Koh Tao, a heaven for divers
Koh Tao (Tao island) is a small bean-shape island with an area of 21 square kilometers, located 45 km. north of Phangan island, Gulf of Thailand. The island is famous among the backpacker tourists and divers from around the world. In 2015, Tripadvisor has ranked Koh Tao as 1 out of 10 top islands from Traveler’s Choice Islands poll. Also, Lonely Planet's poll gives title of "The best places of scuba dive training" to Koh Tao. Koh Tao has more than 20 snorkeling and diving spots around the island which make it the ideal location for snorkeling, scuba diving and free diving.
In 1943, Koh Tao was used as a prison that held political prisoners until it was close down and abandon. After that, the locals who settled in this island first was the brothers from Samui island. Then, the others have been follow from the nearby islands until 1977 which Koh Tao has become a well-known destination for scuba diving.
If you are looking for all inclusive packages to Koh Tao, we suggest to check at Koh Tao snorkeling and diving packages with hotel and ferry.
Traveling to Koh Tao
As Koh Tao doesn't have any airport, train station or bridge connected to the mainland. The only way to get to the island is by boat which can depart from both Chumphon and Suratthani province. For direct journey from Bangkok, there is bus + boat package by Lomprayah Ferry.
Leaving from Bangkok
🚌 By Bus
It's the most convenient way to Koh Tao. Lomprayah is the operator of bus from Bangkok to Chumphon and ferry from Chumphon to Koh Tao. This method you don't need to worry about timing, just arrive at the starting point in Khao San road Bangkok then sit back, relax all the way to Koh Tao. Check more details and book Bus + Ferry Ticket from Bangkok to Koh Tao
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Bangkok |
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21:00 |
1250 THB |
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11 h |
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Chumphon |
8:00 |
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Chumphon |
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8:00 |
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Koh Tao |
9:45 |
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Koh Tao |
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10:15 |
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1 h 45 m |
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Chumphon |
11:45 |
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Chumphon |
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11:45 |
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8 h 45 m |
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Bangkok |
20:30 |
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Leaving from Chumphon province
✈️ By Airplane
Chumphon airport is the closest airport to Koh Tao which have the direct flight from Bangkok. The journey time from Bangkok to Chumphon is takes about 1 hour. However, there are only 2 flights per day, morning and afternoon. We suggest to take an afternoon flight and stay overnight in Chumphon city, then take the van to the ferry pier on the next morning. (Due to COVID-19 situation, there is only 1 ferry operated between Chumphon and Koh Tao which depart from Chumphon at 8:00 am.) Check for more information at Ferry between Chumphon and Koh Tao
Two airlines which operated domestic flights from Bangkok (Don Mueang)
- Nok Air
- Thai AirAsia
🛳 By Ferry
There are 2 main ferry ports which are Lomprayah port and Marine Passion Pak Nam port.
- Lomprayah port: It is the fastest way to Koh Tao, takes about 1.30-1.45 hour journey by high-speed catamaran. For more detail, please check at Ferry ticket from Chumphon to Koh Tao
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Chumphon |
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6:00/ |
750 THB |
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1 h |
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Chumphon |
7:00/ |
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Chumphon |
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7:00/ |
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Koh Tao |
9:45/ |
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Koh Tao |
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10:15/ |
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1 h 30 min
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Chumphon |
11:45/ |
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Chumphon |
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11:45/ |
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1 h |
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Chumphon |
12:45/ |
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- Tha Yang port: Operating express boat and night ferry to Koh Tao. Express boat takes 2.5 hours journey and night boat (includes bunk bed and dormitory) takes 6 hours journey. For more details, please check at Raja Ferry
🚆 By Train
Sleeper train No.85 from Bangkok to Chumphon is one of popular way to Koh Tao. The train No.85 will be leaving from Bangkok at 19:30 hrs. and arrives at Chumphon station around 4:30-5:30 hrs. From the train station, you can book a van and ferry ticket which brings you directly to Koh Tao. Check more details at Ferry ticket from Chumphon to Koh Tao
We suggest to take the overnight express train rather than ordinary train to catch the morning ferry on time.
Leaving from Surat Thani province
✈️ By Airplane
There are 2 major airports in Surat Thani that we can travel to Koh Tao which are Surat Thani airport and Koh Samui airport.
- Surat Thani Airport
There are several domestic flights from Bangkok to Suratthani. The flight takes about 1.10 hour from Bangkok. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take the van 30 minutes to the Tapi ferry pier for Koh Tao. (Due to COVID-19 situation, the service is still unavailable until further notice)
The airlines that operated flight to Surat Thani Airport
- Thai Lion Air
- Thai AirAsia
- Thai VietJetAir
- Nok Air
- Koh Samui or Koh Pha Ngan
Another way to Koh Tao is from taking ferry from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. From Koh Samui takes 1.30 hour journey and from Koh Phangan takes about 30 minutes journey. This method is more expensive compare to other ways due to Koh Samui airport has only one operational airline which is Bangkok Airways. However, it's an alternative way if you want to visit all 3 islands; Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao.
Once you arrive at Koh Samui airport, you can take the boat to Koh Tao from Mae Nam pier.
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Koh Samui |
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8:00/ |
700 THB |
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1 h 30 min
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Koh Tao |
9:30/ |
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Koh Tao |
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9:30/ |
700 THB |
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2 h
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Koh Samui |
11:30/ |
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Koh Tao |
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9:30/ |
600 THB |
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1 h
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Koh Pha Ngan |
10:30/ |
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Koh Pha Ngan |
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8:30/ |
600 THB |
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1 h
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Koh Tao |
9:30/ |
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🛳 By Ferry
From Surat Thani to Koh Tao by ferry, there are Lomprayah and SeaTran Discovery who operates ferry to Koh Tao. Most people will arrive from Surat Thani airport then transfer to the pier and take ferry to Koh tao. The whole journey takes about 5-8 hours. Lomprayah's boat is the fastest way as the Don Sak (Laem Thuad) pier is about 60 minutes away from the airport. Click to book ferry ticket from Don Sak pier to Koh Tao
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Surat Thani |
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9:30 |
750 THB |
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2 h |
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Surat Thani |
11:00 |
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Surat Thani |
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11:00 |
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Koh Tao |
14:15 |
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Koh Tao |
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9:30 |
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3 h 15 min
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Surat Thani |
12:45 |
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Surat Thani |
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12:45 |
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1 h 45 min |
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Surat Thani |
14:30 |
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The Seatrans boats depart from Don Sak pier. There are 2 types of boats to Koh Tao.
- High speed catamaran: takes abouts 1.30–2 hours
- Night ferry: takes about 7-8 hours
🚆 By Train
Southern line train is also passing Surat Thani province. However, it is not recommended as it is expensive and takes more time than other method. Once you arrive at Surat Thani Station, you can take the van and ferry to Koh Tao which may takes about 7.30 hours journey.
Above are all information about how to get to Koh Tao, the most convenient choice is taking the bus and ferry (operated by Lomprayah) from Bangkok directly to Koh Tao. So, if you’re ready! Let’s go and see what’s waiting for us in Koh Tao!
Landmarks you shouldn’t MISS
Koh Tao is a small island with road coverage to all important places. The best way to getting around island is by motorbike rental. There are motorbike rental shops available on both Sairee beach and Mae Haad Bay. Price range is between 150-200 THB per day.
1. Sairee beach
Sairee beach is 2 kilometers in length with many hotels and restaurants along the way. You can relax and chill on the beach with family, friends and your beloved one. Sairee beach is a beautiful point to watch sunset on Koh Tao.
2. Shark Bay
Shark bay is a well-known site among snorkelers and scuba divers. It is a good place to go snorkeling as you may have a chance to see non-aggressive blacktip reef sharks. However, due to the effect of 1998 El Niño, the coral reefs in this area were damage a lot. So, it's might not one of the beautiful coral reef snorkeling point but it's a place where you can see sharks and sea turtles.
3. Mae Haad Bay
Mae Haad bay, another coastline in Koh Tao where you can chill out and go for a snorkeling. There is a shipwreck which was sunk in 1962 located not far from the bay. It has become a habitat of marine life such as fusilier fish, Blue-spotted fantail ray and hard-lipped barb fish etc.
5. Freedom Beach
Another lovely beach for tourists to relax and lay your back on! There is a viewpoint called ‘Tha Toh Klang Rock’. Going up to the hill and seeing what’s down there is the best thing you should do! Apart from the viewpoint, you also can go snorkeling here as well.
5. Snorkeling in Koh Tao
With its rich marine life and crystal clear waters, snorkeling in Koh Tao is a popular activity amongst visitors. You can spot schools of fish in shallow water and up to corals and turtles in deeper spots.
a. Snorkeling spots in Koh Tao
These are some snorkeling spots in Koh Tao that are reputable for their beautiful underwater scene and a chance to see turtles. Some of these spots can be reached by land, Others might require kayaking, paddleboarding, and joining a day tour.
- Nangyuan Island: Visit the separated sea viewpoint and snorkel at the Japanese garden snorkeling point.
- Mango Bay: is located north of Koh Tao. The beautiful rock formations and white beach make this little nook a must-visit. Getting there on a scooter can be dangerous and the climb down is suitable for people with a certain physical fitness.
- Hin Wong Bay: Wide range of boulder sizes and submerged islets that are home to a wide range of reef fishes, anemones, and some of Koh Tao’s best corals.
- Aow Leuk: Offers shallow-water coral on both sides of the bay, visitors can expect to find colorful reef fishes, and there have been reported sightings of blacktip reef sharks as well
- Shark Bay: As its name suggests, Shark Bay has been known by divers in Koh Tao as the island’s top blacktip shark spotting destination. Following the cliff of the bay, you will find plenty of fish, corals, and hawksbill turtles.
b. Koh Tao snorkeling packages
Save as much as possible, especially when on holiday by booking a joined snorkeling tour in Koh Tao by big boat. By booking this trip with us, you get:
- Visiting all 5 of Koh Tao’s best snorkeling spots
- The big boat protects against big waves and makes the day trip more enjoyable.
- Best price guaranteed
- We carefully select our operators with the most high-quality tour guides and equipment.
Or book your 3D2N snorkeling tour to Koh Tao with hotels and a roundtrip ferry from/to Chumphon and eliminate all the hassle.
6. Scuba diving in Koh Tao
For those who want to take it a step further, Koh Tao is the best place to learn how to be a professional diver. Visitors have the option to take different types of scuba diving courses for people of all levels.
a. Scuba diving spots in Koh Tao
There are 5 diving points around the island which are
- Chumphon Pinnacle: Every diver’s favorite dive spot with abundant marine life, huge schools of fish, whale sharks, and pink anemones.
- Sail Rock: The strong current going down deep into the sea around the rock makes it a place teeming with fishes, an interesting swim through, and an exciting adventure at every turn.
- Shark Island: An excellent dive site for advanced divers, with a diverse range of corals, colorful fishes, and a sunken junk ship.
- White Rock: The largest dive site on Koh Tao that is close to the island and is a residence to sting rays, sea turtles, and moray eels and is a great dive site in Koh Tao for night diving.
- Green Rock: A suitable dive site for deep divers with fun swim-throughs, caves, unique fishes, and frequent appearances of green sea turtles, and hawksbill turtles.
b. Koh Tao Scuba Diving for Inexperienced Divers
If you are planning a trip to Koh Tao, we highly recommend booking a 3D2N Koh Tao Try Scuba Diving package that includes a hotel, a roundtrip ferry ride to/from Chumphon, and a one-day scuba diving course for those looking to try scuba diving in Koh Tao without prior diving experience.
c. Scuba diving schools in Koh Tao
If you are coming to Koh Tao and looking to get your diver's license, here are some examples of scuba diving schools we highly recommend.
- Ban's Diving Resort
- Big Blue Diving Resort
- Coral Grand Divers & Resort
- IDC Koh Tao
7. Free Diving in Koh Tao
A less intimidating underwater sport that is becoming more and more popular is free diving. Instead of relying on an oxygen tank, free divers count on their breath-holding skills to submerge under the surface and explore the underwater world. Learn more about freediving in Koh Tao by reading our article.
a. Free diving package types
If you are completely new to freediving and want to get a PADI certificate, check out this multi-day freediving course in Koh Tao with practice in the open sea.
Planning a trip to Koh Tao can be a hassle, so consider exploring our 3D2N Koh Tao freediving package or 4D3N Koh Tao freediving package with included freediving course, hotel, and ferry ride between Chumphon and Koh Tao.
8. Nangyuan island
Nangyuan island is the closest nearby island which located next to Koh Tao. This is the heaven for scuba divers, snorkelers and also regular tourists! It has beautiful diving spots such as White Rock, Red Rock, Green Rock, Japanese Gardens and Twin Peaks. The highlight marine creature you may see in this area are whale shark, shoals of fish, turtles, baby shark, vibrant corals, reef shark, colorful reef fish, unicorn fish and bat fish etc. Once you arrive at Nangyauan island, you should not miss is going up to the hill and see a panoramic view of the separated beach or locally known as "Ta Lay Waek".
9. Cooking and Yoga class
Even when you are on the island, you can do other activities apart from beaches and sea such as Thai cooking class and yoga class. A professional instructor will teach you step by step of how to cook delicious Thai food. Also, doing yoga class is good for physically and mentally relaxation. These activities are extremely popular for foreigners who want to learn Thai culture.
- Cooking class Thai Cooking with Joy (Facebook Page)
- Yoga Class Shambala Koh Tao
10. Extreme Sports
Koh Tao have a lot of extreme activities for adventure seekers. Starting with water sports like Kneeboard, Wakeboard and the only Subflying in Thailand.
Furthermore, in the land there is rock climbing which will pump your adrenaline to the highest limit. There are several routes for climbing in Koh Tao depend on your climbing experience. Anyone from rookie to professional can do this activity with guidance from the expert instructor who will teach you before letting you go climbing.
11. Paddle Board
Paddling on the board and watching the sunset over the blue ocean is the popular activity among blogger and Instagrammer. If you visit Koh Tao with your loves one, don't forget to try this activity together and post on the social media.
We can call Koh Tao as a tropical paradise for snorkeler and scuba diver! A dream destination of many tourists from around the world, even someone might save money for months just want to be here or someone might want to spend special day for beloved person. So, we hope that this content will help you to get more information and make things easier for you to make a decision for this coming vacation trip!
11. Private Day time cruising by Rise Cruise
Koh Tao's sea and landscape make it an ideal cruising location. The crystal-clear water opens up to a snorkeling heaven. Those looking for a perfect getaway, cruise through the picturesque sea in style, and bask on the luxury cruise like celebrities, we recommend a private cruise in Koh Tao by Rise Cruise starting at only THB 17,900.
Charter your very own private sea excursion aboard the luxury Rise Boat now!
Last update: April 2024
