Question 1

When is the best time to dive Koh Tao for clear water and big fish?

Accepted Answer

Two excellent windows: March–May and September–October. Spring has the hottest water and the most glassy days offshore, which raises odds for whale shark sightings at Chumphon and Southwest. September–October often brings stable viz after midyear winds. November–January is windier and wetter with choppier crossings and reduced visibility, but leeward reefs still offer good training conditions.

Question 2

How do I get to Koh Tao from Bangkok?

Accepted Answer

Most travelers fly to Samui (USM) then take a catamaran to Koh Tao's Mae Haad Pier. Budget options include flights to Surat Thani (URT) or Chumphon (CJM) with joint bus+ferry tickets from the airports to the piers. Operators like Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, and Boonsiri run daily services. In Nov–Jan, factor in wind and sea state by leaving buffers between connections.

Question 3

What are the new Thailand snorkeling and diving rules in 2025?

Accepted Answer

Effective 22 April 2025 nationwide: snorkel only where you can maintain at least {{ 2 | distance:m }} of water above the coral, no touching or standing on reefs, and entry-level trainees may not use cameras underwater during courses. Anchoring on reefs is prohibited. Expect briefings and enforcement by captains, guides, and rangers. Fines and trip ejections can apply for noncompliance.

Question 4

Where should beginners learn to dive on Koh Tao?

Accepted Answer

Bays like Twins, Japanese Gardens, and Aow Leuk offer sand patches, gentle slopes, and easy navigation for buoyancy practice. Once you are comfortable with trim, neutral buoyancy, and gas planning, your instructor may graduate you to modest-current sites or calm days on the pinnacles. Book with established schools and heed the 2025 training-camera restrictions.

Question 5

Can I see whale sharks on Koh Tao and when?

Accepted Answer

Yes - your best odds are March–May, with a secondary September–October pulse. Dives at Chumphon Pinnacle and Southwest Pinnacle are the classic plays. Sightings are never guaranteed; plan multiple pinnacle mornings and keep expectations grounded. Always maintain distance and never box marine life in open water.

Question 6

Do I need a wetsuit and what thickness is best?

Accepted Answer

Water ranges {{ 27 | temperature }}–{{ 30 | temperature }}. Many divers are happy in a 3 mm shorty or a full 3 mm for longer bottom times. Freedivers often use 1–2 mm in hotter months and 3 mm when training static or doing multiple depth repeats. Add a hooded vest if you chill easily.

Question 7

Is there a recompression chamber on Koh Tao?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The SSS Recompression Chamber operates in Mae Haad with a 24/7 hotline (+66 81 081 9777). Local clinics and the government hospital coordinate transfers and treatment. Carry DAN or equivalent insurance that covers hyperbaric therapy and marine evacuation.

Question 8

What fees should I expect on arrival or for parks?

Accepted Answer

Koh Tao collects a THB 20 environmental fee at Mae Haad Pier. If you day-trip to Ang Thong National Marine Park, foreigners pay THB 300 per adult and THB 150 per child at the gate or via the operator. Bring cash for Koh Nang Yuan entry and beach access points that charge local maintenance fees.

Question 9

Are scooters a good idea on Koh Tao?

Accepted Answer

Roads are steep, narrow, and can be sandy. If you are not experienced and licensed, use taxis or longtails. Reputable rentals may accept a cash deposit rather than holding your passport. Always wear a helmet and avoid night riding. Many east-coast bays are quicker by boat than by 4x4 taxis.

Question 10

Where are the best snorkel spots for first-timers?

Accepted Answer

Japanese Gardens for easy coral slopes and clear mornings. Shark Bay for turtle and blacktip encounters - aim for early or late and keep respectful distances. Aow Leuk and Hin Wong Bay are solid alternates when the west is windy. Follow the rule of >= {{ 2 | distance:m }} over coral and never stand on the reef.

Koh Tao

Thailand's easy-mode island for year-round reef training with real chances for whale sharks

The underwater layout

Who it suits

Typical conditions

Rules that matter

How trips run

Topside rhythm

Don't miss while you're here

Pinnacle double-tank morning

Night dive on a leeward reef

Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint