Where to stay on Koh Tao
Koh Tao is known for dive-week hotels rather than a second Full Moon, so sleep Sairee for dinner, Mae Haad for the pier, or Chalok for a quieter south bay. Pay the 20 THB environmental fee at Mae Haad.
Back to Koh Tao SaireeMae HaadChalok
Arrival20 THB environmental charge at Mae Haad
DefaultSairee for the strip
PierMae Haad if the 07:00 boat matters
SouthChalok Baan Kao for a quieter bay
Search stays on Trip.com Check live 2026 rates and free-cancellation options. Book tickets on Klook Book tickets, tours, or transfers ahead for peak dates.
Everyone lands at Mae Haad and pays 20 THB, and songthaews to Sairee or Chalok cost more than the fee; agree the fare. Sairee is the dinner strip and the usual first pin, and mae Haad is practical if the boat is at 07:00. Chalok Baan Kao is the south quiet, and east coves need a booked pickup.
January to September is the easier Gulf sea, and there is no airport. Fly USM then boat via Koh Phangan, or use the Chumphon catamaran, and book the room by bay on Trip.com. Do not add Tao on a first week unless the Open Water card is the trip.
Sairee vs Chalok vs the pier
| Bay | Who it fits | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Sairee | Dinner, bars, long sand | Loudest road |
| Mae Haad | Divers who walk to the boat | Village, not a postcard |
| Chalok Baan Kao | Quieter south | Farther from most shops |
| East coves | Repeat visitors | Steep roads, thin food |
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Common questions
- Sairee or Chalok for a first course?
- Sairee if the shop is on the strip. Chalok if you want a quieter night and a pickup.
- Is the 20 THB fee per stay?
- It is collected on arrival at Mae Haad. Songthaews are extra.