
Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are two small islands located north of Koh Samui. The islands are both very popular destinations for day trips from Koh Samui, or as holiday destinations. The islands offer stunning natural beauty, crystal clear waters (the best in the Gulf of Thailand), and a typical laid-back atmosphere that make them perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan are two small islands located in the Gulf of Thailand. Koh Tao, also known as Turtle Island, is located approximately 70 km east of the mainland city of Chumphon, while Koh Nang Yuan is located just off the northwestern coast of Koh Tao.
Koh Tao is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Thailand. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun-filled day with friends, there is a beach for everyone. Some of the popular beaches include:

Koh Tao is a mecca for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. With over 25 dive sites around the island, there are endless opportunities to explore the underwater world. The waters around Koh Tao are home to an abundance of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and even whale sharks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, there are plenty of diving schools on the island to choose from. Some of the popular dive sites include:

Koh Tao is not just about the beaches and the sea. The island is also home to a variety of hiking trails and viewpoints, offering stunning panoramic views of the island and the sea. Some of the popular hiking trails include:

The best time to visit Koh Tao is from January to March, when the weather is dry and sunny. Avoid visiting during the monsoon season (June to October), as the seas can be rough and many dive sites may be closed.
If you are staying on Koh Samui, a day trip from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is the best way to experience the islands. This tour starts early in the morning with a pickup from your hotel and a 1,5 hour boat ride to both Koh Tao & Nang Yuan. There you can enjoy snorkeling in the many bays, a walk up to the famous viewpoint and a delicious Thai style lunch. In the afternoon you will be brought back to Koh Samui where our transfer service awaits to bring you back to your hotel.
The nearest airport to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan is Koh Samui airport. The only airline flying this route is Bangkok Airways as they own the airport on Koh Samui. From there, you can take a ferry to Koh Tao or Koh Nang Yuan. Alternatively, you can fly to Surat Thani or Chumphon airport and then take a bus or taxi to the respective piers. These can be booked on arrival.
You can take a bus from Bangkok, Phuket, or Krabi to Chumphon or Surat Thani, and from there take a ferry to Koh Tao or Koh Nang Yuan.
You can take a train from Bangkok to Chumphon or Surat Thani and then take a ferry to Koh Tao or Koh Nang Yuan. The ferry services operating to Koh Tao are Seatran, Raja and Lomprayah.
Yes, both islands have several initiatives in place to promote marine conservation, including coral reef monitoring and ocean clean-up projects. Many diving schools on Koh Tao also offer courses and programs that focus on marine conservation. You can check these out when booking a diving or snorkeling tour.
Yes, both islands are generally safe for travelers. You should take some precautions like avoiding unlicensed taxis, keeping valuables safe, and following local laws and customs. It’s also important to be aware of the weather and sea conditions before you go diving or snorkeling.
Koh Tao is known for its lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Visitors can enjoy live music, DJs, and beach parties, making it a popular destination for backpackers and party-goers. The place to be is Sairee beach, where you will find most beach bars and clubs.
The national park fee is THB 250 per adult (children go free). The fees are used by the national park organization to protect the marine life, preserve the area and to keep Koh Nang Yuan clean. This fee can only be paid in cash at the start of the tour and is excluded from the price in our Koh Tao tours from Koh Samui.