A perfect choice for families, friends and couples with an eclectic mix of villas, apartments and hotel rooms.
Koh Tao
Koh Tao is located in the Gulf of Thailand and translates to ‘Turtle Island’ which is very fitting since it’s renowned for the amazing, inexpensive diving spots around the island. Part of a trio of islands amongst Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Koh Tao is truly a gem worth exploring.
Accommodation
The resort is positioned on a steep hill, secluded by coconut trees in the valley of the jungle providing that tranquil oasis from the action on the other side of the island. As you enter, to the left are the hotel rooms all with private balconies. Proceeding up the drive way, you’ll find the apartments and villas to your right. I stayed in a hotel room and my attention was immediately caught by the view from my balcony which made for the perfect place to enjoy my breakfast each morning. Not only do the rooms have a king size double bed but they all feature a kettle, fridge (with complimentary bottled water), TV, ensuite and air conditioning. They also offer daily housekeeping and a laundry service.
Facilities
Scattered with sun loungers and umbrellas, there is an outdoor pool to enjoy the peacefulness of this resort. The staff are more than welcome to help you book activities on the island such as snorkelling trips which made my stay hassle-free.
Food
Although there is no onsite restaurant, there are several family-run, authentic Thai restaurants within walking distance to the resort. Tiki’s Kitchen, which was by far the tastiest food I’ve ever consumed, is a very affordable choice. There is only one woman cooking and taking orders so you might have to bear with depending on how busy it is, but the food is so flavoursome and fresh. Dee Dee Thai Food is another great choice. Even though they offered delicious, local foods, it was the service of our very attentive and funny waiter that made my experience enjoyable. If you fancy a more western meal then Coconut Monkey is the place to be. Is there really a better way to start your day than with a fresh smoothie bowl and a sea view?
What’s nearby?
Snorkelling
I would recommend Oxygen Snorkelling Tour. They pick you up from the hotel before departing from Mae Haad Pier. There are 5 stops including Nang Yuan Island where we swam with baby sharks. Not only was lunch and all the equipment included but the tour guide was so entertaining in between the stops. From witnessing multiple species of corals to swimming with turtles, snorkelling in Koh Tao is a seriously unforgettable experience.
Diving
Although I didn’t get a chance to go diving, if I go back that will be the first thing on my list. Koh Tao is one of the cheapest places to get your PADI diving certificate and a real bucket list destination for beginner divers to take their first breath underwater.
Sairee Beach
Just shy of 2km, Sairee Beach is the longest beach in Koh Tao located on the western coast. It is the perfect area to relax and soak up some afternoon rays with a Singha beer in hand. There is so much to see including crystal-clear waters to swim in, vibrant coral reefs for snorkelling and the unique bent palm tree on the beach.
Mango Viewpoint
Accessible from Sairee Beach, Mango Viewpoint is one of many spectacular viewpoints you must add to your list in Thailand. The entry fee is 100THB and the hike takes roughly 1 hour but it is so worth it for the panoramic views. After working up an appetite, you can get some decent food at one of the restaurants at the top once you’ve taken enough photos.
How to get there?
The only access to Koh Tao is by ferry which you can get from either Koh Samui or Phangan. If you’re travelling from the mainland then you can get the ferry from Surat Thani or Chumphon. Similarly, you can fly directly into Koh Samui from Phuket or Bangkok then get a ferry to Koh Tao.
How much?
The superior doubles start from £18 per night.
The garden villas start from £25 per night.