Where To Stay In Koh Tao 2024 – 5 Best Areas

Home » Where To Stay In Koh Tao 2024 – 5 Best Areas

The best areas to stay in Koh Tao are Sairee Beach, Mae Haad, Chalok Baan Kao Bay, Tanote Bay, and Shark Bay.

Sairee is by far the most popular area on the island full of bars, restaurants, shops, and more.

Those seeking a peaceful stay should stay elsewhere, for example, at Tanote Bay, Shark Bay, or Chalok Baan Kao Bay.

This might be an overwhelming answer to your question about where to stay in Koh Tao.

But don’t worry, as in this article, we cover what we believe are the best areas to stay in Koh Tao, no matter the type of traveler you are.

If you want to go straight to the recommendations, simply tap on the following button.

Or just continue reading if you want to know just a bit more about Koh Tao.

Koh Tao is a small island located in the Gulf of Thailand, and it is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant nightlife.

Most tourists will visit Koh Tao to get their PADI license Koh Tao is considered one of the best places in the world to learn how to scuba dive.

Or when they already have their papers, they go straight into the waters.

The island has over 70 dive sites, with a variety of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life to explore.

If scuba diving isn’t your thing, Koh Tao also offers excellent snorkeling opportunities.

You can see a wide variety of tropical fish and coral reefs right off the beach.

Koh Tao is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Sairee Beach, Chumphon Beach, and Tanote Bay.

These beaches offer stunning views.

Once the sun has set, enjoy its amazing nightlife scene. Despite its small size, Koh Tao has a lively nightlife scene.

You can find plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants that cater to tourists and locals alike.

And when you’re tired of all the activities, there is always yoga to fall back at.

Koh Tao is namely also known for its yoga retreats and classes.

Many visitors come to the island to relax, unwind, and practice yoga in a peaceful, tropical setting.

Combine this all and you can imagine that we are talking about one of the top tropical destinations.

So, to make things easier for you, we’ve come up with the best areas to stay in Koh Tao.

Each recommended area comes with its own advantages and disadvantages.

At the bottom of this article, you can find a map with all the recommended areas and the islands’ highlights.

With that being said, let’s jump straight to our recommendations.

Where to stay in Koh Tao? Keep reading!

Overview of best areas to stay in Koh Tao

Below, you find a table with an overview of all the recommended areas along with a short explanation of what makes that area so special.

You can tap on one of the green links to go immediately to that recommended area, or just continue reading the article.

Best areas to stay in Koh Tao	What’s so special about the area?
1. Sairee Beach	The most popular and touristy part of the island. It’s one of the most beautiful beaches the island has to offer where you can also find plenty of nightlife, restaurants, and shops. Unless you want something quiet, it’s hard to beat the convenience of Sairee Beach.
2. Mae Haad	Mae Haad is the main ferry terminal area and offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to Sairee Beach. You are located centrally with plenty of amenities and a good food scene but without nightlife scene.
3. Chalok Baan Kao Bay	Chalok Baan Kao Bay is a beautiful bay located in the southern part of the island. It offers a peaceful atmosphere with a few bars and restaurants. The upcoming yoga scene attracts a whole new crowd.
4. Tanote Bay	Tanote Bay is a secluded bay on the eastern side of the island. Many hotels here offer great views of its natural beauty. It’s among the most beautiful parts of the island but it’s quiet during the evening.
5. Shark Bay	Shark Bay is a small bay located in the northern part of the island. It’s perfect for those looking for a quiet and secluded stay, away from the tourist crowds.

How to get around Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a small island and getting around is relatively simple.

Here are the most common ways to get around Koh Tao:

Walking

This might seem a stupid answer, but most areas of Koh Tao are pedestrian-friendly, and most of the time you simply walk from point A to point B.

Songthaews

The easiest way to travel longer distances is by taking one of the “songthaews”.

These shared open-air trucks drive a specific route and for a few Thai Baht, you simply hop in the truck and ring the bell whenever you want to get out.

Motorbike Rental

Renting a motorbike is among the most popular and convenient options for exploring the island independently.

Make sure to have proper insurance, and the correct documents, and always wear a helmet.

So many tourists are getting involved in accidents in Thailand.

Long-Tail Boats

To reach more remote or secluded areas, you can hire a long-tail boat.

This is a great option for exploring beaches and snorkeling spots around the island.

You can join a group or rent a private long-tail boat with driver.

What is the best time of the year to visit Koh Tao?

The best time to visit Koh Tao is generally during the dry season, which spans from December to April.

During this period, the weather is pleasant, with lower humidity, clear skies, and minimal rainfall.

Here’s a breakdown of the seasons on Koh Tao:

Dry Season (December to April)

This is the peak tourist season, with dry and sunny weather.

The seas are calm, making it an ideal time for diving, snorkeling, and other water activities.

December to February is particularly popular, but March and April can be hot.

It’s advisable to book accommodation and activities in advance during these months.

Monsoon Season (May to September)

The monsoon season brings increased humidity and higher chances of rain.

June to August sees the heaviest rainfall, and some businesses may close during this time.

While the island is less crowded, the seas can be rough, and some dive sites may be temporarily closed.

However, the landscape is lush and green.

Transition Period (October to November)

October and November mark the transition between the monsoon and dry seasons.

The weather can be unpredictable during this time, with occasional rain.

Some businesses may close for renovations or maintenance during these months.

However, prices may be lower, and the island is quieter.

The best areas to stay in Koh Tao are:

1. Sairee Beach

Sairee Beach is the most popular area on the island and offers a wide range of accommodation options.

It’s also the longest beach.

Its expansive stretch of white sand and clear turquoise waters make it an attractive destination for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports.

It’s also perfect for those looking for a vibrant atmosphere with lots of bars, restaurants, and shops.

There are numerous beach bars, restaurants, and clubs along the shoreline where visitors can enjoy live music, fire shows, and meet fellow travelers.

It also has the best food scene on the island.

Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, traditional Thai dishes, or international fare, Sairee Beach has plenty of dining options.

Sairee Beach is centrally located on the west coast of the island, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Koh Tao.

It’s well-connected by roads, and taxis and other transportation options are readily available.

Sairee Beach offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Whether you’re a backpacker or a luxury traveler, you’ll likely find something that suits your preferences and budget.

So, it caters to almost every type of traveler.

Except for one type: those seeking a relaxing holiday.

Due to its nightlife scene, it’s simply the loudest part of the island.

But Sairee Beach is also among the most beautiful beaches the island has to offer, which can even for those seeking tranquility a bit of a difficult decision.

If you truly want something away from the convenience that Sairee Beach offers, have a look at one of the next recommended areas.

Otherwise, Sairee Beach is everything you want for a pleasant stay in Koh Tao!

Advantages: Most bustling area, has a great nightlife scene, Sairee Beach has a beautiful beach and is full with convenience.

Disadvantages: Loud and busy.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this part of the island are listed below:

Agoda is part of Booking.com, and often offers significantly cheaper options compared to its competitors. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.

2. Mae Haad

Mae Haad is home to the main ferry pier on Koh Tao.

Because of that, staying here makes it a convenient choice need to have access to the pier, particularly for those who prefer a short transfer from the ferry to an accommodation.

Mae Haad is centrally located on the west coast of the island, making it easy to access other parts of Koh Tao.

It’s well-connected by roads, and you can easily explore neighboring beaches and attractions.

The area around Mae Haad Pier has a bustling atmosphere with various shops, cafes, and restaurants.

You can find both local Thai and international cuisine, as well as markets and shops selling souvenirs and essentials.

Mae Haad offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels and resorts.

You won’t find upscale hotels in this part of the island.

While smaller than Sairee Beach, Mae Haad Beach has its own charm.

It’s a quieter option for those who want to enjoy the beach without the hustle and bustle.

The beach is lined with palm trees, and the water is clear for swimming and snorkeling.

Mae Haad offers scenic views of the surrounding islands, especially from elevated viewpoints.

Some accommodations may provide panoramic views of the ocean and nearby landscapes.

While Mae Haad is close to the ferry pier and has amenities, it generally has a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier Sairee Beach.

This makes it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter stay while still having access to necessary services.

Mae Haad is close to various dive shops, and the area offers good diving opportunities.

If you want to stay somewhere central without all the crowds with good access to amenities and diving spots, Mae Haad is the right area for you!

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this part of the island are listed below:

3. Chalok Baan Kao Bay

Chalok Baan Kao Bay is known for its peaceful and relaxed atmosphere.

It’s a great choice for those who prefer a quieter setting away from the crowds, making it suitable for a more serene and laid-back vacation.

The bay is surrounded by lush hills and offers beautiful coastal scenery.

It provides a more intimate and secluded setting for those who want to enjoy nature without the hustle and bustle of larger tourist areas.

This makes it a great area for couples and families.

Chalok Baan Kao Bay offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range resorts, and not per se higher-end or boutique hotels.

The area is close to several dive sites, and there are dive shops that cater to both beginners and experienced divers.

The calm and clear waters around Chalok Baan Kao Bay make it an excellent location for snorkeling as well.

Chalok Baan Kao is a fishing village, and staying in this area allows you to experience local island life and culture.

You can find several traditional Thai restaurants serving fresh seafood.

Chalok Baan Kao has become known as a hub for yoga and wellness activities.

There are yoga studios and retreats that offer classes and programs, making it a great choice for travelers seeking a more holistic and health-focused experience.

The surrounding hills provide opportunities for hiking and trekking. You can explore trails that lead to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the bay and the surrounding islands.

Chalok Baan Kao Bay is known for its beautiful sunsets.

While Chalok Baan Kao is quieter, it’s still well-connected to other parts of the island.

If you’re looking for a quieter area with access to calm waters and want to experience the yoga scene on this island, then definitely check out Chalok Baan Kao Bay.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this part of the island are listed below:

4. Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay is a secluded bay on the eastern side of the island.

It’s renowned for its stunning natural scenery.

Surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, the bay offers a postcard-worthy setting with crystal-clear waters and a beautiful sandy beach.

The bay is well-known for its vibrant underwater life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.

The coral reefs are teeming with marine life, and there are dive shops in the area that offer courses and excursions for both beginners and experienced divers.

Tanote Bay is relatively secluded and less crowded compared to some of the busier areas on the island. This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing environment.

While Tanote Bay is quieter, it still offers a range of accommodation options, including beachfront resorts and bungalows and many provide stunning views of the bay and the surrounding nature.

The rocky cliffs surrounding Tanote Bay provide opportunities for rock climbing.

There are climbing schools in the area that cater to both beginners and advanced climbers.

There are also hiking trails in the vicinity, allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of Koh Tao on foot.

These trails may lead to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the bay and the island.

Due to its more secluded location, Tanote Bay offers a clearer view of the night sky.

On a clear night, you can enjoy stargazing, which is quite a unique and romantic experience.

Tanote Bay has a relaxed and laid-back beach vibe. The absence of a bustling nightlife scene makes it perfect for those who prefer a quiet evening by the beach.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this part of the island are listed below:

5. Shark Bay

Shark Bay is famous for its encounters with Blacktip Reef Sharks.

Snorkelers and divers often have the opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

The bay is known for its rich marine life, making it a popular destination for underwater enthusiasts.

The bay is surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush greenery, providing a picturesque setting.

The crystal-clear waters and coral reefs add to the overall beauty of the area, making it a visually stunning place to stay.

Shark Bay is relatively quiet and secluded compared to more developed and busy areas like Sairee Beach.

This makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil and peaceful environment.

While Shark Bay is less developed compared to some other areas on the island, it still offers a range of accommodation options, including resorts and bungalows.

Many accommodations provide direct access to the beach.

The rocky formations surrounding Shark Bay add an interesting element to the landscape.

These formations can be explored both above and below the water, providing opportunities for exploration and photography.

Like many other coastal areas on Koh Tao, Shark Bay offers beautiful sunset views.

The combination of the sun setting over the water and the silhouette of the rocky landscape makes for a serene and romantic atmosphere.

Just keep in mind that this part of the island doesn’t come with many amenities.

If you prefer a more comfortable stay, either choose an upscale hotel or stay closer to the bustling parts.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this part of the island are listed below:

Map of the best areas to stay in Koh Tao

The next image is a map of the best area to stay in Koh Tao including its highlights. The image is in high resolution so you can easily zoom in to see all the details.

A map will follow soon.

There you have it, our recommendations for where to stay in Koh Tao.