with Tripbtoz, where you can watch real traveler video reviews and access curated Btoz Picks to find the ideal accommodation. Booking a hotel near the main pier at Haad Ao Mae offers excellent convenience, keeping you close to both arriving ferries and local transport options.

Koh Tao Recommended Hotels

Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort
3.5-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Koh Tao Coral Grand Resort is a 3.5-star beach resort located just a 4-minute walk from Sairee Beach, featuring a private beach and outdoor pool. Ideal for families, the resort offers snorkeling, fishing, and various water activities. With 42 rooms featuring balconies, free WiFi, a Thai restaurant, and complimentary shuttle service within 3km, it provides a comfortable tropical getaway.
3.6/5354
US$52
from
Total US$52 (Incl. taxes)
Haadtien Beach Resort
4.5-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
A 4-star beachfront resort on Koh Tao featuring a full-service spa, 2 pools, and water sports including snorkeling and kayaking on site.
US$105
from
Total US$105 (Incl. taxes)
Dusit Buncha Koh Tao by Riya Group
4-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
A 4-star cliffside resort near Koh Tao beaches, just a 5-minute drive from Sairee Beach. Ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts, featuring 2 outdoor pools and a children's pool suitable for families. Guests can enjoy ocean-view dining and poolside bar, with complimentary ferry terminal shuttle service.
4/5317
US$73
from
Total US$73 (Incl. taxes)
Koh Tao Montra Resort
3.5-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Koh Tao Montra Resort is a beachfront resort located within a 15-minute walk of Sairee Beach, offering various water activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking on site. With a children's pool and playground, it is well-suited for family travelers. The resort features 2 outdoor pools, a fitness center, and spa services. Its proximity to Mae Haad Pier makes island tours and transfers convenient.
3.9/5536
US$71
from
Total US$71 (Incl. taxes)
Jamahkiri Resort & Spa
5-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Jamahkiri Resort & Spa is a 5-star boutique resort located in Ao Thian Og, Koh Tao, featuring a private beach and full-service spa. Guests can enjoy marine activities including scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, with Sairee Beach and Ko Nang Yuan just a 5-minute drive away. All 36 rooms feature private balconies and rainfall showers, making it ideal for couples and family vacations.
4.5/5551
US$162
from
Total US$162 (Incl. taxes)
Pinnacle Koh Tao Resort
3.5-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Pinnacle Koh Tao Resort is a beachfront property located on June Juea Beach in Koh Tao, Thailand, within a 5-minute drive of Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Bay. The resort is well-suited for families with amenities including a children's pool, kids meals, and family rooms. Guests can enjoy various water activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and kayaking, along with an outdoor pool and complimentary ferry terminal shuttle service.
4/5219
US$50
from
Total US$50 (Incl. taxes)
Sairee Hut Resort Koh Tao
3-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
This beachfront resort is located just a 3-minute walk from Sairee Beach in Koh Tao, featuring an outdoor pool and lazy river. With a children's pool and playground, it's ideal for family travelers, and the location is perfect for water activities like scuba diving and snorkeling. The resort offers free ferry terminal shuttle and free parking, with a beachfront restaurant serving meals with ocean views.
3.7/5448
US$58
from
Total US$58 (Incl. taxes)
Ban's Diving Resort
3-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Ban's Diving Resort is a 3-star diving-focused resort located within walking distance of Sairee Beach in Koh Tao, Thailand. Guests can enjoy on-site scuba diving and snorkeling, along with an outdoor pool, fitness center, and children's pool. Ideal for families and water sports enthusiasts, the resort also offers ferry terminal shuttle service.
4/5439
US$62
from
Total US$62 (Incl. taxes)
Lub d Koh Tao Tanote Bay
3-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Lub d Koh Tao Tanote Bay is a 3-star beach hotel located directly on Tanote Bay in Koh Tao, Thailand. The property offers various water activities including snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking, along with an outdoor pool and poolside restaurant. With kids' pool and family rooms available, it's ideal for family beach vacations.
4/5337
US$56
from
Total US$56 (Incl. taxes)
Sensi Paradise Beach Resort
3-stars· Koh Tao, Surat Thani Province
Sensi Paradise Beach Resort is a private beach resort located within walking distance of Mae Haad Bay in Koh Tao, Thailand. Ideal for family travelers with children's pool, playground, and babysitting services. Guests can enjoy 2 outdoor pools, snorkeling, and boat tours, with complimentary ferry terminal shuttle and free parking.
4.4/5669
US$64
from
Total US$64 (Incl. taxes)