Getting Around
Koh Tao has one major concrete road which connects the north end of Sairee with Chalok Baan Kao in the south, while passing the main village Mae Haad in the middle. There is an increasing amount of small concrete roads leading to the other beaches and bays. Everywhere else you will find more or less accessible dirt tracks, most of which will challenge even a skilled driver. Steep trails, sharp curves, sand and grit, potholes, washed out tracks and the occasional dropping coconut demand mindful driving and fast reactions.
Vehicles in Thailand drive usually on the left, but traffic rules are often freely interpreted, speed limits are not observed and suicidal dogs prefer sleeping on the roads, which are often narrow. You must always be prepared to make room for the occasional moving or still obstacle. Yet, it is not as bad as it seems, as long as you drive carefully and remember that an accident will hurt body and budget as well. Motorcycles can be rented from 150 Baht, Jeeps from 1000 Baht, the deposit of a passport is required. However there are many other options of getting around:
Pick-up and Motorbike Taxis
These can be found parked in busy areas, or can be stopped at the roadside. They run from early morning until 11 p.m. Please be aware that taxi prices are not fixed and fares tend to double after darkness. To avoid mis-understandings always discuss the cost before the ride.
Basic taxi prices: from Mae Haad
- to Sairee Beach or Chalok Baan Kao: 1 pers. 100 Baht.
- to Tanote: 1 pers. 200 Baht / to Hin Wong: 1 pers. 200 Baht
- to Ao Leuk or Thian Og: 1 pers. 200 Baht
- from Sairee to Chalok Baan Kao: 100 Baht / to Ao Leuk: 1-2 pers. 200 Baht
Boat Taxis
The colourful, traditional Long Tail Boats take you conveniently and quickly to stunning remote beaches and secluded bays. You can find them at all the main beaches, they can be chartered for a short trip or a day tour. Prices are quite consistent and reasonable:
Trips from Mae Haad
- to Chalok Baan Kao: 150 Baht per person
- to Nang Yuan: 1-2 persons 200 Baht
- to Tanote Bay: 1-3 persons 400 Baht
- around the island: 1-4 persons 1500 Baht
Some advice that matters not only in Koh Tao:
Please keep in mind that you are a visitor and treat the locals and the environment with the necessary respect. Try to blend in rather than to stick out, your customs are not the standards here. For example: Thais are offended by nudity; decent clothing in religious sites is required; losing your temper means losing your face and gets you nowhere.
data from :
http://kohtao.sawadee.com