Koh Tao is known for its beautiful beaches and calm, warm waters, and a snorkeling trip is one of the valuable ways to enjoy them.
(Photo: getyourguide.com)
Everyone has to do a snorkeling trip in Thailand – it’s the kind of excursion you’ll be talking about for years. This being Thailand, there are apparently infinite places to visit with crystal blue waters for swimming and relaxing but Koh Tao is easily one of the best. This small tropical paradise off the Gulf of Thailand features roughly 20 kilometres of beautiful coastline that gently slides into a stunning marine ecosystem, with small islands around perfect for exploring. A snorkeling day trip is the best way to enjoy the marine life however, often with the gear thrown in, as well as food, for a really affordable price. Here are five of the best Koh Tao snorkeling tours.
Snorkeling Day Trip to Koh Nang Yuan with Meals
For the money it’s hard to argue with the day trip. A vintage wooden boat heads from Koh Tao to the small islands of Koh Nang Yuan, where shallow waters team with marine life. Then it’s off to Japanese Gardens diving site in a sheltered bay on the east side part of Koh Nang Yuan followed by a visit to the pristine Ao Muong Beach, a beautiful resort town in Mango Bay with more snorkeling opportunities. Finally there’s the opportunity to get up close and personal with some (thankfully) harmless sharks at Aow Leuk beach and Shark Bay, where these animals can be seen swimming peacefully above the seabed. It’s a full day (nine hours) so food is included, from the freshly prepared buffet lunch to a BBQ set dinner served onboard. From €58.53.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch
(Photo: getyourguide.com)
Calling all backpackers. For a something a bit more budget-friendly – in other words, more beer money for the hostel party later on – this seven-hour trip does much of what the previous one does, just with only lunch thrown in. Expect it to be slightly more fast-paced therefore, but still packing in the coral at Japanese Reef Garden, Mango Bay, Ao Hin Wong, Aow Luek and Shark Bay. Lunch is authentic Thai cuisine and for anyone who has had enough of snorkeling you can just kick back on the deck.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Full Day Snorkeling Adventure Around Koh Tao
If your idea of a snorkeling trip was serenely bobbing around in the waves and then spending some quality time with the fishes, then perhaps look away now. This trip may be about snorkeling but it has a whiff of party boat written all over it. That’s right; alongside visits to Japanese Garden and Shark Bay, you’ll be bringing with you a giant waterslide, floating sunbeds and, of course, a climbing wall. No true hostel warrior would want to miss out on a trip like this – it’s (kind of) what travelling is all about. Right? From €20.83.
Book at Viator.com
Late Riser Island Hopping Tour with Lunch & Sunset
(Photo: getyourguide.com)
This trip is a little bit more laid back. It’s a late morning start, heading to Koh Nang Yuan where you can stroll the iconic sandbar that links these three islands, before heading up to the highest peak for amazing views. Later there is a chance to snorkel at leisure in the crystal waters around the islands. There is a Thai buffet for lunch on board the boat and after visiting some more of the area’s best snorkeling spots, the boat sails back at sunset. From €22.11.
Book at Getyourguide.com
Private Longtail Tour in Koh Tao & Nang Yuan with Snorkel
Perfect for anyone who is trying to dodge the crowds, this private tour takes a longtail boat to discover the best snorkel spots and pristine beaches around Koh Tao. It’s extremely flexible and can be tailored around what you want to see, but the recommended itinerary includes Mango Bay, Hin Wong, and Leuk Bay and Shark Bay. A real upside is that the boat stays one step ahead of the crowds, travelling quicker than the larger vessels, which makes for a unique experience. Downside is you don’t get lunch included. €161.31 (per group up to two).
Book at Getyourguide.com