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Koh Tao

Thailand · Island · THB · 10.100000, 99.833300
Family friendly 7.5/10 · Rank 383 of 2 709
Best season: December-March (dry season)

Best for

Suitable for divers, snorkelers, beach lovers and active nightlife.

Best season

December-March (dry season)

Daily budget
$58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB)
For 7 days
$406.00 (≈ 34 072 ₽ · ≈ 14 210 THB)
Koh Tao, or "Turtle Island," is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, considered one of the best places in the world to learn diving due to its crystal-clear waters and rich underwater world. The island attracts both beginners and experienced divers, offering numerous dive shops and schools. Here you can also enjoy secluded beaches, hike through the jungles, and taste fresh seafood. Koh Tao is the perfect place for underwater enthusiasts and a peaceful getaway.
Summer
33.0°C
Winter
24.0°C
Sea
30.0°C
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Description and atmosphere

Energy

active

Pace of life

moderate

Local character

Friendly, working in tourism.

Pros and cons

Pros

  • Great diving conditions
  • Beautiful beaches
  • Active nightlife
  • Affordable prices

Cons

  • Many tourists
  • Rainy season
  • Limited infrastructure
Climate
Summer Temperature
Average air temperature in June–August
28.0°C
Summer Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in June-August
32.0°C
Summer Max Temp
Maximum daytime temperature in summer months
33.0°C
Winter Temperature
Average air temperature in December–February
27.0°C
Winter Daytime Temp
Average daytime temperature in December-February
29.0°C
Winter Min Temp
Minimum temperature in winter months
24.0°C
Summer Water Temperature
Average sea temperature in the warm season
29.0°C
Water Max Temp
Maximum water temperature in warm season
30.0°C
Rainy Season
Months with the heaviest rainfall
May-December (wet season)
Sea and beach
Sand Type
Type of beach surface
white sand
Sand Color
Colour of the beach sand
white
Water Entry
Type of water entry
gentle
Waves
Level of waves
weak
Water Clarity
Clarity of the water
crystal clear
Best Beach
Name of the most popular beach
Sairee Beach
Beach
Availability of a beach
Yes
Tides
Whether tides are noticeable
No
Rip Currents
Presence of dangerous rip currents
No
Sunbeds
Availability of sunbeds
Yes
Beach Cafe
Availability of a cafe or bar
Yes
Toilet / Shower
Availability of toilets and showers
Yes
Lifeguards
Presence of lifeguards
No
Safe for Swimming
Whether swimming is safe
Yes
Beaches of Koh Tao
Top beaches in the area
Ao Leuk Beach
Beach
Ao Leuk Beach is a scenic beach with crystal-clear water and excellent snorkelling conditions. It features a calm atmosphere and scenic views, popular for swimming and fish watching. Snorkelling equipment can be rented here.
Chalok Baan Kao Bay
Beach
Chalok Baan Kao Bay is a cosy, wide bay with shallow water and a peaceful atmosphere. It features ideal conditions for swimming and relaxing without tourist crowds, popular for family holidays and swimming. Several restaurants and dive centres are available.
Freedom Beach
Beach
Freedom Beach is a secluded cove with crystal-clear water and lush greenery, ideal for snorkelling and a quiet retreat. It features a calm atmosphere and shady trees, popular for swimming and relaxation away from the crowds. There is a small entrance fee that includes access to two beaches and a viewpoint.
Sairee Beach
Beach
Sairee Beach is the longest and most famous beach on Koh Tao with white sand and plenty of cafes and bars along the shore. It features a lively atmosphere and scenic sunsets, popular for swimming, walks and nightlife. It is calm during the day and comes alive by the sea in the evening.
Shark Bay
Beach
Shark Bay, also known as Ao Thian Ok, is a popular snorkelling spot with blacktip reef sharks. It features rich marine life and calm water, popular for diving and shark watching. Several clifftop restaurants are available.
Taa Toh Lagoon
Lagoon
Taa Toh Lagoon is a quiet lagoon with clear water and snorkelling opportunities, accessible with the Freedom Beach ticket. It features a calm atmosphere and shallow water, popular for swimming and watching marine life. Suitable for families with children.
Sea hazards
Sea Urchins
Presence of sea urchins
Present
Corals / Reefs
Presence of corals or reefs
Present
Jellyfish
Presence of jellyfish
Present
Sharks
Presence of sharks
None
Overall Danger
Overall danger rating
low
Note

Heavy rain possible during wet season. Sea urchins and corals on reefs.

Sea urchins — details

  • Sea urchins found on coral reefs

Corals and reefs — details

  • Coral reefs along the coast, do not step on them

Jellyfish — details

  • Jellyfish occur seasonally, especially after storms

Sharks — details

  • Blacktip reef shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) — common in Shark Bay, shy and not dangerous
  • Leopard shark (Stegostoma fasciatum) — formerly found at Koh Tao, now considered locally extinct in the region
  • Bamboo shark (Chiloscyllium spp.) — inhabits the sea floor, not aggressive
Attractions

Sairee Beach

The island's main beach with white sand, restaurants and bars.

Shark Bay

Beach with snorkeling and shark watching opportunities.

Dive Sites

One of the best diving destinations in Thailand.

Koh Tao Waterfall

Small waterfall in the jungle.

Best areas

Sairee Beach

Main tourist area with hotels, restaurants and bars.

Shark Bay

Quiet area with good snorkeling conditions.

Must-try food

Pad Thai

Fried noodles with prawns and vegetables.

Fresh seafood

Fresh fish, prawns and squid.

Where to go next

Koh Phangan

Neighbouring island famous for full moon parties, ~2 hours by ferry.

Koh Samui

Large island with developed infrastructure, ~2 hours by ferry.

Family Friendly
Suitable for families with children
Yes
Nightlife
Level of nightlife
high
Getting there
Nearest airports
Samui International Airport (USM).
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Visa
Visa requirements
not required (up to 30 days)
Best Season
Months with the most comfortable weather
December-March (dry season)
Accommodation
Hostel (Dorm Bed)
Average price for a hostel dorm bed
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 420 THB
3-Star Hotel
Average price for a 3-star hotel room
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 225 THB
4-Star Hotel
Average price for a 4-star hotel room
$70.00
≈ 5 874 ₽ · ≈ 2 450 THB
5-Star Hotel
Average price for a 5-star hotel room
$120.00
≈ 10 070 ₽ · ≈ 4 200 THB
Villa / House
Average nightly rate for a villa or house
$60.00
≈ 5 035 ₽ · ≈ 2 100 THB
Apartment
Average nightly rate for an apartment
$35.00
≈ 2 937 ₽ · ≈ 1 225 THB
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Food and drinks
Lunch at a Cafe
Average price for lunch at a casual cafe
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 210 THB
Dinner at a Restaurant
Average check for dinner at a nice restaurant
$15.00
≈ 1 259 ₽ · ≈ 525 THB
Coffee (Cappuccino)
Average price for a cappuccino
$3.00
≈ 252 ₽ · ≈ 105 THB
Beer (0.5L)
Average price for a 0.5L beer
$2.50
≈ 210 ₽ · ≈ 88 THB
Water (1.5L)
Average price for a 1.5L bottle of water
$1.00
≈ 84 ₽ · ≈ 35 THB
Pizza
Average price for a pizza
$8.00
≈ 671 ₽ · ≈ 280 THB
Burger
Average price for a burger
$6.00
≈ 504 ₽ · ≈ 210 THB
Dessert
Average price for a dessert
$4.00
≈ 336 ₽ · ≈ 140 THB
Fast Food Combo
Average price for a fast food combo
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Transport
Airport Taxi
Average taxi fare from the airport to the city centre
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 700 THB
Public Transport
Average price for a single public transport ticket
$0.50
≈ 42 ₽ · ≈ 18 THB
Short Taxi Ride
Average fare for a short taxi ride
$5.00
≈ 420 ₽ · ≈ 175 THB
Car Rental (per day)
Average daily rate for an economy car rental
$30.00
≈ 2 518 ₽ · ≈ 1 050 THB
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Activities and rentals
Bike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a bike or scooter
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 350 THB
Motorbike / Scooter Rental
Average daily rate for a motorbike or scooter
$12.00
≈ 1 007 ₽ · ≈ 420 THB
Excursion
Average price for an organised excursion
$25.00
≈ 2 098 ₽ · ≈ 875 THB
Yacht / Boat Cruise
Average price for a boat cruise
$50.00
≈ 4 196 ₽ · ≈ 1 750 THB
Tiqets — museums & landmarks Koh Tao Partner
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Shopping
Shopping
Average amount spent on shopping
$20.00
≈ 1 678 ₽ · ≈ 700 THB
Souvenirs
Average amount spent on souvenirs
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 350 THB
Tourist SIM / Internet
Average price for a tourist SIM card
$10.00
≈ 839 ₽ · ≈ 350 THB
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Frequently asked questions
Koh Tao: when is the best time to go?
The best season for a holiday is December-March (dry season). At this time of year the weather is the most comfortable: minimal chance of rain, moderate humidity and optimal air temperature. This is also when the tourist infrastructure runs at full capacity — all hotels, restaurants and entertainment are open. If you want to save money, consider the period right after the high season ends: accommodation prices are lower, and the weather is still pleasant. You can check the temperature by month in the match-by-month tool.
Koh Tao: what is the weather like in summer?
In summer, the air warms up to an average of +33.0°C, during the day — up to +32.0°C. This is a great time for beach holidays and long walks. Sunscreen is recommended during the peak hours from 11:00 to 16:00.
Koh Tao: what is the weather like in winter?
In winter, the air temperature stays around +24.0°C, during the day — up to +29.0°C. For the winter period these are very comfortable figures that allow swimming and sunbathing. Evenings can be cooler, so a light jacket will not go amiss.
Koh Tao: what is the sea temperature?
The sea near the resort warms up to an average of +30.0°C in the warm season. This water temperature is considered ideal for long swims — you can stay in the sea for hours without discomfort. The water is comfortable for both adults and children. If you want to know the exact temperature by month, use the match-by-month tool.
Koh Tao: when is the rainy season?
The rainy season falls on May-December (wet season). During this period rainfall is more frequent, but usually short — the rain lasts 1-2 hours, after which the sun comes out again. Humidity is higher, so being outside may be less comfortable. At the same time, accommodation and flight prices during the rainy season are significantly lower — an excellent option for a budget holiday.
Koh Tao: what are the beaches like?
The beaches here are with a "white sand" surface, white sand, crystal clear water. The most popular beaches: Sairee Beach. The beaches have sunbeds and cafes and bars.
Koh Tao: is it safe to swim in the sea?
Swimming is allowed here, but standard precautions should be taken. The overall danger level in the sea is rated as low — you can swim and enjoy water sports without worry.
Koh Tao: what are the sea hazards?
The sea contains: sea urchins, corals, jellyfish. Heavy rain possible during wet season. Sea urchins and corals on reefs.. It is recommended to swim in special shoes and avoid contact with marine life.
Koh Tao: how much does a holiday cost?
A holiday for one person will cost around $58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB) per day. The daily budget includes: a 3-star hotel, lunch at a cafe, dinner at a restaurant, drinking water, two public transport trips. Flights are not included in the calculation. You can calculate the cost of your holiday in more detail in the trip planning calculator across all 70 parameters.
Koh Tao: how much does accommodation cost?
Accommodation is available for every budget: a hostel dorm bed — $12.00 per night, a 3-star hotel room — $35.00 per night, a 4-star hotel — $70.00 per night, a five-star hotel — $120.00 per night, an apartment — $35.00 per night, a villa — $60.00 per night. In high season prices can be 20-30% higher, and in low season — lower.
Koh Tao: how much does food cost?
Food is one of the main expense items: lunch at an affordable cafe — $6.00, dinner at a restaurant — $15.00, a cup of cappuccino — $3.00, a 0.5L beer — $2.50, a 1.5L bottle of water — $1.00. You can eat significantly cheaper at markets and street cafes.
Koh Tao: how much does transport cost?
a taxi from the airport — $20.00, a single public transport ticket — $0.50, a short taxi ride — $5.00, car rental — $30.00 per day. Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to get around.
Koh Tao: what is there to see?
Among the main attractions are: Sairee Beach — The island's main beach with white sand, restaurants and bars.; Shark Bay — Beach with snorkeling and shark watching opportunities.; Dive Sites — One of the best diving destinations in Thailand.; Koh Tao Waterfall — Small waterfall in the jungle.. These places are worth visiting first to get a full impression of the destination.
Koh Tao: what local food should I try?
Be sure to try the local cuisine: Pad Thai — Fried noodles with prawns and vegetables.; Fresh seafood — Fresh fish, prawns and squid.. Local dishes are an important part of the travel experience.
Koh Tao: what are the best areas to stay?
For accommodation you can consider the following areas: Sairee Beach — Main tourist area with hotels, restaurants and bars.; Shark Bay — Quiet area with good snorkeling conditions.. The choice of area depends on your preferences: active or relaxing holiday.
Koh Tao: is a visa required?
Visa: not required (up to 30 days). Before your trip, be sure to check the current requirements with official sources, as the rules may change.
Koh Tao: how do I get from the airport?
The nearest airport — Samui International Airport (code USM). You can get from the airport to the centre by taxi, the average cost is $20.00. Public transport is also available — a more budget-friendly option.
Koh Tao: what is the currency and how much money should I take?
Currency — THB. It is recommended to have cash for small expenses and a bank card for larger purchases. The approximate daily budget is $58.00 (≈ 4 867 ₽ · ≈ 2 030 THB). Check the current exchange rate before your trip.
Koh Tao: is it suitable for a holiday with children?
Yes, the destination is excellent for a family holiday with children. It has all the necessary infrastructure: well-maintained beaches, cafes and restaurants with children's menus, and entertainment for all ages.
Koh Tao: what is the nightlife like?
Nightlife is rated as high. There are plenty of bars, clubs and restaurants that stay open until morning.
Koh Tao: where can I go nearby?
Nearby you can visit: Koh Phangan — Neighbouring island famous for full moon parties, ~2 hours by ferry.; Koh Samui — Large island with developed infrastructure, ~2 hours by ferry.. These places are convenient to visit on a day trip.

Putivator rating

7.5/10
Overall rank: 383 of 2 709
Rank among coastal: 251