Koh Tao is a small island in the Gulf of Thailand, the world capital of diving education. Crystal-clear water, abundant marine life, and low prices attract beginner divers from around the world for PADI certification.

The island is famous for snorkeling at Shark Bay and Tanote Bay, where you can meet turtles and reef sharks. Underwater landscapes include shipwrecks, underwater pinnacles, and coral gardens.

Besides diving, the island offers hikes to viewpoints, yoga retreats, and a relaxed backpacker atmosphere. Koh Tao is reached by ferry from Surat Thani or Chumphon (about 2 hours).