September 13, 2025 16:18

🏝 Koh Tao Travel Guide, Thailand (Updated 2026)

Koh Tao is one of Thailand’s most popular tourist destinations, located in Surat Thani Province in the Gulf of Thailand.
The name "Koh Tao" translates to "Turtle Island," and among travelers, it is often called a diver’s paradise.
With clear waters, stunning coral reefs, and abundant marine life, thousands of visitors arrive each year, including many tourists from Russia.

✈ How to Get to Koh Tao

1. Direct flights to Thailand (International Airlines)
There are direct flights from Moscow and Saint Petersburg to Bangkok (BKK/DMK).
Connecting flights are also available via Dubai, Doha, Hanoi, or Singapore.

2. From Bangkok to Koh Tao

• Bus + Ferry: Night buses from Khao San Road to Chumphon (7–8 hours), then a ferry to Koh Tao (approx. 2 hours).

• Train + Ferry: Overnight trains from Bangkok to Chumphon (8–9 hours), then transfer to the ferry (2 hours).

• Flight + Ferry: Short flights from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani, then transfer to the pier and ferry.

Bus and ferry bookings from Bangkok to Koh Tao are available at www.boonsirisealineferry.com

3. Via Koh Samui or Koh Phangan
Many travelers prefer to go through Koh Samui (USM), which has flights from Bangkok and international airports.
From Samui or Phangan, it takes about 1.5–2 hours by ferry to reach Koh Tao.

🏖 Beaches and Relaxation Spots

• Sairee Beach – The longest and most vibrant beach on the island, also the center of nightlife.

• Mae Haad – Main pier and primary arrival point for ferries.

• Koh Nang Yuan – A small neighboring island connected by a sandbar, known for excellent snorkeling.

🤿 Diving and Snorkeling
Koh Tao is the most popular place in Thailand to learn diving, with over 50 diving schools, many offering Russian-speaking instructors.

Popular Dive Sites:

• Chumphon Pinnacle – Large schools of fish, with occasional whale shark sightings.

• Hin Wong Bay – Rich coral gardens.

• Shark Bay – Opportunities to see reef sharks.

🏨 Accommodation

• Budget guesthouses: 400–600 THB/night

• Mid-range hotels: 1,000–2,000 THB/night (with pools and family-friendly amenities)

• Luxury resorts: From 3,000 THB/night with sea views

🍲 Food and Restaurants
Koh Tao offers a wide variety of restaurants, serving Thai, seafood, and European cuisine.
There are cafes and bars catering to Russian tourists, offering Russian menus and familiar dishes.

🛵 Transportation on the Island

• Scooter rental: 150–250 THB/day

• Water taxis: For traveling between beaches

• Walking: Many places are accessible on foot, especially around Sairee Beach and Mae Haad

💡 Tips for Russian Tourists

• Visa: Russians can stay in Thailand for up to 30 days without a visa.

• Money: Carry Thai Baht cash; ATMs are available in Mae Haad and Sairee.

• Internet: Local SIM cards (AIS, TrueMove, Dtac) provide fast and reliable 4G.

• Best time to visit: March – October (dry season)

🏖 Best Beaches on Koh Tao

Sairee Beach

• The longest and most lively beach (~1.5 km)

• Bars, cafes, diving schools, and shops

• Ideal for travelers who enjoy nightlife and active recreation

Mae Haad

• Main ferry pier

• Full infrastructure: banks, currency exchange, shops

• Perfect for quiet stays and starting all excursions

Ao Leuk and Shark Bay

• Quiet, secluded beaches

• White sand, clear water, and beautiful coral reefs

• Great for snorkeling and family trips

Koh Nang Yuan

• Small island with a unique sandbar

• Popular among photographers and snorkelers

• Entry fee applies, but the experience is worth it

🤿 Diving in Koh Tao

• Recognized as a world-class diving training center

• Over 50 diving schools, including Russian-speaking instructors

Popular Dive Sites:

• Chumphon Pinnacle – Large schools of fish and occasional whale sharks

• Sail Rock – Underwater landscapes and coral formations

• Shark Island – Reef sharks and colorful coral

• Hin Wong Bay – Diverse marine flora and fauna

Beginner Courses:

• PADI Open Water Diver

• PADI Advanced Open Water Diver

💡 Tip: Book courses in advance, especially during peak season (Dec–Mar), to ensure availability with Russian-speaking instructors.

🐠 Snorkeling
If you don’t want to take diving courses, snorkeling is an excellent way to explore the underwater world:

• Shark Bay → See sea turtles and reef sharks

• Ao Leuk → Coral reefs and clear water

• Koh Nang Yuan → Unique coral formations and beautiful sandbars

💡 Equipment Tip: You can rent a mask, snorkel, and fins from local dive centers.

 Koh Tao snorkeling, underwater world of Koh Tao, Koh Tao coral reefs

🥾 Hiking Trails and Viewpoints
Koh Tao has several stunning viewpoints accessible by foot:

• John-Suwan Viewpoint → Offers a panoramic view of three beaches

• Love Koh Tao Viewpoint → Popular spot for sunset photos

• Two Views → Overlooks two beaches simultaneously

💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially during the hot season.

 Koh Tao hiking, Koh Tao viewpoints, Koh Tao trails

🌙 Nightlife on Koh Tao
Sairee Beach – The center of nightlife with bars, fire shows, and beach parties.

Must-Try: Cocktails, local beers (Chang and Singha), fruits, and snacks

Safety: Do not leave valuables unattended and use only official boats and taxis.

 Koh Tao nightlife, Koh Tao bars, Koh Tao beach parties

🍽 Restaurants and Food on Koh Tao
The island offers a wide variety of cuisine:

• Thai cuisine: Pad Thai, Tom Yum, Green Curry, seafood

• European cuisine: Pizza, pasta, burgers

• For Russian tourists: Some restaurants offer menus in Russian and European dishes

Average cost: 100–250 THB per meal

💡 Tip: Try local street food or small eateries to save money and experience authentic Thai flavors.

🛵🚤 Transportation on Koh Tao
The island has no heavy car traffic. Main transportation options include:

1. Motorcycle/Scooter Rental

• Price: 150–300 THB/day depending on model and season

• Convenient for visiting beaches and viewpoints

2. Water Taxis and Catamarans

• Used for traveling between beaches and nearby islands like Koh Nang Yuan

• Price: 100–200 THB for short trips, 400–800 THB for farther beaches

3. Walking

• Many beaches and viewpoints are accessible on foot, especially near Sairee Beach and Mae Haad

• Ideal for short trips and excursions

💡 Tips for Tourists

• Visa for Russian visitors: Entry by air allows up to 30 days without a visa

• Currency exchange: Best done in Mae Haad, where banks and money changers offer good rates

• Internet: Local SIM cards (AIS, TrueMove, Dtac) provide stable 4G coverage

• Safety: Carry a passport copy, be cautious when riding scooters or swimming at open beaches

• Health: Use sunscreen and drink bottled water

• Peak travel season: December–March and July–August. Book hotels and ferries in advance

🎒 What to Bring to Koh Tao

• Swimsuits, shorts, and light clothing

• Snorkeling mask and fins (or rent locally)

• Camera or waterproof case for your phone

• Comfortable shoes for hiking

Koh Tao is a must-visit destination for travelers who value:

• Beautiful beaches and clear waters

• Exciting diving and snorkeling experiences

• The tranquil atmosphere of a small island

• Convenient infrastructure and transportation

This island is perfect for both family vacations and adventurous trips with friends. Plan your trip in advance, book ferries and accommodations online, and make your 2025 Koh Tao adventure an unforgettable experience.

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