Ao Leuk - Koh Tao
2016
Day trips to nearby
Islands BEACHES
Your dream beaches
VIDEOS
Ko Tao beaches
“Ko Tao may be the smallest in size of the Samui–PhaNgan–Tao trio but in many ways it’s grown up, and consistently gaining popularity and going more upscale“.
MAPS
to beaches and nearby islands
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Arrival Thaila
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Samet Fireshow - Koh
Street Hua Hin Walking
2013-2014 from Thailand
Erawan Waterfall
park - Beach Koh Lanta Natinal
es Free travelguid
2016 2016
2016
ระยอง
หัวหิน DAMNUEN SADUAK LL RIWER KWAI
MAE KLONG
... ONS MAPS MOVIES DIVING EXCURSI BEACHES ISLANDS
ROI YOT GOLF... TAO CHA AM SAM SUAN SON KHAO HUA HIN TAKIAB
ERAWAN WATERFA
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS KOH TAO Police Emergencies Tourist Police Police station Bangkok Hospital Samui
191 1155 077 456 220 077 42 95 00
Master card hotline 001800118870663 Visa hotline 0018004413485 Bangkok Airways 1771, 077 428 500 Raja Ferry 077 377 452-3 Lomprayah Catamaran 077 238 411-2 Songserm Express 077 377 704 Seatran Discovery 077 238 679
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FACTS KOH TAO Area: Size: Province: From Chumphon: From Ko Samui: From Ko Phangan: Main town: Highest Point: Population: Hotels: Best time to visit: Green season: Air temp. aver: Water temp aver:
21km2 7,5 x 3,5 km Surat Thani 67km. 2h. 55km. 90min. 35km. 60min. Mae Haad Two View 380m. 1 500 about 100 Jan to Aug Oct to Dec 28° 27°
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Download PDF or reaD on your screen, for free! More than 20 different travel guides from various places in Thailand. Filled with info about excursions, what to do, waterfalls, golf, diving, beaches, islands, food & restaurants and much more. Just click on the guide picture below and find all the guides that you want to read. Clicrke! he
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HANOI
BURMA Myanmar
LAOS
Chiang Rai Mae Hong Son Chiang Mai Lamphun Lampang
THAILAND
Phayao
IA
NE
Nan VI EN T
NAIPYITAW
Phrae Loei
Utradit Rangoon
Sukothai Tak Pitsanoluk Kampaeng Phet
Nong Khai
Udon Thani Nong Bua Lamphu
Petchabun Kon Khaen Maha Sarakham Chayapum Nakhon Sawan Phichit
Nakhon Ratchasima
Lop Buri Sara Buri
AngThong
Saphan Buri
Nakhon Phanom Sakon Nakhon
Kalasin Roi Et
Uthai Thani Chai Nat
VIETNAM
Bueng Kan
Buriram Surin
Mukdahan Amnat Charoen Ubon Si Sa Ket
(Korat)
Pathum Thani Nakhon Nayok Nonthaburi Prachin Buri
Kanchanaburi
Sa Kaeo Chachoengsao
BANGKOK
Nakhom Pathom
Ratchaburi
Samut Prakan
Samut Sakhon
Petchaburi
Chonburi Pattaya
Rayong
Cha Am Hua Hin
Koh Samet
Chantaburi Trat
CAMBODIA
Koh Chang
Prachuap Khiri Khan
Koh Maak Koh Kood
PHNOM PENH Chumphon
VIETNAM
Koh Tao
Ranong
Koh Phangan Koh Samui
Surathani
Phangnga Phuket
k Clic e! r he
Nakhon Si Thammarat Krabi
Ao Nang Koh Lanta
Trang
Phattalung Songkhla
Koh Turatao Koh Rawi
Koh Adang Koh Lipe
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Satun
Pattani Yala
Narathiwat
MALAYSIA
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Welcome to
KOH TAO Worlds biggest dive school
Koh Tao “Turtle Island” because the shape of the island is said to resemble a turtle (with a lot of imagination). Tao is about 70 km from the mainland (Chumphon) and was previously used as a prison (between 1933-1947) for political prisoners during the “Bowaradech rebellion.” With its isolated location in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand, it was the perfect prision, Thailand’s Alcatraz! Koh Tao has gained a good reputation for its natural beauty with tropical beaches as well as its rich marine life with beautiful coral reefs. Today, Koh Tao is a popular island for divers and popularly known as “the world’s largest diving school”. Koh Tao is also a pradis for those who just want to laze on the beach during their vacation. The most famous beaches for us tourists are Hat Sai Ri and Ao Chalok Ban Kao. Hat Sai Ri is arguably the biggest tourist beach and is located near the main pier on the island’s west side. There are a plethora of smaller beaches, some of them are difficult to reach by land. Rent a longtail boat to explore the island’s beaches properly!
Ao Leauk Beach
Mae Haad Beach
Tanote bay
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B
C
D
F
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G
Unicorn Wreck Red Rock
Green Rock
Mango Bay
Koh Nang Gyan
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H Mango Bay Resort H Ao Muong Resort
Japanese Gardens Twins
LightHouse
KOH TAO
H Nang Gyan Dive Resort Scenic Point
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Sunset View Restaurant
Bio Rock
H Thipwimarn Resort
Hin Wong Pinnacle
White Rock Hin Pee Wee
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H Coral Grand Resort
Ao Hin Wong Kai Bae Beach
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Sairee Village
Sairee Reef
H Lotus Resort
Seashell Resort H
To Chumpon Ta Yang Pier
Ao Mao Ao Mae Haad
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Koh Tao Pier Phangan 60 min.
7 Three Rocks
Leam Thian Pinnacle
H Sea Lodge
Ao Leam Thian
Pottery H Utopia Suites
Ao Tanot Bay
H Blue Diamond Resort H Sensi Paradise Resort
Bamboo Huts H Charm Churee Villa H
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Tuk Tuk King Kong
Sai Thong Resort H Baan Talay H
Ao Luek Point
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Ao Luek
Pinnacle Tao Resort H
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Hin Ngam
Cottage Resort H
H Coral View Resort H Jamahkiri Spa Resort
Ao Chalok Baan Khao
Ao Taa Cha
Shark Island
H New Heaven Resort
Buddha Point
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MW Trident Wreck 2 kilometer
1 km
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Rates 2014
Chumphon
90 min.
Koh Tao
By boat from Samui If you take the “fast ferry to Koh Phangan from Bo Phut Pier the trip takes about 30 minutes. It continue to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Ngyan, an additional 60 minutes (total 90 minutes). If you travel on a day trip you travel early in the morning to be back at Samui around 17:00. Ferry to Phangan / Koh Tao: Lomprayah High Speed Ferries. Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui Tel: 077-238412 www.lomprayah.com
Ban Mae Hat
60 min.
Koh Phangan
Seatran Discovery Ferries. Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Tel: 077-246086 www.seatrandiscovery.com Songserm Boat. Koh Tao, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui. Tel: 077-375113 www.songserm-expressboat.com
Haad Rin Nok
“Full Moon Party”
30 min.
Koh Phangan If you stay a few days at Phangan you should definitely take the opportunity to rent a longtail for a day to discover more of the stunning island.
Lompraya Pier
The different companies have departures from different destinations. You can travel from Bangkok and Hua Hin by bus to Chumphon, from there ferry over to the islands.
Chieftain Nonth Pier
30 min.
4171
2,5 h. Surat Thani
Haad Rin Nai
30 min.
Koh Samui
Don Sak
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Ao Leuk Beach
Koh Tao
Beaches
Koh Tao is about 70 km from the mainland and was used as a prison during the years 1933-1947, (for political prisoners from Bowaradech revolt. The isolated location made it a perfect spot, Thailand’s “Alcatraz”! After the prison closed, people came from Samui and Phangan and settled on the island for fishing and harvesting coconuts.
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Mango Bay
Koh Nang Gyan
H Mango Bay Resort H Ao Muong Resort
H Nang Gyan Dive Resort Scenic Point Sunset View Restaurant
H Thipwimarn Resort
H Coral Grand Resort
Ao Hin Wong Kai Bae Beach
Sairee Village H Lotus Resort
Ao Mao Ao Mae Haad
Koh Tao Pier
H Sea Lodge
Ao Leam Thian H Utopia Suites
Ao Tanot Bay
H Blue Diamond Resort H Sensi Paradise Resort Bamboo Huts H Charm Churee Villa H
Sai Thong Resort H Baan Talay H
Ao Luek
Pinnacle Tao Resort H
Cottage Resort H
H Coral View Resort
Ao Chalok Baan Khao Freedom beach
H Jamahkiri Spa Resort
Sai Daeng
Shark Island H New Heaven Resort
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KOH TAO BEACHES AO LEUk Ao Leuk is one of the island’s most beautiful beaches! From the height of Ao Leuk beach you have a wonderful panoramic view. To the beach will take you through a not too well-maintained road or take the boat that might be the best route. Many dykfirmor travel here to train around the shallow beaches and the clear water. At the western end of the beach is nice hard corals and some soft species. There are a variety of species of fish, we saw a small shark here during our last visit (harmless).
MAE HAAD
JANSOM BAY
MANGO Bay
AO CHALOK
Mae Haad Beach runs from north to south in the middle west part of Tao. It is to here all ferry traffic arrive. The town is a typical tourist resort with all that implies. Diveshops, exchange offices, travel agencies, Internet cafes as well as a wide selection of restaurants and bars. A cluttered life during the daytime and chaotic when the ferries dock. Otherwise, a place that most leaving after arrival for accommodation elsewhere. The southern part offers some great locations for snorkeling and some comfortable resorts. Looking for privacy? - this is not the best choice. Even if the ferry location it has still managed to preserve some of the old fishing village charm.
Jan as Bay is located on the west coast, south of Mae Haad. Just by the little “tip” on the map. A small and cozy beach with coarse sand from all the small coral pieces washed up. The water is usually beautiful turquoise and clear and the beach is framed by large boulders. There is a restaurant, Charm Churee that serves decent and affordable food and you will not be disturbed by humming jetskiis and noisy speedboats. Rent a kayak per hour and discover the nearby beaches, or take a trip to Koh Nang Yuan, Koh Tao neighboring island. To Jansom Bay with motorbike, turn up at the sign of Charm Churee Village, then park at the front desk and take a short walk the last stretch down to the beach.
Mango Bay on the northern Tao. The small beach surrounded on the northern part is surrounded by rocks and stones of various sizes, which makes the place ideal for snorkeling. Mango Bay is still fairly undeveloped and quiet which allows you to disconnect all tourism and stress you may experience at larger beaches. Snorkeling at Mango Beach is said to be among the best around Koh Tao. Its not deeper than 10m. so you can clearly see all the corals and fish that lurks beneath the surface. Mango Beach have a couple resorts. Mango Beach is best reached by taxi as the roads are steep in places. You can even take a longtail boat to get here.
Ao Chalok is the third largest beach on the island and has become incresed popularity in recent years, considered the second most popular after Mae Haad. The beach is on the south coast inside the large bay. The bay is smaller than Sairee, but offers a similar range of accommodation, dining and nightlife. There is a rock formation at cape Taa Toh that with a little imagination, resembles a sitting Buddha (Buddha Rock). The beach is lovely and the cliffs that surround the beach feels it extra cozy. By walking over the cape you will find to Ao Thian Og with a lovely strip of sand where you can enjoy more privacy!
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SAIREE Sairee Beach is the longest and most popular beach on Koh Tao. Here you can find everything you need during your holiday! Diving companies in abundance, shopping, mini marts, massages, restaurants and bars. Sairee has a lovely beach with white and soft sand. The water is clear and beautiful turquoise attracting a dip or two! The palm trees swaying gently and extends out over the beach. Many longtail boats adding on the beach that can interfere with the view. There is a plethora of different cozy little restaurants serving everything from pizza, pasta, Thai food and burgers. Accommodation in all different price ranges, from a few hundred B. only fan and cold water. or at Koh Tao Montra Resort & Spa have luxurious rooms, or in a villa by the beach.
SAI NUAN
AO TANOTE On the south side of the island, the roads are not the best, it also refers to the way here which can be a bit bumpy. The beach is rocky in places with “paths” that leads into deeper water. It houses Black Tip Resort (also available in Mae Haad) which offers diving courses at “own water”. IF youre looking for dive-certificate it can be comfortable, stay, snorkel and diving certificate, all in the same place.
Sai Nuan Bay is located just south of Jan Som Bay. This beautiful spot is made up of several small sandy platelets surrounded by lush jungle and clear waters. Here you can easily find your very own sand piece amongst the warm smooth boulders on the beach where you can enjoy the peace and paradise. There are several simpler accommodations along the beach and also restaurants serving deliciously good food. Behind the cove is a 200 meters high lush mountain which makes the scenery more powerful for the site. Getting here Road to Sai Nuan Bay is not one of the greatest and the best is to walk the last bit. You can get here by taxi, motorbike or rent a longtail boat by the sea.
Sai daeng On Koh Tao’s southeast coast is Sai Daeng Beach. Because of the coral reef located here, the beach is full of small coral pieces. The water is clear and turquoise with a bit rocky bottom, flip flops are recommended during a walk in the water. The beach is cozy and surrounded by tropical greenery. It is quiet without a lot of distracting water activities. Kayaks are available for rent by the hour or by the day. Besides that, you can snorkel or just enjoy the sun and sea. Paddle out to the small island “Shark Island” that is located just a hundred meters from the beach.
FREEDOM
THIAN OG BAY
On Koh Tao’s southern tip, we find the charming Freedom Beach. On the beach are a bunch of trees providing needed shade, and beach swing hanging from one of the trees. The water is clear and the sand is fine and white. The beach feels indisturbed and is a great place for relaxation. It features a restaurant serving decent Thai food and hamburgers at reasonable prices, open from 7.30am. to 9.30 pm..Freedom Beach is accessible by moped or taxi via the concrete bridge between Chalok Baan Kao Beach and Freedom Beach, good roads.
Thian Og Bay beach is shallow and have a coral reef about 200 meters from the beach. The shallow beach is well suited also for families. On the Taatoh Seaview Resort you live well and cheaply fr. 2,000 THB night for two. Early risers can have their breakfast on the terrace and watch the sun slowly rise behind the ocean. There is also a cozy place for an early dinner with the beautiful bay views. On the other side you will see luxurious Jamahkiri Resort. 11
THINGS TO DO
AROUND KOH TAO
It should be said at once, Koh Tao is not a paradise for those seeking attractions, and I’ll be really honest, there will not be many lines to write home about. But if you still feel that you want to explore the island there is a small collection of things to see and some great tours that you can do.
KAYAKING Kayaking is a great way to see Koh Tao and get a new perspective of the island! Nice trips can be made for example around Buddha Rock. The name comes from the rock resembles a sitting Buddha. You will find the cliff of Koh Tao’s southern tip, at Freedom Beach. Stay close to shore and be aware of currents. If paddling feel easy on the outward journey home can be many times tougher. Dont forget to bring water and sun block for protection. Most resorts rent out kayaks.
Hin Taa Toh (Buddha Rock) Hin Taa Toh & Hin Yaai Mae Spirit Rocks. Yhis is the two large boulder formations located at the cape on the south Tao, east of Chalok Baan Kao Bay. A group of boulders that with lot of imagination creates an almost human-like shape and resembles a male in a sitting position. Hin Yaai Mae is the female. They are believed to be ‘spirit rocks’ and are treated with respect by the locals and are famous as Koh Tao landmarks. You will often find a photo of Hin Taa Toh in the homes of local people where it is revered and worshiped. 12
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Sunset & sunrise
Take the opportunity to to experience the magic of Koh Tao sunset and sunrise from one of Koh Tao’s beaches. From the west part of the island you can experience the sunset best and from the eastern part is the sunrise amazing. Do not forget your camera!
Nang Gyan Cliff If you for some reason do not have the time to visit the neighboring island, Koh Nang Yuan, you can instead head to the lookout point where you just a couple of hundred meters away can see across to the island. But our suggestion is that you take a half day and visit the magical place where the three islands are linked together by a sandbank. Bring camera, snorkel and some money if you want to eat or buy drinks at the island restaurant.
Miniature golf Yes Koh Tao has a golf course! Well, a miniature golf course anyway. The leisure park is based in Mae Haad on the main road going towards Chalok Baan Kao. Who really is the best golfer in the family or among your friends? Now its time to challenge them!
bowling
On the main road between Mae Hat and Chalok Ban Kaoyou can find homemade bowling lanes where the employees have to reset the pins by hand after every frame (about 300Thb. per hour). There is also a 18-hole mini-golf course with a landmark theme – try to hit your ball through Stonehenge or across the Golden Gate Bridge. Koh Nang Yuan is the stunning island just off Koh Tao. To be clear, it’s really about three islands which are linked together by a sandbank which visitors can walk on. The sand is nice and the water is clear and offers a great spot to snorkel at. There is one resort, Nang Yuan Island Dive Resort, that offers diving courses and diving excursions. There is a ban on cans, plastic bottles and bags, all to protect the nature to conserve the environment. Its also forbidden to bring corals from here! Long-tail mainly departs from Sairee and Mae Haad. There are also speedboats departing from Chumphon, Koh Phangan and Koh Samui to Koh Nang Yuan.
Koh nang yuan
rock climbing
With amazing rock formations found in many places in Koh Tao both by the sea and up the mountains – makes Koh Tao the perfect place to try out & experience this challenging sport. Both for beginners or those looking to improve their skills. Equipment are available to rent or use own with some edvice where to go...
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Take a step down to the underwater world!
KOH TAO DIVING
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DIVING AROUND KOH TAO Still, one can hear that Koh Tao is referred to as the Turtle Island. The shape of the island is said to resemble a turtle (with a lot of imagination). Koh Tao has a deserved reputation for its natural beauty and rich marine life of the coral reefs and tropical beaches to be found here and has become a popular island for many divers, but also for others who just want to spend lazy days on the beach, the island is a wonderfully beautiful place.
Dive spots
Aow Leuk Depth 2m-12m Aow Leuk is a shallow dive site and great for student divers to practice their skills. A good option for fun divers is to get dropped off at Hin Ngam (on the way into Aow Leuk) as it offers a wider variety of marine life and is also a little bit deeper. Chumphon Pinnacle Depth 14m-35m Regarded as one of Koh Tao’s best dive sites when conditions are good, Chumphon Pinnacle is located within a 40 minute boat journey away from the island. This is a dive site you must visit during your stay on Koh Tao. You can see many huge shoals of fish, and this is where you have the best chance of seeing a Whale Shark. Check Twitter @roctopus for sightings. Green Rock Depth 12m-20m Green Rock is a great dive site to explore. It offers many ‘swim throughs’, great corals, and enough marine life to make you come back for more. Hin Wong Pinnacle Depth 10m-28m This dive site is a good alternative to Chumphon Pinnacle as it’s usually quiet. Located on the East side of the island it’s made up of many large boulders, so there are plenty of places for the fish to hide.
Sail Rock Depth Surface-40m This is the best dive site in the Gulf of Thailand. A very impressive place that attracts a huge amount of marine life. This site is not visited every week as it’s a 2 hours boat journey to get there. Send us a message to find out when the next trip is. Shark Island Another ‘must see’ dive site during your visit to Koh Tao. At Shark Island you don’t see any sharks (it got it’s name due to the shape of the island looking like a shark fin) but you will see everything else you could possibly want to see on Koh Tao. Southwest Pinnacle Depth 5m-28m This dive site is very similar to Chumphon Pinnacle. It consists of one main pinnacle which is surrounded by smaller pinnacles. See if you can find the ‘secret pinnacle’. Twins Depth 10m-18m Twins is the most popular dive site on the island. It’s small, quite shallow, and offers a big selection of fish life and corals. You should also explore Buoyancy World (located to the north) which is a group of sculptures and buoyancy aids… definitely something you don’t see very often underwater! White Rock 10m-20m Another popular choice. White Rock is one of the biggest dive site around Koh Tao and will need more than one dive to truly explore.
Japanese Gardens Depth 2m-14m Japanese Gardens is a popular dive site and another good choice for beginner divers. Located around Koh Nang Yuan, it contains many different varieties of hard corals, and resembles a garden – hence the name. Mango Bay Depth 2m-12m This beautiful secluded bay offers some good shallow water diving. You can explore both sides of the bay or do a ‘drop off’ on your way into the it (preferred by fun divers) Red Rock Just around the island from Japanese Gardens, Red Rock is a small pinnacle that comes up to just below the surface of the water. If you go to Red Rock, you need to swim to the coast and find Nang Yuan Cave. It’s one of the more beautiful swim-throughs on Koh Tao and should not be missed.
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www.roctopusdive.com 15
Thong Nai Pan Noi
Koh Phangan Make a daytrip or longer to the neighboring island, the gorgeous Koh Phangan
Koh Ma
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Haad Rin town
Haad Rin Beach
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Koh Phangan - one of Thailands most affordable islands! That Koh Phangan only should consist of young people and drugs dancing to heavy techno music is a myth. It must be conceded that the day-long celebrations occur but there is another side of the island too. Child-friendly beaches, luxurious accommodation and great snorkeling water. The beaches stretches like a string of pearls around the entire island. Are you good at figuring you will end up well over 20 of them! Koh Phangan is still seen as one of the most affordable islands in Thailand to visit. There is cheap accommodation close to the water and affordable restaurants to eat at. Phangan is ten years after Samui in their development, which has created a place that is more quaint by comparison. The important cultural and tourist Haad Rin Beach is popular during the full moon nights, but is worth visiting the rest of the month for its chaotic jumble of bars, clubs, restaurants and shops with various crafts. On the undeveloped and pristine beaches are only a few bungalows that disturbs the peace. The most exclusive of these are Thong Naipan Beach thanks to the island’s most luxurious resort Santhiya Resort and Spa and Panviman. Koh Phangan is located in south-eastern Thailand between the popular islands of Koh Samui and Koh Tao. If you are traveling by boat from Samui to Phanga, the trip takes around 45 minutes and another 90 minutes to Koh Tao. Thong Sala is the island’s “capital” and the place most people arrive to as there is the large port. Around the island more than 20 of stunning beaches, most are accessed through the newly laid concrete road while others can easily be reached from the water with a long tail boat. Opinions differ about the first settlers to Koh Phangan. Although most agree that the first people who moved to the island were Muslim, “sea gypsies” who traveled by boat from the Malay Peninsula. Today there are very few Muslim residents remained on the island. Phangan name comes from the word “Ngan” meaning “sand dune”. Not many know that Koh Phangan is affordable and a perfect island for families. There is more than 85 resorts affordable hotels and resorts on the island.
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Koh Ma
KOH PHANGAN
Had Thong lang
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H Royal Orchid Resort
Had Thian Had Yao H
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H Had Khuad Resort H Bottle Beach Resort
Long Bay Resort
W Chaloklum Waterfall
Santhiya Resort H
W Paradise Waterfall
Had Son Had Chad Phao
Bottle Beach
Had Chaloklum H Chaloklam Resort W Wang Sai Waterfall
Had Salad
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Had Khuat
Had Khom
Koh Ma Mae Haad
W Panviman Resort H
Ao Thong Nai Pan Noi Ao Thong Nai Pan Yai
Hawana Resort H
Khao Ra 627m. View Point
H Sunset Hill Resort
Paradise Waterfall
Ao Sritanu
Had Sadet W W Than Sadet Waterfall
H Loyfa Natural Resort
Ao Hin Kong
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Wok Tum Kong
Kong Kliang
Phaeng Waterfall
HOSPITAL
Ao Play Laem
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Had Nam Tok
W Than Prapad Waterfall
Had Yao
Police
Ao Nai Wok H
Baan Mali Resort
Had Wai Nam
THONG SALA B52 Beach Resort H
Koh Tae Nok
Had Thong Reng
Ao Baan Chang
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Had Thian
H Coco Garden Resort
Ao Baan Tai
H Milky Bay Resort
Had Yuan
Ao Baan Khai Had Khontee
Ao Hin Lor
Had Rin Nok
Buri Beach Resort H
Sunrise Beach
Had Rin Nai
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Sunset Beach
Clicrke! he
H Coconut Resort
Had Seekantang Had Leela
10 4 kilometer 2 km
k Clic e! her
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Welcome to Koh Ma!
Maehaad Bay Resort
This small island just off Ao Mae Haad on Phangan’s northwestern tip has a pair of small but really beautiful beaches. During low tide a sand dune connects the island to the mainland that you can walk on. During high tide you will still be able to reach the island but your feet will maybe be wet! Unfortunately, we find some debris and piles of used bottles on the island, which is sad! But its a beautiful place to roll out your towel and brush up on your tan while you work your way through your favorite book, and to bring your snorkel gear coz this is one of the best places for snorkeling, best on the west side of the island. There should be one resort on the island, Koh Ma Dive Resort but not shore its open. If you are looking for some place to stay there are plenty to choose from at Mae Haad Beach and you will only have a few steps to walk if you want to discover Koh Ma... One beautiful resort is Maehaad Bay Resort, high season from 2,500Thb or more easy Maehaad Garden Inn from 500Thb/ night, your choise!
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Welcome to Koh Nang YUAN! Koh Nang Yuan is a small island located northwest of Koh Tao. Actually, the island consists of three small islands tied together with a long sandy stretch. Nang Yuan is a very popular destination for snorkeling enthusiasts and divers. The island feels very Thai and when you arrive you will be greeted by a long wooden bridge built on piles. The bridge takes you between the big rocks to the beach where you can enjoy sunbathing and swimming or/ and snorkelling. Nang Yuan beaches Koh Nang Yuan is a great beach that conects the three islands which are full of small coral pieces in every conceivable form. It is forbidden to bring the corals from the island, they belong here. From the dune you have water on both sides, but the right side is the best for snorkeling with magestic different corals. The water is crystal clear and beautiful turquoise, very inviting! Koh Nang Yuan by night Koh Nang Yuan is a quiet island with no bars. There is basic food on the resort restaurant on the island, and If you are kind, they may mixe you a drink too! Here you can enjoy a very quiet holiday, except during the daytime when all the tourists arrive... Dive and snorkel Due to the clear waters of Nang Yuan snorkeling is absolutely fantastic here. You do not need to take many steps from the beach before the coral reefs begins and all the colorful fish swimming under you. It is impressive that they swim so close! Getting to Nang Yuan Koh Nang Yuan is but a 10-15 minute journey from the west side of Koh Tao. Advertised speed boat and mega-catamaran Lomprayah offers a package day trip, cheapest and easiest option is to charter a longtail. There is a boat-taxi-stand during the daytime at Lotus Bar. The price is 200 Baht roundtrip. Remember to settle a return time with your driver. If you have a Thai phone you can swap numbers and call when you would like to go back to Koh Tao. 20
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Accommodation There is only one resort on the island, Nang Yuan Island Dive Resort which offers accommodation in different price ranges, from 1,000Thb low season and double high season! You’ll stay in small cabins perched in the hillside with a great view over the island and ocean! The resort has its own restaurant and offers diving excursions. www.nangyuan.com
The Ang Thong National Marine Park (consists of 42 small islands) lies about 32km. northeast of Samui Island. It was designated the Ang Thong Island National Park in 1980 and is considered to be one of the most beautiful archipelagos in Thailand, hence the name “the gold basin (Ang Thong) of the gulf of Thailand”. The most popular islands among travellers are Koh Wua Ta Lub. The wildlife is extensive with, among others, the long tailed monkey (langur), pacific reef egrets, hair nosed otters, white bellied sea eagles, ashy drongos, tortoises, sea turtles, lizards and pythons. The best time to visit the park should be from the end of January until the end of October. One-day boat excursions are long are popular. A typical trip will visit the islands of Wua Ta Lub Mae Koh, Sam Sao and Tai Plao (the program depends on the weather). and prices usually include lunch and drinks and snorkeling gear. The Ang Thong National Park Office is located on Wua Ta Lub Island which offering beautiful views. A long tail boat will take you to the Aow Ta beach, the perfect spot for swim, sunbathe, kayaking or why not go hiking in the forest. The most beautiful viewpoint you can find up at the Pa Jarudchan viewpoint, although the walk is quite challenging (500 m. climb up the limestone cliff). On the way up you will pass the Pah Salad Dai viewpoint, about 100 m. from Aow Ka Peang beach, also this is well worth a visit. You can benefit from using the rope provided, the route up is steep and can be quite dangerous. At the top, you you will have a spectaccular view from the wooden porch. Many of the islands north of Wua Ta Lub Island can be seen from here. If you stay overnight you can experience the beautiful sunset and sunrise. There is easy-going bungalow accommodation and an camping area, tents are available for rent from the office. The topography of Mae Koh Island, north of Wua Ta Lub Island consists of beautiful limestone cliffs surrounded by nice beaches. Dont miss the emerald lake which was created after the collapse of limestone caverns creating a salt-water lake.
Ang thong marine park
Speed Boat day-tours to Angthong Marine Park Numerous speed boat companies runs daily trip from Koh Phangan and Koh Samui as well as slow boats. Safari boat are based at Phangan and they have a office at Koh Samui (Bangrak, close to Seatran pier) and departs by speed boat daily to Angthong from Thongsala pier and Bangrak pier. Speed boats are more safe, fast, comfortable and more convenience than slow boats. The travel time by speed boat from Koh Phangan to Ang Thong usually takes 45 minutes, by slow boat about 2,5 hours. Slow boat are cheaper but can’t stop at shallow waters so you will need to get a long tail boat to transfer you to the beach. Approximately price from Koh Phangan Adult 1800 THB + 300 THB entrance fee Adult with Kayak 2000 THB + 300 THB Child 1300 THB + 150 THB entrance fee Child with Kayak 1500 THB + 150 THB Child under 3 years FREE! Child 4 – 10 years old or 120 cm height Prices from Koh Samui is additional 200Thb. Note: Since 1st of Feb 2015 the entrance fee to the Angthong National Park is 300 Thb for foreigner adult and 150 thb for foreigner child.
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WELCOME TO
KOH SAMUI The coconut island Koh Samui is the second largest island in Thailand after Phuket and one of the most popular destinations in Thailand. This is where you find wonderful white beaches and crystal clear waters combined with beautiful scenery. Regardless of what you expect of your stay, peace and quiet or more action you will find it on Samui. There is a wide variety of activities, adventure, diving, nightlife and shopping. The most popular beaches are Chaweng, Chaweng Noi, Lamai, Maenam and Bo Phut Beach. The most popular beaches can be found on the island’s north and east coast. Accommodation is available from simple bungalows to exclusive five star resorts and everything in between, the choice is yours. The range of restaurants on the island has been adapted to the wide audience but the focus is on seafood and serves freshly caught each day. There is a lot to see and do on the island, waterfalls, temples, unspoilt nature, aquarium and tiger zoo. Moreover, you can visit a monkey theater, snake and crocodile farm to name a few. Play golf at one of Thailands most spectacular corses, Santiburi Golf Course. Day trips to neighboring islands of Koh Phangan and Koh Tao which both are well worth your visit. Koh Tao (turtle island) is a paradise for those who like diving and once housed a prison (1933 to 1947), Thailands Alcatraz!
a ay hr P e th of y rm A ng ni ea m a ’s name was originally Thap Phray
Pattaya 22
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FACTS ABOUT SAMUI 228 km2 Surat Thani 55.000 4 000 000 >500 Dec - Aug Sep - Nov 28째 27째
Bid Buddha - Samui
Area: Province: Population: Tourists/year: Hotels: Best time to travel: Green season: Air temp. average: Water average:
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Lamai beach - Samui
Bo Phut beach - Samui
Chaweng town - Samui
A
B
C
D
F
E
G
1
2
Distance from Samui Airport 1. Chaweng Beach 3,3 km. 8 min. 2. Chaweng Noi 8 km. 19 min. 3. Lamai Beach 14 km. 32min. 4. Thong Krut Beach 27 km. 48 min. 5. Talingam Beach 31 km. 53 min. 6. Lipanoi Beach 29 km. 50 min. 7. Bang Po Beach. 16 km. 30min. 8. Maenam Beach 11km 23 min. 9. Bo Phut Beach 6 km. 12min.
KOH SAMUI 2 kilometer 1 km
Laem Samrong
3
Koh Som
Laem Naphra Lan
Koh Tao Pun
Koh Ra Thian Koh Ra Hin
Bang Po Beach 4169
Laem Yai
4
Buffalo Fighting
Choeng Mon Beach
Bang Rak Beach
Maenam Beach
Buddha Beach
Big Buddha
Bo Phut Beach
Koh Fan Noi Santiburi Golf Club
W Tan Rua Waterfall
Bangmakham Beach
Samui GoCart Samui Airport
5
Koh Matlang Tesco Lotus
Ferry to Surathani & Phangan
Police Box 4169
Nathon Bay
6
W Hin lat Waterfall
Thong Yang Beach (Lipanoi Beach)
Chaweng Beach
4169
Elephant Trekking
W Lat Wanon Waterfall Buffalo Fighting
7
Chaweng Noi Beach W Ta Nom´s Waterfall
Samui Safari
View Point Silver Beach
W Namuang 2 Waterfall
Baan Saket
Namuang Safari
W Namuang 1 Waterfall
Lamai Beach
Buffalo Fighting
Talingam Beach View Point
Mumified Monk Wat Khunaram (Phra Wihan Luang Por Daeng)
4169
Hin Ta Hin Yai Rock
Bang Nam Chuet bay
Bang Kham Beach
Samui Snake Farm
Butterfly Garden Laem Hon Kham
Bang Kao Bay
Laem Set
Thong Krut Beach
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Best time to visit Koh TAO The best time to visit Koh Tao is during the hot and dry season, from Jan to April. usually the same time as everyone else! To choose a time with decent weather, but some extra elbow room can be tricky. Below you can see what the weather looks like during different time of the year, then it’s up to you, what time of the year you prefere to visit the island. Whenever you do it, we are sure you will have a fantastic experience.
June can be a great time to visit Samui because the weather is nice with little rain and not too much heat, while the number of visitors are lower as most vacationers are waiting for the school holidays in July and August. During the eurpean summer the island is hectic and all flights to Samui quickly gets full. Room rates are increasing and the beaches getting crowded.
Showers from May to September From May to September the island gets a small afternoon showers from the Southwest monsoon, but the weather is still enjoyable and the sea is usually calm and clear. From October to December it gets more windy and wet thanks to the northeast monsoon, during this time, it tends to be sparser with visitors on the island.
The warmest months is March to May when the heat also makes most beach vendors absent, no use to walk the beach back and forth near the saturation point of moisture along a beach without customers.
For those who want to avoid the rain should perhaps avoid the period from October to December, November usually is the most intense monsoon period, which also affects harder every five years. For those who still take the chance to travel during the off-season can enjoy discounted accommodations and lower prises at restaurants as well as large private areas on beaches. If youre interested in diving you should be ware of that the visibility in the waters decreases during the monsoon season.
Alley / side street - Soi Beef - Nuea Beer - Bea Bread - Ka-nom-pang Bye - Laa goon Chicken - Kai Coffee / Tea - Gaafee / Chaa Egg - Kai dao Excuse me - Kho tood Fish - Pla Foreigners - Farang Fruit - Pom la mai Hot dog - Sai grok Hello (woman) - Sa-wat-dii ka Hello (man) - Sa-wat-dii khrap Help - Chuey duey How are you - Sabai dii mai I’m OK - Sabi dii ...and how are you? - Leu khun la I do not understand - Mai kao jai I can not speak Thai - Poudd Thai mai pen I don’t want - Mai tong gan Island - Koh It does not matter - Mai pen rai Large / small - Yai / lek Not strongly - Mai pet No - Mai chai Noodles - Kue Tiew
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If you can visit the island in April, try to make it to Songkran. At April 13 the Thai New Year celebration starts and continues for three days, sometimes longer. The whole country is celebrating the New Year by throwing water on each other and smear talc in the face, no one can manage from getting wet! During Christmas and New Year, the island is full of tourists but most leave in mid-January to late February for school and work back home. This is a great time weather-wise to visit, when the weather is still good so this period is still considered to be high season, look around online, www.arrivalthialand.com for good prices on accommodation.
Pork - Moo Prawn - Kong Rice - Kaow Red / White wine - Waj dääng / Waj kao Road - Thanon Salad - Salat Small - Noi Soup - Soop Spicy (food) - Pet Stamp - Sateam Temple - WAT Thank you (women) - Khop khun ka Thank you (men) - Khop khun khrap The bill please - Check bin ka/krap ... or Khit tang ka/krap Vegetables Waiter /waitress (young) Waiter /waitress (old) What is the price What is the time Where is the toilet Water Waterfall Will you help me Yes Do you speak English
- Grönsaker - Nong ka / Nong krap - Pi ka / Pi krap - Taow rye - We la tao lay - Hong Nam yu ti nai - Nam - Nam tok - Chuey duey - Chai - Khon pot pa-sa ang-crit dai mai
Counting One - Nueng Two - Song Three - Sam Four - Sii Five - Ha Six - Hok Seven - Jed Eight - Pad Nine - Gao Ten - Sip Eleven - Sip ett Twelve - Sip song Thirteen - Sip sam Fourteen - Sip sii Fifteen - Sip ha Sixteen - Sip hok 20 21 100 200 1000 2000 2500 10 000 20 000
- Yee sip - Yee sip ett - Nung roi - Song roi - Nueng pan - Song pan - Song pan ha roi - Nueng mun - Song mun
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Cookery class
Thai-Food
Order your food with some simple phrases A nice way to spend time together is to take a class in how to cook Thai food. The class often includes 4 different dishes and fits all the family as well as if you traveling by yourself. You get an insight into how to choose vegetables and meat from the local market that you cook together, yummy and nice!
Lear n to cook your own thaifood
1. Tom Yam Kung - starter Strong, sour soup with large shrimp (very strong) In Thai: [ tom jam kung ]
5. Pat Krapow Moo Pork tenderloin with onions, peppers, chilli, garlic & Fresh “Holy Basil” (strong) In Thai: [ pat krapov moo ]
2. Tom Kha Gai - starter Mild soup with coconut milk and chicken (not strong) In Thai: [ tom ka gaj ]
6. Yam Nuea Sour shredded beef in hot “salad” with chilli, garlic, lime and fresh coriander (strong) In Thai: [ jam nö ]
3. Khao Pad Gai - stekt ris Fried rice with chicken, children’s favorite! (not strong) In Thai: [ kao padd gaj ]
7. Paneng Nuea Beef in panengcurry with coconut milk & shredded lime leaves (strong) In Thai: [ paneng nö ]
4. Pad Thai Gai Wide noodles with chicken (not strong) In Thai: [ padd taj gaj ]
8. Gai Satay Curry marinated chicken skewers with peanut sauce (not strong) In Thai: [ gaj sataj ]
NOTE! Chili mark indicates how the food is cooked in Thailand! You can always order with fewer or without chili.
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Getting around By Air The closest airport to Ko Tao is at Ko Samui. They have regular flights from Bangkok and from other destinations to Ko Samui. From airport its a short ride to the pier that runs boats to Haad Rin on Ko Pha Ngan and Koh Tao. An other option is to fly to Surat Thani (mainland) as the tickets to there are cheaper, but makes the trip a bit longer. From the airport to the pier and then a considerably longer ferry ride - add about five hours to your trip. Boat There are a number of different ferry companies taking passengers from Ko Samui, Surat Thani (Donsak Pier) to Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. If you are in a hurry you should travel with Lomprayah high speed catamaran, by far the fastest and also the newest boat, also the most expensive, with tickets ranging between 600 and 1,200 Thb. The second-fastest is Seatran and slightly less expensive if you compare to Lomprayah. Notice that they have a new and old boat. The new being just as comfortable as the Lomprayah, it does not apply to the old one. Ask if the boat will be “Express� if they say yes, youre about 70% sure to get on the new boat. The Seatran gets you close to Samuis airport, they do not make the trip to Surat Thani. Songserm ferry is another decent option, operates to all ports but rather slow. The Raja Ferry is the car ferry. Slow but safe and pretty uncomfortable, the cheapest option around. The nightboat is the slowest option if you want to reach the mainland. Perfect if you want to save some money and at the same time dont want to loose any sun hours. Maybe not the most comfortable night sleep! 28
Lomprayah Samui to Phangan (20min. ) 08:00, 11:15, 12:30, 17:00 Ko Tao to Ko Pha Ngan (1 h. and 20 min. ) 09:30, 15:00 Surat Thani to Ko Pha Ngan (1 h. and 30 min.) 10:10, 16:00 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Samui: 07:15, 11:00, 12:00, 16:40 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Tao: 08:30, 13:00 Ko Pha Ngan to Surat Thani: 07:15, 12:00 Seatran Ko Samui to Ko Phangan (20 min.) 08:00, 13:30 Ko Tao to Ko Pha Ngan (1 h. and 20 min.) 09:30, 15:00 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Samui: 11:00, 16:30 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Tao: 08:30, 14:00 Songserm Ko Samui to Ko Pha Ngan (30 min.): 11:00, 17:30 Ko Tao to Ko Pha Ngan (1 h. and 50 min.): 10:00 Surat Thani to Ko Pha Ngan (3 h. and 30 min.) 08:00, 14:00 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Samui: 07:00, 12:30 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Tao: 12:30 Ko Pha Ngan to Surat Thani: 07:00, 12:30 Haad Rin Queen Samui to Ko Phangan (50 min.) 10:30, 13:00, 16:00, 18:30 Ko Pha Ngan to Ko Samui: 09:30, 11:40, 14:30, 17:30 Raja Ferry Ko Pha Nga to Surat Thani (2 h. 30 min.): 07:00, 10:00, 13:00, 16:00, 18:00 Surat Thani to Ko Pha Ngan: 05:00, 07:00, 10:00, 13:00, 17:00 Night Ferry Ko Pha Ngan to Surat Thani (6 hour) 22:00 Surat Thani to Ko Pha Ngan (7 hour) 23:00
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Ao Taa Chaa Mae Haad to Ao Taa Chaa about 600Thb. up to 2 people and extra 300Thb. for add. person. Return trip will cost 1200Thb. up to 4 people. Songthaews start at 300Thb. up to 4 people, extra people 100Thb. each. Ko Tao’s major port town is Mae Haad where all travellers arrive. Its a small town and you can access most by walking, it also applies to Sairee. If you dont prefere to walk there is songthaew for 50Thb for a short ride (eveningtime 200Thb). If travel otside the town you have to negotiate your price. You can also travel by boat-taxi from the pier to just about anywhere on Koh Tao, the prices are fair and not to excessive. Prebooked room? Check with your resort if they provide free or discounted pickup from Mae Haad - before renting taxi or boat! The prices are lower between 6am to 5.30pm and tend to raise a lot before and after. Remember! - always confirm the price before departure. Several shops rent out motorbikes and the price ranges between 150-300B/day. If you go for the ATV the price raise to between 1,000-1,500B/day (depending on size). NOTICE! Always check for old damages before renting motorbike or ATW, and get them documented!
Thian Ok From Mae Haad - 600Thb. for 2 people and 300Thb. for each additional person. Return trip 1,200Thb. 4 people. Ao Thian Ok can be reached by road, but the road is bad. Songthaew at least 400Thb. 1-2 people and 150Thb./person thereafter. Sai Daeng Mae Haad to Sai Daeng - 600Thb. 1-2 people and 300Thb. / extra person. Return trip 1200Thb. up to 4 people. A songthaew 400Thb. 1-2 people and 150B/person extra person. Ao Leuk From Mae Haad 800Thb. 1-2 people and 400Thb. extra person after that. Return trip will cost 1200Thb. up to 4 people. Songthaews charge 300Thb. 2 people and then 150Thb. extra/piece. Lang Khaay Longtail 800Thb. 1-2 people and 400Thb./extra person. Return trrip 150Thb. up to 4 people. Songthaew 300-500BThb. 1-2 people and 150-200Thb. extra person thereafter. Tanote Songthaew to Tanote Bay from Mae Haad, about 500Thb. 1-2 person and then 150Thb. each. Longtails from Mae Haad 800Thb. 1-2 pers. and then 400Thb./person. A return longtail will cost 1500B up to 4 people.
So what should you pay for a long-tail ride? Jan Som Bay One way trip from Mae Haad is 200Thb./ 1-2 person. Songthaews start at 200Thb. - up to 4 people, extra 50Thb. each. Sai Nual Longtail to Sai Nual, 200Thb. up to two people, extra 100Thb./person. Songthaews start at 500Thb. up to four people, extra people 100Thb. Kul Jeua The easiest way to access Ao Kul Jeua is with a longtail. Price from Mae Haad is 400Thb. up to 2 people, extra 200Thb./person. Songthaews start at 500Thb. up to 4 person, extra person 100Thb. Chalok Ban Kao To Chalok Ban Kao 400Thb. for 1 or 2 person, extra person and 200Thb. Songthaews start at 200Thb. up to 4 people with extra people charged 50B Ao Taa Toh, Freedom Beach From Mae Haad to Ta Toh or Freedom Beach, around 400Thb. for 1 or 2 people and 200B/for extra person. Songthaews start at 300Thb. up to 4 people with extra people charged 100Thb.
Laem Thian A longtail will cost you 1000B for one or two people and 500B each thereafter to access Laem Thian on the opposite end of the island. A return longtail will cost 1500B for four people.A songthaew typically costs 500-600B for one or two people and 150-200B each after two. Hin Wong From Mae Haad 800Thb. 1-2 people, 400Thb./extra person. Return longtail 1,500B up to 4 people. Songthaew to Hin Wong, at least 500Thb. 1-2 people and then 150B/extra person. Mango Bay Boat taxi 600Thb. 1-2 people and 300Thb. extra person. Return trip 1,200Thb. up to 4 people. There is poor dirt road to Mango Bay as well. The resorts here usually offer taxi service to guests. Otherwise, a songthaew from 800Thb. 1-2 person and then 300Thb. for extra riders. Nang Yuan Longtails typically cost 500Thb. Return for 1 person or 300B each for two or more people. Remember you’ll have to pay 100B/person just to visit the island. Haad Sairee Sairee is easy to access by walking from Mae Haad, although, if you travel with a lot of luggage it can be more convient to grab a taxi. From Mae Haad 150-200Thb. 1-2 people and 50Thb. for extra person. The price increse sharply after 6pm. and seems to rise the later it gets. 29
Book hotel -anywhere -anytime -best price! Book online and receive offers and service even same day To book online gives you almost always better price and benefits than if you walk into the hotel from the sidewalk. You can use a computer or your smartphone. The booking pages are specialized in last-minute bookings and you can enjoy the best price and benefits as the hotel / resort offers. As a walk-in, you usually have very small chance to price negotiation. Click on the link to the right or visit our website and you will find hotels that are available to book at your destination. Bon Voyage! Click here!
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