Southeast Asia's top dive destination
Koh Tao Diving & Snorkeling Adventures
Koh Tao is one of the world's best places to learn to dive, and the cheapest place to earn your PADI certification. This small island in the Gulf of Thailand is surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, from reef sharks and sea turtles to colorful coral gardens.
Beyond diving, Koh Tao offers excellent snorkeling right off the beach, freediving courses for the adventurous, and stunning island-hopping trips to nearby Koh Nang Yuan. With its laid-back vibe and breathtaking underwater world, Koh Tao is a must-visit for any ocean lover traveling through Thailand.
Top Things to Do
- Complete your PADI Open Water certification — Koh Tao is one of the most affordable places in the world to get certified
- Snorkel at Koh Nang Yuan, where three tiny islands are connected by a stunning white sandbar
- Dive at Sail Rock — the Gulf of Thailand's premier dive site, famous for whale sharks and barracuda
- Take a freediving course and explore the underwater world on a single breath
- Join a full-day island-hopping tour covering Japanese Gardens, Mango Bay, and Aow Leuk
Available Tours & Experiences
Tips for Visitors
PADI Open Water courses take 3–4 days — plan your stay accordingly and book in advance during high season
The best diving visibility is from March to September; whale sharks are most commonly spotted April to June
Bring your own mask if you snorkel frequently — rental gear quality varies between shops
Koh Nang Yuan charges a 100 THB entrance fee and bans single-use plastic — bring a reusable water bottle