Koh Tao, or 'Turtle Island', is a stunning tropical paradise located in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its tropical waters and lush landscapes, this small island is a haven for backpackers and young travellers who come here for the easy accessibility to the dive sites and the famously low prices. Being one of the world's most popular destinations for scuba diving and snorkelling, Koh Tao attracts diving enthusiasts of all levels who come to explore its coral reefs and diverse underwater scenery, and revel in its laid-back atmosphere.
Life on this island is pretty much entirely geared towards scuba divers, and you will find cost of the daily fun diving, courses for learning to dive, and places to stay, all to be highly affordable. Though once a retreat exclusively for backpackers, things have changed over the years and now upwardly-mobile travellers also stay here in 3 or 4 star resorts.
There are more than 25 sites within close proximity [More information on these dive sites: Koh Tao, as well as the more remote Sail Rock], which means you can spend the morning scuba diving and the afternoon lazing around the pool or exploring the island. Beyond its aquatic wonders, Koh Tao offers plenty of charming beaches, cozy accommodations, and a thriving nightlife scene with full moon parties. The island's welcoming community, delicious Thai cuisine, and opportunities for hiking, yoga, and paddleboarding, make it a versatile destination suitable for both thrill-seekers and those in search of relaxation. Whether you're looking to earn your diving certification, bask on serene beaches, or immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty, Koh Tao promises an unforgettable experience.
We recommend that you book a Koh Tao day trip diving package with us:
Whichever option you choose, stays of 5+ days are ideal. These dive packages normally include diving, scuba equipment rental, and refreshments.
December to February is the 'Dry Season'. Sunny Skies are typically sunny, with cooler air temperatures (29°C), and minimal rainfall. This is a great time for scuba diving, and many consider this the best time to visit Koh Tao due to the pleasant weather and calm seas. March to May is the 'Hot Season'. The weather is hot and humid, with temperatures peaking around 35°C. The diving conditions are again good at this time of year although some visitors may feel uncomfortable due to the intense heat.
October to November is the "Rainy Season', with frequent but short rain showers, rough seas, and occasional storms. Diving conditions may be impacted, and ferry services can be disrupted. The transition months of June to September offer a mix of sunny days and occasional showers. These months are less crowded than the peak dry season, offering a balance between good weather and fewer tourists. Furthermore, it is an ideal time for diving, as underwater visibility is often good during these months.
If you are interested in visiting to see a whale shark, these great creatures are most frequently encountered here in March and April, or in September and October. Check out our dive site descriptions for details of the conditions in the Koh Tao diving season.
Koh Tao does not have an airport so, one way or another, you will need to arrive by boat, either from the mainland or from one of the nearby islands. Most visitors arrive at Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao through Samui Island, Surat Thani, Chumphon, or Nakhon Si Thammarat.
The most convenient way to get to Koh Tao is from Koh Samui. The Seatran Discovery high-speed ferry leaves from Bangrak Pier (Big Buddha Pier) which is close to Koh Samui International Airport. Ferries run 3 times daily and travel time is 2 hours. The daily Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran from Mae Nam Pier is slightly faster. Songserm from Nathon Pier is a more budget-friendly option, but travel times may be longer. You can book the ferry ticket with a minibus transfer when you arrive at the airport or from countless tour booths dotted around the island. Please see our Koh Samui tourist information page for details on how to get there.
Since Bangkok is a huge traveller hub, many visitors will arrive here. There are several options:
Please see our Thailand tourist information page for details on how to get to Bangkok.
If you happen to be on Phangan Island prior to your visit, it's very simple to get to Koh Tao. Simply catch a daily ferry service from Seatran Discovery, Lomprayah or Songserm. The journey takes just over 1 hour.
There are 2 options for travelling to Koh Tao from the popular tourist centres of the south - Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi and Khao Lak:
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Koh Tao offers an exceptional range of accommodations to suit every traveler, from luxurious 4-star beachfront resorts to budget-friendly backpacker dormitories and everything in between. Our trusted partner, HotelsCombined.com, provides comprehensive options to match both your preferences and budget.
Browse their complete selection of properties online, get instant answers through their convenient chat feature, or book directly with your credit card. Every reservation comes with their 'Low Price Guarantee', ensuring you receive the best possible value for your chosen accommodation:
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