Everything You Need To Know About Koh Tao
The Chumphon Archipelago is one of the most famous in Thailand. This is made up of 3 islands: Koh Phangan, Koh Samui and Koh Tao. The latter, the smallest of those that make up the archipelago, has 20 square kilometers covered by palm tree forests, paradisiacal beaches and one of the most beautiful sea beds in the country.
Also known as “Tortuga Island”, Koh Tao has become one of the favorite destinations for millions of lovers of diving, snorkeling and sun and beach tourism. Therefore, we offer you a complete guide of everything you need to see, do and know about this island of crystal clear waters and dream beaches.
What to see in Koh Tao?
Next, we want to point out the places that you should not miss during your visit. In fact, whenever possible, we recommend staying for at least 3 days. Thus, you will make sure you enjoy each of these unique corners that the island offers.
The famous beaches of Koh Tao
We will start at Sairee Beach, one of the best known beaches on the island. Here you can lie in the sun, take a dip and enjoy a perfect beach atmosphere to go with the family.
In addition, about 30 meters from the coast you will find a coral reef for those who are new to diving. An important fact is that in Koh Tao there are more than 90 diving schools, so if you want to learn, you can do it without any problem.
Another of the perfect beaches to travel with children or family is Sai Nuan Beach. This beach with crystal clear water and fine sand also offers a perfect lawn and trees area to enjoy a full day at the beach.
The next stop is Freedom Beach, very popular for its white sand and turquoise waters. With no less than 300 meters in length, this beach is surrounded by the vegetation of an adjoining jungle and granite rocks. If you are passionate about fauna and flora, here you can fully enjoy them, both in and out of the water.
Finally, we recommend 2 perfect beaches for diving: Sai Daeng Beach and San Jao Beach. In both, you will have the opportunity not only to dive with sharks and sea turtles, but you will also be able to marvel at its coral reefs. To top it off, you will also have the opportunity to see how the locals fish to learn more about their culture and way of life.
Koh Tao viewpoints
For those who enjoy photography, sunsets and views from above, the island of Koh Tao offers several viewpoints. In fact, these cover much of the island.
Mango Viewpoint stands out as one of the most spectacular for the views of Sairee Beach at sunset. The John Suwan Viewpoint is also worth a visit to see one of the most photographed images on the island.
Koh Nang Yuan
To end the visit, it is also possible to visit the islets of Koh Nang Yuan. These are joined to the island by a sand spit. A few years ago these completely depopulated islets show a new image; one that reflects the extent of the increase in tourists.
In them you will find a luxury resort and the one known as the Japanese Garden , a diving area for beginners. To enter the islets, you must pay about 2 euros and you will not be able to bring food or drink from outside.
What to do in Koh Tao?
Beyond the places to visit, Koh Tao also offers various activities to do. Here are the main ones:
Diving courses: Open Water
If you have not yet obtained the Open Water or diving license, you should not miss the opportunity. Precisely because of the large number of diving schools, the prices are very competitive.
Taking the course will take a total of 3 days, so you must have this factor to take it into account within the days of your stay. We recommend the Pura Vida school, a Spanish-speaking school with a good reputation.
Swim with its marine fauna
This is one of the most outstanding activities on the island, and the reason why tourism has grown so much in recent years. Swimming with the sea turtles, sharks and thousands of fish of its coral reef is undoubtedly what will make the difference during the visit. The 2 most popular spots for this are Shark Bay and Aow Leuk .
Specifically in this last place, even more than in Shark Bay despite the name, is where you can see sharks without using diving equipment. These are not aggressive and are quite used to dealing with people, so you can observe them closely without being in danger.
In addition, you can also book the classic snorkeling tour , one of the most popular, to go from beach to beach. However, if you prefer to go your own way and save a little money, there is always the option of renting a motorcycle and touring the island at your own pace and taste. The only thing that really matters is that during your visit you are able to fully enjoy this natural setting, perfect for all types of tourism.
