Sairee Beach | Koh Tao

Sairee Beach – The Heart of Koh Tao’s Island Life

Sairee Beach is the longest and most popular beach on Koh Tao, Thailand. Known for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife, it offers a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and social atmosphere. Whether you're into diving, snorkeling, beach bars, or simply enjoying breathtaking sunsets, Sairee Beach is a must-visit destination.

Location and Overview

• Where: On the west coast of Koh Tao, in the Gulf of Thailand.
• Length: About 1.85 km (1.15 miles) long.
• Distance:
  • 5-minute drive from Mae Haad Pier (where ferries arrive).
  • 1.5 hours by ferry from Koh Samui.
• Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season, clear water, and best conditions for diving and snorkeling).

Why Visit Sairee Beach?

• Best Spot for Sunset Views – Offers stunning sunsets over the Gulf of Thailand.
• Great for Swimming & Snorkeling – Calm, clear, and shallow waters.
• Diving Hub of Koh Tao – Close to top diving schools and sites.
• Lively Nightlife – Beach bars, fire shows, and parties.
• Variety of Restaurants & Cafés – From local Thai food to international cuisine.

Things to Do at Sairee Beach

1. Swimming and Snorkeling

• The gentle, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming.
• Snorkeling near the rocks at both ends of the beach reveals colorful fish and corals.

2. Scuba Diving and Freediving

• Koh Tao is known as the diving capital of Thailand, with affordable diving courses.
• Dive shops along Sairee Beach offer PADI and SSI certifications.
• Nearby dive sites include Shark Bay, Japanese Gardens, and Chumphon Pinnacle.

3. Beachfront Dining and Bars

• Enjoy fresh seafood, Thai curries, and Western dishes at beachfront restaurants.
• Popular spots:
  • FIZZ Beach Lounge – Cocktails with bean bags on the sand.
  • Lotus Bar – Known for fire shows and lively nightlife.
  • The Whitening – A stylish beachside restaurant with amazing seafood.

4. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the coastline.
• Paddle to Koh Nang Yuan, a small island nearby with a famous sandbar.

5. Nightlife and Fire Shows

• The beach comes alive at night with fire dancers, live music, and beach parties.
• Bars like Lotus Beach Bar and Fishbowl Beach Bar are famous for their entertainment.

6. Enjoy a Beachfront Massage

• Relax with a traditional Thai massage at one of the beachfront massage huts.

7. Hiking to Koh Tao Viewpoints

• Nearby viewpoints like John-Suwan Viewpoint offer breathtaking panoramic views of Koh Tao.

Where to Stay at Sairee Beach

Luxury

• The Tarna Align Resort – A stunning hillside resort with ocean views.
• SaiDaeng Resort – Private villas with a tranquil atmosphere.

Mid-Range

• Sairee Cottage Resort – Beachfront bungalows with a relaxed vibe.
• Ban’s Diving Resort – One of the largest dive resorts on the island.

Budget

• Goodtime Beach Hostel – Social atmosphere for backpackers.
• Indie Hostel – Clean, modern, and affordable.

How to Get to Sairee Beach

• From Koh Samui: Take a high-speed ferry (1.5 hours).
• From Bangkok: Fly to Koh Samui, then take a ferry to Koh Tao.
• From the Pier (Mae Haad): Take a 5-minute taxi or walk along the coastal path.

Final Thoughts

Sairee Beach is the perfect place to experience the best of Koh Tao-from relaxing by the shore to thrilling water activities and lively nightlife. Whether you're a diver, a backpacker, or just looking for a tropical escape, Sairee Beach has something for everyone.