Beach Life on Koh Tao

One of the beauties of Koh Tao is the great variation in the coastline, from long sandy beaches to rugged rocky cliffs. This makes for great diving and snorkeling, along with the benefit of having great places for no divers to enjoy the sea activities on the surface. The opportunities for wind surfing and water skiing are all

On the west coast, which is the main area of development there is on long stretch of sand, which in total has Mae Haad Bay in the south, near the Ship Wreck diving site, and Mae had Village. This is the centre and heart of Koh Tao. The hotels here are grouped around the pier – this is a good place to stay if you want to keep some distance away from the slightly noisier areas along the coast. 

In the centre of Sairee Bay is the famous King Rama V boulder, and this should be treated with respect, as should anything connected with Royalty in Thailand. Sairee Beach and Sairee village with some good resorts in Lotus Resort and Coral Grand.

The east coast of Tao has a lovely bay called Hin Wong, and another good diving area at the Hin Wong Pinnacle. At the south of the island there are some deep sheltered coves at Saan Jao Beach, and Tah Tah Bay. Around the headland is Than Og Bay where yet more outstanding beaches and scenery await the visitor. At the south eastern tip of the island is Sai Daeng with a couple of quite exclusive resorts and spas. The expensive but stunning Jamakhri Resort is situated here.

All the sandy spots on Koh Tao have plenty of places to eat and drink should the need arise, although some of the resort hotels are built into rocky outcrops  so getting anywhere else can be difficult. The best bet is to make your way to one of the more popular beaches and spend a day relaxing, swimming and enjoying the experience. Janson Bay is a good example of a hotel, the Charm Churee,  where the location is fantastic but it is a bit restrictive in where you can go other than the private bay, with a ten minute walk to the nearest amenities. This might be fine in the daytime but not so great at night!