Best Beaches and Bays in Koh Tao
Koh Tao has lively west-coast sunset beaches, shallow south-coast bays, rocky east-coast snorkelling spots and boat-access coves. This guide keeps the existing Koh Tao Rocks beach advice and now links through to dedicated pages for each major beach and bay.
Quick Planning Notes
- If one side of Koh Tao is windy or choppy, the other side is often calmer.
- Bring cash for access or parking fees at some beaches and viewpoints.
- Use reef-safe sun protection and never stand on coral.
- Remote bays can have steep or rough scooter access; take a taxi or boat if you are not confident.
- Rocky entries are easier with reef shoes or careful footing, especially at Hin Wong and similar bays.
Beach and Bay Guides
Sairee Beach
Koh Tao's main beach area, sunsets, restaurants, dive schools and nightlife
Ao Leuk Bay
clear turquoise water, swimming and easy snorkelling from the beach; also a gentle bay used for beginner diving when calm
Shark Bay / Thian Og
blacktip reef sharks, occasional turtles, pale sand and resort-style snorkelling
Hin Wong Bay
rocky east-coast bay, granite boulders and good snorkelling/diving in calm water
Mango Bay
remote-feeling north coast bay, clear water, boulders, snorkelling and beginner diving
Chalok Bay
quiet south-island village/beach base, shallow bay, restaurants and dive schools
Koh Nang Yuan
viewpoint, sandbar, turquoise water and Japanese Gardens snorkelling
Sai Nuan Beach
quiet southwest beach, old-school Koh Tao feel, bungalows and relaxed shore snorkelling
Snorkelling and Diving Crossovers
Several beaches also work as snorkelling or beginner dive areas. See Snorkelling Trips and Diving in Koh Tao for the underwater side of the island.
Preserved Local Advice
Ao Leuk, Shark Bay, Tanote, Hin Wong and Mango Bay are all condition-dependent. Check the wind, tide and road access before setting off, especially if you are riding a scooter or visiting with children.