In Malay, Tarutao means old, mysterious and primitive. Today Ko Tarutao retains that quality on many parts of the island, even though it's been bisected by a long path of blazing white concrete. The island has never been permanently settled, so it was a perfect spot for both pirates and prisoners. Common prisoners were held at Talo Wow, but important prisoners were interned at Talo Udang. Though little of the prisons remain today, they are a popular trip for the tourists that trickle in during peak season.

For many visitors, Tarutao's appeal is in the wildlife: sea turtles, whales, monitor lizards, crab-eating macaques, mouse deer and more all call the island and its surrounding waters home. There's no snorkelling equipment for rent, as waters are murky compared to other Andaman islands, but for most, the clean beaches, waterfalls, great hiking and views more than compensate. Island trails are well-signposted and maintained.

Visitors are dropped off at the Ko Tarutao pier where the 200B National Park entrance fee is collected. A small shop near the pier sells drinks, snack food, and toiletries. It's open from 8:00 – 17:00. At the Visitor's Centre rangers speak good English and can show you photos of accommodations and sights around the island.

The park restaurant serves reasonably-priced Thai food, sandwiches, and western breakfasts and is open from 07:30-14:00 and 17:00-21:00. Lights are shut off around 22:00 to discourage farang from drinking all night long. Dogs wander around aimlessly and cats swarm about diners' ankles, lured by generous tourists. Also, beware of the monkeys! They raid the trash cans and have been known to steal meals on occasion. Restaurant staff will usually replace your meal if this happens.

There are no medical facilities or banks on Tarutao. The park office cannot accept travellers checks, credit cards, nor foreign currencies, so make sure you have enough baht before you leave the mainland.

Ko Tarutao shuts down entirely for the rainy season from May until November.

For those who are into such things, Ko Tarutao was the location where Survivor: Thailand was filmed.