How to Get Around Koh Tao: Scooter, Walking & Taxi Boats
- Mar 9
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Transport options on the island
In Koh Tao, everything is simpler, smaller, and more relaxed. Unlike other places in Thailand, this island has no buses, no tuk-tuks, and none of that charming chaos that transportation usually has in larger cities (as we mentioned in our post about How to get around in Bangkok).
Getting around Koh Tao is very easy. In practice, most travelers rely on just two options: walking or renting a scooter.
Getting around on foot
If you stay in areas like Sairee Beach or Mae Haad , you'll walk a lot without even realizing it.
The distances are short, everything is relatively close and walking allows you to discover places that were not on your itinerary.
Sairee Beach and Mae Haad are also the most walkable areas of Koh Tao.
For us, walking is the best way to start exploring the island (and almost any place in the world).
Getting around by scooter
Although Koh Tao is small, there are hidden spots where renting a scooter is the best way to explore the island. Besides being super affordable, it allows you to reach every corner with complete freedom.
For us, riding a motorbike is definitely the best option. There are paved roads, but also steep hills and dirt tracks that lead to hidden beaches and incredible viewpoints.
With a motorcycle you can easily reach places like:
Shark Bay
Aow Leuk
John-Suwan Viewpoint
Most rental shops are located in Sairee Beach and Mae Haad!
Price: approximately 200–300 baht (5-8€) per day , depending on the model.
Deposit: They usually ask for a deposit of around 3,000 baht (80€) .
Other less commonly used options
Although they are not the most common, there are some alternatives that can get you out of a tight spot.
Taxi Boats in Koh Tao
One of the most unique ways to get around Koh Tao is by using taxi boats, usually traditional longtail boats.
These boats work as water taxis and can take you directly to beaches that are harder to reach by road, such as Shark Bay, Aow Leuk or Freedom Beach.
You can usually find them near the main beaches, and prices depend on the distance and the beach you want to reach.
Local rides
It's quite common for a local to see you standing on the street and ask where you're going. They'll tell you how much they charge and act as an impromptu taxi service.
It's usually a more expensive option than a motorcycle, but it can get you out of a tight spot.
🇹🇭 Planning your trip to Koh Tao?
Getting around the island well makes a big difference to your experience. To continue planning your trip, we recommend reading:
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