Thailand · Region
Koh Tao
Koh Tao — "Turtle Island" — is a small, hilly speck in the Gulf of Thailand that has become one of the world's leading places to learn to dive, prized for calm, clear water and dense clusters of dive schools around its bays. Away from the reefs, granite headlands, jungle viewpoints, and laid-back beach bars give the island a scrappy, backpacker-meets-diver character rather than a polished resort feel.
Top-rated things to do in Koh Tao
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Where to stay in Koh Tao
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Frequently asked questions about Koh Tao
How do I get to Koh Tao?
There is no airport on Koh Tao, so travellers fly into a mainland or regional hub — Koh Samui, Surat Thani, or Chumphon — and then complete the trip by ferry to Mae Haad Pier, the island's main gateway. Fastest access is typically via Koh Samui airport with a high-speed catamaran crossing, while Chumphon and Surat Thani offer cheaper flight options connecting to the same ferry network.
How many days should I spend in Koh Tao?
Plan on ~3-5 days as a practical minimum, enough time to complete an introductory or open-water dive course and explore a couple of viewpoints and beaches, with many divers choosing to stay a week or more.
What is Koh Tao known for?
Koh Tao — "Turtle Island" — is a small, hilly speck in the Gulf of Thailand that has become one of the world's leading places to learn to dive, prized for calm, clear water and dense clusters of dive schools around its bays. Away from the reefs, granite headlands, jungle viewpoints, and laid-back beach bars give the island a scrappy, backpacker-meets-diver character rather than a polished resort feel.