Among the many islands scattered across Thailand, Koh Tao stands out as one of the most renowned—so much so that it's often dubbed "the gem of the Gulf of Thailand." While this small island may not be as large as its neighbors like Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, when it comes to charm, Koh Tao truly packs a punch. The island is brimming with natural attractions just waiting for you to discover their beauty. If you’ve been hearing about Koh Tao for a while and are finally ready to experience its charm for yourself, this article is your go-to travel companion. It’s a local-style guide covering all the essential information you need to explore the island like a pro.

So, if you're ready for an adventure, don’t wait! Start by browsing Koh Tao accommodations and book your flight to Surat Thani via the Traveloka app, where you’ll find plenty of great deals and promotions. Then get ready to soak up the sunshine and sea breeze on your tropical escape!

It’s time to dive into the top spots that the locals swear by—places that, according to them, you simply cannot miss on your trip to Koh Tao! If you don’t check out these spots, you haven’t truly experienced the island. Each of these destinations isn’t just beautiful; some even have hidden stories waiting to be discovered. Let’s take a look at the must-visit places that should be on your Koh Tao itinerary!

If you ask, “Which beach is the heart of Koh Tao?” The answer is undoubtedly Sairee Beach! It’s the longest beach on the island, perfect for walking without ever getting bored, both during the day and at night. Sairee Beach is one of the best spots to watch a stunning sunset, without needing to climb a mountain. As you stroll along, you’ll find cool bars and hipster beachside spots playing soft music with the sound of the waves. You can sip on cocktails or enjoy a cold beer while the golden light fades away over the horizon—creating a romantic atmosphere that will make you fall in love with the moment (and possibly the person beside you). Apart from its romantic vibe, Sairee Beach is also the center for various activities, such as dive shops, freediving schools, and even morning yoga on the beach. It's perfect for solo travelers, couples, and groups of friends looking to have fun all in one place.

Ao Leuk, also known as Ao Leuk Bay, is one of the local favorites for its super-clear water. You can actually see schools of fish swimming from the surface without even needing a snorkel mask! The turquoise water, white sand, and surrounding rocky shores make it a great spot for beginner snorkelers or families with kids. The best part is you don’t need to kayak far out to see the underwater world—just step into the water and you’ll instantly be in a beautiful marine environment. Plus, Ao Leuk Bay is not very crowded, so it’s a peaceful place to relax, read a book by the sea, or take a nap under a shady tree.

For those who love photography, nature, or simply amazing views, the John-Suwan Viewpoint is a must-visit! Located at the southern tip of Koh Tao, this viewpoint offers a bird’s-eye view of both the eastern and western coasts of the island. The hike to the top takes about 10-15 minutes through a forested path, but it’s definitely worth it. From the top, you’ll see a beautiful curved coastline and a long horizon. If you visit during sunrise or sunset, the sky will turn into a gorgeous palette of orange, purple, and gold, almost like a painting. It's a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos!

Hin Wong Bay, or Ao Hin Wong, is a peaceful spot on Koh Tao that locals often visit to escape the crowds. Unlike the more popular beaches, this bay has preserved its natural beauty. The road leading here is narrow, and large vehicles can’t enter, so you'll need to ride a motorbike or take a local truck, then walk a little to reach the beach. Once there, you’ll find crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling—just a few meters from the shore, you'll encounter vibrant coral reefs and schools of colorful fish. The atmosphere at Hin Wong Bay is very quiet and serene, making it ideal for relaxing, taking photos, or enjoying a private swim in secluded spots.

Don’t be scared! Shark Bay sounds intimidating, but it’s completely safe. The sharks here are Blacktip Reef Sharks, small, non-aggressive creatures that swim in shallow waters year-round. Shark Bay is a popular spot for tourists looking to test their bravery by swimming alongside these sharks up close. The bay also has beautiful coral reefs near the shore, so it’s perfect for those who want to experience underwater life without needing a boat. It’s an exciting and beautiful destination rolled into one!

When it comes to the most popular photo spots on Koh Tao, “Love Koh Tao” definitely ranks in the top 3! This viewpoint is located on a hill on the eastern side of the island, offering a wide view of both Hin Wong Bay and the lush green forests of Koh Tao. The highlight is a small café called Love Koh Tao Café, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee, toast, and cold drinks while taking in the stunning scenery. For Instagram enthusiasts, just walking up and posing with the wooden "Love Koh Tao" sign will give you dozens of perfect photos. The best time to visit this viewpoint is either early in the morning before the sun gets too hot, or in the evening before sunset, ensuring peaceful and “feeling-filled” shots.

The name might sound intimidating, but Ao Leuk is actually a local secret! This is where true islanders go to escape. The beach remains relatively hidden because it’s not easy to access—you’ll need to drive a motorbike down a narrow dirt road. But once you get there, it’s totally worth it! Ao Leuk is a white sandy beach with calm, clear waters, like something straight out of a postcard. There are very few shops, but you’ll find a few small bungalows perfect for those looking to relax in peace. The sea here is perfect for snorkeling, with untouched coral reefs and large rocks ideal for climbing, taking photos, or simply sitting and watching the waves.

Tanote Bay is located on the eastern side of Koh Tao and is famous for being one of the best spots for snorkeling! The coral reefs and large rocks are located very close to the shore, so you can dive in just a few steps and start exploring. The highlight of Tanote Bay is the large rock in the middle of the bay, which many visitors climb and jump into the water (though make sure you’re experienced!). Underwater, you’ll see beautiful fish like parrotfish, lionfish, and many others. The beach also has some small restaurants with a relaxed vibe and beach chairs, perfect for lounging all day with the cool sea breeze.

No trip to Koh Tao is complete without a visit to Koh Nang Yuan, a small island with three islets connected by a sandbar, making it a true paradise for photos! The water is incredibly clear and white, like powdered sugar. It’s best to visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid large crowds. There is a small entry fee to the island, but it’s totally worth it for the breathtaking views. On the island, there’s a viewpoint that requires a short climb up some stairs. From the top, you’ll have an aerial view of the three islands, perfectly aligned like a painting. Just one photo here can make your entire trip!

If you love sunsets and panoramic sea views with nothing obstructing your view, the West Coast Viewpoint (also known as the West Coast Viewpoint) is the spot you must visit. Located on a hill on the western side of the island, close to the main road between Mae Haad and Sairee Beach, the view here offers a stunning vista of the entire west coast of Koh Tao. The hike is a bit strenuous, especially the last stretch, but once you reach the top, you’ll understand that every drop of sweat was worth it. The view from here lets you see the entire western bay, from Sairee Beach all the way to the smaller bays. The highlight is definitely the evening, when the golden sunset reflects off the dark blue waters, creating a truly “breathtaking” scene.

Shark Island, also known locally as Koh Hin Chaloem, is located off the southeast coast of Koh Tao. This small rocky island rises above the sea and resembles the fin of a shark, which is how it got its name. Shark Island is not suitable for beginners due to its deep waters and strong currents, but for experienced scuba divers, it’s considered "diver’s heaven." You’ll find beautiful hard and soft coral reefs in vibrant colors, along with large schools of fish, stingrays, moray eels, and occasionally, whale sharks passing by. If you don’t have a deep diving certification, you can opt for a tour to explore the area with snorkeling. Some boats offer snorkeling trips around the island, providing great views from the sea.

Mae Haad Bay is the main port village of Koh Tao, not just a simple embarkation point, but a lively area full of local culture and charm. You can stroll around to admire the old wooden houses, quirky shops, vintage cafes, and restaurants that locals frequent. Be sure to try the roti with egg and banana, drizzled with sweetened condensed milk, or a hearty seafood pad thai made the local way. Mae Haad Bay is also a great spot to shop for souvenirs, such as Koh Tao-themed t-shirts, handmade shell crafts, and organic coconut-based products like oils, soaps, and shampoos.

When it comes to the "most romantic sunset viewpoint" on Koh Tao, Ao Jutao is the first place locals recommend! Located on the southwest coast of Koh Tao, not far from Mae Haad Bay, Ao Jutao is quiet and full of charm. The bay’s curved shoreline captures the perfect amount of sunlight in the evening, making the sunset here truly postcard-worthy. You’ll watch the sun slowly dip below the horizon, with golden light reflecting on the calm sea. The atmosphere is peaceful, with the gentle sound of waves as your backdrop.

Freedom Beach is a small, hidden beach on the southwest coast of Koh Tao, known for its tranquility and clear waters. Locals often recommend it to visitors seeking a peaceful place for snorkeling without the crowds. Getting to the beach requires a short walk down a small hill or a motorbike ride from a nearby resort. Once you reach the beach, you’ll be amazed by its natural beauty—clear waters where you can see the sandy bottom and small fish swimming. Just put on your mask and snorkel, and within a few meters, you’ll be surrounded by natural coral reefs, home to clownfish, parrotfish, and schools of colorful fish. The beach is quiet, with minimal facilities, making it a perfect spot to relax and disconnect.

White Rock (Hin Khao) is one of the best-known dive spots on Koh Tao, offering the ultimate diving experience. Located off the southwest coast, White Rock is home to large underwater rocks covered with vibrant coral, both hard and soft. The area is teeming with marine life, including stingrays, moray eels, butterfly fish, and schools of large groupers that greet divers. The unique aspect of White Rock is that it’s a popular spot for both daytime dives and night dives. During the day, you'll enjoy the colorful reefs and active fish, while the night dives reveal an entirely different world filled with nocturnal creatures like giant squid, crabs, glowing shrimp, and possibly even a resting sea turtle. The dive depth ranges from 6–22 meters, making it suitable for both novice and experienced divers. There are dive shops offering trips here regularly, so be sure to add White Rock to your list for an unforgettable underwater experience.

As the diving capital, Koh Tao is famous for its numerous dive spots around the island. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of spots offering amazing underwater experiences. Don’t miss out on exploring Koh Tao's beautiful marine life, colorful coral reefs, and diverse sea creatures.

If you want to experience the beauty of the underwater world, the best way is to learn to dive. There are many dive schools on Koh Tao offering courses for all levels— from beginner courses for those with no prior experience to advanced courses for seasoned divers.

One of the most popular activities is watching the breathtaking sunset over the vast sea. Koh Tao is home to several scenic viewpoints perfect for enjoying the sunset in a romantic setting. Some of the top sunset viewpoints include Mango Viewpoint, West Coast Viewpoint, and Love Koh Tao Viewpoint.

Koh Nang Yuan is a small island just a short walk away from Koh Tao at low tide. Known for its peaceful atmosphere, it’s perfect for relaxing on the beach or snorkeling to explore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the island.

Bars and parties are an exciting part of Koh Tao’s nightlife, equally as famous as the island's beautiful beaches. A popular area for nightlife is Sai Ree Beach, where you can find a variety of bars— from chill spots to places with live music and lively clubs.

Things You Should Know Before Traveling

Diving Etiquette on Koh Tao

How to Support Local Businesses

Getting to Koh Tao is convenient with multiple options depending on your budget, time, and style of travel, whether you’re backpacking or traveling with family.

Total Distance: Approx. 500 km

Total Distance: Approx. 500 km

From Bangkok to Chumphon: Approx. 470–500 km

Total Distance: Approx. 70 km by boat

When it comes to island hopping, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: When is the best time to visit Koh Tao to avoid rainstorms? The island’s peak season is divided into three seasons: High Season (December-March), Mid-Season (April-September), and Low Season (October-November). Here’s a breakdown of each season

Koh Tao isn’t just an “ordinary” island. It’s a paradise for beach lovers, with crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning scenery. But what makes it even more special is the kindness of the locals, making you feel like you're visiting a friend’s house rather than a faraway tourist spot. Located in the western part of the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is about 70 kilometers from the mainland. Though small at just 21 square kilometers, it’s renowned as the diving hub of Southeast Asia. Besides its famous diving spots, the island’s natural beauty—lush forests and pristine beaches—offers a peaceful, less commercialized experience compared to nearby Koh Samui and Koh Phangan.

Koh Tao ranks among the Top 10 Diving Spots in the World. The island is perfect for both beginners and seasoned divers. You can easily spot sea turtles, clownfish, pufferfish, and even sharks, often without needing to venture far from the shore. Whether you’re into snorkeling or scuba diving, Koh Tao has some of the most beautiful underwater environments to explore.

Now that you’re ready to discover the charm of Koh Tao, consider booking your flight to Surat Thani and accommodation on Koh Tao through apps like Traveloka. With these tools, you can plan your trip easily and enjoy local recommendations. Don’t miss out on the top 15 must-visit spots recommended by locals, each offering unique experiences that will leave you with unforgettable memories. Koh Tao isn’t just an island; it’s an experience that you need to feel with your heart!