Koh Tao: Diving Paradise & PADI Certification (2026 Guide)

Koh Tao (Turtle Island) is Thailand's diving mecca and the cheapest place in the world to get your PADI Open Water certification. This tiny 21-square-kilometer island in the Gulf of Thailand punches way above its weight when it comes to underwater adventures. Crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and over 25 dive sites make Koh Tao a must-visit for anyone serious about exploring Thailand's underwater world.

Whether you're a complete diving beginner looking to get certified, an experienced diver chasing whale sharks, or someone who just wants to snorkel in tropical paradise, Koh Tao delivers. The island has a laid-back backpacker vibe, incredible sunset views, and a social scene built around diving culture. You'll meet instructors from around the world, swap dive stories over beers, and probably get more certifications than you planned.

This guide covers everything from choosing a dive school to planning your non-diving days, because even on a diving island, there's more to life than being underwater (though not much more).

![koh-tao-diving.jpg]

Quick Facts

Daily Budget: $25-40 USD (budget, including accommodation and meals), $50-70 USD (mid-range)

Best For: Scuba diving, PADI certification courses, snorkeling, beach hopping, sunset views, meeting other divers and travelers

Time Needed: 4-7 days minimum (3-4 days for Open Water course + relaxation/fun dives)

Vibe: Laid-back diving community, international backpacker scene, beach bars, early-to-bed culture (diving starts early), social but chill

How to Get There:

• By Ferry from Koh Phangan: 30-45 min, 350-600 THB ($10-17)
• By Ferry from Koh Samui: 1.5-2 hours, 450-750 THB ($13-21)
• By Ferry from Chumphon (mainland): 1.5-2 hours, 600-800 THB ($17-23)
• By Ferry from Bangkok/Hua Hin: Combined bus + ferry packages available (10-12 hours)

Best Ferry Booking: Use 12Go Asia to compare schedules and prices across all operators (Lomprayah, Seatran Discovery, Songserm)

Why Go to Koh Tao? (A Diver's Perspective)

The Real Deal

Koh Tao is THE place to learn to dive. Here's why backpackers and adventure seekers flock here:

Cheapest PADI Certification on Earth: An Open Water certification costs 9,000-11,000 THB ($250-310 USD) including equipment, instruction, certification fee, and 4 open water dives. Compare that to $500-800 USD in the USA or Europe. Koh Tao's diving economy runs on volume—dive schools compete fiercely for students, which keeps prices low and quality high.

World-Class Dive Sites: Despite being a small island, Koh Tao has 25+ dive sites ranging from shallow coral gardens perfect for beginners to advanced sites like Chumphon Pinnacle where you might spot whale sharks. Visibility averages 15-25 meters, water temperatures stay around 27-29°C (81-84°F) year-round, and the variety of marine life is impressive.

Diving Culture: This island runs on diving. Nearly every accommodation offers dive course packages, every restaurant has divers swapping stories, and the social calendar revolves around dive schedules. It's the perfect environment to learn because everyone around you is either a diver or becoming one.

Perfect for Beginners: Calm, clear waters with minimal currents make Koh Tao ideal for nervous first-time divers. The instructors here have taught thousands of students and know how to make newbies comfortable underwater. Plus, your first open water dives happen right off the beach at depths of 5-12 meters—way less intimidating than boat dives.

Social Scene: Dive schools organize nightly social events (beach BBQs, fire shows, pub crawls), so you'll instantly have a crew. The island attracts a mix of backpackers, gap year travelers, and career-break adventurers. It's easy to make friends when you're all learning to dive together.

More Than Just Diving: On non-diving days, you've got beaches, snorkeling, hiking to viewpoints, rock climbing, yoga classes, and sunset bars. It's chill without being boring.

The Community

Koh Tao's community is built around diving. The major dive schools (Buddha View, Bans, Crystal, Big Blue) each have their own vibe and loyal followings. Instructors tend to be long-term residents from around the world (UK, Germany, Scandinavia, Australia, New Zealand). The backpacker-to-dive-instructor pipeline is real—many people come for a 4-day course and end up staying months or years, working their way up to Divemaster and Instructor certifications.

Sairee Beach is the social hub with hostels, dive shops, and beach bars. Mae Haad (the pier area) is where ferries arrive and has more local Thai vibes. Chalok Baan Kao in the south is quieter and attracts divers looking for a more relaxed scene.

PADI Open Water Certification: Everything You Need to Know

What is PADI Open Water?

PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Open Water Diver is the entry-level scuba certification recognized worldwide. Once certified, you can dive up to 18 meters (60 feet) depth anywhere in the world without an instructor (though you should always dive with a buddy).

Course Breakdown

Duration: 3-4 days (most schools offer 3-day intensive or 4-day relaxed pace)

Cost: 9,000-11,000 THB ($250-310 USD)

What's Included:

• PADI course materials (manual, dive tables, log book)
• All equipment rental (BCD, regulator, wetsuit, fins, mask, weights, tank)
• Instructor fees
• 4 open water dives
• PADI certification card processing fee
• Some schools include accommodation or offer discounts

What's NOT Included:

• Dive computer rental (optional, 500-1,000 THB for course)
• Underwater photos/videos (usually 500-1,500 THB)
• National Park fees (if diving at certain sites)

Day-by-Day Schedule

Day 1: Theory & Pool (Confined Water)

• Morning: Classroom session or e-learning modules (if pre-completed online)
• Topics: Dive physics, equipment, safety procedures, hand signals, dive planning
• Afternoon: Pool session (or shallow beach area) practicing skills—clearing mask, regulator recovery, buoyancy control, emergency procedures
• Hours: 6-8 hours total

Day 2: Open Water Dives 1 & 2

• Morning: Boat or shore dive to shallow site (5-12 meters)
• Dive 1: Practice skills underwater—mask clearing, buoyancy, controlled ascent
• Dive 2: More skills practice, underwater navigation, compass navigation
• Between dives: Surface interval, snacks, log book entries
• Afternoon: Back to shore, study for quiz
• Hours: 5-7 hours (includes boat time)

Day 3: Open Water Dives 3 & 4

• Morning: Boat dive to slightly deeper site (10-18 meters)
• Dive 3: Final skills check, controlled emergency swimming ascent (CESA)
• Dive 4: "Fun dive" applying all skills, exploring reef, spotting marine life
• Afternoon: Final exam (multiple choice, easy if you paid attention), celebration, certification card issued
• Hours: 5-7 hours

Day 4 (Optional Relaxed Pace): Some schools split Days 2-3 into 3 days for a more relaxed experience with only 1-2 dives per day.

Choosing a Dive School

Koh Tao has 50+ dive schools. Most are PADI 5-star rated and reputable, but some stand out:

Top Dive Schools for Open Water:

Buddha View Dive Resort (9,500 THB)

• Vibe: Chill, hippy-ish, eco-conscious
• Location: Sairee Beach
• Pros: Great instructors, small class sizes (max 4 students per instructor), beach bar and pool, social events
• Accommodation package: Dorm bed included for course duration

Bans Diving Resort (9,900 THB)

• Vibe: Professional, well-organized, international crowd
• Location: Sairee Beach (northern end)
• Pros: Excellent safety record, experienced instructors, good boats, on-site pool
• Accommodation package: Available (dorm or bungalow upgrades)

Crystal Dive (10,500 THB)

• Vibe: Large, professional operation (biggest school on island)
• Location: Multiple locations (Sairee, Mae Haad)
• Pros: Huge range of courses, tech diving specialists, well-maintained equipment, pool on-site
• Cons: Can feel less personal due to size
• Accommodation package: Resort-style accommodation available

Big Blue Diving (10,800 THB)

• Vibe: Backpacker favorite, party-friendly, social
• Location: Sairee Beach and Chalok Baan Kao
• Pros: Nightly social events, young international instructors, fun atmosphere
• Accommodation package: Included
• Note: More party-focused, great if you want social scene

Scuba Junction (9,000 THB)

• Vibe: Boutique, personalized, smaller operation
• Location: Chalok Baan Kao (quieter bay)
• Pros: Low student-to-instructor ratio, less crowded dive sites, quieter vibe
• Good for: Introverts, people wanting more personalized attention

What to Look for in a Dive School

1. Instructor-to-student ratio: Max 4 students per instructor is ideal (some schools do 6-8, less personal)
2. Equipment quality: Check if gear looks well-maintained (worn out BCDs or regulators = red flag)
3. Boat quality: Bigger, more stable boats = less seasickness
4. Accommodation packages: Many schools include dorm beds or offer steep discounts
5. Vibe: Visit 2-3 schools, talk to instructors, see which feels right
6. Social calendar: If you want to meet people, pick schools with organized events
7. Reviews: Check Google/TripAdvisor for recent reviews

Pro tip: Walk around Sairee Beach on your first afternoon, visit 3-4 dive shops, ask questions, and trust your gut. Most schools are good—it's more about finding the right vibe.

Best Dive Sites Around Koh Tao

Even if you're not getting certified, Koh Tao offers incredible diving. Here are the highlights:

For All Levels

White Rock

• Depth: 5-16 meters
• Perfect for: Beginners, Open Water training dives
• What you'll see: Colorful coral gardens, schools of snappers, butterfly fish, occasional blue-spotted stingrays
• Location: 10 min boat ride from Sairee

Japanese Gardens

• Depth: 5-14 meters
• Perfect for: Beginners, snorkeling
• What you'll see: Vibrant hard corals, sea anemones with clownfish (Nemo!), triggerfish, pufferfish
• Location: Near Koh Nang Yuan (15 min boat)

Shark Island

• Depth: 5-20 meters
• Perfect for: Beginners to intermediate
• What you'll see: Blacktip reef sharks (harmless, amazing to see), turtles, barracudas, giant groupers
• Location: Southwest of Koh Tao (20 min boat)
• Note: Can have currents, check with instructor

For Intermediate to Advanced

Chumphon Pinnacle

• Depth: 14-36 meters
• Perfect for: Advanced Open Water, experienced divers
• What you'll see: Whale sharks (Feb-Oct, not guaranteed but possible), bull sharks, barracuda schools, giant trevally, batfish
• Location: 13 km west of Koh Tao (40-50 min boat)
• Note: This is THE bucket list dive site in the Gulf of Thailand. Currents can be strong. Usually 2-tank morning dive trip.

Sail Rock

• Depth: 5-40+ meters
• Perfect for: Advanced, experienced divers
• What you'll see: Whale sharks (seasonal), bull sharks, chevron barracuda schools, vertical chimney swim-through
• Location: Between Koh Phangan and Koh Tao (1 hour boat)
• Note: Koh Tao's most famous site. Can only dive on calm weather days. Book dedicated Sail Rock day trip (around 3,500 THB, 3 dives).

Southwest Pinnacle

• Depth: 16-33 meters
• Perfect for: Advanced Open Water+
• What you'll see: Whale sharks (seasonal), schools of giant trevally, barracudas, groupers, sometimes manta rays
• Location: Southwest of Koh Tao (30 min boat)
• Note: Another advanced site with potential for big fish sightings

Marine Life You'll See

Common: Clownfish, lionfish, pufferfish, butterflyfish, angelfish, parrotfish, moray eels, blue-spotted stingrays, blacktip reef sharks, sea turtles (green and hawksbill)

If You're Lucky: Whale sharks (Feb-Oct, especially April-June), bull sharks, manta rays (rare), barracuda schools, octopus, seahorses

Not Dangerous: Despite the name "Shark Island," the sharks you'll see (blacktips, occasionally bulls) are not interested in divers. More likely to swim away than approach.

Snorkeling in Koh Tao

If you're not diving, Koh Tao still offers incredible snorkeling:

Best Snorkeling Spots

Koh Nang Yuan

• Location: Small island 10 min boat ride from Sairee (or 20 min kayak)
• Cost: 100 THB entry fee (National Park)
• What you'll see: Coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, clear water, iconic viewpoint
• How to get there: Day trip boat from Mae Haad pier (300-500 THB return), or kayak rental
• Pro tip: Go early morning before day trippers from Koh Samui arrive

Mango Bay

• Location: North side of island, accessible by longtail boat or kayak
• What you'll see: Shallow coral reef (2-5 meters), lots of fish, good for beginners
• Cost: Longtail boat hire 600-1,000 THB (split with group) or kayak

Hin Wong Bay

• Location: East coast (remote side)
• What you'll see: Boulder formations, small caves, macro life, fewer crowds
• How to get there: Scooter taxi or rent scooter and hike down

Shark Bay

• Location: North coast (near Chalok Baan Kao)
• What you'll see: Blacktip reef sharks (especially early morning), shallow reef, lots of fish
• How to get there: 20-30 min hike from Sairee or scooter
• Pro tip: Go at sunrise for best shark sightings

Aow Leuk Bay

• Location: South coast
• What you'll see: Coral garden, sea turtles, clear water
• How to get there: Scooter or longtail boat

Snorkeling Day Trips

Many operators offer half-day or full-day snorkeling trips hitting 3-4 spots:

• Cost: 600-1,000 THB ($17-28) including boat, guide, snorkel gear, lunch
• Duration: 9am-3pm typically
• Stops: Usually Koh Nang Yuan + 2-3 other sites
• Book: Through your hostel or any dive shop on Sairee

Beaches in Koh Tao

Sairee Beach

The main beach and social hub. 2 km of golden sand with beach bars, restaurants, dive shops, and massage huts lining the shore.

Best for: Sunset, swimming, socializing, people-watching Vibe: Busy but not overcrowded, mix of backpackers and dive instructors Swimming: Safe, shallow entry, calm most of the year Sunset: Phenomenal—grab a beer at Fishbowl Beach Bar or Lotus Bar

Chalok Baan Kao

Quieter bay on the south side with a more laid-back, residential feel.

Best for: Relaxation, swimming, snorkeling (right off beach) Vibe: Chill, fewer tourists, more long-term residents Accommodation: More bungalow resorts, less hostels

Freedom Beach

Small, secluded beach on the south coast. Feels remote and private.

Best for: Escaping crowds, reading a book, swimming How to get there: Longtail boat taxi from Chalok or Sairee (150-200 THB return), or hike 20 min from road Facilities: One small restaurant/bar

Tanote Bay

East coast bay with dramatic rock formations and good snorkeling.

Best for: Snorkeling, cliff jumping (small cliffs, popular with locals) Vibe: Laid-back, small bay, fewer people How to get there: Scooter (15 min from Sairee) or taxi

Koh Nang Yuan

Technically a separate island but the most iconic spot near Koh Tao. Three small islands connected by a sandbar, with a famous viewpoint.

Best for: Photos, snorkeling, day trip Cost: 100 THB entry fee + boat (300-500 THB return from Mae Haad) Rules: No plastic bottles allowed (bring reusable), no drones Pro tip: Stay overnight at Nangyuan Island Resort if you want the islands to yourself after day trippers leave

Non-Diving Activities

John-Suwan Viewpoint

The most famous viewpoint on the island—sweeping views of three bays from a high rock platform.

How to get there: 30 min hike from Chalok Baan Kao (signposted) or scooter + 10 min walk Cost: Free Best time: Sunset (arrive 5pm, stay till 6:30pm) Difficulty: Moderate—steep stairs at the end, wear proper shoes Pro tip: Bring water, bug spray, and arrive early for best photo spot

Mango Viewpoint

Higher and more challenging than John-Suwan but fewer crowds.

How to get there: Scooter to trailhead + 20 min uphill hike Cost: 50 THB (unofficial "donation" at checkpoint) Best time: Late afternoon for golden hour Difficulty: Moderate to hard—slippery in rain, bring proper footwear

Scooter Exploration

Rent a scooter (200-250 THB/day) and explore hidden beaches, viewpoints, and remote bays.

Routes:

• Sairee → Tanote Bay → Hin Wong Bay (east coast loop)
• Sairee → Chalok → Freedom Beach → John-Suwan Viewpoint (south loop)
• Mae Haad → Koh Nang Yuan viewpoint access point (north)

Warning: Roads are steep and poorly maintained. Drive slow, wear a helmet, have travel insurance. Accidents happen frequently. If you're not confident riding scooters, take taxis (50-100 THB per trip).

Rock Climbing

Koh Tao has deep water soloing (climbing above water, fall = splash) and traditional climbing routes.

Where: Tanote Bay, Freedom Beach Cost: Half-day course 1,500-2,000 THB including equipment and instructor Book: Through Goodtime Adventures

Yoga Classes

Several yoga studios and beach yoga classes cater to the wellness crowd.

Popular studios: Jamahkiri Spa & Resort (Mae Haad), Yoga retreat centers in Chalok Drop-in class: 300-500 THB Weekly pass: 1,500-2,500 THB

Muay Thai Training

Learn traditional Thai boxing at one of the island's gyms.

Popular gyms: Monsoon Gym, Suwit Muay Thai, Island Muay Thai Drop-in class: 300-400 THB Weekly package: 2,000-3,500 THB Best for: Getting a workout, learning basics, cultural experience

Where to Stay in Koh Tao

Sairee Beach (Best for Social Scene)

The Place Luxury Boutique Villas ($15-20/night dorm, $40+ private)

• Boutique hostel vibe, rooftop pool, beach access
• Social but not party hostel
• 2 min walk to beach

Spicytao Backpackers ($10-15/night dorm)

• Social hostel, organized activities
• Short walk to Sairee Beach
• Pool, bar, common areas

Sairee Hut Resort ($12-18/night dorm, $30-50 private bungalow)

• Beachfront location on Sairee
• Mix of dorms and bungalows
• Restaurant, dive shop on-site

Chalok Baan Kao (Best for Quiet Vibe)

Koh Tao Bamboo Huts ($15-25/night bungalow)

• Rustic bamboo bungalows
• Quiet beach, great snorkeling
• 5 min walk to restaurants

Blue Wind Resort ($20-35/night bungalow)

• Mid-range resort feel
• Hillside bungalows, sea view
• Pool, restaurant

Mae Haad (Best for Convenience)

Seashell Resort ($18-30/night)

• Central location near pier
• Good for early ferry departures
• Budget-friendly rooms

Dive Resort Packages

Most dive schools offer accommodation packages:

• Dorm bed + Open Water course: Usually 9,500-11,000 THB total
• Private room + course: Add 2,000-4,000 THB
• Benefits: Free stay during course, social scene with other students, dive shop on-site

Recommended: Buddha View, Bans, Big Blue, Crystal all have good accommodation packages

Where to Eat in Koh Tao

Budget Eats

7-Eleven & Family Mart: Scattered around island, great for breakfast (instant noodles 20 THB, sandwiches 35-50 THB), snacks, water

Street Food at Mae Haad Night Market: Small night market near pier (6pm-10pm) with Thai street food stalls—pad thai 60-80 THB, grilled skewers 20-40 THB, fresh fruit shakes 40 THB

Local Thai Restaurants (Sairee Beach Road): Simple Thai food, rice + curry 60-100 THB, som tam 50 THB, pad krapow 70 THB

Pranees Kitchen (Sairee): Famous for huge portions, cheap prices—pad thai 80 THB, fried rice 70 THB, curries 90-120 THB

Mid-Range

Barracuda Restaurant (Sairee): Western + Thai menu, burgers 200-280 THB, pasta 180-240 THB, great for post-dive meals

Farango Pizzeria (Sairee): Wood-fired pizzas 250-350 THB, pasta 180-260 THB, Italian-owned

The Gallery Restaurant (near Mae Haad): Upscale Thai fusion, beautiful presentation, 200-400 THB per dish

Zest Coffee Lounge (Sairee): Breakfast spot, smoothie bowls 150-200 THB, avocado toast 180 THB, excellent coffee

Beach Bars & Sunset Spots

Lotus Bar (Sairee Beach): Legendary sunset spot, fire shows (Mon/Wed/Fri), cheap Chang beer 80-100 THB, cocktails 150-200 THB

Fishbowl Beach Bar (Sairee): Beachfront bar with tables in the sand, buckets 250-350 THB, popular with divers

Castle Party (Mae Haad): Weekly beach party (Sundays), live DJ, fire show, crowded scene

Getting Around Koh Tao

Scooter Rental

Cost: 200-250 THB/day (24 hours), weekly rates 1,200-1,500 THB Where to rent: Every shop offers scooter rentals, some hostels/hotels too License: Technically need international driving permit (IDP), rarely checked but police do random stops Safety: Roads are steep, narrow, poorly maintained. Accidents are common. Wear helmet (legally required, 500 THB fine), drive slow, avoid riding drunk. Insurance: Most travel insurance won't cover scooter accidents without proper license

Taxi/Songthaew (Shared Pickup Trucks)

Cost: 50-150 THB per trip depending on distance

• Sairee ↔ Mae Haad: 50 THB
• Sairee ↔ Chalok: 100 THB
• Mae Haad ↔ Chalok: 100 THB How it works: Flag down on main roads, tell driver destination, pay at end (fixed prices)

Walking

Sairee Beach to Mae Haad is 15-20 min walk along main road (sidewalk). Mae Haad to Chalok is 25-30 min. Doable but hot during daytime.

Longtail Boats

For remote beaches (Freedom Beach, Koh Nang Yuan, Hin Wong), hire longtail boats from Mae Haad or Sairee piers.

Cost: 150-300 THB per person for return trip (negotiate, prices vary), or hire whole boat for 1,000-1,500 THB (split with group)

Budget Breakdown

| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | |----------|---------|-----------| | Accommodation | $10-15 (dorm) | $25-40 (private bungalow) | | Food | $8-12 (local Thai, street food) | $15-25 (mix of local + Western) | | Transport | $3-5 (taxis, walking) | $7-10 (scooter rental) | | Diving/Activities | $75-90 (Open Water course spread over 3-4 days) | $30-50/day (fun dives, snorkeling trips) | | Drinks/Nightlife | $5-10 (beer at beach bars) | $12-20 (cocktails, beach parties) | | TOTAL (excluding certification) | $25-40/day | $55-80/day |

Reality Check: If you're doing your Open Water course, factor in 9,000-11,000 THB ($250-310) for the course itself. Many people opt for dive school accommodation packages that include free dorms during the course, bringing daily costs down. After certification, fun dives cost 900-1,200 THB per dive ($25-34).

Safety & Practical Tips

Diving Safety

1. Never dive with a hangover: Dehydration + nitrogen absorption = increased DCS (decompression sickness) risk. Most dive schools have a "no drinking 12 hours before diving" rule.

2. Equalize early and often: If your ears hurt during descent, stop and equalize. Never force it. Tell your instructor immediately if you can't equalize.

3. Never hold your breath: Most important rule in diving. Always breathe normally. Holding breath during ascent can cause lung overexpansion injury.

4. Respect depth limits: Open Water certified = max 18m. Advanced = max 30m. Don't exceed your certification level.

5. Check your equipment: Before every dive, do buddy check (BWRAF: BCD, Weights, Releases, Air, Final OK).

6. Stay with your buddy: Never lose sight of your dive buddy underwater.

7. Watch your air: Start ascent with 50 bar minimum. Never run out of air underwater.

8. No flying after diving: Wait 18-24 hours after last dive before flying (pressure change risk). Plan accordingly if catching flights.

9. Trust your instructor: If they cancel a dive due to weather/conditions, trust their judgment. Safety over sunk cost fallacy.

10. Get dive insurance: DAN (Divers Alert Network) covers hyperbaric chamber treatment and evacuation. Around $50-100/year, essential for serious divers.

General Safety

Scooter Safety: Wear helmet, drive slow, avoid driving at night or after drinking. Hospital on Koh Tao is basic—serious injuries require evacuation to Koh Samui or mainland.

Rip Currents: Rare but possible at remote beaches. If caught, swim parallel to shore to escape current, then swim back.

Jellyfish: Box jellyfish can appear Aug-Oct. Check with locals before swimming. Vinegar available at beach bars for stings.

Sun Protection: SPF 50+, reapply every 2 hours. Reef-safe sunscreen preferred (avoid oxybenzone/octinoxate). Sun is brutal on boats.

Dehydration: Drink 3-4 liters water per day, especially when diving. Dehydration increases DCS risk.

Health

Diving Medical: Most dive schools require medical questionnaire. If you have asthma, ear problems, heart conditions, or certain medications, you may need doctor clearance before diving.

Travel Insurance: Get insurance that covers diving to 18m (or 30m if planning Advanced). SafetyWing and World Nomads offer diving coverage.

Hyperbaric Chamber: Nearest chamber is on Koh Samui (1.5 hour ferry). DAN insurance covers evacuation and chamber treatment.

Pharmacy: Several pharmacies in Mae Haad and Sairee for minor issues (stomach problems, cuts, allergies). Hospital on island is basic—serious cases evacuated.

Best Time to Visit

Best Weather: February-April (calm seas, 25+ meter visibility, warmest water, whale shark season peaks April-May)

Good Weather: November-January (slightly cooler, still great diving, busier period), May-June (hot, good visibility, whale sharks)

Avoid: October-early November (monsoon season, rough seas, some dive sites inaccessible, fewer courses running). September can be hit or miss.

Water Temperature: 27-29°C (81-84°F) year-round. Most people dive in 3mm shorty wetsuit or just rashguard.

Visibility: 15-25 meters average, can reach 30+ meters Feb-April at sites like Chumphon and Sail Rock

Sample 5-Day Itinerary (Including Open Water Course)

Day 1: Arrival & Dive School Setup

Morning:

• Arrive via ferry from Koh Phangan, Samui, or Chumphon
• Check into hostel (or dive school accommodation)

Afternoon:

• Walk Sairee Beach, visit 3-4 dive schools
• Choose dive school, sign up, pay deposit
• Receive course materials (manual, dive tables)
• Start e-learning modules or read manual

Evening:

• Sunset at Lotus Bar
• Dinner at Pranees Kitchen
• Early night (course starts 8am tomorrow)

Cost: ~$20-30 (accommodation, meals, drinks)

Day 2: Open Water Day 1 (Theory & Pool)

Morning:

• 8am: Theory session at dive school (2-3 hours)
• Learn dive physics, equipment, safety, buddy skills

Afternoon:

• Pool/confined water session (2-3 hours)
• Practice clearing mask, regulator recovery, buoyancy control
• Finish around 3-4pm

Evening:

• Study for knowledge review quizzes
• Dive school BBQ or social event (most schools organize)
• Bed by 10pm (diving tomorrow)

Cost: Included in course

Day 3: Open Water Day 2 (First Open Water Dives)

Morning:

• 7:30am: Boat departs for dive sites (White Rock or similar)
• Dive 1 (9am): Skills practice at 5-10m depth
• Surface interval: Snacks on boat, log dive

Midday:

• Dive 2 (11am): More skills, buoyancy practice, underwater navigation
• Return to shore around 12:30-1pm
• Lunch

Afternoon:

• Free time—relax at beach, nap, explore Sairee
• Study for exam

Evening:

• Sunset at Fishbowl Beach Bar
• Dinner, early night

Cost: Included in course + $10-15 meals

Day 4: Open Water Day 3 (Final Dives & Certification)

Morning:

• 7:30am: Boat departs
• Dive 3 (9am): Final skills check, CESA (controlled emergency swimming ascent)
• Surface interval

Midday:

• Dive 4 (11am): "Fun dive" exploring reef, spotting fish, enjoying being underwater
• Return to shore 12:30-1pm
• Lunch

Afternoon:

• 2pm: Final exam (50 questions, multiple choice, easy)
• Receive temporary certification card (real card mailed later)
• Celebration with dive school crew

Evening:

• Sunset at John-Suwan Viewpoint
• Celebratory dinner and drinks with new dive buddies
• Castle Party (if Sunday) or beach bar hopping

Cost: Included in course + $15-25 meals/drinks

Day 5: Explore & Snorkel

Morning:

• Sleep in (you've earned it)
• Rent scooter or join Koh Nang Yuan snorkeling trip (9am-3pm)
• Snorkel coral gardens, climb to viewpoint, swim in clear bays

Afternoon:

• Return to Sairee
• Chill at beach, massage (300 THB/hour)

Evening:

• Sunset drinks at Lotus Bar
• Farewell dinner
• Evening ferry to Koh Phangan (for Full Moon Party) or stay longer on Koh Tao

Cost: ~$30-40 (scooter/snorkel trip + meals)

Total 5 Days: ~$350-400 USD including Open Water course

After Certification: What's Next?

Advanced Open Water (AOWD)

Once you're certified Open Water, many people immediately do Advanced Open Water (2 days, 5 dives, 8,500-9,500 THB). This allows you to:

• Dive to 30 meters (opens up Chumphon Pinnacle, Sail Rock deeper sections)
• Learn deep diving, night diving, wreck diving, underwater navigation
• Improve buoyancy and skills

Most dive schools offer Open Water + Advanced combo packages (16,000-18,000 THB combined).

Specialties

• Nitrox (Enriched Air): 1 day theory course (3,500-4,500 THB)—allows longer dive times, less nitrogen buildup
• Night Diving: 2 night dives (3,000 THB)—see octopus, lobsters, bioluminescence
• Wreck Diving: 2 dives (3,500 THB)—explore HTMS Sattakut wreck off Koh Tao
• Underwater Photography: 2 dives + theory (4,500-6,000 THB)—learn camera settings, composition

Divemaster & Instructor Path

Koh Tao is famous for training Divemasters and Instructors. Many backpackers arrive for a 4-day Open Water and end up staying 3-6 months working their way up:

1. Rescue Diver (3 days, 9,500-11,000 THB)
2. Divemaster (4-6 weeks, 25,000-35,000 THB)—first professional level, can lead certified divers, assist instructors
3. Instructor (IDC) (2-3 weeks, 45,000-65,000 THB)—can teach Open Water courses

Work opportunities: Divemasters and instructors can work on Koh Tao (accommodation + food + small salary or commission per student). It's a popular lifestyle choice for long-term travelers.

Pro Tips from Divers

1. Book course in advance (high season): Dec-Feb is busy. Book online 1-2 weeks ahead or arrive early to secure spot with your preferred school.

2. E-learning before arrival: Complete PADI e-learning modules online before arriving ($200, saves 4-6 hours of classroom time). Many schools accept this.

3. Bring reef-safe sunscreen: Regular sunscreen kills coral. Brands like Stream2Sea are reef-safe.

4. Waterproof phone case: Around 200 THB at shops, great for snorkeling photos.

5. Pre-book ferry + accommodation together: Lomprayah and other ferry companies offer combined ferry + hostel packages (saves time booking separately).

6. Don't schedule anything the day after your last dive: If you want to fly or take a ferry to islands at very different elevations, wait 18-24 hours after last dive.

7. Log your dives immediately: Fill in dive log book right after each dive while you remember details (depth, time, what you saw). You'll need this for future courses.

8. Join dive school social events: Free BBQs, fire shows, pub crawls—this is where you meet your diving crew.

9. Haggle for package deals: If doing Open Water + Advanced + Nitrox, ask for combo discount (can save 2,000-5,000 THB).

10. Extend your stay: Most people wish they stayed longer. Koh Tao is addictive—beautiful dives, great community, cheap living. Leave flexibility in your schedule.

Tools to Help You Plan

Before booking your trip to Koh Tao, check out these planning guides:

• Thailand Budget Breakdown: Calculate exactly what you'll spend including PADI course
• Thailand Packing List: Get a customized packing list for diving, beach, and island life

Ready to Dive?

Koh Tao is waiting—crystal-clear water, incredible marine life, and the adventure of learning to breathe underwater. Book your ferry, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to fall in love with diving.

Next Reads:

• Koh Phangan Full Moon Party Guide - Where to go after Koh Tao for legendary beach parties
• Koh Samui Budget Guide - Plan your route through the Gulf islands
• Bangkok Backpacker Guide - Start your Thailand adventure in Bangkok before heading to islands

Book Your Trip:

• Ferries to Koh Tao on 12Go Asia
• Hostels in Koh Tao on Booking.com
• PADI Open Water e-Learning

---

Last Updated: February 2026. Prices and information checked February 2026. Diving prices and dive school info accurate as of Feb 2026. Got updates or corrections? Let us know at hello@backpackthailand.com