Koh Tao

Koh Tao is the world's most popular destination for scuba diving certification with more divers certified here than anywhere else on Earth. Dozens of professional dive shops offer affordable PADI courses starting from just $280 for the full Open Water certification. The calm, clear waters and abundant marine life including sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful coral make it perfect for beginners. Courses typically take 3-4 days and include theory, pool sessions, and open water dives at beautiful sites like Japanese Gardens and Twins.

Just a short boat ride from Koh Tao, Koh Nang Yuan is a stunning trio of islands connected by a white sandbar creating one of Thailand's most photographed scenes. The viewpoint hike takes about 15 minutes and rewards with panoramic views over the unique geography. Excellent snorkeling in crystal clear waters surrounds the island. Note the 100 THB entrance fee, no plastic bottles or fins allowed on the island. A must-visit for the iconic sandbar photo and some of the clearest water in the Gulf of Thailand.

One of Koh Tao's most spectacular viewpoints located in the south of the island near Chalok Bay. The hike takes about 20 minutes through tropical jungle with some steep sections and rope-assisted climbs over granite boulders. The summit rewards with breathtaking 360-degree views where you can see both Thiang Og and Chalok Baan Kao bays curving towards each other. On clear days, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui are visible in the distance. Best visited early morning or late afternoon. Small parking fee of 50 THB.

Shark Bay on Koh Tao's southern tip is famous for regular sightings of blacktip reef sharks in the shallow waters. The bay also hosts resident sea turtles that can often be spotted grazing on seagrass. Perfect for snorkeling directly from the beach with no boat needed. The calm protected waters make it suitable for beginners. Baby blacktip reef sharks use the bay as a nursery. Best visited during high tide when sharks are more active. Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from nearby resorts.

Chumphon Pinnacles is Koh Tao's premier dive site and one of the best in the Gulf of Thailand. Located about 40 minutes by boat northwest of the island, this underwater mountain features massive granite pinnacles covered in pink anemones rising from 35 meters. The site attracts huge schools of barracuda, batfish, and giant trevally. Most famously, this is the best spot to encounter whale sharks during March to May. Reserved for experienced divers due to depth and potential currents.

Billing itself as the largest pub crawl in Asia, this legendary event happens multiple times per week on Sairee Beach. For around 500 THB you get entry to 4-5 bars, a drink at each, a pub crawl t-shirt, and transport between venues. The night includes pool parties, live music, fire shows, and often continues until sunrise. While not for everyone, it's a quintessential Koh Tao experience and a great way to meet other travelers. Check locally for current schedule as it varies seasonally.

Tanote Bay on Koh Tao's east coast features a massive granite boulder that has become famous for cliff jumping. Multiple jumping points at different heights accommodate various comfort levels from beginners to adrenaline junkies. The water below is deep and clear making it safe when done properly. The bay also offers excellent snorkeling including a submerged scooter at about 8 meters depth. Several restaurants perch on the hillside offering cold drinks and food with stunning bay views.

The HTMS Sattakut is a 48-meter former US Navy World War II vessel that was intentionally sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef. Lying upright in 30 meters of water, the wreck has become home to incredible marine life including schools of barracuda, batfish, and snappers. Nudibranchs, frogfish, and ghostpipefish hide in the recesses. The superstructure is accessible from 18 meters making it suitable for Advanced Open Water divers. A fascinating piece of history transformed into a thriving underwater ecosystem.