Best Things To Do in Koh Tao – Top Activities, Tours & Experiences
Koh Tao is best known for its world-class scuba diving, but there’s much more to this tropical island than what lies beneath the surface.
From relaxing on beautiful beaches and snorkelling with tropical fish to learning Thai cooking or watching Muay Thai, there are plenty of things to do in Koh Tao both in and out of the water.
Whether you're staying for a few days or a few weeks, this guide covers the best things to do on the island.
1. Go Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is the number one activity in Koh Tao and one of the main reasons people visit the island. With warm waters, great visibility and affordable courses, it’s one of the best places in the world to learn to dive.
You can explore incredible dive sites like Chumphon Pinnacle, the Sattakut Wreck and Sail Rock.
Explore Diving →Conditions are generally calm for most of the year, making Koh Tao especially popular for beginners learning to dive.
2. Take a Thai Cooking Class
One of the most unique experiences in Koh Tao is learning how to cook authentic Thai food. It’s a fun, social activity and a great way to take a piece of Thailand home with you.
At Parawan’s Thai Home Cooking Classes, you’ll learn to cook traditional dishes in a relaxed, friendly setting.
Book a Cooking Class →3. Relax on Koh Tao’s Beaches
Koh Tao is home to some beautiful beaches, from the lively atmosphere of Sairee Beach to quieter spots like Freedom Beach and Sai Nuan.
Whether you want to swim, snorkel or just relax with a drink, there’s a beach for everyone.
4. Visit Koh Tao Viewpoints
For some of the best views on the island, head up to one of Koh Tao’s viewpoints. Spots like John-Suwan Viewpoint and Love Koh Tao offer incredible panoramic views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Some viewpoints require a short hike, so bring water and good footwear, especially in the heat.
5. Go Snorkelling
You don’t need to be a diver to enjoy Koh Tao’s underwater world. Snorkelling is easy and accessible, with plenty of shallow bays full of marine life.
Top spots include Ao Leuk, Hin Wong Bay and Tanote Bay, where you can often see a wide variety of fish close to shore.
At certain times of year, it’s even possible to spot baby blacktip reef sharks in shallow water.
If you want to explore multiple locations, organised snorkelling trips are a great option. These usually include several bays around the island and often stop at Nang Yuan Island, one of the most famous viewpoints in Koh Tao.
You can choose from different types of trips:
- Group snorkelling tours with companies like Oxygen Tours
- More local-style tours with operators like Sangthong Tours
- Private or premium trips with companies such as Unseen Tours
Most trips include snorkelling equipment, lunch and multiple stops around the island.
6. Explore Koh Tao’s Restaurants
Koh Tao has a wide range of dining options, from local Thai street food to high-end restaurants.
Check out our guide to the best restaurants in Koh Tao to find top places to eat.
7. Take a Boat Trip Around the Island
Boat trips are one of the best ways to explore Koh Tao’s hidden bays and snorkelling spots.
You can hire a longtail taxi boat from the beach or pier, join a snorkelling day trip, or charter a private boat.
Popular options include snorkelling trips with Oxygen Tours, or more relaxed sailing experiences with Sailing Koh Tao and Island Cruises.
These trips are a great way to see multiple snorkelling spots in one day without needing to organise transport yourself.
Most trips include multiple stops around the island, giving you the chance to snorkel in different bays.
8. Enjoy Koh Tao Nightlife
Sairee Beach comes alive in the evening with beach bars, live music and fire shows. Whether you want a relaxed drink or a lively night out, there’s something for everyone.
Plan Your Trip to Koh Tao
Whether you're coming for diving, food or island life, Koh Tao has something for everyone.
Start by exploring some of the island’s top experiences: