Koh Tao beaches / Tanote Bay
Tanote Bay Beach & Snorkelling on Koh Tao's East Coast
A wide east-coast bay with reef from the shoreline, a famous jump rock and no entrance fee.
Koh Tao beaches / Tanote Bay
A wide east-coast bay with reef from the shoreline, a famous jump rock and no entrance fee.
Tanote Bay Koh Tao is one of the island's easiest places to snorkel. The coral begins almost at the water's edge, the bay is wide and shaded, and a large granite jump rock in the middle draws the brave. There is no entrance fee.
It sits on the east coast, reached by a steep road across the island. Here is what the beach is like, how to get there safely and when to go.
The beach curves around a sheltered bay with palms and trees behind it, so there is plenty of shade. A few simple restaurants and bars sit along the back, and it rarely feels crowded. The sand is mixed with rock in places, so it is more a snorkel bay than a long sunbathing strip.
The east coast catches the weather from the north-east, so the bay can be rough in the windy months. On calm days it is clear and gentle.
This is the main reason to come. Coral starts just a few metres from the shoreline, and big granite boulders on the northern side are covered in growth that attracts parrotfish, triggerfish, anemonefish, rabbitfish and the odd moray. Turtles and blacktip reef sharks sometimes cruise through the deeper middle. The bay also has artificial reefs and a coral nursery, which help protect the natural reef.
The area around the jump rock tends to be the busiest and richest. Watch for jumpers while you swim. Divers also use the bay: see the Tanote Bay dive site page, and our guide to snorkelling on Koh Tao for other options. Mask and snorkel rental is available on the beach.
A large rock stands in the middle of the bay, about 20 metres out. You swim to it, climb a rope and jump back into the water: roughly 5 to 6 metres. Jump from the side locals recommend, check the depth first as it changes with the tide, and never jump after drinking or if someone is swimming below. It is not for the faint-hearted, and nobody will mind if you just watch.
From Mae Haad, take the signposted road next to the information stop and follow it over the island's central hills. Allow about 15 to 20 minutes by scooter or taxi. There are junctions for Aow Leuk and other bays on the way.
See getting around Koh Tao for rental and taxi tips.
There is a larger restaurant at the back plus smaller beach bars on the south side. Toilets are basic and may expect a purchase. Please buy a drink or a meal, since entry is free and this is how the place stays open.
Early morning is quiet and beautiful for sunrise. Many locals suggest the afternoon, when the east-facing bay is in shade. March to September is usually calmest, while the north-east monsoon can make the east coast choppy in November and December: check the best time to visit Koh Tao.
For viewpoints on your way back, see Koh Tao viewpoints and hikes. In an emergency use Koh Tao emergency numbers.
No. Entry is free. Buying food or a drink at one of the beach restaurants is a good way to support them.
It is paved but steep with sharp bends. Experienced riders manage fine, but beginners and anyone riding in the rain should take a taxi.
Yes, it is one of the best easy-entry bays. Coral starts close to shore, with boulders, reef fish and occasionally turtles and reef sharks.
Roughly 5 to 6 metres, from a rock you reach by swimming out and climbing a rope. Check the depth first and be careful at low tide.
March to September is calmest. The bay is quiet in the early morning, and the east coast can be rough in November and December.
Yes, mask and snorkel rental is available on the beach. Bringing your own is easier.
Checked in November 2026. Opening hours and timetables change: confirm locally before you go.