My Favorite Spots in Koh Tao, Thailand

After traveling through Southeast Asia for nearly three months, I was ready for some rest and relaxation. So I headed to the island paradise of Koh Tao, Thailand, for eight days. While I spent most of my time relaxing, I did find some really amazing spots around the island that I recommend.

Hostels

Revolution Hostel Koh Tao – I stayed here for four nights and had a great time! The hostel is located close to a lot of restaurants, bars, and cafes, and they have social events several times a week which makes it easy to meet other travelers.

Wonderland Jungle Hostel – After my time at Revolution, I stayed here for four nights. Located up in the jungle, you’ll want to rent a motorbike to access this hostel. It’s a great place to unwind and escape all the crowds in the island’s central area.

Restaurants

Cactus Cafe – This is a cute cafe located right next to the beach. They have really good smoothies and brunch.

A smoothie with a view at Cactus Cafe

Best Khao Soi by Idjang’s Kitchen – I tried the khao soi here (obviously), which is a Thai egg noodle soup. It was delicious!

Khao soi from Best Khao Soi restaurant

995 Roasted Duck – This restaurant is famous for its… roasted duck! I had the duck noodle soup which was amazing, although there are several other duck and non-duck options to choose from.

Duck noodle soup from 995 Roasted Duck

Blue Shark Brunch – This is a good choice if you’re craving more western-style food. I recommend the salmon avocado toast or the pasta.

PomSomtam – Located near the pier, this restaurant has an incredible panang curry.

Street Fruit – This fruit stand has amazing mango sticky rice, and the owner is so friendly! Be sure to go early before they run out of mangoes for the day.

Mango sticky rice from Street Fruit

Excursions

Koh Tao Pub Crawl – If you’ve traveled around Southeast Asia, you’ll likely see backpackers wearing the shirt from this famous pub crawl. The night kicks off at Chopper’s Bar and then heads to a cabaret show, a beach party, and a couple of beach clubs. Be sure to line up early if you’re arriving after the full moon party; it can sell out quickly!

John Suwan Viewpoint – It’s a short hike to the top of this viewpoint, although there are some obstacles you have to climb over. The views are worth it though!

John Suwan Viewpoint

The beautiful trail to John Suwan Viewpoint

A&T Motorbike Rentals – I rented a motorbike for four days from this company. The owners were very helpful and gave me a bike that was in good condition; upon returning the bike, I wasn’t charged for any extras which some companies are notorious for. They also let me store my luggage for a few hours while I was waiting for my ferry to depart.

My motorbike rental from A&T

Overall, I had an amazing time wandering around Koh Tao and getting some much-needed rest in the meantime. It’s the perfect place to spend as much or as little time as you like.