Everything great is happening in Valletta’s tourism industry these days. 2025 has been a year of growth and recognition for Valletta, the small capital city of Malta, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In the forest quarter of 2025 itself, Malta received more than 693,000 visitors according to the Tour and Travel World. It was an 18.9% rise from the same period in 2024. Furthermore, in the same period, the tourist spending reached €508.5 million.
In addition, the World Travel $ Tourism Council has chosen Malta as the venue for the WTTC Global Summit, 2026. The 26th edition of the summit will take place in collaboration with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs & Tourism and the Government of Malta.
The prominent landmarks of Valletta, such as the Grand Harbour and St. John’s Co-Cathedral, and activities such as exploring Victoria’s Gate and trying some brilliant craft beer, and cultural richness, have helped Valletta enjoy such growth in numbers and global recognition.
I have been to Malta, and starting from exploring the fortified walls of Valletta to enjoying the serene charm of Valletta Grand Harbour Waterfront, the free things to do in Valletta were the highlights for me. On such a shoestring budget, I was able to enjoy the essence of a city, which even enjoyed the status of the European Capital of Culture 2018.
In this Tour and Travel Blog, I will, of course, talk about the free activities and other fun and interesting things to do in Valletta.
What Are The Things To Do In Valletta?
As I started exploring the city of Valletta, I noticed the signature “Pointed Cross” of the Knights protecting this ancient city from everything evil.
If this is something really spiritual, on the other hand, you will see history becoming alive with the post boxes, telephone booths, and British colonial architecture.
Nevertheless, these are the things to do in Valletta.
1. Visiting The St. John’s Co-Cathedral
Address: Triq San Gwann, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours Open: 9 AM to 4:15 PM (Monday to Saturday)
Entry Fee: Adults: €15, Seniors: €12, Students: €12, Children (Under 12): Free when accompanied by an adult, €5 Extra for a Belfray Tour, Audio Tour Included
The St. John’s Co-Cathedral is the most prominent example of the Baroque-style architecture of Valletta. The Knights of the St. John built this conventional church for the order in the late 16th century.
You will know about the life of St. John the Baptist from the paintings by Mattia Preti on the ceiling of this cathedral.
Furthermore, there are eight chapels, dedicated to various languages, tapestries, marble floors, and gilded carvings. However, the main focus for me was the painting called “The Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.”
This dramatic work, one of the few artworks signed by Caravaggio, is in the Oratory.
2. Exploring Fort St. Elmo And The National War Museum
Address: Mediterranean Street, Valletta, Malta
Hours Open: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: Adults – €10.00, Senior Citizens (60+) and Youths (12-17 Years) – €7.50, Students – €7.50, Children (5-11 Years) – €5.00, Below 5 Years – Free
Fort St. Elmo stands as a witness to the Great Siege of Malta in 1565. It has military paraphernalia and many artefacts.
However, the major appeal of the fort is intangible, and it lies in the fact of how it became a refuge for the people of Malta during the attack of the Ottoman Empire under the leadership of Suleiman the Magnificent.
The Knights, only around 500 in numbers, defeated the 6000 strong army of the Ottoman Emperor.
Furthermore, the National War Museum inside the fort, spanning over seven sections, celebrates the 7000-year-old history of Malta. Some of the exhibits here date back to the Bronze Age (2,500 BC).
You can even request a guided tour of the museum.
Insider Tip:
2025 marked the 900th year of the Great Siege of Malta. A docu-drama called The Great Siege of Malta 1565 was released in 2025. This 45-minute docu-drama celebrates the bravery of the “Hospitalier Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem.”
3. Visiting The Grand Master’s Palace
Address: St George’s Square, Valletta
Hours: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee: €12 for Adults, €10 for Children Aged 12 to 17 Years and Seniors, Children (6-11): €8, Infants (1-5): Free
The Grand Master of the Order of St. John used to rule Valletta from the Grand Master’s Palace. The armory here is the main attraction, and it has the accessories and outfits of the Knights.
Furthermore, the symbol of power, with its history of 450 years, is once again in the news with its recent renovation work.
It was also the “seat of the first constitutional parliament of Malta in 1921,” and now it is the “Seat of the Office of the President of Malta.”
4. A Guided Tour Of Casa Rocca Piccola
Address: 74 Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
Audio Tours: From 10 AM
Guided Tours: From 10 AM to 4 PM (On An Hourly Basis)
Do you know that the 9th Marquis de Piro still lives in this 16th-century palace? Join the audio tours or the guided tours to see the swanky furniture and unique staircases.
However, for me, the Bomb Shelters were the main attraction. These are not dark tourism spots. These are the living history of World War II.
When 15 air raids took place in 1942, the people of Valletta saved their lives by hiding in these chambers. These shelters were part of the quarry of the 400-year-old house, and they were made from a solid rock foundation.
5. Know The WWII Stories Of Malta At Lascaris War Rooms
Address: Lascaris Ditch, Valletta VLT 2000, Malta
Hours: 10 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee – Adults: €20, Seniors: €19, 5-15 Years Old: €7, Family: €35, Children below 5 Years: Free
I love history, and even if you don’t, you cannot avoid knowing about WW1 and WW2. These two wars changed the course of human civilization.
At Lascaris War Rooms, you don’t just see the exhibits. You live through the moments of war as you explore the tunnels and labyrinths used as protection from the Italian and German attacks during World War 2.
It’s like getting transported to the 1940s within a minute.
Insider Tip:
I found the War Rooms more fascinating than the National War Museum at Fort St Elmo. Did you know that these War Rooms were used as the headquarters for the Invasion of Sicily or Operation Husky?
6. Visiting The National Museum Of Archaeology
Address: Auberge de Provençe, Republic Street, Valletta, Malta
I was at a loss for words at the National Museum of Archaeology, Valletta. It has everything you need to know about the prehistoric days of Malta.
Once I entered, the first room had exhibits showing how the earliest people settled here, even before the temple establishment period. It had “Red Skorba ornaments” and some “tools” they used in their everyday lives.
I also got to see exhibits from the Ghar Dalam phase (5200 BC), Tarxien phase (2500 BC), and Bronze Age.
Then, I reached the main hall of the museum. It had the Sleeping Lady and other astonishing sculptures and temple carvings.
Among the collectibles from the Temple Period, the Obsidian Core was the most impressive. It was a headless sculpture, in a seated posture.
Housed inside a Baroque building, this museum is now the main attraction of Auberge de Provençe, which was earlier the home of the Knights of the St. John.
Insider Tip:
If you are traveling from any other town in Malta, take a bus to the Valetta Bus Terminal. From there, it is a short distance on foot.
7. Visiting The Upper Barrakka Gardens
Address: 292 Triq Sant’Orsla, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Home to the Siege Bell War Memorial, the Upper Barrakka Gardens offer amazing views of the harbor and the three neighboring cities.
This 16th-century garden was built in the 16th century, and the Knights of the Saint John once used it as a private garden.
Once you are done strolling the Castille Square, you will find the Upper Barrakka Gardens nearby.
Insider Tip:
It’s great to relax at the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens and have a sip of your favorite drink. However, at 12 PM and 4 PM, the officials of the Malta Heritage Society get dressed in military uniforms and fire the cannons at the Upper Barakka Gardens.
Now, I had a cup of hot coffee in my hand, and I was not ready for it. So, it fell out of my hand, and it was a mess.
Nevertheless, this tradition has been continued for more than 100 years, and once you attend it, you will know why it is worth it.
Also, you must use the Barakka Lift to travel between the upper and lower Barakka Gardens quickly.
8. Plan A Visit To The Lower Barrakka Gardens
Address: Lvant, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
Hours: 7 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
I know people do not talk much about the Lower Barrakka Gardens. However, that’s a blessing in disguise. It is way less crowded than the Upper Barrakka Garden.
Now, despite having the name as “Gardens,” it is actually a small-scale garden with a few minutes taken to complete the stroll.
However, there is a fort and a waterfront with Greek-style arches overlooking them. You can relax here, have your moments, and make the most of the photo ops.
9. Enjoying The Waterfront
The Baroque houses, surrounding the waterfront of Valletta, were earlier used for storing the essentials of the Grand Master. Now, they are bars and restaurants.
I found the promenade the perfect place to relax and cherish a drink with my eyes set on the ships cruising. The place is more magical after sundown, but there is a trick!
You have to find a cafe or restaurant that is not crowded by tourists. Find yourself a quiet corner.
10. Watching A Performance At The Manoel Theatre
Address: Old Theatre Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
At Manoel Theatre, as a performer of elocution and audio theater for the longest time, I had goosebumps. I was standing at the oldest working theater in Europe.
The wrap-around gallery was the highlight of the building, and I attended an opera performance by none other than Joseph Calleja.
Also, if you want to explore the grand architecture of Manoel Theatre, you can do so every Tuesday. During the summer months, the tours are conducted between 10:30 AM and 12 PM, and during the winter months, these tours continue from 11 AM to 3 PM. Tickets are available at 20.00 €.
11. Trying Local Food
Many people call Maltese ftira a “type of pizza.” However, very few people know that it is a UNESCO intangible cultural heritage, with a history dating back to the 16th century, when it was first prepared in the ovens of the Knights of St. John.
Furthermore, it is a chosen food because of its versatile fillings and its role as an identity of Valletta and, by extension, of Malta. I also loved the coffee here. It was my best companion while taking a stroll across the roads.
Furthermore, if you are in Valletta, don’t miss the Lampuki Pie or the signature fish pie.
How To Reach And Move Around Valletta?
Valletta is well-connected to the world through the Malta International Airport. It is around 9 km away from Valletta, and the short drive took me close to 20 minutes. I took the bus to the City Centre.
You can also book a shuttle in advance or take a taxi.
The city has a well-connected bus route, and it is a small city that you can cover on foot. However, the transport options are island-specific. You can take a Talinja Card or Flex Card for exploring Valletta and Malta.
Also, you can take a ferry service to the Grand Harbour of Valletta to and from Gozo and the Three Cities. You will even get a ferry service from Sliema to St. Paul’s in Valletta.
Insider Tip:
I picked the “Gozo Standard Add-On” card for my day trip. I didn’t have the time for so many trips. But you can use this add-on to enjoy unlimited tours to Gozo Island.
What Is The Best Time To Visit Valletta?
March to May and September to early November are the best seasons to visit Valletta. Valletta has so many historic landmarks and outdoor spaces. The temperature in the early 20s in these months offers you the ideal chance to explore Valletta.
Also, the crowd is quite manageable in these months.
Valletta, At A Glance: Why Does Valletta Offer Such A Rich Experience?
The best thing about Valletta is how compact it is! By compact, I mean it has a big heart, accommodating the best museums, well-preserved Baroque architecture, the Grand Harbour, stone walls, and stories.
From the stories of a 16th-century ghost to being the backdrop of many spy thrillers, such as “The Secrets of Malta” by Cecily Blench, and historical novels such as “The Hidden Palace” by Dinah Jefferies, have added stories to each key attraction of the city.
Also, the stories of the city’s sustenance during World War II and the Great Siege by the Ottoman Turks in 1565 tell us about human resilience.
Location-wise, this Fortress City, with a soft honey hue, stands on the ocean. It is also the dream of a photographer with the Baroque architecture reaching the sky.
Despite being only 1 kilometer long and 600 meters wide, the city of Valletta is very compact, housing many museums, cobblestones, and architecture, and it became the “European Cultural Capital in 2018.
Valletta is very close to the famous Three Cities. These cities are Cospicua, Senglea, and Vittoriosa. The Grand Harbour separates these cities from Valletta.
Valletta was built by the Knights of St. John in 1565 after the Great Siege of Malta. It was one of the best fortified cities in Europe and was built in a very short span.
The city got its name from Jean Parisot de La Valette, who was the Grand Master of the Knights of St. John.
Where To Stay In Valletta?
When in Valletta, you must choose a hotel with an amazing rooftop view. The Embassy Valletta Hotel and Palazzo Ignazio are some of the best options to stay in.
The best areas for finding a hotel are the Valletta City Centre, Floriana, The Three Cities, etc.
The hotel charges will be around 300-500 Euros.
Is Valletta Really Worth It? An Honest Confession About The City
Yes, Valletta is a European Capital City with so many historic, religious, and cultural elements. This UNESCO World Heritage Site also has many stories, like the Great Siege of Malta or the attacks of World WW2.
However, the remnants of the British Colonial Rule, like the telephone booths and post boxes, were sore to my eyes and they are a mismatch with the beautiful Baroque architecture and century-old buildings.
Also, it is hard to find a quiet place in Valletta. So, that can be a problem for a solo traveler. Still, the great food and historic thrill of the city make it really worth it!
Even if you are in the city for one day, you can enjoy a stroll around the City Square and at least explore the St. John’s Co-Cathedral to enjoy a slice of Maltese life.
Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!
Primarily, the Virgin Islands constitute three major islands - St Croix, St John, and St Thomas. But the best part is that all these destinations will offer you a unique experience and vibe.
Whether you are a shopaholic, adventure junkie, history buff, or someone who just needs to lay back and relax, there’s everything for everyone.
In addition to that, the USVI offers the best experience to someone who wants to experience turquoise waters, sophisticated dining, and a laid-back vacation.
So, if you are visiting “America’s Caribbean Paradise” for the first time, you must learn about the places that are a must-see.
Therefore, if you want some recommendations of places to visit in St John Islands, read on.
Why St. John Rentals Are the Perfect Base for Your Adventure
When you visit St John Island, the best place to stay is St. John Rentals. It will offer an ideal experience of the lush beauty and pristine beaches of the Virgin Islands. Nestled amidst turquoise waters and verdant hills, these accommodations offer more than just a place to stay. In fact, the place has something for both the explorer and the adventurer.
Imagine waking up to the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore. You are holding your morning coffee in hand and have an uninterrupted view of the Caribbean. Basically, rentals on St. John are crafted for travelers who want both comfort and a slice of paradise.
For instance, if you are visiting on a couple’s trip to St. John, opt for a rental near Cinnamon Bay. Here, you will not only enjoy the privacy but also get the top attractions like the Annaberg Plantation ruins and some of the island’s best hiking trails within minutes of walking distance.
Additionally, you will get unique opportunities to experience the island like a local. Meanwhile, you will still be enjoying world-class amenities. So, whether it’s a cozy hillside retreat or a beachfront property, there’s something for every traveler.
Top Destinations in St John You Can Visit by Boat
When you are staying in St. John, you will have the advantage of getting proximity to other awe-inspiring Virgin Islands. Apart from that, many rentals are conveniently located near boat charters, making day trips to nearby islands effortless.
1. Trunk Bay: A Snorkeler’s Paradise
The Trunk Bay is present just minutes away from most St. John rentals. Basically, it is renowned for its underwater snorkeling trail.In addition to that, the crystal-clear waters reveal a vibrant marine world filled with coral reefs and tropical fish. Hence. it’s no wonder why this beach is often ranked among the best in the world.
2. Jost Van Dyke: The Party Island
By just a short boat ride from St. John, you can experience Jost Van Dyke. This place boasts an unbeatable party atmosphere. Moreover, the place is famous for its beach bars, including the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar. Overall, it’s the perfect spot to sip on a Painkiller cocktail while you enjoy the laid-back vibes.
3. The Baths at Virgin Gorda
The Baths at Virgin Gorda are a geological wonder. This is another must-visit spot that you can easily access by boat.
Primarily, these are towering granite boulders that create hidden pools and grottos. It offers the feeling as if it’s nature’s playground. So, whether you are visiting with your family or in a couple’s trip, you can rave about this unique excursion.
4. The Comfort of St. John Rentals After a Day of Exploring
After a day of adventure, returning to your St. John rental feels like stepping into a sanctuary. Generally, most properties are designed to blend with the island’s natural beauty, featuring open-air layouts, private pools, and sweeping views of the ocean.
Families love rentals with fully equipped kitchens, allowing them to prepare meals after a day at the beach. On the other hand, couples often seek out secluded properties with hot tubs, perfect for unwinding under the stars.
During a recent visit, I stayed at a hillside villa from where you can get a great view of Coral Bay. Every evening, I would watch the sun dip below the horizon. It was actually mesmerizing to see the orange and pink colors forming on the background.Moreover, the rental had everything I needed. For instance, there was a plush king-sized bed and also a hammock where I could lose myself in a good book.
Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Rental
You can enhance your experience on St John’s Islands by choosing the right rental. All you need to do is keep the following tips in mind:
1. Proximity to Activities
Well, if you plan to explore beaches like Hawksnest or Maho Bay, choose a rental on the north shore. This will give you quick access and better dining options.
2. Privacy vs. Accessibility
The thing with hillside rentals is that they often offer unmatched privacy and breathtaking views. However, by choosing beachfront properties, you can stay steps away from the sand.
3. Group Size
Are you traveling with your family or your friends? In such cases, you need a larger space with multiple bedrooms and communal spaces. Also, you need to plan a group trip differently from a couple’s trip.
4. Amenities
It goes without saying that factors like air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private pools help you ensure a comfortable stay. This is where choosing St John Rentals will offer you a major advantage.
Is Rental A Better Option Than Hotels?
Generally, rentals offer a level of flexibility and personalization that hotels simply can’t match. Apart from that, you will also get the chance to prepare your own meals. Additionally, rentals offer ample space for the entire family.
On the other hand, unlike hotels, rentals immerse you in the local lifestyle. For instance, you can wake up to roosters crowing in the distance or spend an afternoon picking mangoes from trees on the property.
Make St. John Your Next Island Escape
From tranquil beaches to vibrant marine life, St. John offers something for everyone. Apart from that, rentals provide the perfect launching pad to explore all that this Caribbean gem has to offer.
Hence, whether you are hiking through Virgin Islands National Park or enjoying a candlelit dinner on the patio of your rental, the memories you create here will stay with you forever.
Furthermore, with so many options to choose from, there’s no reason to wait. So, start planning your dream getaway to St. John today, and let the island’s magic unfold before you.
Washington, aptly dubbed the Evergreen State, is awash in pristine nature, breathtaking scenery, and striking landscapes. It has world-class cities, museums, and tourist attractions in addition to stunning mountains, forests, beaches, and volcanoes.
Situated in the Pacific Northwest, this rough terrain has the Cascade Mountains all around it. Canada, Idaho, Oregon, and the ocean surrounds it. Many of Puget Sound's biggest and most significant settlements are located around Puget Sound, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia. With its historic sites and bustling markets, Washington State offers a plethora of activities.
But what appeals most to many people are Washington's countless wild places, islands, and national parks. This is because you can fully immerse yourself in the natural world and explore its breathtaking scenery while hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping all in one region. Here are the best things to do in Washington state.
Things To Do in Washington State
If you are looking for some of the most unique things to do in Washington State, then here are your top choices.
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest
The expansive Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, located two hours east of Seattle, is another beautiful place to visit in nature. Its nearly infinite forests and valleys cover the western slopes of the Cascade Mountains. This makes it a very untamed and isolated area for the most part.
Glistening lakes, rivers, and glaciers pierce its greenery as it stretches from Canada to Mount Rainier, covering a vast expanse. You can hike, ride a bike, go horseback riding, or ski and snowboard down the slopes of the magnificent Mount Baker. Moreover, all of them are set against a breathtaking backdrop.
Due to the presence of bald eagles, grizzly bears, and deer on the mountain slopes, wildlife viewing is also highly satisfying. The national forest is a fantastic place to explore. It offers a plethora of opportunities for exploration, such as waterfalls, impressive viewpoints, and rock formations.
Fort Worden State Park
The wonderful Fort Worden State Park is located directly at the Puget Sound entrance. It is conveniently located north of Port Townsend. It offers a plethora of amazing outdoor activities amidst beautiful scenery, wildlife, and views.
Owing to its strategic significance, there are three robust forts near the inlet's entrance in the late 1880s. Visitors can now explore the deteriorating batteries, fortifications, and buildings of the "Triangle of Fire." However, they never fired a single shot.
They permit tours of the castle and museum of the former military installation. Visitors can bike, hike, and camp in the immaculate park. Many choose to swim and boat in its waters. Moreover, it features some of the best views from its beaches and coastal bluffs.
Museum of Pop Culture
Another one of the top things to do in Washington State is see the Museum of Pop Culture. It is located right next to the Space Needle. In addition to housing a plethora of iconic artifacts and hosting exhibitions that have won awards, it offers visitors a ton of enjoyable, interactive experiences.
Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft, founded the company in 2000. Its shiny exterior, as well as eye-catching shapes and colors, make it instantly recognizable. Its collection and galleries are in devotion to modern popular culture. They feature everything from music, television, and video games to literature and film.
Alongside historical photos, costumes, and film clips, guests can see instruments used by Jimi Hendrix and Nirvana, amongst others. Once you've explored its interactive exhibits and Hall of Fame, you can snap pictures of its movie memorabilia or try your DJing skills in the Sound Lab.
This option is also one of the free things to do in Washington state.
Skagit Valley Tulip Festival
Colorful Skagit Valley Tulip Festival is one of the biggest, most beautiful events in the Pacific Northwest. Its flower-filled fields and exquisite display gardens are scattered throughout the large valley of the same name, and it takes place every April.
Bulbs were first planted in the rich soils of the Puget Sound region as early as the 1890s, but growers were forced to relocate south to Skagit County due to a string of freezes. Even though the festival wasn't founded until 1984, people had been visiting the tulip farms for several decades before then.
Tulip Town and Roozengaarde are great places to visit. They both have expansive flower-filled fields and gardens that make for picturesque photos. Sporting events, art exhibits, and lively street fairs are all regularly held throughout the month.
This one should easily get a space on your list of fun things to do in Washington state.
Lake Chelan
There's no better place to de-stress, enjoy the great outdoors, and engage in outdoor activities than the picturesque Lake Chelan. The lengthy lake, which is tucked away amid stunning mountains and forests in north-central Washington, is sure to please nature enthusiasts.
Its glittering surface is just over fifty miles long overall, with state parks, private beaches, and coves all along its edge. Therefore, those who enjoy the great outdoors can swim, fish, and hike along the trails. There are also several wineries, campsites, and water sports available, and everywhere you look, there are guaranteed to be breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.
Most of the surrounding area is wonderfully unspoiled and untouched, except for the small communities of Manson, Chelan, and Stehekin. There are quiet lakeside lodges, quaint stores, eateries, and marinas where you can rent kayaks, jet skis, and boats at each of these.
Mount St. Helens
Ever since the state's famous and massive eruption in 1980, Mount St. Helens has practically become synonymous with it. Outdoor enthusiasts can now hike up to its lava-scarred site to enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding desolate yet stunning landscapes.
Until the avalanche and explosion, the mighty mount was the fifth-highest peak in the country. Following the remarkable event, the summit of 9,677 feet was lowered by more than a thousand feet, leaving behind the large, horseshoe-shaped crater that is still visible today.
In addition to hiking up to Windy Ridge's notable peak, you can take pictures of the slowly regaining flora and fauna as well as get a peek inside the caldera. You can find out everything there is to know about the deadliest and most destructive volcanic event in US history at the visitor center and Johnston Ridge Observatory.
Wrapping Up
The list of things to do in Washington state is endless, but hopefully, this has given you some inspiration to begin prepping for the ideal getaway. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!
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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
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
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?
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?
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?
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