Koh Tao, Thailand Plan a trip

Koh Tao is a tiny, but picture-perfect island famous for diving. It’s the last and most remote of the archipelago that continues the line of Surat Thani’s mountains into the sea.

Koh Tao is part of the Samui and Phangan trio, and it’s the smallest of the three. However, this doesn’t mean it’s less attractive for holiday makers. In fact, it takes the best of both the two other islands and brings them together. Koh Tao has the busy vibe of Samui but the laid-back attitude of Phangan. You’d never know that this island was once a jail for political prisoners (it’s a pretty nice place to be imprisoned). But then it was taken over by a family from Koh Phangan.

Visit the gorgeous beaches on the western side of Koh Tao. Hat Sairee faces the islands of Koh Nang Yuan, creating a view that wouldn’t look out of place on a postcard. Explore the rough trails around the island and see what you can discover. The eastern side has lots of secluded coves; find one for a little bit of peace and quiet.

Koh Tao translates as ‘turtle island’; but before you get excited, it’s not because there are lots of turtles swimming around it. In fact, it’s because the island itself is shaped like a turtle – you’ll have to take a boat around it to see what we mean! There may be few turtles, but there’s plenty of marine life to discover. Dive into the clear waters to find coral, manta rays and whale sharks. The current is suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, and has fantastic visibility (up to 35 metres).

Koh Nang Yuan is also a great place to dive, so take a boat over there to try the boulder swim-throughs and see the underwater caves and canyons. Koh Tao is one of the most popular islands in the Gulf of Thailand, but development has been limited to ensure the island retains its charming character and heritage.

Plan your trip to Koh Tao today.