Gulf Coast
Koh Tao
A small island built around diving. Koh Tao certifies more divers than anywhere else in the world, and the reefs are close enough to swim to from some beaches.
RegionGulf Coast
Best timeMarch to September
Stay3–5 days
AirportKoh Samui (USM) + ferry
Why people come for a week and stay a month
Open Water courses are cheap, the water is warm and visibility is good from March to September. The island is small — 21 square kilometres — so everything is ten minutes away.
Beyond diving
Sairee is the main beach and the busiest; Chalok Baan Kao and Tanote are quieter. The viewpoint above Sairee and the Koh Nang Yuan sandbar are the two non-diving things everyone does.
Things to see in Koh Tao
Tours that include Koh Tao
Experiences here
Add Koh Tao to a longer trip
Most travellers combine it with two or three other places. Tell us your dates and we will suggest the route.