Koh Tao is a spectacular tropical island off the east coast of Thailand boasting fantastic beaches, bustling nightlife, and breathtaking dive spots.
This palm-fringed island offers some of the best landscapes in Thailand and is famed for its tropical coral reefs with species including whale sharks, rays, and an abundance of turtles that come to the island to breed.
When searching for where to stay on Koh Tao, it’s important to find the best area that suits you and to be able to see all that the island has to offer. There are many accommodations in Koh Tao to suit all types of travelers and all budgets including luxury, mid-range, and budget travel.
I have put together this complete guide of the best places to stay in Koh Tao in the four main areas of the island which are;
QUICK PICKS: 3 BEST HOTELS IN KOH TAO
If you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to read this full guide, these are the 3 best hotels in Koh Tao to suit all budgets.
Best Luxury Hotel In Koh Tao
The Plantation Koh Tao ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- World-class service
- Stunning rooms with sea view
- Minutes away from Sairee Beach
Best Mid-Range Hotel In Koh Tao
Clear View Resort ⭐️⭐️⭐️
- Private beach area
- Air-conditioned and modern rooms
- Endless on-site activities – Snorkeling, diving, etc.
Best Budget Hotel In Koh Tao
Koh Tao Garden Resort ⭐️⭐️
- Peaceful and relaxing outdoor area
- Clean and affordable rooms with a balcony
- Only 100m from Mae Haad Beach
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO – FAQ
Before I dive into all the best places to stay in Koh Tao, here are some quick answers to the most frequently asked questions from first-time visitors.
WHAT IS THE BEST PLACE TO STAY IN KOH TAO?
The best areas to stay in Koh Tao are Sairee Beach, Mae Haad Bay, and Chalok Baan Kao Bay.
Sairee Beach has long boasted a lively nightlife with plenty of bars and restaurants, ideal for an active vacation.
On the other hand, for a more tranquil experience, Chalok Baan Kao Bay or Mae Haad Bay offer calm waters, dreamy coves, and lovely tropical surroundings.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO WITH KIDS?
When staying in Koh Tao with kids, I recommend staying near Mae Haad Pier or Sairee Beach, which are the most accessible and easy-to-get-around places on the island.
That said, I recommend staying near the end of Sairee Beach or near the pier as the middle part of the beach frequently hosts parties and could be annoying when staying as a family.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO FOR NIGHTLIFE?
Sairee Beach is the coolest spot in Koh Tao for nightlife as they not only have bars open late but also beach parties with fire shows.
Picture this – a stunning beach where you can lay down for sunset with a beer while the performers get ready. There’s really no better place to enjoy the night on Koh Tao.
WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO ON A BUDGET?
You’ll find cheap hotels and hostels in all areas of Koh Tao where you can book a room.
I recommend checking out Khun Ying House and Koh Tao Garden Resort which are great properties and you can book a room for only about $30 to $40 per night.
IS KOH TAO EXPENSIVE?
Koh Tao is a great destination for budget-minded travelers and, despite being a lovely destination, it won’t break the bank.
You can easily book a hotel or a hostel for $30 a night or less, and you can eat at a local restaurant for only a few bucks.
4 BEST AREAS TO STAY IN KOH TAO
Koh Tao has everything you could need on an exotic vacation, and before we cover the main topic with all the best hotels, here are the best areas you can stay in:
- Sairee Beach – Where to stay in Koh Tao for first-timers
- Mae Haad – Best area to stay in Koh Tao to chill
- Chalok Baan Kao Bay – Best place in Koh Tao for the beaches
- Tanote Bay – Where to stay in Koh Tao for snorkeling
Of course, you will want to know the best hotels in Koh Tao, and this is where I get you covered, and I’ll list them here below. Let’s go!
SAIREE BEACH – WHERE TO STAY ON KOH TAO FOR FIRST TIMERS
Stretching nearly 2km along the coastline, Sairee Beach is the longest beach on Koh Tao Island and offers great nightlife, restaurants and bars, cafes, and retail shopping.
Popular with tourists, it’s the perfect place for backpackers and families alike. With a coral reef just 30 meters from the shore, it’s ideal for snorkeling and swimming, so don’t forget to bring your GoPro for awesome underwater photos.
These are my top choices of accommodation in Sairee Beach.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN SAIREE BEACH
LUXURY: THE PLANTATION KOH TAO
The Accommodation:
Set in a beautiful coconut plantation, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao! The Plantation Koh Tao offers well-designed rooms with outstanding views out across the palm trees to the ocean.
Location:
Located just 350 yards from the beach, this Koh Tao hotel is situated close to a fabulous selection of local restaurants and bars making it one of the best places to stay in Sairee Beach.
The Rooms:
Rooms are offered as an apartment or pool villa stay with all units offering a private balcony and sea views with the villas having the added bonus of a private pool. Rooms have come equipped with a kitchenette and living area and all have private bathrooms.
Recommended For:
This is highly recommended for couples, families, or a group of friends looking for where to stay on Koh Tao.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LUXURY: BAN’S DIVING RESORT
The Accommodation:
Ban’s Diving Resort is registered as a PADI diving center where you can snorkel and explore the local coral reef. This beautifully presented accommodation in Koh Tao offers guests 3 different restaurants and an outdoor pool, all whilst being right on the shores of Sairee Beach.
Location:
Located on Sairee Beach you are within walking distance to all local amenities and just a 15-minute boat ride from Nang Yuan Island.
The Rooms:
The rooms are modern with elegant Thai features. The suites overlook the gardens and are fitted with your own mini bar and private luxury bathroom. What more could you ask for when looking at where to stay in Koh Tao!
Recommended For:
Ban’s Diving Resort is one of the best places to stay on Koh Tao for couples and families as well as small groups traveling together.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LUXURY: ALOE VILLA
The Accommodation:
The spectacular Aloe Villa features 3 double bedrooms and an immaculate garden equipped with a hot tub. Bicycle rental service is available from the villa and it’s right on a hiking trail for guests to be able to explore the local area.
Location:
Just 650 yards from Sairee Beach, you are also within walking distance of other local secluded beaches as well as being close to all local restaurants and bars in the area. To take full advantage of this stunning location, remember to take your waterproof phone case to photograph the underwater life and keep your phone intact.
The Rooms:
Rooms are beautifully presented with modern Thai features, as well as three bedrooms, the property also has a large living area and fully equipped kitchen.
Recommended For:
This is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao on Sairee Beach for families or groups traveling together.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN SAIREE BEACH
MID RANGE: BLUE TAO BEACH HOTEL
The Accommodation:
This well-presented hotel offers beautiful views of the gardens and oceans right from your room. With tours of the island organized right from the hotel, this is the perfect place to say on Koh Tao for anyone looking to explore all the island has to offer.
Location:
Just a few steps to Sairee Beach, you are also centrally located to all the best local restaurants and bars.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented and nicely decorated and all come with free WiFi and private bathrooms.
Recommended For:
Blue Tao Beach Hotel is recommended for families and couples on a mid-range budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
MID RANGE: WIND BEACH RESORT
The Accommodation:
Boasting its own beachfront bar and restaurant, perfectly located for the breathtaking sunsets, this is the perfect resort to consider when looking for where to stay in Koh Tao which has a chill vibe and relaxing tranquillity. With hotel services including Thai massage and a year-round outdoor pool that overlooks the sea, this is a great place to stay on Sairee Beach for anyone on a mid-range budget.
Location:
Located right on the beach, you are also only a 10-minute drive from Koh Tao Pier and Mae Head Market as well as being within walking distance of many local bars and restaurants.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented with modern decor, all with a private bathroom, TV, and minibar.
Recommended For:
Wind Beach Resort is rated as one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao for couples and small groups traveling together.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
MID RANGE: CLEAR VIEW RESORT
The Accommodation:
Offering bungalow-style rooms in traditional Thai-style huts, this Koh Tao accommodation also has an outdoor pool that is perfectly located for watching the sunset.
Location:
Just a four-minute walk from the beach, close to the pier and snorkeling facilities, and just a 40-minute drive from the airport.
The Rooms:
Rooms are all air-conditioned and presented in modern Thai style, all huts have an ensuite with shower facilities.
Recommended For:
Clear View Resort is recommended for families, small groups traveling together, or single rooms for the solo traveler looking for where to stay on Koh Tao.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN SAIREE BEACH
BUDGET: NAT RESORT KOH TAO
The Accommodation:
Nat Resort Koh Tao comes with its own restaurant as well as a large garden and terrace for guest use. Snorkeling and diving trips can also be arranged by the resort.
Location:
Just a mile from the pier, you are just a few minute’s walk from the beach and centrally located to all local restaurants and bars.
The Rooms:
Rooms are simple but well presented and all come with a private bathroom. All rooms are provided in the form of traditional-style Thai beach huts.
Recommended For:
Recommended for solo travelers, small groups, and couples looking for where to stay on Koh Tao on a budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
BUDGET: KHUN YING HOUSE
The Accommodation:
Set in amongst the coconut palm trees, this well-presented guest house is a great accommodation to consider.
Location:
Just a 3-minute walk from the beach and only 10 minutes walk from the popular entertainment area in town. Koh Phangan is also just an hour boat ride from the resort.
The Rooms:
Rooms are modern and have all the required facilities, most come with shared bathroom facilities but you can pay extra for a private bathroom.
Recommended For:
Great for solo travelers and those traveling as couples or in small groups.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
MAE HAAD – BEST AREA TO STAY IN KOH TAO TO CHILL
Located at the northwest point of the island, you can take in the most breathtaking, panoramic sunsets from the beaches. Set in the scenic National Marine Park, Mae Haad is the perfect place for relaxation and tranquillity.
These are my top choices of accommodation in Mae Haad.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN MAE HAAD
LUXURY: LÜCKE BOUTIQUE HOTEL
The Accommodation:
This fully furnished apartment looks out to sea offering guests breathtaking panoramic views. Presented in modern Thai décor this is a fantastic property for anyone looking for where to stay in Mae Haad.
Location:
Just a 5-minute walk from the pier and close to restaurants, diving schools, and bars, this is a perfect location for exploring this corner of the island.
The Rooms:
This one-bedroom apartment comes with a living area, kitchen, and private bathroom fitted with a rain shower. There is also access to a beach lounge area. What more could you want when searching for where to stay in Koh Tao!
Recommended For:
This is a great place to stay in Mae Haad for couples or a small group as a sofa bed is available to sleep extra guests.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LUXURY: VILLA MOORE
The Accommodation:
This spacious 3-bedroom villa is beautifully presented to a high standard, featuring an infinity pool and sea views, surrounded by palm trees.
Location:
Under a mile from Mae Haad Pier and a short distance to the beach, you are also close to all local dining outlets, making this a fantastic location when looking for the best places to stay on Koh Tao.
The Rooms:
The villa features a fully equipped kitchen, dining area, and living room. The balcony has sea views and comes with outdoor seating areas, all presented to a high standard.
Recommended For:
Recommended for families or groups of friends that are searching for luxury accommodation in Koh Tao.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN MAE HAAD
MID RANGE: BLUE DIAMOND RESORT
The Accommodation:
Sitting right on Mae Haad Beach, Blue Diamond Resort offers spacious Thai-style rooms and bungalows that all come with either a balcony or terrace with views of the garden or sea. Also featuring an outdoor swimming pool and restaurant.
Location:
Just a few steps from the beach you are also a short walk from Mae Haad Pier and all local restaurants and bars.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented and comfortable, all come with a private bathroom and are air-conditioned.
Recommended For:
Blue Diamond Resort is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao for couples and families.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
MID RANGE: SENSI PARADISE BEACH RESORT
The Accommodation:
Offering wooden bungalows built from local materials, Sensi Paradise Beach Resort offers a large outdoor pool and terrace area for guests to enjoy. On a mid-range budget, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao.
Location:
Located a short walk from local restaurants and bars, the resort also offers boat trips to Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Nang Yuan Island.
The Rooms:
Bungalows all feature private balconies with garden or pool views. All units are air-conditioned and come with private bathrooms.
Recommended For:
Best recommended for couples, families, and groups of friends.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
MID RANGE: KOH TAO TOSCANA
The Accommodation:
Offering guests access to fishing, diving and snorkeling facilities as well as an on-site bar and restaurant, this is one of the best places to stay on Koh Tao in Mae Haad.
Location:
Within walking distance of the beach and close to all local amenities you are also perfectly located to access boat tours to the surrounding islands.
The Rooms:
Rooms are all air-conditioned and come with private bathrooms. Well presented and decorated with traditional Thai décor and spacious comfortable living.
Recommended For:
This is a great accommodation for couples and small families searching for where to stay on Koh Tao on a mid-range budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN MAE HAAD
BUDGET: DD HUT KOH TAO
The Accommodation:
Offering beautiful sea views and an onsite bar and restaurant this is the perfect place for anyone looking at where to stay on Koh Tao on a budget.
Location:
Located right next to Mae Haad Pier you are able to access boat trips to the surrounding islands right from your doorstep whilst being within walking distance of all local shops, restaurants and bars.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented and clean at DD Hut Koh Tao and all come with a private bathroom and a balcony.
Recommended For:
This is a great place to stay in Koh Tao for couples and small groups of travelers.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
BUDGET: KOH TAO GARDEN RESORT
The Accommodation:
Set amongst lovely gardens, these wooden bungalows are just yards from the beach. Well presented and colorful this is a great accommodation to consider when searching for where to stay in Koh Tao on a budget.
Location:
Right on Mae Haad Beach, you are close to local amenities and just a short boat ride from other local islands.
The Rooms:
Rooms are simple and well presented, all units have a balcony and private bathroom, all presented on a two-person sharing basis.
Recommended For:
This is one of the best place to stay on Koh Tao for couples traveling together on a budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
BUDGET: NIRVANA GUESTHOUSE & HOSTEL
The Accommodation:
Nirvana Guesthouse offers tours and excursions from the reception desk, making it one of the best hostels in Koh Tao for backpackers looking to explore the local area and surrounding islands.
Location:
Located on Mae Haad Beach and restaurants and bars can be found within a 2-minute walk.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented and offered on a sharing basis in dormitory-style with shared bathrooms with upgrades to private rooms available.
Recommended For:
Recommended for budget backpackers traveling solo, couples or groups of friends.
Star Rating: ⭐️
CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY – BEST PLACE TO STAY ON KOH TAO FOR BEACHES
Chalok Baan Kao Bay is a small town that offers a great choice of accommodation, dive centers, restaurants and bars.
It’s also home to the third-largest beach on the island offering gorgeous stretches of sand with some of the bluest waters.
These are my top choices of accommodation in Chalok Baan Kao Bay.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY
LUXURY: BEACH CLUB BY HAADTIEN
The Accommodation:
Surrounded by palm trees and featuring a spa and wellness center, this resort is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao when looking for luxury and relaxation. With an onsite bar and grill and sunbathing terrace opening right out to the ocean this is the perfect place to put your feet up and unwind.
Location:
Close to the famous Shark Bay, you are also located close to local amenities and boat tours for exploring the surrounding islands.
The Rooms:
Rooms are presented to a high standard, complete with air conditioning and minibar. All come with private bathrooms and private terraces with seating areas.
Recommended For:
This is a great place to stay for couples looking for peace and tranquillity whilst also being able to enjoy all the island has to offer.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LUXURY: HAADTIEN BEACH RESORT
The Accommodation:
Located right on the beach surrounded by palm trees the resort offers spacious villas with private balconies. The onsite bar and grill are open daily for guests and you can enjoy traditional Thai massages at the resort. Arrangements for activities such as hiking, canoeing, mountain biking, and yoga classes can be made at the tour desk. Snorkeling equipment is available at reception.
Location:
Just a 15-minute drive Mae Haad Pier and 0.6 miles from the nearest village and local shops, you are also within walking distance of Chalok Baan Kao Bay.
The Rooms:
Villas offer much comfort and privacy with an ample outdoor seating area and a private bathroom. They are fitted with rustic wooden furnishings and equipped with a TV and a minibar, making this an unbeatable accommodation.
Recommended For:
Haadtien Beach Resort is recommended for couples and small families looking for that little bit extra from their stay on Koh Tao.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY
MID RANGE: TAATOH SEAVIEW RESORT
The Accommodation:
Overlooking Thiang Og Bay, the family-run Taatoh Seaview Resort offers a range of bungalows with sea views. Enjoying a quiet spot on the hills, guests can enjoy a massage or go snorkeling.
Location:
Located on the eastern side of Chalok Baan Kao, Taatoh Seaview Resort s 1.2 miles from Ao Tian Ok and a 15-minute drive from Mae Haad Pier.
The Rooms:
Fitted with wooden flooring, the spacious bungalows all come with a fridge and private balcony or patio. Some bungalows have a cable TV and seating area. Private bathrooms are equipped with hot-water showers.
Recommended For:
This accommodation in Koh Tao is highly recommended for couples or groups of friends traveling together.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN CHALOK BAAN KAO BAY
BUDGET: FISHERMAN KOH TAO
The Accommodation:
Located amidst a tropical garden and just steps away from Chalok Baan Kao Beach, Fisherman Koh Tao offers comfortable accommodation and the convenience of an on-site restaurant.
Location:
Located right on the beach, Mae Haad Pier is a 10-minute drive from Fisherman Koh Tao. Freedom Beach is a 20-minute walk from the property.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented with a private bathroom and are all air-conditioned.
Recommended For:
This is the perfect location for solo travelers, couples, or small groups looking for where to stay on Koh Tao on a budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
BUDGET: KOH TAO TROPICANA RESORT
The Accommodation:
This well-presented accommodation in Koh Tao offers bungalow-style living with ocean views and an on-site restaurant open for all guests.
Location:
Located right on the beach, you are also a 5-minute drive from Mae Haad Pier and Mae Haad center and a 10-minute drive from Sairee Beach.
The Rooms:
Each unit is equipped with air-conditioning or a fan. Some rooms come with a TV, DVD player and refrigerator. Shower facilities are included in an en suite bathroom. Some rooms have a private balcony.
Recommended For:
Perfect for backpackers traveling solo or as a couple. This is a great resort to consider when looking at where to stay in Koh Tao.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
BUDGET: FREEDOM BEACH RESORT
The Accommodation:
One of the best places to stay in Koh Tao on a budget, Freedom Beach Resort offers air-conditioned accommodation with private balconies, a restaurant, and even a private beach area, so make sure to bring your quick-dry travel towel and your slip-on waterproof shoes to make the most of it!
Location:
Freedom Beach Resort is a 2-minute walk from Freedom and Taatoh Yai beaches. Taatok Lek Beach is a 10-minute walk away and you are within walking distance of local restaurants and bars.
The Rooms:
Rooms are cosy and offer views of the sea and all come with private bathrooms making this a great accommodation in Koh Tao for any backpacker.
Recommended For:
Recommended for backpackers, solo travelers, couples, and groups traveling on a budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
TANOTE BAY – WHERE TO STAY IN KOH TAO FOR SNORKELING
Located on the east coast of Koh Tao, Tanote Bay is surrounded by rolling hills and unique rock formations. This remote beach is one of the most untouched on the island.
Boasting some of the best snorkeling on the island it’s also the perfect spot for watching the breath-taking sunrises over the ocean.
These are my top choices of accommodation in Tanote Bay.
BEST LUXURY HOTELS IN TANOTE BAY
LUXURY: PAHILI POOL VILLAS KOH TAO
The Accommodation:
Set close to the bay, Pahili Pool Villas Koh Tao offers accommodation with free WiFi, air conditioning and access to a garden with an outdoor swimming pool, all set within glorious landscapes and presented to the highest standard. An excellent property to consider when searching where to stay in Koh Tao.
Location:
Just a short walk to the bay, the villas are located within walking distance of several places of interest and close to local amenities making it one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao.
The Rooms:
Each unit comes with a patio, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, a fireplace, a seating area with a sofa, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom with a shower all immaculately presented throughout.
Recommended For:
This is a great place to stay for families and couples looking to explore the quieter side of Koh Tao Island.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
LUXURY: VILLA DE KESTREL
The Accommodation:
These amazingly presented villas are the perfect place to stay in luxury. Offering a choice of villa size from 2 bedrooms to 5 bedroom units, this Koh Tao accommodation suits parties of all sizes.
Location:
Tanote Beach is 0.9 miles from Villa De Kestrel, while Mango Bay is 1.2 miles from the property with local bars and restaurants within walking distance.
The Rooms:
All villas are immaculately presented to the highest standard, all come with outdoor seating areas with spectacular views of the local landscapes and out to the oceans. With living quarters and private bathrooms, this is a fantastic place to stay in Tanote Bay.
Recommended For:
With a range of unit size, this is one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao for couples, families and groups traveling together.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST MID-RANGE HOTELS IN TANOTE BAY
MID RANGE: TANOTE VILLA
The Accommodation:
Situated high on the hill range overlooking the bay this resort offers villa-living in traditional Thai style. Offering sweeping views of the sea, the restaurant serves a fine selection of Thai and European dishes and a large outdoor swimming pool is available to guests.
Location:
Tanote Villa is a 5-minute walk from Tanote Bay, a 15-minute drive from Koh Tao Pier, and a 20-minute drive from Mae Haad Pier. This is a fantastic location when looking for where to stay in Koh Tao on a mid-range budget.
The Rooms:
Rooms are well presented with wooden features and breathtaking views from every window. Each room comes with a minibar, balcony, and private bathroom.
Recommended For:
Tanote Villa is recommended for couples, families, and small groups.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
MID RANGE: MONTALAY BEACH RESORT
The Accommodation:
This tropical island getaway presents modern architecture, with the blue seas of Tanote Bay as a backdrop. Guests can visit the spa for a relaxing massage, or go snorkeling by the beach, whilst the Montalay Beachside Restaurant serves artistic fusion dishes with Thai and Western influences.
Location:
Located right in the bay you are just a few minutes walk from the beach and close to all local amenities as well as the snorkeling and dive schools.
The Rooms:
Modern rooms are decorated with Asian artwork and feature a minimalist design. Each comes with a private balcony, flat-screen TV and minibar. The attached bathrooms have hot shower facilities making this one of the best places to stay in Koh Tao in Tanote Bay.
Recommended For:
Montalay Beach Resort is recommended for couples and small families with a mid-range budget.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
BEST BUDGET HOTELS IN TANOTE BAY
BUDGET: MOONDANCE MAGIC VIEW BUNGALOW
The Accommodation:
Enjoying beautiful sea views, Moondance Magic View Bungalow is built into the rocks at the quiet cliff area of Aow Lud Bay. Made from all-natural resources this is a great location and a top-rated place to stay in Koh Tao on a budget.
Location:
Located right on the bay, you are located close to all local amenities and dive and snorkeling schools. You are a 10-minute drive from Mae Haad and just 15 minutes from Sairee Beach.
The Rooms:
All bungalows are well presented with cosy living quarters with a balcony with outdoor seating. All come equipped with a private, open-air bathroom.
Recommended For:
Moondance Magic View Bungalow is recommended for backpackers traveling solo or couples looking for where to stay at Koh Tao at a reasonable price.
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️
THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
THINGS TO DO IN KOH TAO
Koh Tao is my favorite island in Thailand and one of the best tropical destinations in South East Asia! There are many fun-fuelled things to do in Koh Tao which is the famed scuba-diving haven in Thailand, attracting divers from all over the world.
However, as a non-diver, I discovered the best of the best that Koh Tao has to offer apart from diving, from white palm-fringed beaches to panoramic viewpoints, Koh Tao Island offers something for everyone!
READ NOW → 15 EPIC THINGS TO DO IN KOH TAO
HOW TO GET TO KOH TAO
Koh Tao Island is only accessible by fast boat or ferry. From the mainland, there are daily boats leaving from Chumphon and Surat Thani. Lomprayah is reputably the best boat/bus company to travel within Thailand, offering bus transfers and fast boat services to the islands.
On top of that, traveling to Koh Tao from Bangkok is also possible, stopping at Chumphon on the way, but bear in mind the total journey will take between 12 and 15 hours.
Visit the 12Go Asia website to search for all bus and boat services to Koh Tao and book online ahead of time.
GETTING AROUND KOH TAO ISLAND
The best way to get around Koh Tao is to rent a scooter for 150 Baht per day to explore all four corners of the island. There are dozens of scooter rental stores in and around town and most accommodations offer scooter rentals too.
BEST TIME TO VISIT KOH TAO
Koh Tao Island has great beach weather all year round except in October and November, the wettest months. The peak season in Koh Tao is typically between December and February.
MAP OF KOH TAO
WHAT TO PACK FOR THAILAND
When traveling to Thailand, here are a few items I highly recommend taking with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden Money Wallet
Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!
Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!
Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
SUMMARY – PLACES TO STAY IN KOH TAO
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions about where to stay at Koh Tao, please leave a comment below this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
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