Koh Nang Yuan and Hidden Bays Snorkel Tour with Lunch

Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan lies just off the north-west coast of Koh Tao and is one of the most photographed places in Thailand. Three small, rocky islands covered in forest are joined by a narrow sandbar of white coral sand, with clear turquoise water on both sides, so you can swim in two different seas within a few steps.

On this Koh Nang Yuan snorkel tour you have time to swim from the beach, snorkel over the coral near the pier and, if you wish, climb the steep path to the viewpoint for the classic view over the sandbar, about 15 to 20 minutes each way. The island is protected and privately managed: an entrance fee is paid on arrival, and plastic bottles are not allowed ashore, which helps keep its beaches spotless.

The hidden bays of Koh Tao

Koh Tao's coastline is a chain of small coves framed by huge granite boulders and steep, jungle-covered slopes. Many of them, especially on the east and south coasts, are reached only by rough tracks or by boat, so they stay quiet even in high season. The crew chooses the day's bays according to the wind and the sea, always looking for the calmest and clearest water.

In these sheltered bays, coral gardens grow in shallow water close to the shore, and the visibility is often excellent. You can float above hard corals, giant clams and anemones, and watch parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish and damselfish going about their business. It is the best way to discover the hidden side of the island, and a relaxing contrast to the busy beaches of the west coast.

Turtles and marine life

Koh Tao means 'turtle island', and green and hawksbill turtles still feed on the seagrass and corals in some of its bays. Your guide knows the spots where they are most often seen and explains how to watch them calmly from the surface without chasing or touching them. Sightings are common, but they are wild animals, so they can never be guaranteed.

Besides turtles, you may see shoals of fusiliers and barracuda, blue-spotted rays resting on the sand and sometimes small blacktip reef sharks, which are harmless to snorkellers. A free underwater photo service records the best moments of your day. Is a Koh Tao snorkelling trip worth it for beginners? Yes: life jackets are provided, many spots are shallow, and the guide stays close to the group.

Lunch on board and the best time to go

In the middle of the day, the crew serves a Thai-style packed lunch with seasonal fresh fruit, and drinking water, coffee and tea are available without limit throughout the trip. The boat offers shade and space to rest between swims, so the day never feels rushed.

The best time to visit Koh Tao for snorkelling is from February to October, when the sea is usually calm and the water clearest; in November and December the north-east monsoon can bring stronger winds and waves, and the route is then adapted to the sheltered side of the island. Tell us about dietary needs when booking, and our driver will take you back to your hotel at the end of the day.