We Rank The 13 Best Tours In Ko Tao

Ko Tao is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, lively reefs, and some of the best snorkeling in Thailand. It’s a place where underwater adventures meet scenic viewpoints, and a variety of tours ensure everyone can find something memorable. Personally, I love the Koh Tao: Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch for its comprehensive exploration of the island’s top snorkeling spots, and the Premium Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan Bays for a more exclusive, relaxed experience. These tours showcase the vibrant marine life and allow you to walk on iconic beaches that are picture-perfect. Whether you’re into snorkeling, scenic viewpoints, or private boat trips, Ko Tao offers options that suit adventurous travelers and those seeking serenity alike. Check out some of the top experiences below.

Quick Overview

Ko Tao’s tour options cover a broad spectrum, from full-day snorkeling excursions to private longtail boat charters. Many tours focus on discovering the island’s best marine spots, like Shark Bay or Mango Bay, with some including lunch onboard, such as the Koh Tao: Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch. Others emphasize customized private experiences that let you explore at your own pace, like the Private Longtail Snorkel Tour with Nang Yuan Visit. For those who prefer a more romantic vibe, the Snorkeling and Sunset Tour offers a peaceful way to end the day. Budget-conscious travelers will find great value in the smaller group snorkeling trips, while luxury seekers may prefer the exclusive, intimate tours with premium amenities.

1. Koh Tao: Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch

At number 1, this popular 7-hour full-day snorkeling trip takes you to five of Koh Tao’s top spots, including Mango Bay, Shark Bay, and the Japanese Reef Garden. The tour stands out for its well-rounded itinerary, which combines snorkeling, hiking to the Nang Yuan viewpoint, and a tasty Thai-style lunch onboard. The company boasts a consistent 4.7/5 rating from over 2,400 reviews, with travelers praising the diverse marine life—from baby sharks and rays to turtles—and the friendly guides who take great underwater photos. The trip is suitable for snorkelers of all skill levels and offers excellent value at just $26 per person. Be prepared for a day packed with scenic views, underwater wonders, and relaxing beach time. Bottom line: perfect for a full-day adventure that covers highlights without feeling rushed.

2. Koh Tao: Koh Nangyuan & Hidden Bays Snorkeling Tour w/ Lunch

Coming in at number 2, this 7-hour tour is designed for those wanting a more intimate look at Koh Tao’s underwater world. The focus is on exploring Koh Nang Yuan, with its famous sandbar, plus other pristine spots like Mango Bay and Aow Leuk. Priced at only $21, it offers great value, and with a rating of 4.6 based on 437 reviews, it’s a dependable choice. You’ll snorkel in crystal-clear, shallow waters, ideal for both beginners and experienced swimmers, and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch with fresh seasonal fruits. The guides are knowledgeable, ensuring you see marine turtles, reef sharks, and vibrant fish, with many reviewers noting the abundant marine life and smooth organization. This trip suits travelers keen on quality snorkeling and scenic landscapes without the crowds.

3. Snorkeling Tour with meals and BBQs – Cocktail – Sunset

Number 3 on our list offers a more relaxed, party-like vibe. Limited to 20 guests, this tour combines snorkeling, BBQs, and cocktails in a private setting. The tour’s main draw is its sunset experience, where you can float in the water while the sun dips behind Koh Tao. It’s perfect for couples or small groups looking for an upscale, intimate experience. The focus is less on quantity and more on enjoying delicious food, drinks, and good company. With a 5/5 rating from 105 reviews, the tour is praised for its friendly atmosphere and beautiful views. The exclusivity and relaxed pace make this ideal for travelers seeking luxury and privacy.

4. Koh Tao: Private Longtail Snorkel Tour with Nang Yuan Visit

Number 4 takes the prize for flexibility and privacy. You’ll enjoy a 5-6 hour private boat ride with your own captain, visiting top spots like Nang Yuan, Ao Hin Wong, Mango Bay, and Shark Bay. The tour is tailored to your interests, making it great for families, couples, or small groups wanting a customized experience. During your trip, you can hike to the Nang Yuan viewpoint, snorkel in beautiful corals, or simply relax on secluded beaches. The reviews highlight the personalized service and peaceful atmosphere, making it a worthwhile splurge. Key highlights include snorkeling in clear waters and visiting Nang Yuan’s iconic beaches. Bottom line: a highly adaptable tour ideal for those wanting an intimate, flexible outing.

5. Koh Tao: Premium Snorkel Tour to Koh Nangyuan Bays by Oxygen

Position 5 on our list offers a premium experience with small group sizes (max 25), ensuring a more personalized touch. Over 6 hours, you’ll visit four major snorkeling sites, including the famous Koh Nang Yuan, and explore peaceful bays and coral reefs. The tour includes delicious vegan or chicken sandwiches and panna cotta, providing a satisfying meal after your underwater adventures. Reviewers note the exceptional organization and the opportunity to see turtles, blacktip sharks, and abundant marine life. This tour is perfect for travelers looking for quality over quantity, with a focus on comfort and exclusivity. The cost reflects this, but most agree it’s well worth the price for a truly special day.

6. Ko Tao: Late Riser Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Photos

Number 6 is ideal if you prefer a later start. This 6-hour tour features five top snorkeling spots like Mango Bay and Shark Bay, with a Thai buffet lunch onboard. The tour includes a hike to Nang Yuan’s viewpoint for panoramic views. Reviewers highlight the generous time at each snorkeling location and the delicious food served. It’s especially good for those who want to sleep in or avoid early mornings. The tour appeals to moderate budget travelers and offers excellent value, given the number of sites visited and the included lunch. Bottom line: a flexible, comfortable way to see Koh Tao’s highlights at a relaxed pace.

7. Koh Tao: Snorkeling and Sunset Tour

Position 7 offers an intimate experience with a small group of ten. The main attraction is the sunset snorkeling where you can see blacktip reef sharks and turtles while floating in warm waters. Perfect for those longing for a romantic or peaceful end to their day, this tour is highly rated at 4.9/5. The focus is on quality time in the water with minimal crowds, ideal for travelers who want a calmer, more personal experience.

8. Koh Tao: First Light Snorkel Adventure with Oxygen Tours

Number 8 is all about beating the crowds. This early-morning tour explores vibrant coral reefs at Tao Thong and Freedom Bay. The freshness of the morning waters makes the marine life more active, and you get first dibs on the best spots. It includes snorkeling at Shark Bay, known for its blacktip sharks, and a delicious onboard Thai lunch. Reviewers mention the exclusive feeling and seeing plenty of turtles and sharks, making it a favorite for early risers and serious snorkelers. This is best suited for adventurers willing to wake up early for a less crowded, more vibrant experience.

9. Koh Samui: Dive Tour to Sail Rock

Number 9 takes a step beyond snorkeling into scuba diving. This 7-hour guided dive departs from Koh Samui and explores the famous Sail Rock, known as the “tuna tower” for its abundant marine life, including the chance to see a whale shark. It’s suitable for certified divers looking to explore at their own pace with a professional instructor. The reviews suggest a calm, safe experience with lots of marine encounters. If you’re after diving rather than snorkeling, this trip offers a chance to see Koh Tao’s underwater beauty from a different perspective.

10. Private Car Tour of Koh Tao 8 Viewpoints & Beaches

This 5-hour private tour is perfect for those who prefer a flexible schedule. You’ll visit eight viewpoints and four beaches, including Love Koh Tao and John-Suwan viewpoints, with plenty of time for snorkeling at beaches like Sai Nuan. The focus here is on scenic drives, photo opportunities, and relaxing swims. Travel reviews mention the gorgeous vistas and delicious Thai lunch by the sea. It’s ideal for families or small groups looking for a tailored day with less walking and more comfort.

11. Koh Pha Ngan: Koh Tao and Nangyuan Snorkel tour with Lunch

Number 11 offers a long, 10-hour trip from Koh Pha Ngan, perfect for those based on nearby islands wanting a full day of snorkeling. You’ll visit Koh Tao and Nangyuan, choosing between a luxurious catamaran or high-speed speedboat. The tour includes snorkeling at several sites and a lunch onboard, with many reviews emphasizing the quality of marine encounters and the scenic boat ride. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a comprehensive day covering multiple islands.

12. Koh Samui: Dive Tour to Koh Tao

This 7-hour dive trip from Koh Samui is perfect for certified divers eager to explore Koh Tao’s famous coral gardens and underwater pinnacles. Reviews are limited but highlight the professional guidance and possible sightings of marine life like whale sharks. It’s suited for divers with certification who want to maximize their underwater time and experience Koh Tao’s marine diversity from a different angle.

13. From Koh Tao: Sightseeing Tour with Snorkel by Private Car

Finally, number 13 is a customizable 8-hour private sightseeing and snorkeling tour. It includes popular viewpoints, beaches, and snorkeling spots like Shark Bay and Love Koh Tao. The reviews point out the personalized service and flexibility but note that the rating is lower (3.4/5), possibly due to varying experiences. It’s best for travelers who want to design their own day and enjoy a more relaxed, private experience.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Ko Tao

Choosing between these tours depends on your budget, interests, and physical readiness. If you want a comprehensive and affordable snorkeling experience, go for the Koh Tao: Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch. For a more private and tailored adventure, the Private Longtail Snorkel Tour is a good pick. If you’re after romantic sunset moments, try the Snorkeling and Sunset Tour. Budget travelers can consider the Late Riser Snorkeling Tour, while divers should look at the Koh Samui dive trips or the Sail Rock Dive.

In general, booking early is wise, especially during peak season, and check reviews to ensure the tour fits your expectations. Many tours include hotel transfers, so consider your logistics when choosing.

Final Thoughts

Ko Tao offers a broad array of tours that cater to snorkelers, divers, families, and couples seeking either adventure or relaxation. Options like the Koh Tao: Islands Snorkeling Highlights Day Tour & Lunch give you a comprehensive taste of the island’s marine life, while private tours like Nang Yuan & Longtail Snorkel offer personalized freedom. For those wanting a romantic finish, the Sunset Snorkeling is hard to beat.

No matter which you choose, booking early and choosing a tour aligned with your interests will ensure a smooth, memorable experience on this beautiful Thai island.