Why Is Koh Tao Famous? Know How I Felt On My First Visit To Koh Tao

Jan 22, 2026

Last Updated on: May 19, 2026

Destinations

Is Koh Tao safe? Now, this is the question everyone is asking about Koh Tao these days. The reason? This island of stunning beauty has suddenly become the “Death Island.” Since 2014, the news of foreign tourists dying or going missing on the island has been common.

But this is not the season that makes Koh Tao famous. Let me share with you a fascinating story about how I felt when I visited Koh Tao for the first time.

We really had our toes in the sand, and you have to be here to understand how this island is the crown jewel of the sustainable tourism and green economy initiatives of the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

What adds to Koh Tao’s success is the whole-of-society mindset shift that we have seen over the past few years.

We’ve seen an evolution from just trying to raise profits and attract more tourists to creating a more sustainable and environmentally conscious tourism experience that truly makes Koh Tao unique.

I am thrilled to see the results of UNDP BIOFIN’s work that has contributed to this change and will continue to support local communities in working towards Thailand’s ambitious climate priorities.

– Renaud Meyer, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Thailand.

BIOFIN stands for Biodiversity Finance Initiative. It has played an active role in convincing the diving and fishing communities here about the importance of protecting the biodiversity and marine life.

Nevertheless, this Turtle Island is gorgeous, and it is also pristine. So, along with celebrated locations such as Raja Ampat in Indonesia, Koh Tao is also emerging as a place to encounter stunning marine life and beautiful reefs.

The First Impression At Koh Tao

The First Impression At Koh Tao

I don’t know whether it is the “Fortune favors the brave” trick or something else. But I visited Koh Tao in July with my girl gang and found a clear sky to our greatest surprise.

However, the experience at Mae Haad Pier was not that pleasant. The crowd was endless when we were trying to get off the ferry. The men were bare-skinned, and they were hauling their backpacks.

Furthermore, a few Thai men kept asking, “Where are you going?”

It was very confusing whether to answer them first or jump off the ferry first! I am an introvert, and suddenly there was too much energy around me.

So, it took me a while to get accustomed to the crowd. But after that, it was absolutely okay.

Koh Tao Is Growing: And We Saw How The Infrastructure Is Changing

Koh Tao Is Growing And We Saw How The Infrastructure Is Changing

Do you know that the first adventure travelers arrived at Koh Tao in 1977? They took the coconut and fish transport boats to reach this island for diving.

Since then, infrastructure development on Koh Tao has been significant. The concrete streets are clean. Also, many shops, restaurants, and hotels looked new.

Also, the shops’ advertising was quite cool, and along with the pharmacies and cafes serving espresso, there were motorbike rental shops. Now, motorbikes are the best way if you want to explore this small town at your own pace.

The rental price starts at around 150-200 THB per day.

Another great thing was the availability of ATMs. It was such a relief!

Moreover, the crowd buzz was just right as it was the rainy season. It was enough to soak in the local culture. However, we always got our spots at the cafes and restaurants. In addition, we were using the TrueMove connection, and the coverage was quite decent throughout the island.

Getting Around Koh Tao

The island is walkable. Furthermore, moving around was pretty easy with the motorbikes, taxis, and ferris being frequent.

Also, Koh Tao is close to the Koh Samui Airport and the Chumphon Airport on the Thai mainland. So, since it does not have its own airport, the initial transit can be challenging. 

What Are The Things To Do On Koh Tao? 

What Are The Things To Do On Koh Tao

Scuba diving, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring the beaches are the best things to do on Koh Tao. Here are more details.

1. Scuba Diving

You can get your PADI certification, and there are as many as 84 dive schools on the island.

We produce around 100000 PADI certfied divers every year. This is an affordable place and the price you get here is matchless.” 

• Kim, Big Blue Diving, 

Other diving companies we got to know about there were Roctopus Dive, Goodtime Adventure, and Ban’s Diving Resort.

However, diving here has seasonal specialties. For example, January to May is the best time for diving. Having said that, February is the month if you want to enjoy a swim with the whale sharks.

2. Hiking

Koh Tao has many beautiful viewpoints, and you can easily hike along any of them. These viewpoints are: 

  • Two View 
  • John Suwan Viewpoint 
  • Chalok Viewpoint 
  • Mango Bay Viewpoint 
  • Koh Nang Yuan Viewpoint 
  • Love @ Khao Tao Viewpoint 

We started our day early so we could enjoy the fresh air and complete the walk before it got crowded. 

3. Exploring The Koh Tao Beaches

We were impressed to witness the initiatives to protect the beaches of the island. Stunning is an understatement for them.

Also, for lazy travelers like us, these beaches are the best things about Koh Tao.

Now, you will get many beaches with palm trees, white sands, and aqua blue water. However, I have seldom seen beaches being so sincere about the recycling programs and cleanups.

We relaxed in our hammocks and allowed the sea breeze to caress our cheeks and hair.

Furthermore, among the beaches we visited, Ao Chalok Ban Kao and Sai Daeng were my silent favorites. Those beaches were quiet.

Also, as we visited Koh Tao in the monsoon, the more touristy ones, such as Tanote Beach, Sairee Beach, and Ao Luek, were not that crowded. These are usually full during the peak months.

Pro Tip

The sand is beautiful on Koh Tao beaches. But it is not smooth. So, you will need your flip flops. Chaloke Harbor was an exception.

But most beaches have the remains of the bleached coral. So, make sure that you don’t cut your feet. 

Moreover, these beaches offer amazing sunrise and sunset views.

4. Nightlife On Koh Tao

We were on Koh Tao till around 9 PM, and by then the bars had come to life, and we could hear the rock and pop music they were playing.

The quiet vibe of the island is gone after sundown. The groups of divers and young tourists here get busy with tropical cocktails and local beers. Also, the fire dancers were putting up their shows.

One more thing I learned from a local pub owner. You can be a part of the Pub Crawl here three times a week. Friday, Wednesday, and Monday are the days.

Along with all these activities, you can also try ocean kayaking and rock climbing. Furthermore, snorkeling at Hin Wong Reef is a lot of fun. 

How Is Koh Tao Making A Successful Ecotourism Movement 

It was fascinating to see how all the people and local businesses of Koh Tao came together to reduce the impact on the environment.

With around 500000 visitors here every year, the small island gets a lot of waste. Most wastage comes from the packaging and construction work. Food waste and bathroom waste amounts are also quite high.

Now, non-profit organizations such as Trash Hero Koh Tao are working to make the island clean. They encourage the locals and the visitors to get involved in the reef and beach clean-up drives.

When you clean the waste with your own hands and see what the plastic bags, bottles, and straws do to the sea and the marine animals, you will never throw them carelessly.

Furthermore, the hotels here play a proactive role. We chose Ban’s Diving Resort for our stay, and they have a separate section to make detergents and soaps from organic waste.

Also, they compost the fruit scraps and vegetable waste and use the gray water, along with sorting the recyclables.

Moreover, the food they serve at their restaurants has vegetables from their organic gardens.

Is Koh Tao Safe To Visit? 

Is Koh Tao Safe To Visit

Back to where I started this article. The recent cases of tourist deaths have been a bad patch for the reputation of Koh Tao.

Though it has been years now, it felt weird seeing such a scarce presence of police here. I think I last saw some officers at Mae Haad Pier. Also, it was even more alarming here to know that most officers don’t understand or speak English.

However, the local people here and business owners here are so committed to maintaining the sanctity of the place that we did not have any problem during our stay. We were a bunch of women, and we never even felt unsafe.

Tips To Follow If You Want To Visit Koh Tao Safely 

  • Are you renting a motorbike? You must click all the scratches on the vehicle, and your rental agency will need a photocopy of your passport. 

Furthermore, keep the international driver’s permit for motorcycle driving handy and wear your helmet. Moreover, don’t forget to get travel insurance.

  • You cannot stroll at night alone. Be with a group, and even if you are going to the bay alone in the daytime, keep your hotel staff member informed.
  • Be mindful of how much you are drinking. The buckets can seem fun, but they are traps, and sometimes they are drugged.
  • When you are on the speedboats, you have to wear life jackets. It does not matter if you can swim or not.

Koh Tao Is Beautiful But A Bit Overhyped 

Koh Tao deserves all the accolades for its sustainable tourism initiatives. However, I think it is a bit overhyped if you are not diving.

For a diver, it is an excellent place to get the PADI certification and explore the coral reefs. The beaches are good, but not something that you won’t find anywhere in Bangkok or anywhere else.

So, it’s a 5/10 kind of experience for me. What’s your take on this?

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Sibashree is a travel, culture, and leisure writer who has been writing since the age of 12 and professionally since 2014. With more than a decade of travel writing experience and journeys across India and several parts of the world, she brings a deeply personal and thoughtful perspective to her work. A student of English Literature and Mass Communication, Sibashree has always viewed travel as more than movement — for her, it has been a way of understanding people, cultures, and herself. Her passion for spiritual exploration has also led her to many unusual and meaningful destinations over the years. Outside of writing, Sibashree enjoys watching European cinema, reading about global politics, and reflecting on the stories hidden within everyday places.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Luxury Antarctica Holidays

Luxury Antarctica Holidays | Beautiful Places In Antarctica

BY  Sibashree Jan 24, 2025

Luxury Antarctica holidays or Antarctica tourism is in focus for so many reasons! The Antarctica travel market is about to reach 3.5 Billion by 2032. If you compare it with the tourism market of 2023, it’s a steady 9% growth every year.  Diversity is one of the key factors that makes luxurious Antarctica travels unforgettable. Your next trip to Antarctica can be about exploring wildlife, enjoying a cruise ride, or getting familiar with the diverse ecosystem of Antarctica.  Further, in Antarctica, you can make the most of guided expeditions, helping you explore even the southernmost corner of the continent safely while enjoying all the amenities. So, are you ready for a trip to Antarctica and understand how it plays an important role in the global climate? Let me introduce the places to visit in Antarctica in this Tour and Travel Guide. However, as travelers and enthusiasts about unknown lands, we must find out the best time to visit Antarctica.  Luxury Antarctica Holidays At A Glance | A Year That Was In 2023-24, 43,224 people visited Antarctica for cruise-only trips. The number of landed visits was 80,251. The number of deep field visits was 787.  What Is The Best Time For Luxury Antarctica Holidays  Meeting the wildlife can be the biggest reason why you want to embark on your next adventure with luxury Antarctica holidays. So, you must plan a trip when the wildlife in Antarctica is the most active.  In other words, November to March is the best time for Antarctica holidays. It is the summer period in Antarctica. So, you can expect milder temperatures (above 0 degrees Celsius) in these months. Moreover, daylights are longer these days, making cruising and expeditions all the more fun.  Also, if you want to meet whales and penguins in Antarctica, this is the ideal season. In these months, the penguins visit the shore and they lay eggs there.  Furthermore, April to September is the coldest in Antarctica. In these months, the temperature at the South Pole hovers around -60 to -70 degrees Celsius. October onwards, there is a little hike in the temperature, with the mercury reaching around -50°F. Wonders That Await On Luxury Antarctica Holidays | Why A Trip To Antarctica Is Special  The Antarctic travel season awaits you with a lot of exciting things. From the moment you learn about Antarctica from your Geography or natural science book, this place creates a sense of intrigue and fantasy.  Antarctica almost feels like a world away or you may feel like walking on another planet.  "The first time I went there, it's like walking on another planet. It's just ice and rock - no trees, no plants, no anything else.”Gabrielle Walker, Author, and Environmental Scientist  Furthermore, Antarctica is filled with scientific wonders, with places like Paradise Bay. Paradise Bay is the place you must visit if you want to know about global climate change.  Do you need more reasons to plan a trip to Antarctica? This is what I feel as a traveler and travel writer are the biggest draws.  Are You Ready To Travel A World Away?  Imagine you have reached Antarctica in a sheep. You only have the co-travelers with you. As Antarctica does not have any indigenous population, only a vast land or a space of emptiness will lie before your eyes.  The feeling is elevating, eerie, or the way you want to put it!  A Wildlife That Is Fearless  It is difficult to imagine Antarctica without penguins. These adorable creatures are fearless, and they are unbothered by the presence of human beings.  Furthermore, you will meet the seals and whales in Antarctica. Overall, Antarctica, with its wildlife, is the biggest natural zoo or aquarium anyone can visit.  Antarctica Is The Place Of Great Scientific Wonder  Now, Antarctica is a place of excitement, discovery, and a lot of scientific wonders. Paradise Bay is, of course, the crown jewel here.  The place makes the term “climate change” visible before your eyes. Further, you get to see how the climate change impacts the entire world.  Moreover, it is a favorite spot for astronomers to keep a watch on the celestial bodies. The South Pole is devoid of light and air pollution.  So, even if you want the best stargazing experience under the darkest and cleanest sky, Antarctica will be your go-to destination.  Places You Cannot Miss On Luxury Antarctica Vacations  Visiting the South Pole, of course, will be the biggest attraction for your next Antarctica holidays. However, the Antarctic Peninsula, South Shetland Islands, Drake Passage, and South Georgia are some other places that promise a lifetime experience.  So, let me introduce these places briefly to you.  Antarctic Peninsula The Antarctic Peninsula, the home to chinstraps, penguins, and Adelies, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Antarctica.  Further, it is a great place for spotting whales during the migration season in summer. In addition, this is the place where you will find the glaciers falling upon the towering mountains.  Exploring through the narrow passageways here is an experience you will find in your fairy tales.  Drake Passage The Drake Passage between the Ushuaia and the Beagle Channel is a little rough when compared to the other places in Antarctica.  However, it is a great place for all adventure lovers. You can cruise to the Drake Passage or enjoy a Hawkeye view from the helicopter. This is also the place to spot whales and dolphins.  South Shetland Islands It is an archipelago on the south of the Drake Passage, and it’s great for wildlife viewing. Further, it is the place that exudes the whiff of Antarctic history.  Moreover, King George Island, the largest one here, houses many scientific research stations.  South Georgia  If you want to explore the best wildlife of Antarctica, South Georgia will be your go-to destination. It is a long mountainous island, often referred to as the Alps in the mid-ocean.  Weddell Sea The Weddell Sea is probably the most beautiful part of Antarctica. The northernmost colony of Emperor Penguins lives here.  It separates the East Antarctica's Coats Land from the Antarctic Peninsula. Read Also: Astronaut Holidays: Unparalleled Experiences in Space 7 Things To Take Care Of To Ensure Peaceful Holidays Abroad

READ MORE Using Cheap Parking Near O Hare Airport

How To Save Money By Using Cheap Parking Near O’Hare Airport?

BY  Abdul Aziz Mar 13, 2023

No frequent traveler will argue that the airport parking cost is the biggest problem they face while planning a trip. The parking price, along with the airfares and other associated expenses, can add up considerably with cheap parking. Depending on the airport and the duration of the journey, travelers can end up paying hundreds of dollars just to park their car. This can be especially difficult for those who are on a budget or have to travel frequently. Actually, any US airport won't be an exception. Traveling from Chicago, Illinois, people are hungry for the answer to the following question: is it possible to find cheap parking near O'Hare Airport? Let's deal with it and take a closer look at the solution we've found for you. How Much Does It Cost To Leave Your Vehicle At The Chicago O'Hare International Airport? First of all, we'd like to confirm the fact – ​​cheap parking at O'Hare Airport is really expensive. Here's the table with prices the airport offers travelers: Parking Type Daily Rate O'Hare Parking Garage Fees (For daily) 42$ Fees O'Hare Daily Parking (Lot B & C) 42$ 5 O'Hare Terminal Parking Fees 77$ Economy Parking O'Hare Ticket Fees  Of Economy Lot F 22$ Economy Parking O'Hare Fees Economy Lot G & F 15$ *The rates are valid at the moment of publishing You can see that even the budget option will cost you at least $15.00. In other cases, you would be charged daily fees ranging from $42.00 to $77.00, depending on the lot you choose. Also, there is one more difficulty – since on-site airport parking has limited availability, it'll be complicated to find a free spot among a bunch of cars. So how can we solve such a problem? Here's your best solution – O'Hare off-site parking provided by ParkingNearAirports.io! We decided to do our own research and find the best solution for every traveler. And we're happy to say that we've done it – ParkingNearAirports.io is a smart booking platform that provides you with an off-site parking facility that is only a few miles away from the airport you're departing from. What Are The Best Alternative Ways To Save Money By Using Cheap Parking Near O'Hare Airport? The service offers several options for O'Hare long-term cheap parking, as well as multiple amenities, which will make your departure absolutely convenient, including high-quality service, convenient locations, a free speedy shuttle to and from airport terminals, valet service, and free luggage assistance. Use Online Parking Reservation Platforms Online platforms like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, and AirportParkingReservations.com allow you to compare prices and reserve cheap parking spots in advance at a discounted rate. Consider Off-Airport Parking Parking lots located outside the airport may offer cheaper rates than on-site airport parking. Look for options that offer shuttle services to the airport terminals. Look For Discount Codes And Coupons Check the parking lot's website or search cheap parking options online for discount codes and coupons that can help you save money on parking fees. Choose Economy Parking O'Hare airport offers an economy cheap parking lot option that is cheaper than other on-site parking options. The economy lot is located farther from the airport terminals, but a shuttle service is provided to transport passengers to and from the lot. Take Advantage Of Hotel Parking Packages Some hotels near O'Hare airport offer parking packages that include a night's stay and parking for a certain number of days. This can be a cost-effective option if you need to park for several days. Consider Car-Sharing Or Ride-Hailing Services If you live close to the airport, using car-sharing or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft can be a cost-effective alternative to parking your car at the airport. Conclusion Be clever and only spend part of your fortune on cheap airport parking! Better take a closer look at PNA's cheap parking rates by following this link and make sure that parking might cost you up to 70% less. So use the discount airport parking services from ParkingNearAirports.io and afford your following journey to go smoothly! Read Also: 25 Amazing Things to do in Ladakh  

READ MORE Luxurious Trip To Australia 

6 Tips For A Luxurious Trip To Australia 

BY  Ankita Nov 18, 2023

Australia is a sought-after destination with its natural beauty as well as adventurous spirit. Its vast landscapes, as well as vibrant cities, offer a diverse tapestry of experiences. Yet, within this allure, discerning travelers must navigate their unique obstacles. In pursuing opulence, travelers may face a dilemma - how to curate a trip that seamlessly melds extravagance with authenticity? How to navigate the extensive array of choices, from awe-inspiring destinations to sumptuous accommodations? How to ensure that every experience epitomizes sophistication without becoming cliché? To help you out, here are some tips for your next luxurious trip to the land down under: Choose Your Destinations Wisely  Selecting suitable destinations is the initial cornerstone of a luxurious trip to Australia. The country boasts a plethora of stunning locales, each with its unique charm. Focusing on locations catering to refined tastes is essential for those pursuing grandeur. Consider starting your journey in cosmopolitan hubs like Sydney and Melbourne, where high-end experiences blend with urban sophistication. These cities offer world-class dining, upscale shopping, as well as luxury arrangements, ensuring a lavish stay. If you seek nature's serenity, then explore the Whitsunday Islands, where pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and secluded resorts await. It has a taste of the Outback's rugged elegance as well as ventures into the heart of the Northern Territory, where luxury lodges provide an oasis amidst the wilderness. For a convenient exploration, consider a luxury car hire in Brisbane or another city, allowing you to discover the surrounding areas at your own pace. Choosing your destinations wisely enables you to savor the finest Australia offers, ensuring a journey that resonates with splendor as well as authenticity. Book Luxury Accommodations  Selecting your accommodations is a pivotal aspect of crafting a luxurious Australian journey. The great southern land offers a range of magnificent lodging options to cater to sophisticated travelers. You'll discover upscale hotels in major urban centers that offer spacious suites, world-class amenities, and impeccable service. Boutique hotels in charming neighborhoods provide an intimate yet equally luxurious experience. For those seeking a connection with nature, Australia's wilderness lodges blend luxury with rugged beauty. These lodges, set against breathtaking landscapes, offer spa treatments, gourmet dining, as well as guided adventures. Enhance your journey by customizing your stay with experiences such as private wildlife encounters as well as guided tours. These tailored packages elevate your trip, offering moments of opulent luxury and unforgettable memories. Indulge In Fine Dining On Your Luxurious Trip To Australia Exploring Australia's culinary delights is a quintessential part of any luxurious journey. The country's gastronomy scene promises a sensory journey like no other. From world-renowned restaurants in major cities to hidden gems in picturesque locales, the options vary as much as the landscapes. In cities like Sydney as well as Melbourne, prepare your taste buds for a symphony of flavors as you dine in Michelin-starred restaurants and waterfront eateries. Savor exquisite dishes prepared by award-winning chefs focusing on fresh, local ingredients.  Beyond the urban sprawl, venture into culinary adventures in the wine regions of Margaret River and Barossa Valley, where vineyard restaurants offer the perfect pairing of fine wines and gourmet cuisine. Indulging in fine dining is not merely a meal; it's an exploration of a rich culinary world. Experience Luxury Adventures  Elevating your Australian journey to its peak involves more than indulging in lavish accommodations as well as fine dining. The country's landscapes offer a playground for luxury adventurers seeking thrill and refinement in equal measure. Whether you're yearning for serene escapades or heart-pounding excitement, there's an adventure that caters to your discerning tastes. Set sail on luxury cruises along the Great Barrier Reef, where you can explore the world’s most extensive coral reef system in style with expert guides as well as exclusive amenities. If you’re seeking awe-inspiring views from the skies, then embark on a hot air balloon ride over the picturesque Yarra Valley or the stunning Red Centre. On your luxurious trip to Australia, get up close and personal with Australia’s unique wildlife. Book private safaris in lush national parks. These luxury adventures expertly blend excitement with comfort, ensuring an unforgettable journey that resonates with the spirit of exploration. Discover Spa And Wellness Retreats  Australia offers a collection of spa and wellness retreats for those searching for moments of peace and rejuvenation amidst the adventure of luxury travel. These sanctuaries allow travelers to relax and invigorate their spirits in tranquil natural settings. Whether you yearn for holistic treatments, yoga sessions, or a peaceful escape, Australia's spa destinations address your wellness needs. Explore the lush rainforests of Queensland's Daintree or the scenic settings of the Blue Mountains, where secluded wellness oases offer customized spa experiences. Let skilled therapists pamper you with massages and therapies designed to renew your balance as well as well-being. Enjoy the refreshing powers of mineral-rich hot springs in Victoria or Tasmania. These spa and wellness refuges provide a comprehensive approach to relaxation, ensuring that your luxurious journey through Australia includes profound calm as well as self-care moments. Explore Cultural And Arts Offerings  Australia's cultural scene mirrors the vibrancy of its landscapes, offering a range of enriching encounters for the discerning traveler. Immerse yourself in the dynamic art scene of the country's major cities, where world-class museums, galleries, and theaters await. Explore the Aboriginal heritage of the land through indigenous art exhibitions and cultural performances that forge a deep connection to Australia's ancient history. To savor Australia's multicultural essence, venture into the diverse neighborhoods of cities, where you can delight in international cuisines, explore ethnic markets, and engage with local artisans. Beyond the urban centers, delve into the nation's rich history through heritage sites, such as Port Arthur in Tasmania or the historic structures in Sydney. Whether you have a passion for art, an interest in history, or simply a curiosity about the world's oldest living culture, Australia's cultural and arts experiences weave a captivating narrative of the nation's past and present. Final Thoughts In the heart of Australia’s splendid offerings, your journey unfolds as a symphony of opulence and unique encounters. This amazing country invites you to craft your narrative of unforgettable moments. Whether you crave thrilling adventures, serene wellness escapes, or cultural exploration, the land down under offers a rich canvas for your travel desires. As you bid farewell to a luxurious trip to Australia, you’ll carry memories of the wonderful experiences defining this extraordinary destination. Read Also: Budget-Friendly Travel Ideas In Australia Top 5 Used Japanese Vehicles In Australia Top Ten Southern Africa Off-The-Beaten-Path Adventures A Beginner’s Guide To Island-Hopping In Greece