Fifty kilometers north of Pha-ngan is “Koh Tao,” a bean-shaped island a bit larger than 21 square kilometers that is best known as an excellent place for diving. Koh Tao used to be a place where prisoners were detained, but now it is a popular tourist destination of Surat Thani. Though Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand and is designated as an administrative sub-district of Pha-ngan Island, it is nothing short of heaven for travelers who love adventures and diving. Many resorts at Koh Tao offer tour packages for underwater sightseeing. In addition, there are many diving schools on Koh Tao, some of which are considered the best in Asia.

Must-sees on Koh Tao

Mae Haad Beach

Every boat and ferry from Samui, Pha-ngan and Chumporn arrive at Mae Haad Pier The area around the pier is thus highly developed and considered the most convenient place to find restaurant, pubs, banking facilities, shops, diving schools, and some other things that this small island can offer. Yet even though Mae Haad Pier is the most developed community on the island, it still holds on to its old fishing village charm. The long stretches of beach and coves on both sides of the pier are just as beautiful as they used to be. The great view of the continuously lapping waves and Nang Yuan Island in the reachable distance make it very pleasant to spend some time at Mae Haad.

Sairee Beach

This is a beautiful pristine sandy beach that stretches about 1.7 kilometers over most of the west coast of Koh Tao, interrupted in some spots by scenic huge boulders. You can get to Sairee Beach easily from Mae Haad by just walking for 10 minutes. As it is the most popular beach area in Koh Tao. Visitors to Sairee Beach will find a range of accommodation, diving centers, restaurants, bars and shops there. Besides that, there is also a Fishery Museum, the King Rama V rock Monument, a public school, a Buddhist temple and a police station.

Chalok Baan Kao

Chalok Baan Kao is located on the southern coast facing Pha-ngan and Samui Island. The area is considered much quieter than Mae Haad and Sairee beaches. However, it also offers a similar range of accommodations and other tourist destination.Chalok Baan Kao has many viewpoints where visitors can enjoy the fantastic scenic views from many angles of the island.

Ao Moung or Mango Bay

Ao Moung is the only bay in the north. It can be easily reached by boat. The stony hillside around creates a dazzling cove. It is the ideal place where most novice divers experience their first diving lessons.

Nang Yuan Island

Gorgeous neighboring island, Koh Nang Yuan, or Nang Yuan Island, is another point of interest located pretty close to Koh Tao. It comprises three small islands, but when the tide is low, there is a sandbar that connects them all together. Nang Yuan Island is a private island where an admission fee is required but it is worth it. Accommodation is available on the island too.

Best time

Similar to Samui Island, the best time to get perfect sea views on Pha-ngan and Tao island is from November through April after the monsoon season stops.