Located in Thailand’s Gulf Coast, Koh Tao (also known as Ko Tao, which means Turtle Island) is a popular beach destination in the country! Mostly known for excellent diving locations, it also comes with some fascinating cultural and culinary attractions. It is popular with both tourists from abroad, and those from Thailand, so has a great mix of visitors.

Though it is quite a small island, infrastructure is minimal. This can make it hard to get around – though most places are within walking distance. It’s important to figure out what you want from your stay before booking your accommodation.

Which is why we’ve created this guide! We figured out the seven best neighborhoods on Koh Tao, and have categorised them based on what they are best for.

So let’s get started!

Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Koh Tao

• Where to stay in Koh Tao for your first time? Tanote Bay
• Where to stay in Koh Tao close to everything? Mae Haad
• Where to stay in Koh Tao for nightlife? Sairee Beach
• Best neighborhood in Koh Tao for families? Thian Og
• Where to stay in Koh Tao on a budget? Jansom Bay
• Where to stay in Koh Tao for couples? Chalok Baan Kao
• Where to stay in Koh Tao for a remote stay? Leuk Bay

Where to Stay in Koh Tao

Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Koh Tao.

Koh Tao 7 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in

Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the seven best neighbourhoods in Koh Tao. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood that’s right for you.

Neighborhood #1 – Tanote Bay

Best neighborhood in Koh Tao for your first time!

• COOLEST thing to do in Tanote Bay – get your PADI certification, allowing you to dive independently, with Calypso Diving
• BEST place to visit in Tanote Bay – Ao Tanot Beach is the perfect spot to sit back, relax and soak up the atmosphere

Located on the far east of the island, Tanote Bay is somewhat secluded from the main tourist strip – but nevertheless has some fantastic attractions! As the largest town on the east coast, it has plenty of facilities as well as some great restaurants. The beach is less crowded than the more popular western beaches, giving you space to kick back and unwind.

For first time visitors, Tanote Bay gives you an easy introduction into life on the island! It is well connected with the west coast, giving you easy access to travel around the best spots – and can actually be reached from the most popular beach town on foot within a couple of hours.

• Hike along the coast to Leam Thian, a gorgeous park area where you can admire the stunning natural beauty of the island and coastline
• Within the town itself, Ao Tanot Bay is considered a park in its own right – with plenty of large rocks from which you can jump into the ocean
• Lai Beach Bar is the main restaurant in the town, serving up local cuisine at reasonable prices right on the beach
• Further inland, Two View Bar and Restaurant is a bit of a hike but well worth it for the opportunity to dine with a view
• For less experienced divers, there are also snorkelling and kayak hire facilities available from the beach

Best Budget Hotel in Tanote Bay

Moondance Magic View Bungalow

Though there aren’t any hostels on this side of the island, Moondance Magic View Bungalow offer private rooms at backpacker-friendly prices! They also have excellent views across the coast, allowing you to soak up the natural beauty of the island from the comfort of your room.

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Enjoy your stay in Koh Tao! Check out our guide for what to do in Koh Tao while you’re there!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Tanote Bay

Montalay Beach Resort

This three star resort is the most popular hotel in the Tanote Bay area and it’s easy to see why! Their crowning facility is the infinity pool that overlooks the bay. There is also a spa on-site offering massage treatments, as well as snorkel hire facilities. A complimentary breakfast is included.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Tanote Bay

Tanote Villa

Koh Tao is such an inexpensive island that many of the towns don’t come with luxury hotels – including Tanote Bay. Despite this, if you want to experience the ultimate in comfort nestled amongst verdant forests, Tanote Villa is the next best thing! Rooms are spacious and come with huge windows for full views.

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Neighborhood #2 – Mae Haad

Where to stay in Koh Tao close to everything!

• COOLEST thing to do in Mae Haad – Thai Cooking With Joy offer some fantastic culinary classes featuring local cuisine
• BEST place to visit in Mae Haad – Koh Tao Temple is the main religious site on the island, with a calm atmosphere

Mae Haad is technically the capital of the island -and should be a part of any Thailand itinerary! This is where ferries to the mainland depart, and where you will find most of the transport options that can take you around the island. It is within walking distance of most west coast towns, as well as Tanote Bay on the east.

There are some great tourist facilities within the town – including the largest selection of tour companies on the island! This makes it an ideal option for those that are only on Koh Tao for a couple of days and want to take in the main attractions on the island.

• Koh Tao Tour are the best-rated tour company on the island, allowing you to take in all of the main attractions within a day
• There are plenty of fantastic diving schools in the area – including Isla Tortuga Divers, Charm Churee Divers and DPM
• Mae Haad Beach itself is a popular attraction – though it can be quite busy, it is still relatively more serene than the more popular beaches to the north
• Hire a stand-up paddleboard from SUP Tao, and take in the coast in an easy-going and relaxed manner
• Seaside Bar & Restaurant is located on a cliffside – giving you dramatic views without the business of the beach restaurants

Best Budget Hotel in Mae Haad

Koh Tao Garden Resort

Though this resort only has two stars, it is still big on facilities and service! Rooms come in the form of self-contained units, giving you a little extra privacy. They provide fishing and snorkeling equipment hire, and the on-site restaurant offers a great selection of Thai cuisine at budget-friendly prices.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Mae Haad

DPM Koh Tao Diving Hotel & Bar

This one is for those diving enthusiasts heading to Koh Tao, with the hotel being renowned as one of the best places to stay for a diving adventure of a lifetime. The hotel has a very chilled and laid-back vibe and has a fantastic location just a short stroll away from Mae Haad Beach.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Mae Haad

Koh Tao Montra Resort

This lavish four star resort has a pool that spans across three levels! Rooms are spacious and come with gorgeous wooden décor that will have you feeling right at home. An American style buffet breakfast is provided every morning, and they also offer a wide range of activities from cooking classes to snorkelling.

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Neighborhood #3 – Sairee Beach

Where to stay in Koh Tao for nightlife!

• COOLEST thing to do in Sairee Beach – Sairee Beach is not only the most popular beach during the day, but also hosts the only full moon party on the island
• BEST place to visit in Sairee Beach – check out local boxers at work at Island Muay Thai

Chances are, if you’re already planning a trip to Koh Tao, that you’ve already heard of Sairee Beach! This is the place to be on the island for tourists – with the largest expanse of beach, as well as a huge array of attractions, facilities and restaurants. It is also home to the only nightlife on the island – perfect for the party crowd.

During the day, Sairee Beach is a vibrant hub of divers, boxers and performers! This party extends into the night, with many of the bars offering cheap beer and vibrant atmospheres. There is also a full moon party every month – a great choice if you want something a bit more laid back than the more popular celebrations on Koh Phangan.

• The Gallery is the only major shopping destination on the entire island, offering clothing, food and souvenirs
• During the day, Sairee Beach is a great spot to try out some diving – especially if you want something that caters to those without experience
• Good Times Adventure is a small trapeze park located between Sairee Beach and Mae Haad
• Lotus Beach Bar is open year-round on the beach – they serve up delicious cocktails and budget-friendly beers until 2am
• If you’re more interested in craft beer, you need to make a stop at the Beer Masons – the only craft beer pub on the entire island

Best Budget Hotel in Sairee Beach

Koh Tao Cabana

This three star hotel gives you the resort experience for a fraction of the price! Rooms come with locally sourced furnishings, Cable TV and air conditioning – as well as a private decking area overlooking the beach. They also have spa facilities on-site offering regular holistic therapies.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Sairee Beach

Blue Tao Beach Hotel

Blue Tao Beach Hotel has one of the best locations in all of Koh Tao, with it being situated right on the shores of the beautiful white sandy Sairee Beach. The hotel is equipped with brightly lit rooms, some of which come with incredible views overlooking the crystal clear Thai island waters.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Sairee Beach

Ban’s Diving Resort

For a bit more of an upgrade, this resort comes with a four star rating and some great luxury facilities! It has its own dedicated PADI certified dive centre on-site, as well as a beautiful garden and snorkel hire facilities. There is also an outdoor pool, extensive fitness suite and guests are given access to a local golf course.

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Neighborhood #4 – Thian Og

Best neighborhood in Koh Tao for families!

• COOLEST thing to do in Thian Og – Jamahkiri Diving Club offers activities to suit all age groups
• BEST place to visit in Thian Og – Thian Og Beach is a nice secluded spot where you can relax and enjoy the serene ambiance

Whilst Koh Tao isn’t really considered a family destination among Western visitors, it is actually a very popular island with Thai families! Thian Og, in particular, offers some great facilities for families that want a laid-back trip to the island. It is well connected with the main strip by public transport and is within walking distance of the east coast towns.

The beach in Thian Og is a lot quieter than those on the west coast, giving you some peace and quiet to enjoy the sun, sand and sea! Despite this, they still offer some great facilities – including diving lessons and inexpensive equipment hire.

• Reef Dive Centre also offer some fantastic diving experiences – though they are better for older kids and adults, they are perfect for exploring the surrounding reefs
• Take a trip down to John Suwan Viewpoint where you can enjoy spectacular views across both Thian Og and Chalok Baan Kao
• inSea Bar and Grill is a relatively inexpensive restaurant on the beach – perfect for families sticking to a budget
• Koh Tao Leisure Park is located in the interior, but can be easily accessed from Thian Og and offers plenty of family-friendly activities
• For something a bit more upmarket, Eagle View restaurant overlooks the town from the surrounding mountains

Best Budget Hotel in Thian Og

Taatoh Seaview Resort

This beautiful three star resort is the perfect choice for families sticking to a strict budget in Koh Tao! Set right on the bay, guests are rewarded with magnificent views across the beach and coastline. Rooms are spacious, and many come with either a balcony or a terrace. Breakfast is included.

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Koh Phangan is great! Koh Phangan’s hostels are great too!

Best Mid-range Hotel in Thian Og

Villas Del Sol Koh Tao

This stunning 4-star hotel has a tranquil and relaxed atmosphere with it being surrounded by tropical trees and just moments away from the ocean. One of the best perks of the villa-style hotel is its beautiful outdoor pools that have incredible views overlooking the coastline.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Thian Og

Jamahkiri Resort

This luxurious five star resort is not only the best option for families looking for luxury – but for anyone with a large budget visiting the island! There is a huge spa facility on-site offering a wide range of holistic therapies and treatment options. The complimentary breakfast showcases Thai and American cuisine.

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Recommended Article: Looking for the best hostels in Ko Phi Phi? Check out our EPIC Guide!

Neighborhood #5 – Jansom Bay

Where to stay in Koh Tao on a budget!

• COOLEST thing to do in Jansom Bay – hike along the route connected Mae Haad with Koh Tao’s south coast
• BEST place to visit in Jansom Bay – Jansom Bay isn’t the best beach on the island by any stretch, but it has a nice and calm atmosphere

Jansom Bay is located just south of Mae Haad and is a reasonably remote part of the island. This gives it a serene atmosphere where you can get up close with nature without the interference of the tourism industry! It is also ideal for budget travellers that want to stay within walking distance of the main attractions.

As Jansom Bay is such a small and secluded area, we have also included neighboring Sai Nuan Beach as a budget pick! Together these small towns are the main stopping points on the walking route between Mae Haad and Chalok Baan Kao – great for those interested in hiking.

• Sai Nuan Beach is a bit of a walk away but has a nicer beach with unspoiled views of the Gulf of Thailand
• Char Bungalows is mostly an accommodation provider, but they also have a great restaurant set right in the middle of the sea
• Siam Cookies, on the other hand, offer an excellent casual dining option – they’re a very popular stop-off point with hikers

Best Budget Hotel in Jansom Bay

Charm Churee Village

This is the only accommodation located within Jansom Bay proper, giving you the true secluded experience. It comes with a private beach and an excellent restaurant, so is a great option if you want the kind of holiday where you never have to leave the hotel. They also offer a variety of activities.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Jansom Bay

Sensi Paradise Beach Resort

On-site at Sensi Paradise Beach Resort, you can expect to find rustic wooden bungalows, a glistening outdoor swimming pool along with a tasty à la carte restaurant. Sensi Paradise Beach Resort also has a fantastic location nearby Mae Haad Beach and is a short walk from plenty of shops and restaurants.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Jansom Bay

Pinnacle Koh Tao Resort

Located close to Sai Nuan Beach, this is another great option if you want a truly secluded accommodation! With a four star rating, it also comes with its own private section of beach. A regular shuttle is available to Mae Haad, keeping you well connected with the main tourism areas.

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Neighborhood #6 – Chalok Baan Kao

Best neighborhood in Koh Tao for couples!

• COOLEST thing to do in Chalok Baan Kao – drink and dance the night away at Pirate Bar, a truly unique nightlife venue
• BEST place to visit in Chalok Baan Kao – Freedom Beach is only a short walk away and has a more secluded atmosphere

Chalok Baan Kao is the third-largest town on the island, with one of the most popular beaches! For couples, Chalok Baan Kao offers the same level of facilities as the larger resorts on the west coast, but with a more serene atmosphere. Its location also makes it one of the best spots for catching the sunrise.

The large bay area is lined with bars and restaurants – as well as plenty of diving schools and equipment hire places! Further inland you will find restaurants that have a more local atmosphere, as well as independent vendors selling souvenirs and clothing.

• Chalok Baan Kao is the largest beach on the south coast and has plenty of great dive schools offering budget-friendly rates
• Family Thai Massage is also located on the beach and offers some fantastic massages as well as other spa therapies
• Unseen Tours Koh Tao are a little more inland but offer some great tours for those that want to go off the beaten path
• The Muay Thai Training Centre is mostly used by locals, but once a week they offer taster sessions for tourists
• It’s a bit of a trek, but Tree House Cafe is the perfect restaurant for a romantic dinner among the lush Thai forest

Best Budget Hotel in Chalok Baan Kao

Koh Tao Tropicana Resort

This two star hotel is pretty basic but is only a short walk away from the beach. If you are a couple on a super strict budget, this is the perfect choice for you! Rooms come with both air conditioning and a fan, as well as small refrigerators – perfect if you want to self cater during your stay.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Chalok Baan Kao

Haaditen Beach Resort

Haadtien Beach Resort is a boutique resort that provides excellent rooms at mid-range prices. It is nestled on a beautiful secluded beach near Chalok Baan Kao and offers guests a choice between a selection of spacious villas, some of which come with private swimming pools.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Chalok Baan Kao

Beach Club by Haadtien

This magnificent four star resort has a very contemporary atmosphere – perfect for couples that want to keep their home comforts whilst visiting Koh Tao! Rooms are fully air-conditioned and come with modern appliances to ensure you are comfortable throughout your stay. Breakfast is included.

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Neighborhood #7 – Leuk Bay

Best neighborhood in Koh Tao for a remote stay!

• COOLEST thing to do in Leuk Bay – hike the route from Leuk Bay to Sai Daeng Beach for an off the beaten path adventure
• BEST place to visit in Leuk Bay – the beach itself is among the most secluded and pristine on the entire island

Leuk Bay is so off the beaten path that there aren’t many tourism facilities – making it the ideal choice for experienced travellers that want something a bit different! There are only a few restaurants, but they are all locally owned and use ingredients sourced from the island and surrounding waters.

It is also the starting point of many hiking trails along the east coast of the island, as well as towards the interior! Leuk Bay is a rewarding destination for adventure travellers that want an authentic experience in the middle of luscious Thai nature. For a truly unique experience, you have to head to Leuk Bay.

• Dive Point Koh Tao are the only diving facility in the area, though they are quite quiet thanks to the lack of tourists giving you more time in the water
• Ao Leuk Grand Hill is a restaurant perched above the bay where you can enjoy locally sourced food with views across the ocean
• Ao Leuk Two is owned by the same people, but it’s beachside location gives it a more laid-back atmosphere
• If opting to visit nearby Sai Daeng, CV Divers not only offer diving lessons and equipment hire, but they also run regular boat tours of the coast!

Best Budget Hotel in Leuk Bay

Koh Tao Seaview Resort

As the name suggests, this hotel comes with spectacular views across the sea! It is actually nestled within the island’s interior but is so high on the mountains that you can basically see across the entire island. A complimentary breakfast is included and has plenty of options.

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Best Mid-range Hotel in Leuk Bay

Coral View Resort

Coral View Resort is a beautiful 3-star hotel situated nearby Leuk Bay and features a selection of authentic yet luxurious room options. If you want to explore some of the best activities in Koh Tao at discounted rates, then you can also book a selection of amazing tours at the on-site tour desk, including island hopping, snorkeling, and sightseeing.

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Best Luxury Hotel in Leuk Bay

Sai Daeng Resort

Situated on its own peninsula, this resort is a collection of self-contained units with excellent facilities that ensure it more than earns its four star rating! There is a large garden on-site, as well as a well-maintained pool. They offer bike hire to all guests, and there is a communal sun terrace.

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Bangkok has a strong tour game – check out the best tours in Bangkok (for all budgets!) here!

Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Koh Tao?

Koh Tao is a gorgeous destination that must not be missed on any itinerary in the south of Thailand! Though usually only considered by divers and Thai locals, other tourists have a lot to gain from the natural and cultural attractions available.

For the best neighborhood, we have to go with Mae Haad! All of the other neighborhoods can be easily reached from this area, and it has all of the facilities you need.

That being said, Koh Tao is a very small and walkable island, and each town has something unique to offer. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip.

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments!

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