The best beaches in Koh Tao are all about snorkeling, diving, and mingling. For those who do not know, Koh Tao is Thai for Turtle Island. Everyone here knows that a real turtle loves their underwater experience, and there could not be a more befitting name for this island.
Our pick of Koh Tao’s best beaches is Koh Nang Yuan (most beautiful), Mango Bay (best snorkeling), Hin Wong (most quiet). Indeed, Koh Tao has a habit of offering something extra with all of its exquisite beaches. We won’t ruin all the fun yet. Let’s get into the Koh Tao best beaches to explore when you arrive on this paradise island.
Koh Tao most beautiful beach
Koh Nang Yuan tops the list of the most beautiful beaches in Koh Tao. This island lies just on the outskirts of Koh Tao, making it one of the most remarkable day trips. The beautiful beach here is formed by the sandbar that connects the three small islands of Koh Nang Yuan. Add to it an incredible viewpoint to trek as well as a Japanese Garden – a sheltered snorkeling site just off the east side of Koh Nang Yuan Island.
Koh Tao snorkeling beaches
The shoreline around the Hin Wong Bay is rocky and scenic but not as beautiful as the vibrant coral reef just off its beach. On a good day, in this kaleidoscopic wonderland, you will sight the blue-spotted rays, moray eels, and lightning-fast triggerfish that have come to make their home in Hin Wong Bay. With colorful corals and sea anemones full of life, Koh Tao snorkeling is at its prime across Hin Wong.
Tanote Bay is another famous snorkeling beach in Koh Tao. We don’t need to talk about the beauty here as words would fail us, but we love the fact that the beach is easily accessible. You can get there by road or boat, depending on where you are coming from. When at the Ao Tanote Bay, you also get to enjoy snorkeling off the beach at its peak. Speaking of scuba diving, this is the ideal place for beginner divers to get started since there are plenty of instructors around. Tanote Bay might just be the most relaxed location to stay in Koh Tao.
The scenic beauty of Shark Bay puts it among Koh Tao’s best snorkeling beaches as well. Its resident blacktip reef sharks guarantee extraordinary snorkeling encounters. But it doesn’t stop there. Snorkeling off the beach in Shark Bay is even more impressive because the vibrant coral reef is home to amazing green sea turtles.
Koh Tao quiet beaches
Despite being a well-known diving destination of Koh Tao, a secluded beach in Hin Wong Bay is less crowded and less developed than other beaches on Koh Tao. In our opinion, Hin Wong is likely the most quiet beach in Koh Tao with a perfect blend of sea activities. It is also ideal for more experienced divers, featuring deep dives where currents can be strong and unpredictable.
Sai Nuan is another hidden beach on Koh Tao that enjoys fewer crowds. Sai Nuan Beach is the least developed and most natural of Koh Tao beaches. In fact, this is a collection of two secluded beaches that are just separated by a rocky outcropping. Sai Nuan is perfect for honeymooners and those who just want to lounge without much interference next to beautiful waters and outlying lush vegetation. Nearby, you can decide to take the hiking path for even more adventures. However, families will appreciate the friendliness and the perfect blend of activities at Thian Og better.
