Getting to Ko Tao

To travel to this island, alternative departures are at Ko Pha-ngan, Ko Samui and Tha Yang Pier in Chumphon province. The fare is 400-500 baht. Nevertheless, going at night will cost only 200 baht. The boat departs at 12.00 a.m. arriving at 6.00 a.m.

• Raja Ferry (Don Sak, Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan) Tel. 0 7747 1151-3 (Don Sak office) or 0 7741 5230-3 (Ko Samui office)

• Seatran Ferry (Don Sak, Ko Samui and Ko Pha-ngan) Tel. 0 7727 5060

• Ban Don Pier (overnight boat to Ko Samui and Ko Phangan) Tel. 0 7728 4928

• Tha Yang Sea Port (overnight boat to Ko Tao) Tel. 0 7750 3052-4

Get around

There is one main road running North to South on the island with many smaller roads diverting off it. Some roads lead over the spine of small mountains that run along the middle of the island and are all dirt, can close out after rain, and can be challenging even to a skilled driver. There are usually plenty of taxi cars available on both Sairee village and Mae Haad, however they tend to be expensive given the actual distance you travel.

You can rent bicycles and motorcycles at a few places on Sairee Beach, Mae Haad, and Chalok. Be careful if you rent a motorbike as the dirt roads can get dangerous. ATV’s are dangerous (ask any medical clinic) and expensive (500+ THB a day) and should be avoided in favor of Honda Dream’s (150-200 THB a day) or Sonic’s (200-250 THB a day).

Be aware that an increasing number of rental shops are charging large amounts of money for non-existent scratches on bikes when returning them, notably the shop next to 7/11 in Sairee. Make sure you note down all scratches and dents before you rent a bike from anyone. Chopsticks Travel & Bike Rental have been recently recommended.

Longtail boats offer rides to and from certain beaches on the island. They are a more comfortable way of getting to isolated beaches than attempting to ride over the mountains. Round island longtail 500-700 baht, short trips 100-200 baht.