Koh Tao

Why visit Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a small but popular island, especially for those who like underwater adventures such as snorkelling and diving. However, even if you are not a fan of these activities, visiting Koh Tao is definitely worthwhile, as the island has picturesque villages and offers delicious food options. You can also explore the island by motorbike, kayak, or paddle-board, and stop wherever you want.

Koh Tao Leisure Park

This is the place to come if you want to play mini-golf on 18 courses, enjoy a spot of bowling, or try out football pool. You can also watch a movie at the local cinema, or enjoy a meal at a great restaurant. This park is located in the south of the island between Mae Haad and Chalok Baan Kao.

Koh Nang Yuan by boat

This small, exotic island neighbouring Koh Tao is an ideal place to visit by traditional Thai longtail boat which takes just 15 minutes. It might seem at first glance that it is possible to swim there however, please do not try to do so at high tide, when the strong current can be dangerous and deceptive. Go on a day trip or even stay there overnight, enjoy the coral-sand beach, turquoise water and relax. This island gives you a chance to watch the sunrise and sunset on the same beach! 

How to get to Koh Tao?

Koh Tao does not have an airport, buses or trains, so the only way to get there is by boat. Travel routes are between Chumphon and Surat Thani on the mainland, and from islands Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. 

There are several different routes you can take to Mae Haad Pier on Koh Tao from Surat Thani. The ferry from Surat Thani train station takes approximately 6.5 hours and departs only in the early morning, and the high-speed ferry from Tapee Pier departs in the morning and afternoon with a sailing time of 3.5 hours. If you miss these services, you can take a night ferry from Night Boat Pier at Surat Thani.

• Chumphon (Thung Makham Noi Pier) — Koh Tao 1h45
• Chumphon (Matapon Pier) — Koh Tao 2h45
• Surat Thani (Donsak) — Koh Tao 4h30
• Koh Samui — Koh Tao 90m to 3h15
• Koh Pha Ngan — Koh Tao 1 to 2 hours