A gem in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao (literally translated as Turtle Island) is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life. The island strikes a beautiful balance between adventure and serenity, offering everything from world-class scuba diving to hiking and kayaking. It’s particularly popular among those looking to get scuba certified or advance their diving skills in a relaxed and affordable setting—making it one of the most accessible dive destinations in the world.
But there’s more to Koh Tao than just diving. Over the years, it has grown into a hub for marine conservation, with many local dive schools, tourism operators, and hotels working together on initiatives like coral restoration, reef and beach cleanups, and sustainable tourism education. Visitors can actively participate through eco-diving programs, conservation courses, beach cleanups, or hands-on workshops like zero-waste cooking and coconut tie-dye. These experiences not only deepen your connection to nature, but also offer opportunities to meet like-minded travellers. (Read more about the collaboration here.)
In 2023, while I was still working for the Tourism Authority of Thailand in Sydney, I had the honour of hosting Jayne Jenkins and Tom Park—two incredible professional underwater photographers and videographers from Australia—for a diving trip around Koh Tao. While they immersed themselves in both leisure and marine conservation dives with Black Turtle Dive Centre, I was above the waves, running my zero-waste coconut tie-dye workshops and Thai cooking classes.
Koh Tao offers something for everyone, whether you’re a diver or not. From vibrant marine life to creative and sustainable activities on land, there’s always something to do. For those who enjoy a bit more buzz, the island also offers a handful of lively dining and drinking spots where you can unwind with good food, music, and ocean views. Or you might just want to slow down, soak in the ocean views, feel the warm sun and fresh air on your skin, and do absolutely nothing at all.
Sairee Beach is considered the main beach on Koh Tao. It’s the longest and busiest beach on the island, known for its lively atmosphere, numerous beachfront bars, restaurants, and shops. During the day, it is a popular spot for activities like paddle boarding, beach volleyball, and enjoying the sunset.
Mae Haad Beach is another sandy beach which is very convenient with 5 minutes’ walk from Koh Tao Pier and 10 minutes’ walk to Sairee. I stayed at a 2-star Veranda Villa on this beach because it’s very closed to Koh Tao main pier and right next to Black Turtle Dive.
What I find especially magical is that despite its popularity, the island retains a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere that feels worlds away from the buzz of other tourist spots. Think pristine beaches, quiet hilltop viewpoints, seaside bungalows, yoga studios, and wellness cafés that embrace sustainability. The island’s slower rhythm naturally invites mindfulness—whether you’re meditating on a deserted beach at sunrise, floating in the turquoise sea, or simply enjoying a digital detox surrounded by nature.
In short, Koh Tao is much more than a diving destination—it’s a place to unwind, reconnect with nature, and find stillness within yourself. Whether you come for the underwater wonders or the island’s laid-back atmosphere, Koh Tao will surely leave a lasting impression.
Just 10 minutes’ boat ride from Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is a trio of tiny islands joined by a picturesque sandbar. With spectacular snorkelling and panoramic views from the hilltop, it’s a serene escape ideal for nature lovers. This private island welcomes day trippers from 10AM to 5PM. If you want to enjoy the sunrise and sunset on Koh Nang Yuan, you’ll need to stay at the island’s one and only resort – Nang Yuan Island Dive Resort.
Together, Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan offer the perfect blend of adventure, beauty, and tranquility—a true sanctuary for those seeking meaningful travel. What makes these islands even more special is the growing commitment to sustainability from local tourism operators. By choosing your accommodation, tours, and dive centre thoughtfully, you become part of the movement to help preserve this pristine environment. And that, to me, is what mindful travel is all about.
Getting to Koh Tao:
From Bangkok, the most convenient route is to fly to Koh Samui Airport (USM) then take a high-speed ferry to Koh Tao. Ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Tao are operated by Lomprayah, with the journey taking approximately 1.5 hours.
Alternatively, for a more budget-friendly option, you can take a combined bus and ferry service from Bangkok to Koh Tao. Operators like Lomprayah offer this service, departing from Khao San Road in Bangkok and arriving at Mae Haad Pier in Koh Tao. The entire journey typically takes around 9 to 11 hours.
You can also reach Koh Tao from Chumphon by ferry, with the most popular option being the Lomprayah high-speed ferry, which takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Thung Makham Noi or Mataphon Pier to Mae Haad Pier. Actually, that’s how I got to Koh Tao for the first time, over 20 years ago. Alternatively, there are budget-friendly overnight sleeper boats operated by Fame Tour or Axara Travel.
Getting to Koh Nang Yuan:
Lomprayah ferries from Koh Samui to Koh Tao also stop at Koh Nang Yuan. You can visit this small island as a day tripper or stay overnight at the island’s resort. If you stay on Koh Tao, you can get here by longtail boat from Sairee Beach or Mae Haad Pier. Please don’t try to swim from Koh Tao to Koh Nang Yuan. It might look close, but the sideways current can easily sweep you off in the wrong direction.
