Where To Stay In Koh Tao First Time 2024 - 5 Best Areas

In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Koh Tao first time.

To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.

Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:

Where to stay in Koh Tao first time?

Where to stay in Koh Tao with family?

Where to stay in Koh Tao for backpackers?

Where to stay in Koh Tao for couples?

Where to stay in Koh Tao for nightlife?

Where to stay in Koh Tao for diving?

You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.

This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.

Enjoy!

Overview of the best areas to stay in Koh Tao

Name of the area in Koh Tao	Description of the recommended area
1. Sairee Beach Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓	This is the most popular and busiest beach on Koh Tao. It’s the tourist epicenter of the island where you can find all sorts of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. But the area is also home to many restaurants, bars, shops, and diving centers, making it a convenient choice for first-time visitors who want easy access to amenities and nightlife. *You can click on the purple or blue link to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area.
2. Chalok Baan Kao Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓	Chalok Baan Kao offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Sairee Beach. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a quieter environment while still having access to restaurants, bars, and diving centers. The beach here is beautiful and less crowded, making it perfect for relaxation.
3. Mae Haad Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓	Mae Haad is where the main ferry pier is located, making it a convenient area to stay if you want easy access to transportation. It also has a nice beach and a bustling village with plenty of shops, restaurants, and accommodation options. Mae Haad is a good choice for those who prefer a central location with a bit of everything.
4. Tanote Bay Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓	Tanote Bay is the ideal area for those seeking a secluded area. The bay is home to crystal-clear waters, making it an excellent area for snorkeling and diving. If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds, this a the area you’re looking for.
5. Mango Bay (Ao Muang) Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓	Another secluded spot on Koh Tao. There are only a few resorts and bungalows, so booking in advance is highly recommended. In return, you stay in a peaceful area with beautiful scenery and excellent snorkeling opportunities.

Where to stay in Koh Tao first time

The best areas to stay in Koh Tao first time are Sairee Beach, Chalok Baan Kao, and Mae Haad.

These three areas are different from each other, but what they have in common is that you can find restaurants, bars, and shops in these areas.

The most popular area is Sairee Beach and for the majority of the tourists, this is the area where they will stay.

However, it’s also the busiest area and because of that, people always seek a quieter alternative.

Chalok Baan Kao is the perfect option for that.

Mae Haad is where the main ferry is located and is ideal for those who want to stay centrally and in a bustling area.

For those who want to stay even more remote, there are two options, namely Tanote Bay and Mango Bay.

Out of these two, Mango Bay is the most remote.

Where to stay in Koh Tao with family

The best area to stay in Koh Tao with family is Chalok Baan Kao.

Chalok Baan Kao offers a more laid-back and relaxed atmosphere compared to the busier areas like Sairee Beach and Mae Haad.

There are several family-friendly accommodations available in this area and plenty of family-friendly activities to discover.

Even though it’s a quieter area, there are still plenty of restaurants to find that serve international food.

Alternatively, you can stay at Tanote Bay, but keep in mind there are fewer facilities in a remote area like that.

Where to stay in Koh Tao for backpackers

The best area to stay in Koh Tao for backpackers is Sairee Beach.

Sairee Beach is the place to be for backpackers in Koh Tao as it’s the area where you can find the most budget-friendly accommodations, a proper nightlife scene, diving centers, and water sports activities.

If you’re not into nightlife, you can consider staying in the more remote areas like Chalok Baan Kao, Tanote Bay, and Mango Bay.

Where to stay in Koh Tao for couples

The best areas to stay in Koh Tao for couples are Mango Bay and Tanote Bay.

Mango Bay is a secluded bay that offers a romantic atmosphere, ideal for couples seeking privacy.

You’re surrounded by jungle and cliffs and have access to the beautiful waters.

Just keep in mind that accommodation options are limited.

Another secluded spot on Koh Tao is Tanote Bay, which offers stunning natural beauty and a more relaxed environment.

Again, accommodation options and facilities are limited.

If you’re a couple who prefers a more bustling area, then you can always stay in the tourist epicenter, namely Sairee Beach, but this area is far from romantic.

A balance between a laid-back atmosphere and things to do is Chalok Baan Kao.

Where to stay in Koh Tao for nightlife

The best area to stay in Koh Tao for nightlife is Sairee Beach.

Sairee Beach is without a doubt the party epicenter of the island.

Mae Haad and Chalok Baan Kao do offer some bars and restaurants, but don’t offer the same level of nightlife as Sairee Beach.

Where to stay in Koh Tao for diving

The best areas to stay in Koh Tao for diving are Sairee Beach, Chalok Baan Kao, and Mae Haad.

Sairee Beach is not only the main hub for nightlife but also a hotspot for diving activities.

It is home to dive shops and centers offering a wide range of courses and dive trips suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers.

Several popular dive sites, such as Twins, White Rock, and Japanese Gardens, are located within easy reach of Sairee Beach.

Chalok Baan Kao also has a good selection of diving centers and resorts catering to divers.

This area offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to Sairee Beach, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a quieter diving experience.

Several fantastic dive sites, including Shark Island and Hin Wong Pinnacle, are accessible from Chalok Baan Kao.

While Mae Haad is known primarily as the location of the main ferry pier, it also serves as a convenient base for diving activities.

Several dive shops operate in the area, offering courses and excursions to nearby dive sites.

Also, Mae Haad is close to some popular diving spots like Mango Bay and Koh Nang Yuan.

All these areas provide easy access to dive sites, training facilities, and equipment rental services.

1. Sairee Beach

Simply put, Sairee Beach is the most popular area on Koh Samui among tourists.

It’s centrally located on the west coast of the island where you can also find the main ferry pier.

You can easily explore the rest of the island from here as well as other islands.

One of the main reasons why it’s such a popular area is because you can find the majority of the hotels here.

Accommodations come in all budget classes.

Another reason why it’s so popular is because many of the restaurants, bars, and beachfront clubs are located here as well.

Those who love to party won’t be disappointed and at the beach, you can find many beach parties where you can party until late.

Sairee Beach is the most developed area of the island and all the amenities and services that travellers need during their stay are located here.

During the day, you can enjoy beach life with its watersports, explore the island, and most importantly, (learn how to) dive.

This area is the place where you can find many fellow travelers, and because of all of this, it’s an incredibly popular area for solo travelers and backpackers.

Families and couples, though, might choose a quieter area.

That brings us to the disadvantages of Sairee Beach.

It’s incredibly touristy and crowded.

Those seeking a quieter experience and a secluded area should stay elsewhere.

But when it comes to convenience and fun things to do, during the day and during the night, you can’t compete against Sairee Beach.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this particular area are listed below:

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2. Chalok Baan Kao

Chalok Baan Kao offers a more laid-back atmosphere compared to some of the busier areas on the island, such as Sairee Beach.

One of the best things about this area is the beach.

It’s simply stunning, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

As the waters are shallow and calm, and the fact that this area is relatively quiet, it’s basically the ideal area for those traveling with kids.

Chalok Baan Kao is close to some fantastic dive sites, including Shark Island and Hin Wong Pinnacle.

Several dive shops operate in the area, offering courses, guided dives, and equipment rental services.

Snorkeling is also popular here, with colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life to explore.

While Chalok Baan Kao is quieter than some other areas, it still offers a good selection of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences.

From budget-friendly guesthouses and bungalows to mid-range resorts and luxury villas, there’s something for everyone here.

Chalok Baan Kao is also a traditional fishing village, giving visitors a glimpse into local life on Koh Tao.

Although this area is considered quiet, you can still find plenty of restaurants, especially compared to the more remote areas that we discuss further down this article.

Just keep in mind that there is not much nightlife.

Younger travelers should stay closer to Sairee Beach unless they seek a quiet holiday on Koh Tao.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this particular area are listed below:

3. Mae Haad

The main reason why people choose to stay at Mae Haad is because of its convenience.

This is the area where the main ferry pier is located, but also the area where find many dive shops that offer courses, guided dives, and equipment rental.

You’re located south of the popular Sairee Beach, the tourist epicenter of the island.

That means you can easily combine both areas during your stay.

But Mae Haad is also a strategic base for exploring the island, simply because it’s so easy to arrange transport.

There are plenty of accommodations to choose from, in all budget classes, and there is an abundance of shops and dining options.

Just keep in mind the following somewhat disadvantages.

First of all, the proximity to the main ferry pier means that Mae Haad can experience heavy traffic from arriving and departing ferries, especially during peak hours.

Secondly, while Mae Haad does have some bars and restaurants, it does not offer the same level of nightlife as areas like Sairee Beach.

Lastly, compared to more remote areas of the island, such as Mango Bay or Tanote Bay, Mae Haad feels less secluded.

So why would you choose Mae Haad over Sairee Beach?

If you prioritize convenience and are not per se into nightlife, Mae Haad is an excellent option.

Also, if you have limited time to explore Koh Tao, this is the best option you have on the island.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this particular area are listed below:

4. Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay is one of the two areas that I recommend in this article that offers a secluded environment away from the busier areas on the island.

The beach here is one of the most beautiful on the island.

It’s ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing in an unspoiled setting.

The waters here are particularly popular among snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

While Tanote Bay is secluded, you can still find a good selection of accommodation options, contrary to the next area that I recommend (it’s more challenging to find something good that is still available).

Aside from the beautiful beach, Tanote Bay is also home to several scenic hiking trails that are worth exploring.

These trails offer panoramic views of the bay and the island.

Overall, especially couples and maybe some families will appreciate a stay here.

Just keep in mind that secluded areas like Tanote Bay are less developed, and you won’t find many restaurants here.

It will take you about twenty minutes to get to Sairee Beach by motorbike.

But if you want to stay somewhere quiet, at one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Tanote Bay won’t disappoint!

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this particular area are listed below:

5. Mango Bay

Mango Bay is located all the way in the north of Koh Tao.

It’s an even more secluded area compared to the previously recommended area.

Similar to Tanote Bay, you can find a stunning beach, beautiful nature, great diving and snorkeling spots, and hiking trails.

The big difference is that there are fewer accommodation options here.

That means you need to book in advance in order to find something available and of good quality.

Also, there are even fewer amenities here.

But if you want to stay in an area where you won’t find many tourists and are surrounded by natural beauty, then this is the area you want to stay at.

If you’re a couple, and you’re not into nightlife, I highly recommend you stay here.

Some of the best hotels to stay in Koh Tao in this particular area are listed below: