Discover Koh Tao
Koh Tao means “Turtle Island”
A small island paradise, which is a 90 minute boat ride north of Koh Samui, offers the best dive sites in the Gulf of Thailand. With clear waters and stunning bays, the underwater world is right on your doorstep. The island also boasts a vibrant nightlife with many bars, restaurants and parties.
Koh Tao Weather
Koh Tao has a tropical climate and is hot and sunny with occasional heavy rainfall during monsoon season. We are a tiny island in the middle of the ocean and it is therefore difficult to predict the weather accurately. We get the occasional rainfall in hot season and really sunny days in the middle of monsoon. It is nature and we work with it. Diving still takes place unless it is unsafe to take our dive boat out.
Koh Tao Diving
It is almost impossible to visit Koh Tao and not get involved in diving or snorkeling. This is what we love to do here and we’d love to show you that Koh Tao is as wonderful underwater as it is on land. There are over 26 dive sites to explore, all in close proximity to the island.
Koh Tao Lifestyle
You can hire bicycles, motorbikes, jeeps & taxi boats to travel around the island and to explore the many beaches. Among the many souvenir shops, you’ll find banks, ATM machines, a post office and small supermarkets. For any medical problems, there are several clinics staffed with professional personnel, including doctors. When it comes to food and drink, you’re spoilt for choice. In recent years, the island has experienced an explosion of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. There are now 3 villages on the island – Sairee, Mae Haad, and Chalok. Sairee Village is the largest town and is just a 5 minute walk from the resort. Here you can find anything from cheap, delicious, street food to top-end restaurants.
Further Reading
Check out the Complete Koh Tao Travel Guide (beaches, weather, transport) with all the information you need for an unforgettable holiday on Koh Tao.
Also check this In-depth guide to scuba diving in Thailand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Koh Tao Diving
What makes Koh Tao one of the best places in the world to learn scuba diving?
Koh Tao offers warm tropical waters, excellent visibility, and a wide variety of dive sites suited to all experience levels. The island is home to professional PADI dive centers like Sairee Cottage Diving, known for world-class instruction, safety standards, and a relaxed learning environment — making it ideal for beginners and advanced divers alike.
When is the best time of year to dive in Koh Tao?
Koh Tao has diveable conditions almost year-round. The best visibility typically occurs from March to September, with calm seas and warm temperatures averaging 28–30°C. The months between October and December bring light monsoon rains, but diving remains possible at many sheltered sites.
Can beginners learn to dive in Koh Tao?
Absolutely. Koh Tao is one of the most popular destinations worldwide for PADI Open Water Diver courses. Training is conducted in safe, calm bays, allowing beginners to gain confidence before exploring deeper reefs under the guidance of professional instructors.
What marine life can divers expect to see around Koh Tao?
Divers regularly encounter colorful reef fish, anemones, stingrays, and even whale sharks during the right season. Popular sites like Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock offer encounters with schooling barracuda and vibrant coral gardens.
How long does it take to complete a PADI course in Koh Tao?
Most beginners complete the PADI Open Water Course in three to four days, while advanced and professional training programs like Divemaster or IDC take several weeks. Each course is designed to balance safety, fun, and personalized instruction.
Is Koh Tao suitable for fun diving and continuing education?
Yes. Certified divers can join daily fun dives to world-class reefs, wrecks, and pinnacles, while those wishing to expand their skills can continue with Advanced, Rescue, and Divemaster training. Koh Tao’s variety of sites ensures something exciting for every diver.