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The Gulf coast has a different rhythm from the Andaman side. The calmer, drier months run from about February to September, with the best sea conditions often in spring and summer. The wettest period is from October to December, when storms and rough seas can stop ferries and dive trips.

Water clarity and weather can change from year to year, so check the forecast before you book.

• Sairee Beach is the main beach on the west coast, with dive shops, bars and restaurants along the sand.
• Tanote Bay is a beach on the east side with calm water and a quiet feel.
• Mango Bay is a bay on the north end with clear water and good snorkeling.
• Shark Bay is a small bay in the south, popular for snorkeling.
• Freedom Beach is a beach on the southwest coast that can be reached by a path or by boat.
• Jansom Bay is a sheltered bay on the southwest coast with calm water.
• Nang Yuan Viewpoint is a viewpoint over Nang Yuan island, reached by a steep road.

• Learn to dive: Koh Tao has many dive schools offering courses for beginners.
• Snorkel in a bay: Swim over reefs in quiet bays.
• Hike to a viewpoint: Take a short trail for views over the coast.
• Kayak or paddleboard: Rent a board in a calm bay.
• Sunset drink: Watch the sun go down from a beach bar.

These trips are listed from closest to farthest.

• Nang Yuan Island: a short boat ride from the northwest coast. Three small islands joined by a sandbar, with a viewpoint and snorkeling.
• Snorkeling boat tours: day trips circle the island and stop at several bays.
• Ko Pha-ngan and Koh Samui: reached by ferry. Plan at least a full day, as boats are slow.

• Ko Pha-ngan is the nearest large island to the south.
• Koh Samui is a larger island with more hotels, restaurants and shops.
• Ang Thong Marine Park is a marine park of limestone islands.
• Khao Sok is a national park on the mainland with a large lake.

• By ferry from the mainland: Boats run from Chumphon to Koh Tao. Fast boats take about 1.5 to 2 hours, and slower night boats take longer.
• From Samui or Pha-ngan: Ferries link the islands. Schedules change with the weather, so check in advance.
• Combined tickets: Many travelers book a bus and boat from Bangkok or Surat Thani as one ticket.
• By air: There is no airport on the island. Fly to Chumphon or Samui and continue by boat.

• On foot: Sairee and the main village are walkable, but the island is hilly.
• Taxis and songthaews: Pick-up trucks run between bays. Agree on the price first.
• Scooters and quad bikes: Common but dangerous on steep, rough roads.
• Boats: Water taxis reach bays that are hard to reach by road.

• Is a car worth it?: No. Roads are steep and rough. Taxis and boats cover most trips.
• Driving side: Traffic drives on the left.
• Scooters: Many tourists are injured on the hills. Wear a helmet and ride slowly.

Koh Tao offers Thai food, seafood and international meals aimed at divers. Fresh fish and noodle shops are cheap. Cafes serve breakfast and smoothies near the beaches.

• Diving: Use a reputable, certified school and check equipment. Do not fly within the time advised after diving.
• Scooters: Roads are steep and rough, and accidents are common.
• Swimming: Currents can be strong in the stormy season.
• Sun and reef: Use sunscreen and do not touch coral.
• Medical care: Serious cases often need transfer to the mainland. Keep travel insurance that covers diving.
• Drugs: Thai drug laws are strict. Do not carry or use drugs.
• Royal family: Do not speak or write badly about the monarchy. It is a serious crime in Thailand.

Koh Tao was a quiet island with few residents for many years. Fishing and coconut farming supported the small community. Travelers began to arrive in the late 20th century, and diving turned the island into one of Thailand's best-known dive centers.

Quick practical facts for Thailand at a glance: