Chalok baan kao bay
Chalok Baan Kao Bay sits on the southern tip of Koh Tao, offering a quieter alternative to the island's busier northern shores. The bay is backed by coconut palms and characterised by a laid-back atmosphere, making it a popular spot for travellers seeking a more low-key experience alongside Koh Tao's renowned diving scene. Several dive centres operate directly from the bay, giving it a practical edge for those looking to explore the surrounding waters. The beachfront is lined with open-air eateries and bars, creating a casual, sociable environment without the intensity of a party beach. Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, with shade from the palm canopy and easy access to food and drink throughout the day. The combination of beach, dining, and dive facilities makes it a well-rounded base for those spending time on the island's southern side. Good to know: the bay is accessible throughout the day and into the evening, and the presence of multiple dive centres means it is worth contacting operators in advance, particularly during peak season when courses and fun dives can fill up quickly. The linked website, Iha Sia Diving Koh Tao, is one such operator based in this area and a useful starting point for planning dive activities from the bay.
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Experience hints
Pair your visit. After Chalok baan kao bay, round out your day in Koh Tao with contrasting stops nearby.
Also Popular in Koh Tao

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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.
Chalok baan kao bay: Frequently Asked Questions
Is Chalok baan kao bay worth visiting?
Chalok baan kao bay holds a 4.4★ rating from 651 Google reviews — a strong rating for temples & culture in Koh Tao.
What are the opening hours of Chalok baan kao bay?
Chalok baan kao bay is typically open 00:00-23:59 — see the full day-by-day schedule in the location info on this page. Hours can change on Thai public holidays, so check ahead for holiday visits.
When is the best time to visit Chalok baan kao bay?
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 Chalok baan kao bay located?
Chalok baan kao bay is at 3R8G+R2M, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, 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).
Location Info
3R8G+R2M, Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Thailandihasiadivingkohtao.com/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 Chalok baan kao bay
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Tips for Visiting Temples & Culture
Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders and knees at all temples. Carry a light scarf or sarong — some temples lend wraps, but not all. Shoes come off before entering any building with a Buddha image.
Mind Your Feet
Never point your feet at a Buddha image or a monk — it's considered deeply disrespectful. When sitting inside a temple, tuck your feet behind you or to the side.
Ask Before Photographing
Exterior photos are almost always fine, but some interior halls prohibit photography. Look for signs, and never pose irreverently with Buddha images — it's a legal offense in Thailand.
Nearby Places

Aow June Juea
A peaceful cultural site on Koh Tao, open around the clock for quiet reflection and exploration.

วัดเกาะเจริญสันติธรรม
A peaceful Buddhist temple offering a tranquil cultural retreat amid the natural beauty of Koh Tao.

King Rama V Rock and Statue
A hilltop cultural landmark on Koh Tao featuring a revered statue of King Rama V with panoramic island views.

Love Koh Tao
A cultural landmark on Koh Tao offering a glimpse into Thai spiritual life, open daily until early evening.
Similar Temples & Culture Across Thailand

Wat Phra Kaew
Bangkok's most sacred temple sits within the Grand Palace complex, home to the revered Emerald Buddha.

Doi Suthep Temple
A sacred mountaintop Buddhist temple from 1383, offering a golden chedi and sweeping views over Chiang Mai.

The Grand Palace
A breathtaking 18th-century royal palace complex showcasing centuries of Thai history, gold-adorned architecture, and sacred temples.

The Sanctuary of Truth Museum
A towering all-wood monument in Pattaya, hand-carved without nails and still under construction after decades.
Where to stay near Chalok baan kao bay
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