Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is a small but beautiful island located in the Gulf of Thailand. It is one of the top tourist destinations in Thailand and is famous for its white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs. Koh Tao is also a great place for diving, snorkelling, and other water activities.
If you're planning a trip to Koh Tao, here are some of the top places to visit:
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Sairee Beach
Sairee Beach, located on the western side of the island, is the longest and most popular beach on Koh Tao. It's a lovely stretch of white sand with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is dotted with bars, restaurants, and stores, making it a popular hangout both during the day and at night. There are merchants selling snacks and drinks and you can hire a beach chair or umbrella. Sairee Beach is a beautiful place to see the sunset, and in the evenings, there are typically beach parties and live music events. It is a must-see attraction for anybody visiting Koh Tao.
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Shark Bay
Shark Bay is a remote and gorgeous beach on Koh Tao's southern coast. It's a quiet and peaceful place, ideal for unwinding and admiring the island's natural splendour. The beach is called after the blacktip reef sharks that frequent the shallow waters along the shore. It's a terrific place for snorkelling and diving, and you can also explore the bay by renting a kayak or paddleboard. Shark Bay is a popular place for nature lovers and explorers since the water is crystal clear and the marine life is numerous.
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Chumphon Pinnacle
Chumphon Pinnacle is a world-famous dive spot near Koh Tao. It's a massive undersea rock formation rising from the ocean floor, covered with beautiful coral formations and alive with marine life. This dive site has some of the best diving in Thailand, with an abundance of marine life such as barracudas, groupers, and whale sharks. Divers with prior experience will appreciate exploring the numerous swim-throughs and tunnels produced by the rock formations. Chumphon Pinnacle is a must-see for everyone looking for a memorable diving adventure on Koh Tao.
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John-Suwan Viewpoint
The John-Suwan Viewpoint, also known as Koh Tao Viewpoint 2, is a prominent vantage point on Koh Tao's south side. It provides stunning panoramic views of the island and its surroundings. The viewpoint bears the names of two well-known local divers who discovered it. The trek to the top of the viewpoint is difficult, but the views of the island's craggy shoreline and brilliant turquoise waters are well worth the effort. It's a favourite site for sunset viewing, and there are various platforms from which to rest and take in the breathtaking views. The John-Suwan Viewpoint is a must-see for any visitor wishing to appreciate the natural splendour of Koh Tao.
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Mae Haad Pier
Mae Haad Pier, located on the northwest side of Koh Tao, is the principal arrival point for travellers. The pier is a hive of activity throughout the day, with boats coming and departing. It's a terrific area to people-watch and get a sense of the ambience of the island. There are numerous restaurants, pubs, and shops in the neighbourhood, as well as dive facilities that offer scuba diving and snorkelling tours. The beach near the pier is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, and beach chairs and umbrellas may be rented. Mae Haad Pier is a must-see attraction for anybody visiting Koh Tao.
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Tanote Bay
Tanote Bay is a remote and serene beach on Koh Tao's eastern coast. With crystal-clear waters and a long stretch of white sand, it's a hidden gem that offers a relaxing getaway from the masses. The beach is surrounded by thick flora and towering cliffs, making for a stunning natural backdrop. It's a popular snorkelling and diving area with plenty of marine life, including reef sharks and vivid fish. On the beach, you can hire snorkelling equipment and kayaks, and there are various restaurants and pubs where you can enjoy a meal or a drink with a view. Tanote Bay is a must-see for anyone wishing to get away from the throng and enjoy the natural beauty of Koh Tao.
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Nang Yuan Island
Nang Yuan Island is a beautiful tiny island off the northwest coast of Koh Tao. It's a popular day trip destination, with crystal-clear waters and beautiful beaches ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. The island is made up of three small land masses joined by white sandbars, resulting in a one-of-a-kind and attractive backdrop. Climb to the top of the island for spectacular views of the surrounding waters and neighbouring islands. On the island, there is also a small restaurant and bar where you can have a meal or a drink while admiring the view. Nang Yuan Island is a must-see attraction for anybody visiting Koh Tao.
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Hin Wong Bay
Hin Wong Bay is a picturesque and peaceful dive location on Koh Tao's east coast. It's a hidden treasure that provides a one-of-a-kind and spectacular diving experience. The bay is encircled by huge cliffs and can only be reached by boat or a difficult trekking trail. The underwater scenery is breathtaking, with vivid coral formations and a variety of marine life such as barracudas, groupers, and octopuses. The water is very clean, and the visibility is superb, making it a popular diving and snorkelling destination. There's a small restaurant on the beach where you can grab a bite to eat or a cold drink after your dive. Hin Wong Bay is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of Koh Tao both above and below the water.
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Mango Bay
Mango Bay is a lovely and isolated cove on Koh Tao's northwest coast. It's a hidden treasure that provides a tranquil and soothing retreat from the masses. The bay is surrounded by dense greenery and can only be reached by boat or a difficult hiking trail. The water is clear and peaceful, making it ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding. There's a little beach where you can sunbathe and relax, as well as various restaurants and pubs where you can grab a bite to eat or a cold drink. Mango Bay is a must-see for anybody wishing to appreciate Koh Tao's natural beauty in a serene and peaceful setting.
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Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint
The Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint is a must-see attraction on Nang Yuan Island, right off the northwest coast of Koh Tao. It provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding oceans and islands. The trek to the viewpoint is strenuous, but the views of the island's distinctive land formation and the crystal-clear waters below are well worth the effort. There are various platforms from which to rest and take in the breathtaking scenery, and it's a favourite place to watch the sunset. Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint is a must-see for everyone who wants to see the natural beauty of Koh Tao and its nearby islands.
