20 Best Things to Do in Koh Tao

Things to do in Koh Tao
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What to do in Koh Tao? Koh Tao is one of the most phenomenal places in the Gulf of Thailand. This spectacular tropical paradise is full of exciting things to do and see that suit every taste and lifestyle. Koh Tao is one of the jewels of Thailand, an unparalleled oasis in the sun. 

What to do in Koh Tao? The 20 best things to do and see in Koh Tao

There are plenty of things to do in Koh Tao, so plan to spend part of your next vacation on this incredible island.

1. Go Sea Kayaking

One of the most popular things to do in Koh Tao is to head out onto the open waves in a sea kayak. Sea kayaking is a great way to give your muscles a workout while enjoying the open ocean. You’ll be able to explore all of the nooks and crannies of Koh Tao at your own pace. Go alone or with a friend, but rent a sea kayak and head out on the water.

2. Spend The Day Luxuriating On The Beach

You can’t visit Koh Tao without heading to one of its beaches. This island paradise has some of the best beaches in Thailand. Spend the day soaking up the rays and getting your dose of Vitamin Sea. 

Koh Tao’s lovely beaches stretch for miles, and there’s really nothing better than feeling your stress fade away or catching a fantastic sunset on the beach.

3. Learn Muay Thai

Muay Thai is Thailand’s most famous sport and one of the best things to do in Koh Tao. This intense sport combines martial arts with boxing for an incredible workout that is sure to energize you. 

There are some Muay Thai gyms in the island, so simply pick one that suits you. You can sign up for several classes or just take one or two. Even a ninety-minute session of Muay Thai will give you a fantastic workout and increase your core strength.

4. Catch Some Fish

The beautiful blue waters that surround Koh Tao are full of fresh fish, making this island an angler’s utopia! There are plenty of fishing trips that you can join, and you can even go at the spur of the moment if you’d like. Plan to spend the whole day out on the open ocean.

5. Zip Around The Island On A Motorbike

One of the most popular things to do in Koh Tao is to rent a motorbike and see the island on your schedule. Motorbikes are fun, fast, and easy to ride. You can rent motorbikes virtually anywhere on the island, but be aware of popular scams

Always take pictures of your motorbike before you ride it. Pay special attention to any scrapes or dents. Sometimes, unscrupulous motorbike operators will try to pin existing damage on you!

6. Check Out The View From The Nang Yuan Viewpoint

The Nang Yuan Viewpoint is one of the best things to see in Koh Tao. It’s not easy to get up there, but the journey is entirely worth it. Gaze over the Indian Ocean from far above and get a new perspective on Koh Tao. The Nang Yuan Viewpoint is a fabulous place to watch the sunset.

Read also: Where to stay in Koh Tao

7. Go Beneath The Waves

There’s a reason why Koh Tao is one of the most popular places on the planet to get PADI Certified. This island is surrounded by azure waters that contain some of the most incredible fish that you will ever glimpse. You can take a course right in Koh Tao for a few hundred dollars and use your certification anywhere in the world. 

The creatures that dwell in the majestic seas right around Koh Tao are absolutely stunning. Explore the world beneath the waves on your next Koh Tao adventure. 

If you’d prefer to partake in the underwater world without actually becoming PADI Certified, you can always try your hand at snorkeling.

8. Spend The Day On The High Seas

For adventures on the high seas, as opposed to in them, hop on a boat tour. Boat tours are one of the best ways to see Koh Tao in an entirely different light, and they are relatively inexpensive and easy to join.

You will find plenty of boat operators in Koh Tao, and you can take a full or half-day tour of the waters surrounding the island. It’s relaxing, fun and a great way to meet new friends.

9. Get A Thai Massage

You can’t go to Koh Tao without getting a Thai massage. The art of massage has been perfected over the ages and is a unique style that is not to be missed. Thai massage is designed to loosen up your muscles and fully relax you. 

There are countless places to get a Thai massage in Koh Tao, and you can even get one right on the beach. There’s nothing more relaxing than listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean while you are being pampered.

10. Take A Relaxing Yoga Class

If you’re looking for something wholesome and relaxing to do in Koh Tao, why not join a yoga class. The island is full of yoga retreats and classes that will relax your mind and stimulate your body. 

Some classes even specialize in an alfresco experience, where you can enjoy the pleasures of yoga right on the beach. Yoga is a great way to unwind, and a good thing to do for your body. 

Since yoga classes are comparably cheaper in Southeast Asia, you should really take advantage of the offerings in Koh Tao.

11. Take A Thai Cooking Class

Thai cuisine is notoriously delicious, and it’s also difficult to perfect. The balance of salty, sweet, sour, and bitter is what makes your favorite Thai dishes so delectable!

Learn the secrets of Thai cooking with an authentic class. All of the classes are different, but most of them feature the best elements of Thai food. 

You can learn how to make complicated curries, rice dishes, noodles, or authentic Thai desserts. Many classes even give you a cookbook to take home with you! It’s an excellent way to fully appreciate Thai culture and learn something new and exciting in the process.

12. Try Your Hand At Mini Golf

When you think of Koh Tao, you probably don’t think of mini-golf, but this Thai island has one of the most fun mini-golf courses (Koh Tao Leisure Park) in the country. Playing a competitive round of golf is a fun way to spice up the day and see a side of the island that most people miss. 

Mini golf is a fun activity to do in Koh Tao, especially if you are traveling with young children. Why not take a break from the beach and spend the afternoon practicing your swing?

13. Go See A Fire Show

Fire shows are one of the most iconic things to see in Koh Tao. You can’t visit the Thai islands without partaking in one of these shows. The fire dancers are incredibly skilled at drawing beautiful abstract shapes and designs against the night sky. 

You’ll be amazed by the show, and might even be asked to participate in part of it. Although it can be a little nerve-wracking to stand so close to the flames, remember that the fire dancers do this all of the time.

14. Join A Pub Crawl

Koh Tao is known for it’s laid back vibe and tremendous nightlife. You’ll make plenty of friends, get to experience the bars and clubs of the island firsthand, and have a night that you’ll never forget in Koh Tao. Pub crawls are easy to join, and generally, you can sign up that day.

15. Pick Up Some Incredible Souviners

Koh Tao is the place to go if you want to pick up some beautiful souvenirs to take back home. Shopping in the island’s night markets and stalls is one of the most popular things to do in Koh Tao. You’ll find some interesting items and have the chance to sharpen up your negotiating skills.

Adventure junkies will love Koh Tao for its plethora of outdoor activities. One of the best things to do is to try your hand at rock climbing. The island is full of fantastic places to get vertical, and the climbing is suitable for just about every fitness level. 

You can take classes or head out on your own. Be aware that the climbing is at your own risk, and if you need to brush up on your skills, you should go with a guide or join a class. Only expert climbers should attempt to go it alone.

16. Go Check Out Ang Thong Marine Park

Check out Ang Thong Marine Park. This lovely little preserve is a mere day trip from the island and is full of impressive wildlife. You’ll gain a whole new appreciation for the inhabitants of the Gulf of Thailand and really connect with nature in a meaningful and fun way. Don’t miss Ang Thong Marine Park. It’s likely to be one of the highlights of your vacation.

17. Pay Your Respects To The Spirits

Koh Tao’s resident spirits, Hin Taa Tho and Hin Yaai Mae, protect the island from natural disasters and keep the locals safe. You can pay your respects at their spirit house, and learn about the history of Thai spirit houses and what makes them so unique.

These spirits are essential figures in Thai culture, so don’t miss the opportunity to get a fresh perspective on the island.

18. Visit Koh Tao Temple

Thailand is famous for its temples, and Koh Tao is certainly no exception. The Koh Tao Temple is a fantastic place of worship and a sanctuary for believers and non-believers alike. Visit the temple for a chance to rest and recharge your batteries before seeing more of what Koh Tao has to offer.

19. Head Out For A Hike

Koh Tao might be bursting with activity, but it’s also an incredible place to stretch your legs and get in a good hike. The landscape of this beautiful island is a great place to explore on foot. There are plenty of paths for all different fitness levels, so don’t be shy. 

Always let someone know where you are going before heading out, and keep your wits about you. Koh Tao is home to a stray dog population that can be territorial if provoked. If you enjoy nature without disturbing it, you’ll have a fantastic time.

20. Enjoy a Seafood BBQ

Koh Tao is plenty of beach side restaurants. At night you can enjoy great seafood BBQs.  Y can choose from a great variety of fresh seafood and have it cooked/barbecued right on the spot.

Koh Tao is one of the best islands in the Gulf of Thailand. There’s so much to do and see in Koh Tao, and once you visit, you’ll fall in love too!

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