Koh Tao Island: A Tropical Paradise

If you find yourself in the beautiful country of Thailand, be sure to not miss its idyllic beaches and breathtaking islands.

One such island that has been gaining popularity due to the sheer number of activities that you can do in it is Koh Tao ⁠— also known as ‘Turtle’ Island.

Approximately 410 km south of the busy crowds and magnificent temples of Bangkok, Koh Tao Island entices those who want to have a laid-back time in an island paradise.

Koh Tao has an active diving scene. For years, divers have been flocking to Koh Tao thanks to its clear, blue waters, tame currents, and numerous lush diving sites.

Koh Tao’s waters are teeming with marine life and marvelous shipwrecks that can only be truly appreciated by seeing them in person.

Whether you prefer scuba diving or free-diving to the island’s depths, Koh Tao is a great place to finish a PADI course and see marine life up close.

But it’s also a fantastic place for those looking to simply enjoy island life. Expat Bets’ guide to Thai destinations highlights how Koh Tao’s laid-back culture and beautiful tropical surroundings have long attracted expats over the years, with many turning to scuba diving lessons for tourists as a source of income.

The international community also means that the neighborhood is as diverse as they come, and you’re bound to make many friends during your stay.

Other than diving in its glorious waters, you can also take a nature hike to see Koh Tao’s stunning views.

If you want to see the island from its highest point, start at Tanote Bay and walk your way up to Koh Tao’s peak, called Two View.

Here, you can have gorgeous sweeping views of the island ⁠— plus, you can rest and have your fill at its namesake restaurant.

Another viewpoint in the island that is not to be missed is the John-Suwan viewpoint, which is where you can see panoramic views of Chalok Bay and Shark Island.

For people who want to dance their night away, Koh Tao also boasts a lively nightlife that’ll surely quench your thirst for partying.

If you want a big night out, there’s a ton of restaurants and bars that have scrumptious offerings at Sairee Beach.

This is where you’ll probably see most of the people at night on the whole island. Koh Tao is also a great place to enjoy Songkran, Thailand’s New Year.

Bangkok Post reports that at least 2.3 million people join the festivities every year, so it’s a fun-filled event especially in tourist hotspots like Koh Tao.

The only way to get to Koh Tao is by taking a boat from Chumphon, Surat Thani, Koh Samui, or Koh Phangan.

It can take as short as an hour (if you’re coming from Koh Samui) to six hours (if you’re riding a sleeper ferry from Chumphon).

Lodging isn’t a problem in Koh Tao, as it has a variety of hotels that are complete with amenities that you’d want to find in an island paradise.

If you plan to explore the island, renting a motorbike is probably the cheapest and most efficient option ⁠— especially now that 80% of the roads in Koh Tao are cemented.

Thailand has a ton to offer, but if you want to experience nature’s finest but still get to party, make sure that you include the charming island of Koh Tao in your list.

Velysia Zhang

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