Koh Tao
Koh Tao, a small paradise island in the Gulf of Thailand, is renowned as a world-class diving destination, with crystal-clear seas, abundant marine life, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle.
Koh Tao is surrounded by large rock formations covered with stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life that starts just a few metres offshore. Most of the year, the conditions are excellent, with crystal clear and calm water, so snorkeling Koh Tao is suitable for both adults and children.
The most popular way to combine sightseeing and snorkeling Koh Tao is on one of the ‘Around the Island’ boat tours. If you prefer a quieter and more gentle approach, plan your trip by walking or kayaking. However you go, various fish await, such as parrotfish, angelfish, triggerfish and blue spotted rays, and at some sites, maybe a black tip reef shark and sea turtles!
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Koh Tao Snorkeling Guide 2026 |
About ten companies are operating this snorkeling tour. They all cost the same and provide the same program and services. These daily trips leave at 10:00, return at 17:00, and visit Koh Nang Yuan, Mango Bay, Hin Wong Bay, Aow Leuk, and Shark Bay. An afternoon trip is also available, which leaves at 12:00. Price includes equipment (mask, snorkel and life jacket), insurance, English speaking guide, pickup services, lunch, fresh fruit and drinking water. An additional 250 Baht of Koh Nang Yuan landing fee is usually not included with the price.
Click here to book a snorkeling tour.

Snorkeling tour with big boat
To enjoy a private snorkeling tour at Koh Tao, you can book a longtail boat independently operated by local individuals. This option allows you to create your itinerary and explore other destinations not included in standard tours. Costs vary, so check around with a few boat operators and agree beforehand on the price and what’s included. The average longtail boat capacity is a maximum of ten people.
For the ultimate comfort and convenience, organise your private luxury speed boat. Get to places the quickest way possible and spend more time snorkeling. A few companies offer this service, and most also offer charters on request between neighbouring islands and the mainland.
If you prefer not to join a snorkeling group tour, you can explore this beautiful island of Koh Tao on your own. Numerous walking paths allow you to discover the island at your own pace, letting you see both the interior of Koh Tao and visit a beach or bay in a single trip. Kayaks are available for hire in some locations, making it easy to combine kayaking with snorkeling. You’ll also see much more marine life without the disturbance of boat engine noise.

Snorkeling at Lighthouse Bay
Good snorkeling is easy to find on Koh Tao. At any cape or point around the island where there is constant water movement, fertile coral reefs can often be found just below the surface. Examples are Cape Je Ta Kang, June Juea Cape, Buddha Rock or Laem Thian.
Koh Tao, a small paradise island in the Gulf of Thailand, is renowned as a world-class diving destination, with crystal-clear seas, abundant marine life, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle.
This Koh Tao itinerary will guide you through the island’s vibrant beaches, underwater, and culinary delights, ensuring a great experience.
Koh Tao marine life provides a natural aquarium for all divers. The different species of colourful fish are abundant on coral reefs.
Diving schools on Koh Tao are some of the best dive facilities worldwide. Here is our list of Koh Tao diving school recommendations.
Koh Tao Hotels offer a wide choice of places to stay, from simple beach bungalows to budget dorm hostels to luxury pool villas.

18/3 Moo 3, Koh Tao
Surat Thani 84360 THAILAND
info@kohtaocompleteguide.com