The name Koh Tao means Turtle Island; most say that the designation is due to the islands outline which is meant to look like an inverted turtle while others state it is from the days when the sea close to the island was full of turtles and the island was their breeding grounds.
Straight after the horrible events of the December 2004 Tsunami, the caliber of visitors visiting KoTao have changed, before it had been a Mecca for back packers, young travellers along their way North to Bangkok and beyond.
Ko Tao is a place of impressive beauty and charm, an island, where you can have a holiday far anyway, kicked back and on the beach or active and fast paced.
Around 1947, Khun A-Paiwong, Thailand's Prime Minister at the time, asked for & received a royal pardon for the islands political prisoners and thanks to a gracious act by His Majesty the King. They were released and conveyed to Suratthani on the mainland and the island was isolated yet again. This was the same year that the initial people started to claim a big portion of land on what is now identified as Sai Ree Beach. These were the two brothers Khun Ueam and Khun Oh who reached Ko Tao by a boat from the next island of Koh Phangan.
And yes, you can still snorkel with sharks, and perhaps the odd turtle as well, just check out our web site for all the local dive centres available.
Now a days, you can get everything from basic simple wooden bungalows with palm leaf roofs to elegant up-market villas with their very own private swimming pool.
In the late 1990's the islands very first, and until recently, only road was laid, it runs South to North from the far side of Sairee to the southern settlement of Chalok Baan Kao.
A new road is being developed towards Tanote Bay, and once finised it will open up the far side of the island for better development, it is accessable with care at the moment with 4x4.
Consequently, as its reputation for beautiful nature, unique marine life and beautiful landscapes grew, easier access was became available as soon as newer built were brought in to cope with the number of visitors being attracted to the island.
Ko Tao is situated in a natural paradise with many postcard like palms and green turquoise waters. |
Internet 
