Before you go travel to Koh Tao, a beautiful island in Thailand known for its stunning beaches and diving opportunities, there are a few things you should know:
Location and Transportation:
Koh Tao is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 70 kilometers (43 miles) north of Koh Samui. The most common way to reach the island is by ferry from Koh Samui or the mainland town of Surat Thani or Chumphon, but there are also ferries from other nearby islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. Most convenient means of travel is by plane with Bangkok Airways from Bangkok to Koh Samui and then ferry to Koh Tao with Lomprayah High Speed Ferry Service
Visa Requirements:
Check the visa requirements for Thailand based on your nationality. Many visitors to Thailand receive a visa exemption, allowing them to stay for up to 30 days without a visa. If you plan to stay longer, you may need to apply for a tourist visa before your trip. Visa extensions are possible on Koh Tao with the newly built Immigration office. You can also do border runs from Koh Tao to Myanmar, Cambodia or Malaysia when you book with Island Travel. Which also happens to be one of the more honest motorbike rental companies too if you are brave and confident enough to ride a motorbike. (Not recommended unless you really know how to drive a motorbike already).
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Koh Tao has 4 relatively predictable weather patterns or seasons simply broken down into monsoon season November and December; summer & really hot season January to April. Then windy season kicks in June July & August before dry season in September & October leads to the monsoon season again some time in early November usually. The hot and dry seasons, are generally the best time to visit, with less rainfall and calm seas for diving. But diving is still reasonable in the windy season as we shelter from the winds & late afternoon storms on the east side of the island, but your ferry ride over to Koh Tao might be the most unpleasant trip you’ve had in a while if you time it badly with some heavier rain and rougher sea conditions, although it never lasts too long.
Diving and Snorkeling:
Koh Tao is renowned for its scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities if you’re interested in exploring the underwater world, then Big Blue Diving is the place to get certified or join guided dives. Snorkeling in Koh Tao is also really popular, arguably the best in the world with tropical fish , black tip reef sharks, turtles and rays literally at the waters edge at some beaches namely Aow Leuk, Hin Wong, and Freedom Beach. There are organised snorkeling tours but they’re really busy and snorkeling in a small bay with over 50 other snorkelers all at the same time might not be your cup of tea you do get to cross off 5 bays and beaches around Koh Tao in just 1 round the island trip. We recommend making your own way to one of these beaches and snorkelling off the beach, or rent a private longtail and go where you want when you want!
Accommodation:
Koh Tao offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets. From backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, you’ll find something that fits your preferences. It’s advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the high season. We used to recommend places on the beach but we’ve stopped now as unfortunately the noise from the late night parties tends to keep our divers awake and a little bit grumpy if they’re diving with us in the morning. Have a look at Baan Sawainam in Sairee. Nice and quiet, its only a 5 minute walk to the beach & bars and restaurants but as tranquil as a cottage house, with its own pool of course.
Safety:
Koh Tao is generally a safe destination, but like any tourist spot, it’s essential to take precautions. Like anywhere you go, do keep an eye on your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and be safe. There is a police station here with very friendly policeman, who often greet arrivals at the pier when you get to Koh Tao. They look a little intimidating but they’re lovely and very helpful on Koh Tao. There is also a Tourist Police service, a government hospital and dentist, a Rescue Recovery Service and a Hyperbaric Chamber. There’s also almost as many doctors offices as weed shops now, but they’re reputation isn’t the best so in extreme medical emergencies evacuations to Samui or Bangkok are common.
Local Culture and Etiquette:
Thailand has a unique culture, and it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting temples or other religious sites, remove your shoes before entering homes or temples, and be mindful of cultural norms and sensitivities. Saying Sawadee Krap, and Kop Khun Krap can go a long way to first impressions and Thai people are generally very humble and polite, but they don’t like rude and loud and disrespectful Farang (westerners). Weed is now legal in Thailand which is so weird but true so you will see a lot of weed stalls around but don’t think just because it is everywhere you can smoke it everywhere. Not everyone likes the new legalization including a lot of locals so be cool.
Insurance:
It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness or injury. Consult with your healthcare provider before your trip to ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and medications for Thailand. Take precautions against mosquitoes, especially around dusk and dawn as they can transmit diseases and leave infected sores when scratched.
