Thailand

Lost in the Gulf of Thailand, between Surat Thani and Chumphon, the island of Koh Tao, poetically called Turtle Island, is animated by luxury tourism and water sports.

The pleasures of escapism and relaxation attract visitors to Koh Tao Island. Off the Gulf of Thailand, this piece of land, covering 21 km2, is assaulted by lush forests. Behind the star-class seaside hotels lies a secluded place, cut off from the world, edged with pristine rocky beaches, including Sairee Beach. However, it is the exceptional richness of its marine life that makes Koh Tao a renowned tourist center. To study coral reefs, watch for manta rays and triggerfish, or swim alongside whale sharks, nothing beats the island's diving spots. Both adventurers and vacationers, whether couples or families, will be delighted to visit Koh Tao, the Turtle Island.

History

Originally, Koh Tao was no man's land, excluding fishermen from the surrounding areas who occasionally sought refuge there during bad weather. It appears on old European navigators' maps under the name Pulo Bardia. It retained this name until the early 20th century. Later, Pulo Bardia changed to Koh Tao, which means "turtle island," because of the myriad turtles that are born, grow, and proliferate on its shores.

King Rama V's visit to Koh Tao (1853-1910)

Once on the island, you may see a Thai person bowing in reverence before a rock. Don't be surprised by the gesture. This rock is located near Laem Jor Por Por. As for the bow, it is a sign of respect in memory of King Rama V, who landed on Koh Tao on June 18, 1899, and walked along the south coast of Sairee Beach. To mark his visit to the island, the sovereign engraved his initials in the stone.

Political exile land from 1933 to 1947

In the 20th century, a prison building named Mae Haad Bay was established on the island. It housed political exiles accused of conspiring with Prince Borawadesh, who led the revolutionary movement of 1933. These political prisoners were not released until 1947 after receiving a royal pardon. The request for amnesty was made by Prime Minister Khuang Abhaiwongse.

A paradise for explorers

After the departure of the prisoners, the island was left abandoned, but not for long, as it was visited in 1947 by twin brothers Khun Ueam and Khun Oh. Ignoring the dangers, these explorers crossed the ocean with their traditional boat and landed on Koh Tao. They had only a few provisions of rice with them. Once settled on the island, these brothers began clearing a portion of land for agricultural purposes. To shelter temporarily, they used the ruins of the old prison. They then decided to settle permanently on the island and brought their respective families there. A few years later, other groups of people landed on Koh Tao, and the local community grew. Fish, shrimp, rice, and coconuts are the region's main resources.

Ko Tao in the 1980s

The arrival of the first foreigners, who were impressed by the island's enchanting beauty and the calm that reigns there, The locals, with smiles on their faces, welcomed passing guests with sincere hospitality, making the destination even more endearing.

Koh Tao today

In recent years, tourism has played an increasingly prominent role in the local economy. Just look at the young people of Koh Tao who have set aside export cultures or associated them with ancillary activities such as crafts and small businesses. The coastline is invaded by modern tourist facilities, including cafes, bars, gourmet restaurants, diving schools, and wellness institutes. Charming hotels welcome wealthy tourists, combining a suite equipped with all Western comforts with traditional architecture.

Does this mean that Koh Tao has sold its soul to the devil? No, the island is still this land of tropical jungle that fascinates explorers. The number one activity for national or foreign tourists in Koh Tao is scuba diving. And for good reason, the island's underwater depths and its surroundings are considered among the most fish-rich on the planet.

The must-visit beaches and bays of Koh Tao

Sairee Beach (North)

The most famous beach on the island is undoubtedly Sairee Beach, which stretches for 1.85 km. Tourists of all ages come here for winter sun holidays. Retirees enjoy lounging on beach chairs, with a book in hand or a fruit juice cocktail in hand. Young people play beach volleyball or beach soccer. The sports enthusiasts near the coral reef, a short distance from the beach, explore the depths, trying to observe the giant clam, the white-collar butterflyfish, the red-breasted wrasse, the eight-banded butterflyfish, and the yellow-margined triggerfish, among other aquatic creatures.

Sai Nuan Beach (South)

Its white, sandy shores and turquoise waters make this place a popular stop for families or couples on vacation. Sai Nuan Beach exudes calm, away from the trendy bars and clubs around the port. There's nothing to do here except listen to the sound of the waves crashing, let the breeze caress you, and watch the coming and going of boats until the clouds turn pretty shades of purple at sunset.

Like Sairee Beach, Sai Nuan Beach is also a prime snorkeling spot. To admire the marine life, you have to swim near the frequented rocks, among them trevallies, batfish, yellow butterflyfish, harlequin sweetlips, and orange-spined unicornfish.

Jamson Bay (Southwest)

The 200 baht entrance fee will not deter experienced divers from the attractions of Jamson Bay. This magnificent private bay has a small beach with clear waters. Its sandy seabed and rich marine life make Jamson Bay a top-notch snorkeling center. Among the aquatic species recorded in the bay are the titan triggerfish, which coexists with coral reefs, as well as the porcupinefish, the blue-spotted stingray, and the yellow boxfish.

Hin Wong Bay (East)

Hin Wong Bay is protected by a series of rocky cliffs that give it a unique relief. Backpackers should be cautious, as the presence of numerous rocks makes navigation dangerous. To access Hin Wong, it is best to rent a kayak. On the south side of the bay, the water quality is excellent, and the depth is relatively shallow. Swimming near the surface, you may encounter a school of sardines, but you need to dive deeper to see myriad tropical fish.

Climate

Koh Tao Island can be visited in any season. However, it is best to avoid it between April and June if you cannot tolerate the intense heat, and between October and November to avoid the rainy season.

For snorkeling in optimal weather conditions, travel advisors recommend the period between December and March, when the tide is high.

How to get there?

Koh Tao Island is accessible by boat from many Thai cities.

From Bangkok to Chumphon

Foreign nationals must first book a flight to Bangkok. By doing so, they can purchase a combined transportation package that includes a bus trip to Chumphon and a ferry ride to Koh Tao Island.

From Koh Samui or Koh Phangan

If you plan to visit Turtle Island after a trip to Koh Samui, you just have to board one of the ships heading to Koh Tao. Boats connect the three islands daily.

From Surat Thani

Many ferry services operate between Koh Tao and Surat Thani. The journey takes an average of 3–4 hours over a total distance of 70 kilometers.