Koh Tao
Top Tips
Here are our favourite things to do in Koh Tao.
back to topHikes
There's a lovely path threading through dense woods from Mae Haad to Chalok Baan Kao (2 hours), passing idyllic beaches, climbable granite boulders and old hippy totems (stone towers). You can catch a longtail boat back from almost any of the resorts en route. Heading south, after Sensi Paradise you pass Jansom Bungalows, a good second choice, with bungalows spreading higgledy-piggledy over the palm-thick hillsides, and a path down to the idyllic, boulder-enclosed Jansom Bay (small fee to use this bay). Further along (5 minutes by boat) is Sai Nuan, a lovely little beach with one resort (Sai Thong) consisting of a row of simple cottages and a forlorn-looking pool / spa. Just beyond is Siam Cookies – very laid-back, with tattooed dopeheads watching football on TV in the funky Banana Bar. A branch-path leads down to Tao Tong – remote and peaceful, attracting real traveller types. The main path – not so easy to find now – continues to Moondance, which is new and a little shabby, though June Juea beach is inviting. From here a good path leads to Viewpoint Resort (comfortable and well-designed) and Restaurant, with views across Chalok Bay to the distinctive nobble of Buddha Rock. Chalok itself is rather charmless.
back to topTai Chi
Right at the northern end of the Sairee Beach road is the 'Here and Now' centre for tai-chi, yoga-massage and meditation, which comes recommended. Its forte is tai-chi, and you can book a 10-day course or pop in for a single 1½-hour session – you'll need to book ahead (tel 077 456 730, contact@hereandnow.be). There are various teachers, mostly from Germany and other European countries, all English-speaking (though of course it's best taught in body language). Yoga-massage is a whole body massage, based on acupressure and yoga-like stretching, and taking 2½ hours for the full works. The centre now has a restaurant and a selection of very simple bungalows.
Sea-kayaking
Rent a sea-kayak for 2 days, take plenty of water, sunhat, snacks, money and a change of clothes in a tightly-sealed plastic bag, and paddle around the whole island! It's a lovely way to see the quieter stretches of coastline, and of course the popular 'detour' to Nangyuan. Sleep at one of the remote resorts on the far (east) coast, such as Laem Thian – you rarely need to book. Only advisable if the sea is calm, you are fit and used to the heat, and in groups of two or more. If this sounds too strenuous, you can always hire a longtail for a round-the-island tour.
back to topDiving
There are dozens of dive outfits on the island, and often their staff and reputation varies from year to year. But one which has been consistently well-rated, and which boasts both PADI 5* and SSI Platinum rating, is Scuba Junction on Sairee beach (Scuba Junction). Nangyuan Dive Resort may be the only dive operator on the Nangyuan islets, but its courses (particularly the service, accommodation and food) do not come recommended. If you elect to do a course, you may be obliged to stay in the operator's own accommodation.