10 Best Beaches In Koh Tao That Are Worth Exploring On Your Next Thailand Trip

23 Mar 2023

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Tucked in the Gulf of Thailand, this island paradise is endowed with some of the most beautiful landscapes both above and below its azure waters. Koh Tao’s green hilly vistas are matched by its pristine beaches and sparkling bays, making it an ideal getaway to unwind and relax. The alluring palm-fringed beaches in Koh Tao are just perfect for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling. Whether you choose to spend tranquil mornings walking along the main beach in Koh Tao or languid afternoons gazing at the breathtaking seascapes, the island never disappoints. With its coral-fringed beaches, it is also one of the best snorkelling and diving spots in Thailand. Here are the best bays and beaches in Koh Tao that will enchant you with their surreal charm.

10 Koh Tao Beaches You Can’t Afford To Miss!

Excited for your holiday in Thailand? Wait till you visit these 10 beaches in Koh Tao that’ll add stars to your trip experience and leave you absolutely enchanted!

Sai Nuan Beach
Ao Tanot Bay
Sairee Beach
Freedom Beach
Aow Leuk Bay
Chalok Baan Kao Beach
Shark Bay (Haadtein Beach)
Sai Daeng Beach
Jansom Bay
Mango Bay Beach

1. Sai Nuan Beach

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Must Read: Koh Tao Island: A Gorgeous Laidback Honeymoon Destination

One of the most laid back beaches in Koh Tao, this pristine hidden gem can be easily reached by a water taxi or a scenic 10-minute hike along the coast from Sairee or Mae Ha. The powdered white sand crystal clear turquoise waters present a breathtaking sight. Still preserving its natural splendour, Sai Nuan beach is a great spot for snorkelling and diving too with turtles and batfish visible right on the shore. A few beach huts, a nice restaurant and some hammocks complete the picture postcard perfect scene at this gorgeous beach.

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2. Ao Tanot Bay

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If you’re looking for a picturesque un-crowded beach with great restaurant and an unmatched snorkelling experience, head straight to Ao Tanot Bay on the East of the island. It is easily accessible by road, has superb facilities and the most splendid marine life on the island. Amongst one of the best beaches in Koh Tao, Thailand for beginners’ diving courses, it is also a wonderful choice for swimming, sunbathing or simply relaxing to the soothing sound of waves. Adrenaline junkies can splash into the ocean from the big rock here while snorkelling enthusiasts can explore the stunning corals.

3. Sairee Beach

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Sairee beach Koh Tao is one of the first beaches you set eyes on as you disembark on the island from your ferry. One of the busiest and most popular beaches in Koh Tao, it offers myriad activities for the entire family. From kayaking to sunbathing, beach volley ball, massage parlours, shopping options and tons of interesting restaurants, Sairee beach is the most happening place on the island. There’s a great snorkelling spot just 30 metres from the shore and a buzzing nightlife in the high season.

4. Freedom Beach

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This tranquil and private beach on the southern tip of the island is one of the most popular small beaches on Koh Tao beaches map. The lovely tree-shaded beach is just perfect for a relaxed day with your favourite book by your side and the scenic ocean view in front of you. You’d encounter myriad colourful fishes as you swim a few metres into the water, where you can also spot the majestic Buddha Rock standing tall on the cape. Also, amongst the several hiking paths meandering around Freedom beach Koh Tao, the one leading to amazing John-Suwan viewpoint is worth exploring.

5. Aow Leuk Bay

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Literally meaning ‘Deep Bay’, this swimming pool like bay is home to one of the most picture-perfect beaches in Koh Tao with its myriad shades of sparkling blue water. Though secluded, it is easy to reach and offers one of the most rewarding snorkelling experiences on the island. Bestowed with thriving coral reefs on both sides, it’s and excellent diver training and snorkelling spot. The sandy sea floor also makes it a great choice for swimming and lounging in the water with children.

6. Chalok Baan Kao Beach

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One of the largest beaches in Koh Tao, this one is ideal for swimming or relaxing on the long stretch of white sand with a cool drink in hand. Though not great for snorkelling or diving, it offers a range of amenities like bars, restaurants, travel agencies and good accommodation. The incredibly calm and shallow bay is great for a leisurely swim and a laidback time in the lap of nature. You can also embark on a long-tail boat trip from here, since many are moored in the vicinity.

7. Shark Bay (Haadtein Beach)

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The glimmering white sand contrasted against a brilliant blue sea make for a pretty picture at this popular spot on the island. Shark Bay, Koh Tao gets its name from the black-tip reef sharks frequenting its waters and also the biggest attraction here. Along with these timid sharks, this beautiful beach is probably the best spot to swim along the magnificent green sea turtles. You can laze around at the beach, dip in the clear waters or garb a drink at the Haadtein Resort beach bar.

Entry fee: 100 TBH/person

8. Sai Daeng Beach

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This quiet and beautiful beach is great for spending a few tranquil hours on the soft white sand or enjoying a delicious meal and drink at one of the two resort restaurants. The snorkelling is quite rewarding too and you can spot reef sharks, turtles and lots of Christmas tree worms. It is also the ideal home base for kayaking enthusiasts who can take the exciting trip to Shark Island close by. This serene Koh Tao beach can be accessed through one of the two resorts free of charge.

9. Jansom Bay

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Located on the south-west of the island, this picturesque bay with its beautiful sandy beach is just an easy 10-minute walk from the Mae Haad, the main port town. With calm shallow waters it is a great choice amongst beaches in Koh Tao for swimming with young children. It is also one of the most romantic spots to steal some precious moments with your loved one, owing to the privacy and gorgeous setting. Snorkelling here is very rewarding, with the chance to spot unusual fishes like yellow boxfish, titan triggerlips, etc.

Entry fee: 200 THB/person

10. Mango Bay Beach

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Located to the north of the island, this lovely beach by the bay is popular amongst day-trippers from nearby islands like Koh Samui and Koh Phangan. With a rich coral reef on both sides, it is brimming with shoals of vibrant fish and other marine wonders. The flat, sandy seafloor is ideal for beginners’ scuba diving training. You can either enjoy the beautiful beach or hike around a little to reach some fantastic viewpoints atop hills and rock outcrops.

Entry fee: 100 TBH/person

With their shallow turquoise waters, one of the best things to do in a Koh Tao beach is to explore the breathtaking marine wonders waiting to be discovered or simply sip a cool drink from the many Koh Tao beach huts while admiring the myriad hues of the setting sun. So, what are you waiting for? Pick a date and plan your Thailand trip with TravelTriangle right away!

Further Read: Scuba Diving In Thailand: 5 Places That’ll Let You Dip, Dive & Explore The Underwater Life At Its Best