Exploring the Paradise of Koh Tao:
A 12-Day Adventure
Nestled in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Tao is a tropical paradise renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class diving, and laid-back atmosphere. We had the privilege of spending 12 incredible days on the island in early February, soaking up the sun, enjoying the warm waters, and indulging in delicious Thai cuisine. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Koh Tao, from its climate to the best activities, beaches, and dining spots.
Climate in Early February
February is one of the best times to visit Koh Tao, as it falls in the dry season. The weather was warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 32°C. The humidity was moderate, and we barely experienced any rain. The sea was calm, making it perfect for diving, snorkelling, and beach-hopping.
Top Things to Do in Koh Tao
- Diving with Big Blue Diving
Koh Tao is famous for its scuba diving, and we had an unforgettable experience with Big Blue Diving. Louis took a one-day beginner’s diving tour, guided by the incredible instructor James. The waters were crystal clear, and the marine life was breathtaking. We highly recommend Big Blue Diving for anyone looking to explore the underwater world. - Snorkelling Tour with Diamond Tours
We embarked on a snorkelling adventure with Diamond Tours, stopping at five stunning locations. The highlight was spotting a sea turtle and black-tip reef sharks! The staff was friendly and so so helpful, making the trip even more enjoyable. - Beach-Hopping
Koh Tao is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand. We spent our days relaxing on the sand, swimming in turquoise waters, and watching mesmerising sunsets. - Exploring Viewpoints
For breathtaking panoramic views of the island, we recommend hiking up to John-Suwan Viewpoint or Love Koh Tao Viewpoint. The hikes are short but offer rewarding scenery. - Kayaking and Paddle-boarding
Renting a kayak or paddle-board is a fantastic way to explore the island’s coastline. We loved paddling around the bays and discovering hidden coves. - Visiting Koh Nang Yuan
A short boat ride from Koh Tao, this small island boasts pristine beaches and an iconic viewpoint. It’s perfect for snorkelling and relaxing in paradise.
Best Beaches on Koh Tao
- Sairee Beach – The most popular and longest beach, ideal for swimming, dining, and watching sunsets.
- Shark Bay – A great spot for snorkelling, where you might spot black-tip reef sharks.
- Ao Leuk Beach – A quieter beach with clear water and excellent snorkelling opportunities.
- Chalok Baan Kao Bay – Where we stayed; a peaceful and picturesque bay, perfect for relaxation.
- Tanote Bay – Great for snorkelling and known for its beautiful rock formations.
Caves & Hidden Gems
One of our biggest adventures was exploring Sam Roi Yot National Park. Limestone mountains, mangroves, and secret caves—what’s not to love? Speaking of caves, Phraya Nakhon Cave was mind-blowing! After a sweaty hike, we found ourselves inside this giant cavern with a golden pavilion glowing under a natural skylight. It felt like something out of a movie.
Another unexpected gem was the Bueng Bua Wetlands. Imagine wooden walkways winding through towering lotus flowers and peaceful waters— unfortunately it wasn’t the season when we went but the views were still incredible. And then there was the Naga at Wat Tham Cheng—a giant serpent statue that looked straight out of a manga book. Aris was mesmerised!
Exploring Wat Huay Mongkol and the Reservoir
One of our favourite day trips took us to Wat Huay Mongkol, home to the massive statue of Luang Phor Thuad, a highly revered monk in Thailand. The sheer size of the statue was breathtaking, and the surrounding park offered a peaceful escape from the city. We watched as locals performed rituals for good luck and even walked under the giant wooden elephants for blessings.
We wrapped up our day with a walk around the reservoir, a scenic spot surrounded by lush greenery. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the reflections of the mountains on the water, made for a beautiful and serene ending to our adventure-filled day.
Rides & Royal Encounters
A milestone for Aris—his very first tuk-tuk ride! The thrill of zipping through the streets, wind in our hair, and his laughter echoing—it was a highlight for sure. We also visited Rajabhakti Park, a stunning tribute to Thailand’s past kings, with massive statues that made us feel tiny in comparison, there is also a lot of space surrounding the monument so you could easily bring a picnic.
The One That Got Away (For Now!)
We had big plans to visit Vana Nava Water Jungle, a super fun waterpark that Aris would have LOVED. But, unfortunately, he was under the weather for a few days, so we had to skip it. But hey—just another reason to come back, right?
Final Thoughts
