Sightseeing in Ko Tao Island - what to see. Complete travel guide

Small Ko Tao Island located in the Gulf of Thailand began to attract the attention of travelers quite recently. It’s the smallest among the Thai islands; area of Ko Tao is a little more than 20 square kilometers. Almost the entire island is covered with dense tropical forests, and the bulk of its major excursion sites are just natural attractions. The island is very convenient to travel by foot, and many tourists prefer to explore its territory on scooter. If you would look at the island from a height, then you’ll see that its outline resembles a huge turtle. ‘Turtle Island’ - that’s how the name of Ko Tao is translated from Thai. Nature lovers and hikers, as well as those who have long dreamed of relaxing at fabulously beautiful beaches would like it.

The starting point of many excursions around the island is Sairee Beach. This place is one of the most iconic; here on the coast, you can see the rock with signature of King Rama V. The governor visited Ko Tao in the late 19th century, since then the rock situated on the coast remains one of the main attractions. Not far from the legendary rock there is Fishery Museum, the most interesting and visited cultural site of the island. In addition to all kinds of fishing devices used by locals, the museum represents an interesting collection of rare underwater creatures, so the tour promises to be very informative.

Nearby there is another remarkable object, Fishery Conservation Unit. It’s open to the public, so anyone can explore rare marine species found in coastal waters and the measures taken by scientists for conservation of rare species. Several interesting attractions are situated in the vicinity of the picturesque Sairee Beach. In the northern part of the coast you can see the remains of a huge whale; scientists can only guess how this powerful denizen of the deep sea appeared at the coast. Diamond caves providing a lot of impressions are situated next to the beach. The most inspired tourists go there in search of precious stones; diamond caves have to be mentioned among the most interesting natural attractions of the island. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Real symbols of the island are its numerous viewing platforms equipped at its highest hills. Lots of interesting stories are associated with them; Sairee View observation deck can be found in the immediate vicinity of Sairee Beach. Panorama opening with these places is just amazing. The highest point of the island is equipped with Two View lookout. Hence, the whole island is visible at a glance; climbing the mountain is one of the most popular entertainment options among tourists.

The amazing legend is associated with John Suwan observation deck offering an unforgettable panoramic view of the southern part of the island. The observation deck is named after two friends who came to the island in search of the perfect place to build a house hundreds of years ago. They have found an incredibly beautiful place on one of the most inaccessible hills, and today John Suwan is considered the most beautiful on the island. Walking through the city of Ko Tao also promises to be exciting. Several amazing Buddhist temples and ancient dwellings, as well as interesting craft shops and museums are situated there.

The island of Ko Tao has got worldwide recognition as one of the best diving and snorkeling destinations. The island has the necessary infrastructure for fans of underwater swimming. There are modern sports centers where vacationers can always rent everything they need to relax or enjoy water sports. It is important to mention that services of local diving clubs are very affordable. Ko Tao is often the major choice of beginners who want to relax and master the basics of scuba diving. There are incredibly beautiful and interesting diving sites for beginners near the island. Experienced sportsmen also like Ko Tao as there are suitable areas for deep diving. Guests of the island also have an opportunity to get certificates of a different level.

Vacationers, who have little interest in diving and simply want to sunbathe is a serene atmosphere, will also not be disappointed. The resorts of Sairee and Mae Haad have everything they want and even more. These resorts have a well-developed infrastructure, a broad range of hotels, massage salons, spa centers, restaurants, and shops. Water is incredibly clean at this part of the island, so the resorts are suitable for fans of snorkeling. Southern and eastern parts of the island are famous for their wild and empty beaches that have absolutely no infrastructure.