Koh Tao Beaches

With fantastic coral reefs located just off shore, Koh Tao is perfect for those looking to snorkel as well as people wanting to learn to scuba dive or simply paddle in the warm turquoise waters. Koh Tao offers both popular beaches complete with great facilities as well as hidden coves which allow you to enjoy secluded afternoons at ease.

Sairee Beach

The most well-known region of Koh Tao is Sairee Beach and therefore this is one of the most famous beaches itself, too. Although there are plenty of pools in the town centre to relax by, the beach is a great spot to hang out sipping cocktails and swimming in the shallow shores.

Sairee Beach stretches 1.85km along the east coast, which is the longest expanse of beach in Koh Tao and is backed by restaurants, bars, dive centres and accommodation. Watch the sun set over the bay then head over to the bars to enjoy a tipple or two!

Shark Bay

Renowned as a great snorkelling spot on Koh Tao, Shark Bay is well worth a visit. Not only is the beach itself beautiful, but the drive over the mountains towards the bay is picturesque, too.

En route to the bay, stop off at the viewpoints at the top of the island to take photographs of the sweeping vistas and fantastic 360 degree views.

When you arrive at Shark Bay you will see that there is now a resort blocking the main entrance to the bay but if you just purchase a few refreshments from the restaurant you can happily stay on the beach throughout the day. Don’t forget to take your mask and snorkel as you can head out into the sea to spot black tipped reef sharks as dusk starts to set in.

Mango Bay

Another excellent snorkelling spot is Mango Bay also known as Aow Muang in Thai. Situated on the northern coast, Mango Bay was originally named after the plethora of mango trees that once grew here.

With shallow shores and clear water, this bay is perfect for snorkellers and those learning to scuba dive for the first time. You can either catch a boat directly to the bay or you will need to travel to the nearest resort (Ao Muong Beach Resort) through the forest and then walk down to the bay. Reaching the bay is a little difficult but swimming in the stunning turquoise waters makes it all worthwhile.

Mae Haad Bay

Mae Haad Bay is the port where ferries and catamarans arrive on the island. Unlike European ports and harbours, Mae Haad Bay still boasts clear waters and is a great location for snorkelling. South of the bay is the famous shipwreck of 1962 which is a must-see for divers. Mae Haad retains its traditional Thai culture, while also offering some fantastic shopping in terms of souvenirs, beachwear and water-sports equipment.

Sai Nuan Beach

For a more secluded spot, head to Sai Nuan Beach. This sheltered beach is surrounded by palm trees swaying in the gentle breeze to shade you from the heat of the day. Sai Nuan is quite a rocky beach and if you swim out to the boulders in the sea you are likely to see a number of species of fish milling about and feeding including batfish, orange spine unicorn fish and yellowtail barracudas. As the water here is quite shallow it is a great spot to come with kids.

Even if you’re not much of a swimmer, Koh Tao’s beaches are extremely picturesque. Many have traditional wooden Thai boats tied up on the shore which make for a quintessential picture-postcard image!