Where To Stay In Koh Tao: Best Areas + Hotels (2026)

Koh Tao is truly a hidden gem when it comes to Thailand’s islands. And while it’s a relatively small island, choosing the best area and hotel to stay in can make or break your experience. So if you’re wondering where to stay in Koh Tao, this guide and list of hotels for every budget will help you narrow it down.

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There are a few different areas to stay in Koh Tao, and each has it’s own pros and cons. Whether you want to be right on the beach, are looking for a diving hotel, prefer a bungalow, want an apartment, or are after amazing views, there are lots of great options.

Koh Tao is very well known for it’s incredible diving, and it’s diving hotels. Some hotels even have their very own diving practice pools for guests participating in their PADI certification. Other hotels in Koh Tao are focused entirely on relaxation and luxury. No matter what brings you to Koh Tao, there are great hotel options for you.

These Koh Tao hotel options will be broken down by budget to make it easiest for you to find the best accommodation for you. I’ll also include a map below of where each hotel is located so you can have an idea of where they are.

Where To Stay In Koh Tao: What Is The Best Area?

The island of Koh Tao is quite small – it takes just 25 minutes to drive from one end of the island to the other. So breaking the island down into ‘areas’ really comes down to a few key locations I’ve listed below.

One of the great things about Koh Tao being a small, mountainous island is that so many hotels have great views! And, there are lots of beach accommodations, as well. Not to mention, most hotels are within walking distance of many points of interest.

Quick Recommendations if you’re in a hurry! 👇🏻

⭐️ Best Overall – Tarna Align Resort (we stayed here and loved it)
🏝️ Close to Sairee Beach – Palm Leaf Resort
💘 Best for couples – Mae Ya Resort
👧 Family friendly – View Point Resort
🐚 Best Luxury – Cape Shark Villas (we stayed here and highly recommend!)

Because the island is small, we decided to get around by scooter when we visited. It’s an easy way to hop around the island for cheap. A lot of hotels offer transfer services to and from popular beaches, the ferry dock, etc.

However, we found it to be more convenient to have our own wheels while in town. The hotel services are usually limited and won’t take you everywhere on the island.

If you do the same as us and rent a scooter, you can stay anywhere on the island and be able to explore the island on your own terms. If not, it’s even more pertinent that you choose a hotel that’s centrally located.

• Sairee Beach/Mae Haad Pier (West): One of the most popular beaches and areas on the island is Sairee Beach. Close to where the ferry from Koh Samui drops passengers off, this area has the highest concentration of hotels. Here, you’ll find the most options when looking for accommodation of all budgets. There are also hotels more centrally located in the hills above Sairee Beach.
• Shark Bay/Chalok Bay (South): Another popular beach on the island, this beach isn’t as easily accessible as Sairee Beach. There is a large resort, Haad Tien Beach Resort, that you must go through to access the beach itself. However, there are lots of nice hotels in this area. Chalok Bay is right around the corner and has even more hotels.
• Tanote Bay (East): Tanote Bay does not have many hotels or resorts, but it’s where most of the hotels on the East side of the island are located. This is a much quieter area of the island and is perfect for people looking for a laid back but secluded experience.
• Moo 3: a small ‘town’ located south of the center of the island. Here you’ll find a concentration of restaurants and hotels located just a few minutes from the water. This area is known for it’s nightlife and hostels.

For most people, it will likely make the most sense to stay near Siaree Bay and the main tourist area. It’s closest to the most restaurants and hotels and is a great area to stay in.

For more information about how to get around on Koh Tao, the best beaches, where to eat, and more check out my full Koh Tao guide!

Read Also: What To Do In Koh Tao: The Ultimate Guide To Thailand’s Best Little Island

Budget Stays in Koh Tao

Palm Leaf Resort Koh Tao

Located right by the beach, this resort is a fantastic budget friendly option in Koh Tao. The location makes it a great place to stay if you choose not to rent a scooter while on the island. With options for bungalows or villas, you’ll have your own little slice of paradise. Plus, all room are air conditioned and the hotel has it’s own restaurant, as well. Some bungalows are even right on the beach, with incredible views of the bay.

Near Sairee Beach

Cactus Boutique

This beachside boutique hotel offers beautifully decorated rooms, a fantastic location, and stunning views. The property offers both private rooms and shared dormitory style rooms. The private rooms feature a queen bed, private bathroom, and in some cases a private balcony. If you’re looking for the community feel of a hostel but want the privacy of your own room, Cactus Boutique is a great option. Lounge on the beach, enjoy the sun terrace, or explore the garden during your stay.

Near Sairee Beach

Blue Heaven

This hotel is all about the views. With simple but comfortable rooms, the views are what make this budget friendly hotel incredible. Guests also love the breakfast offered every morning. There are multiple bungalow options featuring sea views and balconies. There is also a terrace, bar, and free WiFi. The property is located about 1 mile from Shark Bay, 1.3 miles from Mae Haad Pier, and 3 miles from Mango Bay.

Located near Ao Leuk

Read Also: Best Guide To Visiting Nang Yuan Island in Thailand

Mid-Range Stays in Koh Tao

Tanote Villa

Located in the beautiful Tanote Bay, Tanote Villa is a great place to stay if you’re looking to feel secluded with incredible views. Though the hotel is located away from the main beaches, it’s only a 10 minute drive to Sairee Beach. This is a good option for anyone who will have a scooter available to them while on Koh Tao. Rooms come with garden or sea views, and some even boast a private pool. While staying at Tanote Villa, take a dip in the pool, or take the 15 minute walk down to Tanote Bay to swim in the sea.

In Tanote Bay

If you’re looking for a hotel in Koh Tao that won’t break the budget but has some extra amenities, there are lots of options. Below, I’ve listed some highly recommended mid-range hotel options in Koh Tao.

Mae Ya Resort

Comfortable rooms with sea views and private plunge pools make Mae Ya Resort an incredible spot to stay for couples looking for privacy. The resort is located in the hills above Ao Leuk, but is only a 10 minute drive from Sairee Beach. Guests enjoy an infinity swimming pool and terrace in each room. The resort is located near popular spots such as Shark Island and Chalok Viewpoint.

On the East side of the island

Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort

If you’re looking for a Koh Tao resort that is one with the sea and it’s surrounding nature, Koh Tao Relax Freedom Beach Resort is the one. Built right on the water in Shark Bay, this resort offers amazing proximity to the sea. Rooms are comfortable and simple, with wooden furnishings and private bathrooms in each. Some rooms feature a private pool, while others are built hillside with balconies overlooking the water. The resort offers direct access to the water and a private beach area.

Located in Shark Bay

Taatoh Seaview Resort

This family run resort overlooks Thiang Og Bay and offers seaside bungalows. The bungalows offer air conditioning, private bathrooms, incredible sea views, and private balcony or patio. Another highlight of Taatoh Resort is their restaurant that serves authentic Thai cuisine and fresh seafood dishes. Because the property is beachfront, there is a private beach area and easy access to the sea. Spend time exploring the water by snorkeling, or relax in your seaside bungalow and enjoy the views.

Located near Shark Bay

The Tarna Align Resort *

I stayed at the Tarna Align Resort while in Koh Tao and highly recommend it for both mid-range and luxury budgets depending on the room. The resort offers beautiful hillside villas (where we stayed), sea view villas, pool access rooms, and honeymoon suites. A diving resort, Tarna Align also offers diving lessons. Guests can take advantage of massage treatments at an additional cost. There are multiple pools to enjoy, hillside views of the island and the sea, and restaurant. The concierge service offers complimentary shuttle service on the island, and guests and their luggage are taken to their rooms by a golf cart valet.

Located near Sairee Beach

*I have personally stayed at this resort and highly recommend it!

Read Also: The Best Two Week Thailand Itinerary: Islands and Mountains

Luxury Stays in Koh Tao

View Point Resort

You’ll find a truly luxury experience at View Point Resort, with breathtaking villas. Each villa features a private balcony, private pool, and room service. Guests can also swim in the shared infinity pool overlooking the sea, book experiences in the spa, and enjoy direct beachfront access. There is also a highly rated restaurant inside the resort that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This resort is a great option for both couples and families, as both 2 person and 4 person villas are available.

Located near Chalok Bay (south)

Koh Tao Heights Boutique Villas

Each villa at Koh Tao Heights Boutique Villas features stylish and modern design with incredible views. All of the villas have a private kitchen, living area, flat screen TV, and private infinity pool. You’re located just a 2 minute drive or 10 minute walk from Sairee Beach, but are nestled in a tropical jungle with views of the bay. Air conditioning and free WiFi are standard in each villa, as well. Staying here is a bit more of a self-service stay with kitchens included.

Located North of Sairee Beach

Cape Shark Villas *

If you’re looking for a private, luxury stay while on Koh Tao, Cape Shark Villas is my favorite option. There are many different villa choices, with both 2 and 4 person villas available. Most villas feature a private pool with incredible views of the sea. This is a self service option, though breakfast is available at an additional cost if desired. Activities like snorkeling are available, and there is a tour desk as well.

Located above Shark Bay

I stayed at Cape Shark Villas while in Koh Tao and highly recommend it for a luxury stay!

Hostels In in Koh Tao

Savage Hostel

This hostel offers both private rooms and dormitory rooms for travelers on any budget. Guests can enjoy the poll and bar overlooking views of the ocean and the island, sit in the outdoor lounge, and pool table. Just steps from the famous Sairee Beach, Savage Hostel is in a fantastic location and makes getting around the island easy. Located nearby is Bluewater Cafe and Bar for breakfast or lunch. The hostel is also within walking distance of many restaurants and bars. Savage restaurant is located on site and offers Thai and international cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Located near Sairee Beach

Closca Hostel Koh Tao

A wonderfully reviewed hostel located in Moo 3 within walking distance of lots of restaurants and nightlife. There are options for both private rooms or dormitory rooms for travelers of every budget. Breakfast is included, and guests can enjoy a terrace, bar, and free WiFi. There is also an outdoor lounge perfect for hanging out with fellow travelers. Chalok Baan Kao beach is less than 0.6 miles away and the Chalok viewpoint is just a 10 minute walk.

Located in Moo 3

Don’t forget to pin this blog post to come back to later as you plan your trip to Koh Tao! 📌