Koh Tao Snorkeling Tour to Hidden Bays and Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Tao’s reefs are the reason most visitors come, and this six-hour boat trip strings together five of the best spots — Shark Bay, Ao Leuk, Ao Hin Wong, Mango Bay, and the tri-island sandbar at Koh Nang Yuan. Pickup is from your resort (transfers cover most beaches except Mango Bay and Lighthouse), and the boat has a roof terrace, air-conditioned cabin, and toilet on board — a comfort upgrade from the basic longtail options.

The route moves between snorkelling stops with time at each to chase parrotfish, spot the resident blacktip reef sharks at Shark Bay if you’re lucky, and drift over coral heads. Masks, snorkels, and life jackets are handed out, and the boat has a water slide and climbing wall for kids and adults who want a break from swimming. The highlight for many is the short hike up Koh Nang Yuan’s viewpoint — steep, sweaty, and worth it for the three-islands-joined-by-sand panorama that’s the island’s postcard shot. Lunch, fruit, coffee, and cold water are served on board between stops, with vegetarian options if flagged at booking.

The guides are multilingual and used to mixed groups, so non-swimmers and first-time snorkellers are looked after with extra attention at the calmer bays. Budget the 250 THB adult national park fee (150 for children) payable in cash at Nang Yuan’s jetty. The viewpoint trail has loose rock and a steep final scramble — wear shoes with grip rather than flip-flops — and bring a dry bag for phones. Water visibility is best December to April; May onwards sees occasional plankton blooms that cut it down.