Tanote Bay is yet another spot of interest located on the east coast of Koh Tao. The place is surrounded by high hills and majestic boulders, with one being in the middle of the bay where tourists rock jump. Rock jumping is an iconic activity that the more adventurous ones would like to take in the middle of Tanote Bay. Definitely not for the faint-hearted, one can feel the adrenaline rush when one climbs up the rock and then dive into the sea. This activity can be dangerous during low tides.
Although Tanote Bay is a go-to destination for those who prefer some privacy, tourists must be aware that not much shade can be found when relaxing on the beach. The main attraction would be the wrecked catamaran, which has since become the home to many kinds of marine life such as the Jenkins’ whip ray and huge grouper.
Water activities are famous at Tanote Bay, including swimming in the waters surrounding the bay. Snorkeling is excellent at Tanote Bay with a great variety of coral and abundant fish that can be seen just a few steps into the water. The dive sites are made up of a combination of both natural and artificial reefs, where many kinds of marine creatures can be found. The main reef consists of boulders and brain corals where unique longfin bannerfish and blue-ringed angelfish can be spotted. The artificial reef is mainly made up of reef balls and coral nursery that serve the purpose of helping coral regeneration.
The mountainous terrain of Tanote Bay is also interesting to explore. You can hike to three stunning viewpoints; the water reservoir, West Coast Viewpoint, and Tanote Peak. It takes only half an hour to walk uphill from the bay to the first viewpoint.
