A little bit of
Koh Tao history
Koh Tao, in Thailand, served as a natural prison between 1937 and 1947 due to its isolation in the heart of the Gulf of Thailand.
In 1947, the brothers Ueam and Oh were the first to settle permanently on Koh Tao, launching the island’s modern history.
They made their living from fishing, coconut farming and small vegetable gardens on the tropical island.
In the 80s, the first tourists to Koh Tao discovered a secret island popular with backpackers and independent travellers.
Over time, tourism to Koh Tao developed and the island became a popular destination in Thailand.
Transport to Koh Tao is now more accessible thanks to regular ferries from Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Chumphon.
Koh Tao is now a second home for expats, Thais from other regions and many international travelers.
Most of the locals come from southern Thailand and speak the southern Thai dialect.
The local population of Koh Tao lives mainly in three villages: Mae Haad, Sairee Beach and Chalok Baan Kao.
Getting here:
02.
Plane and Boat
The most comfortable (but most expensive) way to get here, it will save you hours of waiting. You can buy Bangkok Airways tickets to get to Koh Samui. Then choose between the Lomprayah or Seatran boats to get to Koh Tao.
If you want to go to Koh Tao on the same day, make sure your flight is no later than 10:00 a.m. from Bangkok, so you don’t miss the last boat.
03.
Train and Boat
Another comfortable option is to take an overnight train from Bangkok Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal Station to Chumphon, then continue with the morning Lomprayah ferry to arrive directly at Koh Tao pier.
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We come to Koh Tao for the diving, but we stay for the peace and quiet and the magic of the sunsets.
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