Koh Tao – a snorkelling paradise in Thailand

in Thailand Koh Tao or Turtle Island the undeniable snorkeling paradise. Koh Tao is an island located in the Gulf of Thailand in the south of the country. It belongs to the changwat Surat Thani. The island has an area of ​​21 km² and has about 1400 inhabitants.

Snorkeling in Thailand

Those who want to see more of the fascinating underwater world in Thailand can of course go diving. But for many that is a step too far and there is a great alternative: snorkeling. Snorkeling is swimming with a mask and snorkel (and usually fins/flippers) with the face in the water, where the swimmer can breathe through a snorkel. Thanks to the mask, a snorkeler can see well underwater and enjoy fish and coral.

Koh Tao a snorkelling paradise

If you want to go snorkeling in Thailand, Koh Tao is a must. Not far from the busy and well-known Koh Samui, you can discover a fascinating underwater world on this island with its beautiful coral reefs. In addition to turtles, you also swim among groupers, puffer fish, stingrays, three-tailed wrasses, manta rays and even – harmless to humans – whale sharks.

If you want to snorkel in peace, you should go to the east of the island, in Tanote Bay. The temperature of the sea water is between 27 and 30°C all year round. In October, November and December, rain and wind can disrupt visibility.

Here are some of the best snorkeling spots on the island:

1. Shark Bay

• Features: Shark Bay is known for its clear waters and the chance to see reef sharks, which are not dangerous to humans.
• Marine Life: Besides sharks, you can also find turtles and a variety of tropical fish here.

2. Aow Nice

• Features: This bay offers one of the best snorkeling experiences on Koh Tao. The water is calm and very clear.
• Marine Life: Rich in coral reefs, colorful fish and sometimes even small rays.

3. Mango Bay (Mango Bay)

• Features: Accessible by boat, this secluded bay is ideal for snorkeling in an unspoilt environment.
• Marine Life: The area is home to a large coral reef and many different types of marine life.

4.Japanese Gardens

• Features: Located at Koh Nang Yuan, close to Koh Tao, this spot is ideal for beginners because of the shallow water.
• Marine Life: The reef here is varied and colourful, with lots of small, colorful fish.

5. Hin Wong Bay

• Features: A quieter location that offers a more relaxing snorkeling experience.
• Marine Life: Known for its wide variety of coral species and vibrant marine life.

6.Freedom Beach

• Features: Easily accessible from land and ideal for a day out snorkeling and relaxing on the beach.
• Marine Life: Rich in corals and tropical fish, with clear water for excellent visibility.

Tips for snorkeling on Koh Tao

• Best Time: Early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
• Safety: Be careful of the strong currents in some areas and avoid touching the coral.
• Equipment: Snorkeling equipment can be rented from many dive shops on the island.
• Sustainability: Respect marine life and do not leave waste in the ocean.

Travel to Koh Tao

An economical way to travel to Koh Tao from Bangkok is by train, bus and ferry combination. You then travel by night train from Bangkok to Chumphon. From here you continue to Koh Tao by bus and ferry. All these means of transport connect well with each other. Given the enormous interest in this combination, you should reserve it in time. The advantage is also that you save on a hotel stay. You sleep on the train. Koh Tao is also easily accessible by ferry, including from Koh Samui.

Transport to Koh Tao

1. Fly to Koh Samui and then the ferry: The most common route is to fly to Koh Samui, the nearest island with an airport, and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. Flights to Koh Samui may vary in price depending on departure location and season.
2. Fly to Chumphon or Surat Thani: Another option is to fly to Chumphon or Surat Thani on the mainland and then take a ferry to Koh Tao. This can sometimes be cheaper than flying to Koh Samui.
3. Train or Bus to Chumphon/Surat Thani followed by a ferry: For the budget traveler, there are also train or bus options to Chumphon or Surat Thani from Bangkok, followed by a ferry to Koh Tao.

Costs

• Flight tickets: Flights to Koh Samui are usually more expensive than to Chumphon or Surat Thani. Prices vary widely, but flights to Koh Samui can start at around $100-$200 USD one way, depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book.
• Ferries: Ferry tickets to Koh Tao cost approximately $15-$30 USD one way, depending on the departure point and ferry company.
• Train/Bus: Train or bus tickets from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani are relatively cheap, usually less than $30 USD.

Accommodation

• Budget: There are many budget-friendly options on Koh Tao, such as hostels and guesthouses, with prices starting at around $10-$15 USD per night.
• Mid-range and Luxury: For mid-range hotels and resorts, prices start at around $50 USD per night, while more luxurious options can cost $100 USD or more per night.

Activities

• Diving and Snorkeling: Koh Tao is famous for its diving and snorkeling opportunities. An Open Water diving course can cost around $300-$400 USD, while snorkeling trips are much cheaper.

Best time to travel

• High season (December – February): The weather is the best, but prices are higher and it can be busy.
• Low season (May – October): Less crowded and prices are lower, but it is also the rainy season.