Koh Tao: 8 Best Beaches and Snorkeling Spots to Explore
Koh Tao is world-renowned for its beaches and snorkeling spots. Here’s a guide to 8 must-see places — from relaxing bays to vibrant coral reefs.
Ranking the best beaches and snorkeling spots in Koh Tao is no easy task. Each has its charm, with varied marine life and underwater landscapes. The biggest difference lies in their accessibility — many require motorbikes or taxis, and accidents are unfortunately common on the island’s steep, sandy roads.
1. Sairee Beach – The Main Beach
Located near the pier, Sairee Beach is Koh Tao’s longest and most popular beach (1.85 km). Lined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, dive shops, convenience stores, and motorbike rentals, it’s perfect for a first stay.
- ✅ Easy access
- ❌ Crowded and commercial
- 🎉 Ideal for nightlife and beginners
2. Sai Nuan Beach – Quiet & Scenic
Just south of Jansom Bay, Sai Nuan Beach includes two small beaches accessible by a short hike or by taxi boat.
- 🧘♀️ Peaceful setting, ideal for relaxing
- 🐠 Good snorkeling in quiet coves
- 🌬 Slight marine current if you swim too far from shore
3. Chalok Baan Kao Bay – Easy and Family-Friendly
Chalok Baan Kao Bay is a wide, sandy beach with easy access and many restaurants.
Right behind it lies Freedom Beach, a popular spot with soft white sand and easy snorkeling access.
4. Aow Leuk – Pristine and Protected
Aow Leuk is a private beach that enforces eco-rules: no food, no plastic.
- 🐟 Excellent coral reefs, clear waters
- 🛵 Easy to reach, though final 300m is a dirt path
- ✅ Highly recommended for snorkeling
5. Tanote Bay – Wild and Beautiful
Tanote Bay offers stunning emerald waters and lush surroundings.
- 🏝 Great for a full beach day
- 🛵 Rough roads — caution needed for motorbikes
- 🏡 Plenty of nearby bungalows
6. Hin Wong Bay – A Natural Aquarium
Hin Wong Bay is a small private beach (50 baht entry or buy a drink).
- 🪸 Rich marine life, coral gardens, schools of fish
- 🪨 You can also snorkel from nearby rocks
- 🛵 Accessible by motorbike; slippery final descent
- ❌ Aging accommodations
7. Shark Bay (Thiang Og Bay) – Spot Reef Sharks
Shark Bay, also known as Thiang Og Bay, is home to reef sharks and sea turtles.
- 🦈 Swim far from shore to see marine life
- 🚤 Only accessible by boat
- 🏝 Nearby Shark Island is for scuba diving only
8. Koh Nang Yuan – Iconic but Crowded
Koh Nang Yuan is a small island just off Koh Tao, formed by two peaks connected by a sandbar.
- 🏝 Picture-perfect setting
- 🛑 Entry fee: 100 baht
- 🌱 Strict eco-rules (no plastic or cans)
- ⏰ Must leave by 5 PM
- ❌ Often overcrowded
FAQ – Snorkeling and Beaches in Koh Tao
Which beach is best for beginners in Koh Tao?
Sairee Beach and Freedom Beach offer calm waters and easy access for beginner snorkelers.
Where can I snorkel with reef sharks in Koh Tao?
Shark Bay is the best place to spot reef sharks and turtles — bring fins and swim far from shore.
Is Koh Nang Yuan worth visiting?
Yes for the view and snorkeling, but it’s crowded and closes early.
Are there entry fees for beaches?
Some private beaches like Hin Wong Bay or Koh Nang Yuan charge a small fee.
