Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Ko Tao
Catering to a wealthier diving crowd Ko Tao is the best diving destination in all of Thailand.
It's a small island just 13 mile long and it receives more than 100,000 visitors every year.
You can choose to stay on the island or you can make a day trip from Ko Samui as some of
the fast ships make the trip in just an hour.
Any time of year except November is a good time to visit and visibility can be as much as
130 feet underwater though usually averages 50 to 65 feet, except in November when it is
reduced to 15 feet due to rough seas.
There is a lot to do and see on Ko Tao, from snorkeling in Shark Bay to visiting one of the
great viewpoints around the island like John Suwan mountain in the south, Two View in the
centre and Fraggle Rock in the north of the island. If you decide to stay on the island there
are many day-long excursions you can take to Ko Nang Yuan, Freedom Beach, Laem Thian,
Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay and Tanote Bay, which you can reach by road or by boat. In the
last few years more non-dive activities have appeared on the island including hiking, rock
climbing, massages, cooking classes and more so if there is a non-diver in your group they
will still find something enjoyable to do.
The diving in Ko Tao is really top notch and there is a wide range of wildlife for company
including turtles, stingrays, barracudas, small fish, and even reef sharks. But don't worry the
dangers from the sharks are much less than the dangerous driving conditions in the rest of
the country. Not only is Ko Tao a great place to dive but you can also get your dive certific-
ation there at a number of different places. Look for the more experienced instructors rather
than for the cheapest deal as you will get more for your money by paying a little more. Some
dive schools even offer reduced or free accommodation while you are taking the course.
Most of the time you can find accommodation on arrival except during peak times when it is
best to book ahead. The majority of the accommodation on Ko Tao are centred around three
main areas: Sairee Beach (largest), Mae Haad, and Chalok Ban Khao (relaxed). While you
stay you should try the island specialty barbequed fish, a local favorite. Since a large portion
of the population on the island are expats you will find plenty of imported cuisines as well.
