Diving on Koh Tao and travel information (video)
Koh Tao is the place for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. There are many PADI diving schools located on Turtle Island, so you can also get acquainted with diving there.
Koh Tao is a small island in the south-east of the Gulf of Thailand near Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. The coast consists of rocks, white beaches and blue bays. The interior consists of jungle, coconut plantations and cashew nut orchards, where you can walk. There is no mass tourism, only small-scale accommodations. A simple bungalow on or close to the beach costs around seven euros per night, and the most luxurious accommodation costs around 150 euros per night.
With an abundance of PADI-certified diving schools, Koh Tao offers a unique opportunity for beginners and experienced divers to develop or improve their skills. The island's schools are renowned for their excellent teaching standards and offer a range of courses from beginner levels to advanced diving specialisations.
The island itself is a true spectacle of natural beauty. With its soft sandy beaches, hidden coves and relaxed island atmosphere, it is the perfect escape from busy everyday life. In addition to diving, visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the island's rich wildlife, both above and below water. Underwater, Koh Tao reveals a magical world of colorful coral reefs, schools of tropical fish, and even the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. Night diving is another popular activity, allowing divers to experience the island's unique and mysterious nocturnal marine life.
For tourists new to diving, Koh Tao offers a safe and guided introduction to this fascinating activity. The instructors on the island are experienced and committed to providing a safe and enjoyable learning experience. Many schools also offer diving excursions to nearby locations, allowing divers to experience the diversity of Thailand's marine life. Besides diving and snorkeling, the island is also rich in culture and offers a range of dining options from traditional Thai dishes to international cuisines. The evenings on Koh Tao are equally enchanting with a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, where tourists can enjoy the local hospitality and nightlife.
Koh Tao is not just a destination; it's an experience that keeps bringing divers and snorkelers back. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned diver, the island offers something special for anyone looking to explore the wonders of the ocean. With its combination of spectacular underwater world, beautiful nature and a warm, inviting culture, Koh Tao is a must-visit for anyone interested in a diving or snorkeling adventure in Thailand.
How to travel to Koh Tao?
Reaching Koh Tao, one of the most picturesque islands in the Gulf of Thailand, is an adventure in itself. Below you will find the most up-to-date information about transport options, times and prices for travel to Koh Tao in 2024.
Transport options from Bangkok to Koh Tao
- Bus and ferry combined
- Bus services depart from Bangkok early in the morning and late in the evening.
- The total travel time is approximately 12 hours.
- Lomprayah and Songserm are popular providers of these combined tickets.
- Luggage limit is 20 kg; extra weight costs 20 baht per kg.
- Cost: around 850-1300 THB (about $24-36).
- Flight
- Flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport (5 times a week) or from Don Mueang International Airport to Chumphon (daily).
- After the flight, take a taxi to the train station followed by a boat trip to Koh Tao.
- Cost: around $35-100 during peak season.
- Travel time: approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes flight plus 35 minutes bus to the pier.
- Train, Bus and Ferry
- Night trains from Bangkok to Chumphon are a comfortable alternative.
- The ferry company offers free transfers between the pier and the train station.
- Travel time: 14-15 hours.
- Cost: Approximately 1200-2000 THB (approximately $34-56) depending on class and dates.
Other options and costs
- From Suratthani: Packages including bus and ferry to Koh Tao are available.
- Cost: About 700-950 THB (about $19-26).
- From Koh Samui or Koh Phangan: Ferries are available and take approximately 2 to 3 hours.
- Cost from Koh Samui to Koh Tao: about 600-700 THB (about $17-21).
- Cost from Koh Phangan to Koh Tao: about 500-600 THB (about $14-17).
General Information
- The ferries are the most common way to reach Koh Tao as there are no airports on the island.
- Ferry services vary in comfort level, price and journey duration.
- Ferry prices from Koh Tao to Koh Samui vary between 600-700 THB depending on the service chosen.
- The ferry from Koh Tao to Phuket costs 1,300 THB and takes approximately 16 hours.
Choosing the right mode of transport depends on your personal preference, budget and desired comfort level. Plan your trip carefully, especially during high season, and book in advance to be sure of your spot.
In the video below you can admire the beautiful underwater world around Koh Tao.
We happened to be there for a week last week. Have had very good experiences there with a Dutch diving school on the island. Impian divers is definitely recommended if you want to dive / take diving lessons there.