Ko Tao

Things to see and do

Famous stones

A large stone bearing the initials of King Rama V, who visited the island in 1899, is located at the south end of Haad Sairee. A small plaque decorates the memorial at the highly-revered site -- don't even think of adding your own initials. The stone isn't worth a special trip, but do check it out ... read more
John Suwan Mountain Viewpoint

This once popular viewpoint has become overgrown and difficult to reach. The poorly-maintained loose dirt path above Freedom Beach Bungalows is no longer marked, so ask a local if you want to check it out. Unfortunately, a few coconut trees and other foliage block a good deal of the view that once ... read more
Thai boxing training camp and gym

Fights take place regularly, announced by posters and noisy vans blaring times and dates. The early fights are local kids, progressing over the evening to the big fights. Usually at least one Westerner, often a dive instructor, will participate in these nights, bringing out the local farang ... read more
Boat trips

Boat trips can be organised from virtually any beach on Ko Tao, through any travel agency or most hotel receptions. Trips tend to leave around 10:00 and return by 16:00. Costs vary, with a longtail typically charging around 550B per person, and a big boat around 650B. The advantage of the latter is ... read more
Sea Kayaking

For something different, take a tour of Ko Tao's coast by sea kayak. A surprisingly easy way to get around, particularly if you take a tandem kayak, kayaking is a great way to appreciate the rock formations that cascade into the sea around the non-beachy parts of the island. Kayaks can be rented ... read more
Hiking

Ko Tao is baby-sized compared to neighbouring Ko Pha Ngan and Ko Samui, but its hilly landscape offers some excellent opportunities for exploring on foot. Don't underestimate the distances involved, however: your guidebook might say it's possible to walk around the island in one day, but you will ... read more
Ko Tao Bowling and MiniGolf

Ko Tao Bowling and MiniGolf has a eighteen-hole golf course a 10-pin bowling alley, pool table, and a bar and attached Greek restaurant. The basic bowling lanes are in a dark enclosure behind the bar (240B/lane/hour) and are used primarily by expats and other long-term visitors. The lanes are far ... read more
Flying Trapeze Adventures

If you fancy something completely different how about learning to fly? Basic lessons last an hour, cost 980B, and include instruction on a practice bar as well as three flights on the full rig. Flyers use a safety harness and a catch net ensures a soft landing once you've finished your acrobatics. ... read more
Cabaret

Located back from the beach, within Sairee Plaza Walk though Sairee Village after the sun goes down and you are sure to see the lovely ladies from the show handing out flyers and encouraging you to come and visit. The show is a recent addition to Ko Tao night life and good for a giggle. The whole ... read more
Diving

Diving and snorkelling are Ko Tao's tourism mainstay and this is one of the most popular places in the world to learn to become a certified diver. The most popular sites, including Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock and Southwest Pinnacle, are some kilometres from the island, where fish gather in larger ... read more