Koh Tao Guide

Scuba diving mecca with relaxed, island vibes and stunning beauty.

Overview of Koh Tao

Koh Tao, meaning “Turtle Island” in Thai, is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Tao is known for its world-class diving and snorkelling spots, as well as its serene beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The island has a population of about 2,000 people and is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations.

Aside from its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Koh Tao is also home to some unique wildlife. The island is a nesting ground for sea turtles, and it’s not uncommon to spot one while snorkelling or diving in the area. In addition, Koh Tao has a thriving bird population with over 130 different species spotted on the island.

Koh Tao also offers a variety of activities for visitors, including rock climbing, hiking, and yoga classes. The island’s nightlife scene is vibrant yet laid-back, with numerous bars and restaurants to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventurous diving trip, Koh Tao has something for everyone. Plan your visit to this beautiful island and discover its hidden gems for yourself.

Koh Tao Spotlights for 2025

Our Thailand experts are constantly researching the best that Koh Tao has to offer. Check out our guides below. We are constantly adding more so be sure to check back often and sign up to our mailing list!

We’ve researched and rounded up the best that Koh Tao has to offer. We only recommend the highest-rated and most trusted accommodation options so you can book without worry.  

Buttons: Locations
  • All
  • Hua Hin (46)
Mango Bay Boutique Resort, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Resorts
8.5/10

Mango Bay Boutique Resort

28/5 Moo1, A. Koh Phangan,, 84280
Mango Bay Boutique Resort is a popular choice amongst travelers in Koh Tao, whether exploring or just passing through. The...
Haadtien Beach Resort, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Resorts
8.3/10

Haadtien Beach Resort

19/9 Moo 3, Haad Tien (Shark Bay), 84360
Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Thian Og Bay, Haadtien Beach Resort promises a relaxing and wonderful visit....
Chaantalay Hotel, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Hotels
8.6/10

Chaantalay Hotel

35/8 Moo 1 Tumbon Koh Tao Aumphor Koh Phangan, Suratthani, 84360
Ideally located in the prime touristic area of Sairee, Chaantalay Hotel promises a relaxing and wonderful visit. The hotel has...
Good Dream Hotel, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Budget Hostels
8.1/10

Good Dream Hotel

15/63-64 Moo 1, 84360
Located in Sairee Beach, Good Dream Hostel is a perfect starting point from which to explore Koh Tao. The hotel...
V Hostel Koh Tao, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Budget Hostels
8.4/10

V Hostel Koh Tao

26/49 Moo 2 Mae Haad, Koh Tao, Koh Pahgnan, 84360
Located in Mae Haad, V Hostel Koh Tao is a perfect starting point from which to explore Koh Tao. Both...
Charm Churee Village Resort, Koh Tao, Surat Thani
Koh Tao
Resorts
8.1/10

Charm Churee Village Resort

30/1 Moo 2, Jansorn Bay, 84280
Stop at Charm Churee Village Resort to discover the wonders of Koh Tao. The hotel offers guests a range of...

Best Prices on Koh Tao Accommodation

For the most up to date availability and best prices, we recommend Booking.com and Agoda. Click the quick links below to go straight to the Koh Tao hotel and resort options.

Koh Tao Attractions

View all Attractions

Koh Tao has plenty of things to see and do. We’ve rounded up some of the best below:

Koh Tao

Explore the Hidden Bays of Koh Tao

38, 8, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84360, Thailand
Start your day with an excursion to the hidden bays of Koh Tao. If you're lucky you might even get...
Koh Tao

Scuba Diving in Koh Tao

24/21 Moo 2, Mae Haad, ตำบล เกาะเต่า อำเภอเกาะพะงัน สุราษฎร์ธานี 84280, Thailand
Explore the beautiful marine life and coral reefs in the Gulf of Thailand through scuba diving. This activity will get...
Koh Tao

Snorkeling Adventure

3/91 เกาะเต่า Tambon Ko Tao, Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani 84360, Thailand
Avoid the crowds by exploring the coral reefs around the best spots of Koh Tao. You will also board on...

Book Tours & Activities

Koh Tao Location Map

Popular Thailand Destinations

View All Destinations

Chiang Mai

Thailand's biggest capital in the North with many historical sites and amazing natural scenery.

shallow focus photo of Gautama Buddha statue

Hua Hin

Close to Bangkok, a popular and easy destination for families and retirees.

Khao Lak

Popular for families with plenty of natural beauty and scuba diving.

Koh Lanta

A more relaxed island vibe with stunning beauty and beautiful natural parks

Koh Phangan

Home to the famous full moon party and a spiritual hotspot.

Koh Samui

Popular holiday destination with stunning white sand beaches and turquoise oceans.

Koh Tao

Scuba diving mecca with relaxed, island vibes and stunning beauty.

Pai

Laid-back vibes and stunning scenery up in the mountains of Northern Thailand

Pattaya

Thailand's classic holiday destination, famous for it's nightlife and beautiful beaches

aerial view of city buildings near sea during daytime