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Among the three well-known and popular islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Ko Tao is the smallest and perhaps the most unique. The name "Ko Tao" translates to "Turtle Island," a name given due to the island's shape resembling a turtle. This small island is home to fewer than 1,400 residents and relies almost entirely on tourism, particularly diving tourism. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island and the attractive prices common to the area have made it a magnet for both professional and amateur divers.
Getting There
Reaching Ko Tao is done by boat or ferry from one of the neighboring islands, Koh Phangan or Koh Samui. The island is about a one-hour boat ride from Koh Phangan and one and a half hours from Koh Samui. Note that if you're coming from Koh Samui, the ferry will also make a stop at Koh Phangan.
Accommodation in Ko Tao
Finding accommodation on Koh Tao can be a bit challenging. While there are many small hotels, guesthouses, and diving clubs, you won’t find large, luxurious resorts like those on the larger neighboring islands.
In general, the island is a mountainous nature reserve, with accommodations divided into two main areas. Most of the luxurious villas with stunning views are located in the hills, offering breathtaking views of the endless turquoise waters. The downside is that they are isolated from everything; any trip to town, a restaurant, or the beach area requires a taxi or scooter ride. You can also choose to stay near the beach, which has the advantage of being close to the shores and the island’s center, but there are very few quality accommodations in these areas, so you may have to compromise a bit on standards.
We chose to stay at Haadtien Beach Resort, located in the southern part of the island. The hotel is adjacent to Shark Bay and boasts one of the most beautiful beaches I've seen in Thailand. The resort spans a large area filled with greenery and palm trees, giving the feeling of a newly discovered deserted island. In addition to the beach, the hotel features a large swimming pool and a spa for guests. The rooms are in bungalows, some right on the beach, which makes them unique on the island. The hotel offers free shuttle services to the island center and the ferry pier three times a day. Additionally, there’s a nearby scooter rental shop at a reasonable price.
Getting Around
Ko Tao is a small island, very small. There is no public transportation or tuk-tuks for tourists. The most recommended and common way to get around the island is by renting a scooter. Prices are relatively low, and there’s a large availability of rental shops. Another option is taxis. In this case, it's advisable to try to get a driver’s number in advance or ask the hotel where you’re staying to book a taxi for you. Keep in mind that the price of a taxi ride is equivalent to the daily rental cost of a scooter.
Additionally, some hotels offer shuttle services from the hotel to the center and the ferry area, usually at set times a few times a day.
Things to Do on Ko Tao
Ko Tao is known as a diving island, so the main attraction for visitors here is diving excursions around the island. Besides diving, you can always enjoy the amazing beaches the island has to offer for lounging and tanning.
One of the most famous spots is actually located near Ko Tao. A short boat ride away is Nang Yuan Island, which consists of two small islands connected by a thin strip of sand. It's recommended to visit in the morning.
This beach belongs to the Haad Tien hotel and is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island. You can visit even if you are not a hotel guest by paying a one-time entry fee to the beach and the hotel's pool for about 1000 baht or just for the beach at a lower price.
Himmapan Beach Bar - A great beach to watch the stunning sunsets of Ko Tao.
Restaurants in Ko Tao
The Terrace Restaurant - Located in the Jamahkiri Resort, one of the luxurious hotels on Ko Tao. The restaurant is situated on a hillside and overlooks a breathtaking open view.
Gourmet Dinner at The Gallery Restaurant - This is one of the best meals I've ever had in Thailand and in life overall. The Gallery is a restaurant run by a local chef in partnership with her partner. It is located just above their home, where they grow many of the fresh ingredients used in the dishes. They host up to 14 diners each evening for an intimate and personalized meal. During the tasting dinner, you’ll be introduced to dishes from traditional Thai cuisine, with explanations about their history, origin, how they came to be, and which region of Thailand they are from. It’s an amazing experience for anyone visiting Ko Tao, and I highly recommend not to miss it. Be sure to make a reservation in advance and inform them of any dietary
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