The tiny island of Koh Tao ("Turtle Island"), 45 km north of Koh Phangan, is one of the top scuba diving destinations in Thailand. What’s more, the island, which is the site of important breeding grounds for Hawksbill and Green turtles, is now a centre for environmentally friendly diving practices, including the reintroduction of hundreds of juvenile turtles to the island's ecosystem and efforts to preserve and grow coral reefs.

Once a destination almost exclusively for scuba divers and those looking to get away from it all, Koh Tao is now also a destination for wild 20-somethings to warm up before or unwind after neighbouring Koh Phangan’s Full Moon Party. Fortunately, despite its quite small size, most of the beaches around Koh Tao have retained a charming, laid back atmosphere and bungalows ranging from ultra-basic thatch roof to chic and boutique are available for those on any budget to enjoy the beauty of one of Thailand’s most spectacular islands.

Non-divers can appreciate the beauty of Koh Tao, which seems relatively devoid of inhabitants while the majority of visitors are spending their days underwater, by taking a boat trip around the island to visit Koh Tao’s many gorgeous beaches and bays, hiking to the summit of the island, studying yoga, or simply relaxing in a hammock and enjoying the view of nearby Koh Nang Yuan, a spectacular attraction in its own right.

Travel Tips

- The best time to visit Koh Tao is February – April.

- There are motorcycles for rent on the island.

- Even though the island is in Surat Thani province, but it is closer to the coast of Chumphon. Therefore, the best choice for travelling there is via boat from Chumphon. 

- Electricity, supplied by generators, is very expensive: switch off the lights, fans, and air conditioning when leaving your room.

- Exercise extreme caution when driving motorbikes on Koh Tao.

- Wear mosquito repellant with DEET, particularly around dawn and dusk.

- Koh Tao is a fragile ecosystem hosting over 100,000 visitors a year: please DO NOT LITTER: even cigarette butts and plastic wrappers from water bottles take a heavy toll over time

- While diving or snorkelling, look, don't touch; this includes turtles, coral, and any other marine life!