Thinking of heading to Koh Tao? Whether you’re planning to dive, chill, or stay a while, you’ll be happy to know that this little slice of paradise is surprisingly well-equipped. While it still keeps that relaxed island charm, Koh Tao has everything you need to live comfortably, whether you’re here for a few days or a few months.

Here’s your go-to guide for amenities on the island:

Shops & Markets

  • 7-Eleven and mini marts: These are everywhere and super handy for snacks, SIM cards, toiletries, and midnight toasties.
  • Local Markets: Check out the fresh produce stalls in Mae Haad and Sairee for fruits, veggies, and Thai street snacks.
  • Western Groceries: Places like Pen Market, Chaiwat, or Smile Mart sell imported goodies like oat milk, peanut butter, and pasta if you’re craving a little taste of home.

SIM Cards, Wi-Fi & Co-Working

  • Most cafes and accommodations offer decent Wi-Fi, perfect for staying connected or working remotely.
  • For digital nomads, spots like Goodtime Adventure Beach Club, The Factory, or Blue Water have comfy seating, great coffee, and solid internet.
  • In Koh Tao, we use AIS, True Move, or DTAC SIM cards. True Move SIMs are easy to grab from 7-Eleven for as little as 50 baht. For DTAC or AIS, we have a phone shop located outside the big 7-Eleven in Sairee. Data plans range from one day to one month, so that you can stay connected! Don’t forget your passport, though, as SIM cards require registration in Thailand!

Food & Drink

  • Local Eats: You’ll find excellent Thai food everywhere—Pad Thai, curries, grilled chicken, and fresh seafood galore, starting from as little as 60 baht for a Pad Thai dish.
  • Western Favourites: From burgers and pizzas to vegan cafes and smoothie bowls, there’s something for every taste and diet. Western food is a little more expensive, with the average burger costing around 220 baht.
  • Beach Bars: Sunset views, happy hours, live DJs? Koh Tao’s beach bar game is strong, be sure to check out Goodtime’s D&B and Live Music nights whilst sipping a cocktail during golden hour!

Health & Wellness

  • Gyms: There are a few solid gym options, especially around Sairee (Gym & Fitness, Koh Tao Bootcamp, and Monsoon Gym) and Mae Haad (Knockout & The Box), with both day passes and monthly memberships.
  • Muay Thai: is very popular in Thailand and Koh Tao. We have plenty of Muay Thai gyms across the island, such as Monsoon Gym, Pankom Muay Thai, and Island Muay Thai, all offering day passes, programmes, and monthly memberships.
  • Yoga Studios: Try Living Juices, Koh Tao Yoga, or Baan Talay for yoga, meditation, and wellness workshops.
  • Massage & Spas: Thai massage, coconut oil treatments, aloe vera after-sun care… everything you need for a couple of hours of unwinding, we have it all! Some of our favourite massage spots are Infinity in Mae Haad, or if you’re looking for something a little more private, try Majestic, located in Sairee!

Medical Services, Safety & Emergencies

  • Clinics: Koh Tao has several reliable clinics, such as Sai’s Clinic and Ocean Medical, that offer care for minor injuries, infections, and dive-related issues.
  • Hospital: The island has a small public hospital located in Mae Haad, which is best for non-urgent care, such as minor accidents and emergencies, a natal clinic, dental services, and X-ray services. For more serious treatment, patients are often transferred to Koh Samui.
  • Hyperbaric Chamber: Koh Tao has a fully functional hyperbaric chamber, which is essential for dealing with dive emergencies, such as decompression sickness. It’s staffed 24/7 and is one of the best-equipped chambers in the Gulf of Thailand.
  • Pharmacies: You’ll find multiple well-stocked pharmacies around the island for over-the-counter meds and prescriptions.
  • Police Station: The central police station is located in Mae Haad, and there is also a tourist police branch to assist visitors with any safety or legal concerns.
  • General Safety: Koh Tao is known for its laid-back, friendly vibe and is generally considered a very safe place. Many people are learning to drive scooters, so be vigilant on the roads!

Police contact: 077 456 098

Koh Tao Rescue contact: 087 979 0191

Money & Banking

  • ATMs are everywhere, especially near the piers and in central Sairee.
  • Currency exchange shops, local banks, and Western Union services are available.
  • Cards are accepted in many places now, but cash is still king at many establishments and local markets.

Getting Around

  • Scooters: The easiest way to explore—just wear a helmet and drive carefully (those hills are no joke!).
  • Taxis: Koh Tao offers a range of taxi services, from scooter taxis suitable for one person to taxi cabs more ideal for groups or when carrying your bags, as well as for travel to and from the pier! Prices for taxis are around 300-400 baht for any one-way trip on the island!
  • Walking: If you’re staying in Sairee, Chalok, or Mae Haad, you’ll find most things are within easy walking distance.

Accommodation & Long-Stay Living

  • Koh Tao offers everything from budget hostels and cute beach bungalows to long-term apartments with A/C and kitchens.
  • Monthly rates are available if you’re here for a course, remote work, or just can’t bring yourself to leave.
  • Most areas have coin-operated laundry machines or affordable laundry services that will have your clothes washed, dried, and folded by sunset.

You’ll Never Be Bored…

Of course, one of the biggest “amenities” here is the lifestyle itself—world-class diving, rock climbing, snorkelling, hiking, and that unbeatable Koh Tao community vibe. Pop into Goodtime or drop us a message if you need any more local tips and advice, or if you would like to book onto an adventure of a lifetime!