13.04.2026.
Koh Tao is a small but sweet island, literally meaning the „turtle island“. Though I’ve only been here for two days, it’s one of the Thai islands I’ve wanted to visit for years. It’s not that I’ve only been here on the way and Koh Tao truly deserves staying longer. From Koh Samui to Koh Tao, the pace of life slows down in the best possible way.
What I love about Koh Tao is not only its underwater paradise and many turtles, of course. You can also see the turtle sculpture on the beach near the port. Koh Tao feels so cozy having the whole island to yourself. Sairee Beach is so stunning that you wouldn’t want to leave the town.
Experiencing some of its best locations was possible thanks to island hopping, though the wind slightly changed the route. With its energy, colours, beaches and relaxing atmosphere, Koh Tao surprised me in many ways. Koh Tao shares the same slow, relaxed energy as other Thai islands like Koh Lanta.
How to come to Koh Tao
I took a night bus from Bangkok and arrived around 3 pm. Though feeling tired from travelling, it was a cozy feeling to see the streets full of amazing bars and shops.
If you’re visiting Koh Samui, you can take the ferry from the Lomprayah pier.
The nearest airport is on Koh Samui, one of the prettiest I’ve seen. It can be quite expensive going directly to Koh Samui, so it’s advisable to land in Surat Thani. You can buy a ticket directly to the ferry from 12go.asia. It’s a voucher, so you’ll get a real ticket at the Bangkok office.
My expectations of arriving on Koh Tao look much similar to what you’ll get in the reality. After buying a ferry ticket to Koh Samui at a hotel I wasn’t staying at, I even got a ride to the port.
Island hopping around Koh Tao
One of the best ways to get to know the island is from the sea. Let me first say that we even saw turtles from the boat, they were so big.
That’s why I booked the trip, which would lead to Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint and all around Koh Tao. It was a wonderful opportunity to meet the people and enjoy the turquoise waters, creating a paradise feeling.
Due to the wind (which wasn’t so strong in my opinion), the tour was shortened. That’s why we didn’t visit John Suwan’s viewpoint, which is a highlight of Koh Tao.
Having a boat trip in Thailand gives you a wonderful chance to meet people. As we exchange the seats, going from the stairs to the benches and checking the view, it’s a lot of fun.
With the longtail boat, it took us about 30 minutes to arrive at Koh Nang Yuan island. Lasting from 12h to 17h, this trip was pretty relaxing and gave us time to catch up on sleep. We had lunch on the boat with some fruits and cookies the whole day.
Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint
One of the most impressive viewpoints around Koh Tao is on the island Koh Nan Yuan. From the viewpoint, you can enjoy the panorama of three connected islands, which looks like paradise upon arrival. With the turquoise waters that bring together islands into one perfect picture postcard, it’s just breathtaking.
The colours are truly captivating, blending the bright blue into the deep turquoise, deeping on the light.
To the viewpoint, there’s a 30-minute walk from the boat and often there will be crowds. Take this into account when arriving with the tour to arrive first to the viewpoint. Surrounded by the shade and sea, it wasn’t even so hot to climb to the top.
John Suwan viewpoint
If you’re looking one more viewpoint worth visiting, John Suwan is a fantastic choice. The view is slightly similar to the one from Koh Nan Yuan island. From above, you’ll see both sides of the island and completely different perspective of Koh Tao.
It doesn’t take long to ascend, about 20 minutes, but it can be a bit steep. Going up is definitely something to count on- especially if you like photos or a moment of peace with an ocean view. Take into account that you will need to pay a small entrance fee, about 50 baht. The trail is quite narrow in most places, so have the proper shoes.
Passing by the Mango Bay
During the boat ride, we passed by the Mango Bay. Though we didn’t stop so close, even from a distance it looks like a hidden paradise. This is one of the most popular locations for snorkelling with the crystal-clear sea and rich underwater world.
Tanote Bay & luxury pools
One of the places I wanted to visit is Tanote Bay. Tanote Bay is known by its peaceful atmosphere, coral reefs and amazing rocks that frame the beaches. There are several beautiful villas, where you can visit the luxury pools. The hostel I was staying at offered the tour to Tanote Bay, but soon enough changed the dates.
Sairee Beach & Koh Tao town vibe
Sairee Beach is one of the most vibrant places on the island. The town is full of amazing bars, restaurants and street vendors.
Having a special vibe, Sairee Beach looks so authentic. Though it’s right in the town, this pretty beach seems to belong to some secluded place. Having such a relaxing energy, it’s an ideal place not to search for more.
Watching the sunset feels like a fairy tale, while you’re resting on the nearby swing or some rocks. During the evening, it’s quite peaceful thanks to the nearby hotels protecting the entrance. Closer to the town, it might feel more the party vibe as close as it gets to some bars.
What would I do differently on Koh Tao
Besides staying longer, I would search for a more peaceful accommodation. After checking The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel, I would have a chance to be closer to John Suwan viewpoint.
There’s a big difference between budget accommodation and nicer hostels that tend to have higher prices. Koh Tao is a place to slow down and perhaps most important, not try to see everything.
Staying longer will allow you to visit the other viewpoints, some of them stretching in the middle of the island. Exploring the hidden beaches gives you a reason to take your time.
Final thoughts
Koh Tao might not be the longest destination on my journey, but had such a deep impression. Seeing the incredible sea colours and amazing viewpoints, it’s nothing shorter than paradise. If you have even more time, allow yourself to breathe this tropical air and just enjoy.
PIN IT FOR LATER:
Koh Tao has been on my list for so long, and this just made me want to go even more! That Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint looks absolutely incredible, those colors and the three islands connected together are just unreal. I love how you described the relaxed vibe of the island, it sounds like the perfect place to slow down for a few days. Such a helpful guide, especially the tips about the boat trips and viewpoints!
The colors you see from these viewpoints on Koh Tao look beautiful. A relaxed visit to the island sounds wonderful!