Koh Tao is renowned for its stunning diving and snorkeling sites. There are hardly any currents, a wide selection of dive sites and plentiful amounts of coral and marine life.
The west-facing Sairee Beach is the longest, most popular on the island, great for watching the sunset and for kayaking to Koh Nang Yuan. Chalok Baan Kao Beach is also popular with many travelers. There are many smaller beaches with only a few guesthouses that offer real peace and quiet and excellent snorkelling sites directly offshore.
Gay Scene
Koh Tao attracts a large number of gay visitors each year, and its nightlife is quite evident but the scene is very mixed. Most bars and clubs are located in Sairee Beach area. There used to be a gay bar "C*ck & Mocktail Bar" which sadly closed in January 2018. Behind Sairee Plaza, there's a popular ladyboy/cabaret show bar called "The Queen’s Cabaret".
Getting to Koh Tao
Koh Tao is located close to the western shore of the Gulf of Thailand. Fly from Bangkok to Koh Samui, then catch a ferry (Lomprayah High Speed Catamaran or Seatran Discovery) to Koh Tao.
Alternatively, drive or take a bus or train from Bangkok, Phuket or Hua Hin to Chumphon Pier and then take a ferry to the island.