Ao Leuk
Ao Leuk is a quiet, sheltered bay tucked along the eastern coastline of Koh Tao, offering calmer conditions than many of the island's more exposed beaches. The bay's protected position makes it a favourite among snorkellers, with shallow, clear water and coral reef accessible directly from the shore. The atmosphere is generally relaxed and less crowded than Koh Tao's main beaches, attracting visitors who prefer a more low-key setting over a busy beach scene. The snorkelling here is a consistent draw, with reef fish and coral visible in the shallows without the need for a boat trip. The beach itself is modest in size, with the surrounding scenery adding to its appeal. Visitors tend to arrive independently, and the laid-back pace makes it well suited to those looking to spend a few quiet hours in the water or on the sand. Good to know: Ao Leuk is best visited during the dry season, which runs roughly from January through to April, when visibility in the water is at its clearest and sea conditions are most settled. The bay can be reached by scooter or songthaew from the main village of Mae Haad, though the road may be steep in sections. Bringing your own snorkel gear is worth considering, as on-site facilities are limited.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Ao Leuk, round out your day in Koh Tao with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Tao

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A small Gulf of Thailand island renowned for white sand beaches, coral reefs, and world-class scuba diving.

Big Blue Diving School Koh Tao
PADI-certified diving school on Sairee Beach offering courses and guided dives for all experience levels.

Blue Shark Brunch, Koh Tao
A highly rated all-day brunch spot on Koh Tao, open daily from 7am with mid-range prices.

995 Roasted Duck
Beloved budget dinner spot on Koh Tao serving roasted duck every evening until 9pm.
Ao Leuk: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ao Leuk worth visiting?
Ao Leuk holds a 4.2★ rating from 3,166 Google reviews — a strong rating for beaches in Koh Tao.
When is the best time to visit Ao Leuk?
The best months to visit Koh Tao are March – September (calmest water, best visibility), with the most reliable weather. Crowds peak in December – January & July – August — going early in the day usually means fewer people. Months to think twice about: November (monsoon swell peaks).
Where is Ao Leuk located?
Ao Leuk is at 3RCQ+RH3 เกาะเต่า Tambon Ko Tao, Amphoe Ko Pha-ngan, Chang Wat Surat Thani, Thailand, in Koh Tao. Getting around Koh Tao: Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad; Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep).
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
March – September (calmest water, best visibility)
Avoid: November (monsoon swell peaks)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & July – August
Getting there
Lomprayah catamarans connect from Chumphon in about 1.5–2 hours (฿600–700) — the standard route from Bangkok is an overnight bus or train to Chumphon plus the morning boat. Ferries also arrive from Koh Phangan (~1 hr) and Koh Samui (~1.5–2 hrs). No airport.
Getting around
- •Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep)
- •Longtail and dive-boat taxis to the far bays
Where to stay near Ao Leuk
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Tips for Visiting Beaches
Check Monsoon Windows
Andaman coast beaches (Phuket, Krabi) have rough seas May–October. Gulf beaches (Samui, Hua Hin) are roughest October–December. Plan your beach trip around these windows for calm water and safe swimming.
Go Early for Empty Sand
Even the busiest beaches are nearly deserted before 9 AM. Sunrise walks on Kata, Chaweng, or Railay are magical — and you'll beat the heat for a morning swim.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Many Thai marine parks ban chemical sunscreens that damage coral. Bring reef-safe (mineral/zinc-based) sunscreen from home — it's harder to find and pricier in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Haad Sai Daeng
A secluded red-sand beach on Koh Tao's east coast, popular for snorkelling and peaceful swimming.

Shark Bay
A quiet natural bay on Koh Samui offering snorkelling, soft corals, sea turtles, and the chance to spot small sharks.

Free beach to shark bay
A scenic coastal trail on Koh Tao connecting a free beach to the calm, sheltered waters of Shark Bay.

Taa Toh Lagoon Beach
A tucked-away lagoon beach in Chalok Baan Kao Bay, offering calm waters and a secluded atmosphere.
Similar Beaches Across Thailand
Patong Beach
Phuket's most famous 3km beach on the Andaman Sea, buzzing with water sports, dining, and nightlife.

Thong Nai Pan
Thong Nai Pan is the pair of horseshoe bays on Koh Phangan's northeast corner that many rate the island's best all-round base — Thong Nai Pan Yai, the larger southern bay with a village feel and family resorts, and Thong Nai Pan Noi, the more polished northern bay where the island's smarte.

Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat)
Bottle Beach (Haad Khuat) on Koh Phangan's north coast is the island's poster child for earned seclusion — a wide crescent of soft sand backed by jungle hills, with no road in.

Freedom Beach
A secluded white-sand beach near Patong with crystal-clear water, far removed from the crowds.
Where to stay near Ao Leuk
Find hotels in Koh Tao on the booking sites travellers trust most.
- Compare prices across sites
- Filter for free cancellation
- Secure checkout on the partner site
Compare rates on Booking.com
Largest selection
Compare rates on Agoda
Asia-focused selection
Compare rates on Hotels.com
Member prices
We may earn a commission from bookings made through these links — at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Location Info
Visitor Information
Best time to visit
March – September (calmest water, best visibility)
Avoid: November (monsoon swell peaks)
Rainy season
October – December
Avg. temperature
25°C – 32°C(77°F – 90°F)
Crowds
Peak: December – January & July – August
Getting there
Lomprayah catamarans connect from Chumphon in about 1.5–2 hours (฿600–700) — the standard route from Bangkok is an overnight bus or train to Chumphon plus the morning boat. Ferries also arrive from Koh Phangan (~1 hr) and Koh Samui (~1.5–2 hrs). No airport.
Getting around
- •Walking around Sairee and Mae Haad
- •Motorbike rental (฿200–300/day; some concrete roads are extremely steep)
- •Longtail and dive-boat taxis to the far bays