The Island of Koh Tao

Secluded from outside influences due to its natural barriers, Koh Tao was barely populated when His Majesty King Rama V visited in 1899. He must have seen a breathtaking paradise because he left his monogram on a huge boulder, which still can be witnessed on the Island’s longest beach. Due to the remoteness of the Island, it was used as a political prison from 1933 until 1947. Since then, people from neighboring Islands started migrating to Koh Tao and lived a tranquil life picking coconuts, harvesting crabs during the crab season, and trading them the old fashioned way.

In the early eighties, the first hardcore backpackers discovered the Island. They arrived hitch-hiking aboard local fishing boats and via word-of-mouth, soon became known as a tropical paradise. At first Koh Tao did not have much else to offer other than its pristine nature; both on land and underwater.

Since the diving pioneers of the Island began introducing the joy of diving to the travelers in the late eighties, the reputation for quality diving education has grown and it has become a major destination for those who love the underwater world and strive to explore what it has to offer.

The shoreline of this small (21 sq km) Island consists of white, sandy beaches with palm trees and impressive granite cliffs. Inland, you can find mountains covered by a tropical rain forest. The climate is tropical and the water temperature varies from 27-32 degrees Celsius.

The main villages of Mae Haad and Sairee offers Thai and International restaurants, a post office, a bank, several ATMs, internet services, medical centers, travel agents and plenty of opportunities for shopping. In the evening you can enjoy a tropical cocktail at one of the beach bars while watching the sunset. The nearest airport is on Koh Samui, from there several speedboats and ferries connect the two Islands. On the mainland the easiest access is from Chumphon, by night boat or speed/express boat in the morning.


Koh Tao Beaches

If you like white sand, blue water and beach life - then you have found heaven on earth. Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan offers sun, sea and fun for all travelers whether you prefer a bit of action or a want something at a slightly slower pace. Below you fill find a short description of the most accessible and beautiful beaches on Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan.

Jansom Bay

Also known as Paradise Bay, this small cove is a treasure for anyone wanting a bit of solitude and beautiful snorkeling. Jansom Bay is absolutely magnificent with crystal clear water, crisp white sand and lots of coconut palms. Protected most of the year it also offers good swimming for kids and adults alike.

Sairee Beach

Facing the mainland, which you can see on a clear day, Sairee Beach is a long beautifully curved beach, stretching roughly 2 miles. Palm trees and vegetation grow wildly, creating a green border between the beach and the Island itself. There is a wide variety of accommodation and dining options on Sairee Beach, making it a popular spot for travellers. It is also a perfect spot for snorkelling enthusiasts and divers, since the coral reef starts just 10 meters off of Coral Grand Resort's beach. The Sunset on Sairee Beach is truly stunning and is most certainly a superb choice if you are after a bit of action and a lovely sun tan.


Mae Haad Beach

Mae Haad Beach is home to some of Koh Tao's nicest sunbathing spots and to a couple of Koh Tao's most luxurious resorts. Wherever you stay you can sample the stunning sunset and a magnificent view of Koh Tao's Western side. The beach is ideal for kids (being very shallow) and no traffic means even more safety. It's a good place to snorkel and besides lots of tropical fish the world below also offers a large wooden shipwreck, which once upon a time became stranded on the reef. We can warmly recommend Mae Haad Beach for a lazy afternoon and is a great spot to for snorkeling and relaxation due to its seclusion.

Mae Haad Beach and Jansom Bay should certainly be your choice if you are on honeymoon and are looking for romance and solitude.

Koh Nang Yuan Beaches

It's hard to imagine a more special place than Koh Nang Yuan. Three Islands connected by tiny stretches of sand and bordered by the immense blueness of the Gulf of Thailand. This Island must be experienced.

Chalok Baan Kao Bay

Chalok Baan Kao, seen in the above picture (upper left) from bird's eye view is truly stunning. Bordered by deep green hills, the beach fringed by coconut palms and the emerald green water lazily laps unto the white sand. The beach is protected throughout most of the year and offers good swimming and snorkeling opportunities for everybody. It also offers a beautiful view of Ang Thong National Marine Park. One of the major beaches and certainly one of the most popular beaches on the Island, Chalok Baan Kao Bay is home to a number of nice resorts, mostly budget oriented.

Rocky Bay (Aow Thian Ok)

Rocky Bay, also known as Shark Bay, for its excellent shark snorkeling opportunities is perhaps one of the most un-spoilt beaches on Koh Tao. The beach itself is shaped like a crescent moon, around 200 meters long and 50 meters wide. Wild grass, coconut palms and tropical vegetation creeps up upon the beach and makes for an absolutely idyllic scene. We highly recommend that you visit Rocky Bay for a lovely afternoon of sunbathing and an adrenaline rush with the resident reef sharks.


The monsoon season with heavy rains lasts from November until the middle of December