Ao Tanot | Koh Tao

Ao Tanot (Tanote Bay) – A Snorkeling and Diving Paradise on Koh Tao

Ao Tanot, also known as Tanote Bay, is a beautiful and quiet bay on the east coast of Koh Tao, famous for its crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling, and unique rock formations. Unlike the busier beaches on the west coast, Tanote Bay offers a more secluded and peaceful atmosphere, making it perfect for travelers looking to escape the crowds.

Location and Overview

• Where: East coast of Koh Tao, about 15–20 minutes by motorbike from Mae Haad Pier.
• Access: Motorbike, taxi, hiking, or boat.
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon for the best snorkeling and calmest waters.
• Entrance Fee: Free.

Why Visit Tanote Bay?

• One of the best snorkeling spots on Koh Tao – Clear water, colorful corals, and abundant marine life.
• Unique granite boulders – Perfect for photography and cliff jumping.
• Less crowded – Unlike Sairee Beach, Tanote Bay remains peaceful and quiet.
• Easy access – One of the few east coast beaches accessible by road.

Things to Do at Tanote Bay

1. Snorkeling

• The entire bay is great for snorkeling, with plenty of coral reefs and tropical fish.
• Expect to see parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, moray eels, and sometimes reef sharks.
• Best snorkeling spots:
  • Around the large rock in the middle of the bay.
  • The northern side, where coral formations are most vibrant.
• Snorkeling gear can be rented from beachfront resorts, or you can bring your own.

2. Cliff Jumping

• A huge granite boulder sits in the center of the bay, perfect for cliff jumping.
• The jumping height is around 5–8 meters, depending on the tide.
• Be sure to check the water depth and jump safely.

3. Scuba Diving

• Tanote Bay is a great dive site, especially for beginners.
• There are several coral bommies, sea anemones, and small caves to explore.
• Some Koh Tao dive schools bring students here for training dives.

4. Swimming

• The water is calm and clear, making it ideal for swimming.
• Since the bay is not too deep, it’s also good for beginners and families.

5. Sunbathing and Relaxing

• The beach has soft golden sand, perfect for sunbathing.
• There are a few beachfront resorts and restaurants, where you can enjoy food and drinks with a view.

Best Time to Visit

• Morning (8:00 AM – 11:00 AM) – Best for snorkeling and cliff jumping.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM – 4:00 PM) – Ideal for relaxing and swimming.
• Avoid visiting during the rainy season (October – December) when waves can be strong.

How to Get to Tanote Bay

1. By Motorbike (15–20 minutes)

• The easiest way to reach Tanote Bay is by renting a motorbike from Mae Haad or Sairee Beach.
• Road conditions: Steep but paved, suitable for experienced riders.

2. By Taxi (20 minutes)

• If you don’t want to ride a bike, you can take a pickup taxi from Mae Haad or Sairee Beach.
• Cost: Around 300–500 THB per person, depending on group size.

3. By Boat (10–15 minutes)

• You can hire a longtail boat from Mae Haad or Sairee Beach.
• Best option for exploring other bays along the east coast.

Where to Stay at Tanote Bay

Tanote Bay has a few beachfront resorts and bungalows, offering direct beach access.

Mid-Range Resorts

• Montalay Beach Resort – Offers beachfront bungalows, a swimming pool, and dive courses.
• Tanote Villa Hill – Features stunning sea views, infinity pools, and private villas.

Budget Options

• Diamond Beach Bungalows – Simple, affordable beachfront bungalows.

Alternatively, you can stay in Sairee Beach or Mae Haad and visit Tanote Bay as a day trip.

Nearby Attractions

• Laem Thian – A secluded bay with great snorkeling and an abandoned resort.
• Ao Leuk Bay – Another beautiful snorkeling spot with clear waters and soft sand.
• Shark Bay – Known for its blacktip reef sharks and excellent marine life.

Final Thoughts

Ao Tanot (Tanote Bay) is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches on Koh Tao, offering fantastic snorkeling, scenic landscapes, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you want to explore the coral reefs, go cliff jumping, or just relax on the beach, Tanote Bay is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.