KOH TAO lies 45 kilometres north of Koh Pha-ngan and is only 20 square kilometres in area but it is known as the best diving site in the Gulf of Thailand.  The turquoise water of Koh Tao is crystalline, coconut plantations still cover much of the landscape, and concrete roads are built along only a few beaches.  Getting around the island is either by pick-up taxi or by boat.  Motorbikes and mountain bikes are also available for rent to explore the island. 

In the eighties the first travelers discovered the island paradise and their special "backpacker-network" quickly made it widely known and a popular destination. As a consequence, bigger, faster and safer boats were used to allow easier access to Koh Tao.

During the past ten years the reputation of Turtle Island's natural beauty, especially its marine life and coral reefs, spread the world over and the number of paradise seekers increased rapidly.
It soon became one of the major dive sites in Thailand, attracting beginners and professionals alike. The local businesses expanded immediately to catch up with the needs of the new clientele. The island today, though still remaining an absolute paradise, caters for all tastes and budgets.