Local Knowledge
Island Guide
We live here. This is our honest, non-touristy guide to Koh Tao — the good spots, the practical tips, and the things worth your time.
Your Stay — Practical Tips
Check-in & Check-out
Check-in is from 2:00 PM. If you're arriving earlier, message us and we'll store your bags. Check-out is by 11:00 AM. Late check-out can sometimes be arranged — just ask the night before.
Getting Around
Koh Tao is small — most things are walkable or a short scooter ride away. Rent a scooter from any of the shops near the pier (around ฿200–250/day). Taxis (songthaews) also run the main routes for ฿50–100.
Wi-Fi & Electricity
Fast Wi-Fi is available in your room. Thailand uses Type A and B plugs (US-style, 220V). If you're from Europe or Australia, bring or buy a universal adapter — they're sold at the 7-Eleven near the pier.
Food & Water
Don't drink tap water — buy bottled or use the refill stations (฿1/litre). There are great food spots 5 minutes walk away. We're happy to recommend our favourites — just ask.
Air Con & Fans
Your room has air conditioning. Please switch it off when you leave to help us keep costs down and reduce our footprint. A fan is also available if you prefer it.
Quiet Hours
We ask for quiet after 10 PM. We have neighbours and want to keep good relations. The nightlife is a 10-minute walk away — plenty to explore without disturbing the peace here.
Things to Do on Koh Tao
The island has more to offer than most people realise. Here are our top picks — all tried and tested.
Scuba Diving
WaterKoh Tao is one of the best and cheapest places in the world to get your PADI Open Water certification. Budget around ฿9,000–12,000 for a full course. Even if you don't want to certify, fun dives start at ฿1,000. Top dive schools: Ban's Diving, Crystal Dive, New Heaven.
Snorkelling
WaterYou don't need to dive to see incredible marine life. Rent a mask and fins (฿100–150/day) and head to Shark Bay, Freedom Beach, or Mango Bay. You can also join a snorkel tour to Koh Nang Yuan for around ฿500.
Koh Nang Yuan
NatureA must. Three tiny islands connected by a natural white sandbar — the most photographed spot in the Gulf of Thailand. Take the boat from Mae Haad Pier (฿100 return). Entry fee: ฿100. Best in the morning before the day-tripper crowds arrive.
John Suwan Viewpoint
NatureA 20-minute hike from Chalok Baan Kao Beach leads to one of the best viewpoints on the island. Panoramic views over Shark Bay, Twin Peaks Island, and the open sea. Free entry. Go just before sunset for the golden hour light.
Sea Turtle Conservation
NatureNew Heaven Reef Conservation Program runs volunteering and educational sessions focused on sea turtle and reef conservation. A meaningful way to learn about what's happening beneath the water. Check their website for current schedules.
Night Market
FoodHead to the night market near Koh Tao Leisure Park for cheap, delicious Thai street food. Pad Thai, satay, fresh fruit, mango sticky rice. Locals eat here too — that's always a good sign. Open most evenings from around 5 PM.
Muay Thai
ActivityWatch a live Muay Thai fight at Island Muay Thai near Sairee — they run fight nights regularly. ฿1,000–1,500 entry. If you want to train, they and several other gyms offer drop-in sessions from around ฿500.
Rock Climbing
ActivityKoh Tao has some excellent climbing on natural granite rock faces. Secret Garden and Mek's Mountain near Sairee Beach are the most popular spots. Guides and rentals available — suitable for all levels.
Thai Cooking Class
ExperienceLearn to make pad Thai, green curry, and tom kha at one of the local cooking classes. Thai Cooking with Joy near Sairee Beach is well-reviewed. Typically 3 hours, ฿800–1,200 per person including ingredients and recipe card.
Wat Koh Tao Temple
CultureThe main Buddhist temple on the island, located downtown near Mae Haad. Beautiful modern architecture, ocean-facing, and free to visit. Dress respectfully (cover shoulders and knees). A peaceful place to visit in the early morning.
Sairee Beach
BeachThe longest and most lively beach on Koh Tao — great for swimming, people-watching, and sunset drinks. The strip is lined with restaurants, bars, dive shops, and cafés. Busy but fun, especially in the evening.
Freedom Beach
BeachA quieter, more secluded alternative to Sairee. Calm water, soft sand, and far fewer people. Accessible by boat or a short hike. Bring your snorkel — the reef just offshore is excellent.