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.