What to expect when visiting Koh Tao
Koh Tao is also a popular diving destination in the Gulf of Thailand. Known as one of the cheapest locations in the world to get your PADI license, the island offers beautiful underwater scenery with gorgeous coral gardens and tons of fish.
It may be just 1/10 the size of its neighbour Koh Samui, but that doesn’t mean there is less to see in Koh Tao. Here, you’ll find beautiful bays, beaches and viewpoints — all just a motorbike ride away. And the best part? You can enjoy all these at a more laidback and slow pace.
1 way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao
The is the only suitable way for travellers to cross the distance of 68 km (42 miles) from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. The journey takes around 153722867280912928h07m - 0 minute and costs start from .Where to stay in Koh Tao?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao at the bottom of this page.
Our favourite places to stay in Koh Tao
The Stamp Hotel - Budget Friendly
Located not far from Sairee Beach. The Stamp Hotel is simple, clean and provides everything you could need for a comfortable stay. The staff are the star of this hotel, helping you with recommendations and hiring scooters.
All rooms come with a patio or balcony for you to sit back and immerse yourself in the nature that surrounds the hotel. This is a great budget option in Koh Tao!
- Super clean rooms
- Amazing staff
- Good location
- Great value for money
Private rooms start from $24 per night.
Budchui Village2 - Mid Range
Budchui Village2 is located just 500m from Sairee Beach and offers a beautiful swimming pool. The stunning mountain views, lush greenery and tranquillity will make for a perfect escape from the busy streets of Koh Tao.
Staff are very helpful and will assist in booking tours, onward travel plans and renting motorcycles or bicycles.
- Swimming pool
- Close to the beach
- Stunning mountain views
- Friendly and helpful staff
Private room starts at $31 per night.
The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel - Mid Range
Located in the Chalok Baan Kao area this hostel is surrounded by nature, lush scenery and tranquillity. The hostel has a large outdoor swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, a bar and a great rooftop terrace for guests to soak in all the sights.
There is also a common area for socializing with a TV, books and a shared computer. Thinking about getting your PADI in Koh Tao, the hostel is also a dive centre. The rooms are spacious and clean with private balconies.
- Swimming pool
- Dive centre
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Extremely clean
Private room starts at $36 per night.
View Point Resort - Treating Yourself
View Point Resort is one of the best places to stay in the whole of Koh Tao. The views are exceptional, the rooms are perfectly designed for an island getaway and they even have a private beach area.
The lagoon-style swimming pool overlooks the sea below, or opt for one of the stunning villas which have their own private swimming pool. Life cannot get much better than this!
- Beautiful swimming pools
- Exceptional views
- Private beach
- Delicious complimentary breakfast
Villas start from $86 per night.
Frequently Asked Questions about Koh Samui to Koh Tao
What is the distance from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The distance from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is 68 km (42 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The fastest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is by and takes 153722867280912928h07m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao?
The cheapest way to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao is by with ticket costs starting from .
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Koh Samui to Koh Tao. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Koh Tao Travel Guides
The Ultimate Koh Tao Travel Guide
13 Best Things to Do in Koh Tao
Routes from Koh Tao
Most popular routes in Thailand
Based in Bali, Maarten’s passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you’ll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
