5 Islands Full-Day Tour Around Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan

Experience the Best of Koh Tao in a Day: A Complete Guide to the 5 Islands Full-Day Tour

This full-day tour around Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan offers an exciting mix of snorkeling, scenic vistas, and island hopping—all in approximately 7 hours. It’s a popular choice for travelers eager to maximize their time and see as much marine life and natural beauty as possible without the hassle of planning each stop independently. Guided by knowledgeable locals, this trip promises a well-organized adventure with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos, tasty food, and underwater exploration.

What we love about this tour is its inclusivity—local pickups, snorkeling gear, and even underwater photos are all taken care of, making it a seamless experience. Plus, at just under $27 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to discover Koh Tao’s highlights. The only thing to consider is that the itinerary may shift due to weather conditions, especially the visited spots, but that’s part of the adventure in this part of Thailand.

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that balances sightseeing, snorkeling, and relaxation. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to explore many of Koh Tao’s best spots without the stress of organizing transport and equipment. If you’re comfortable with a full day of activity and don’t mind the possibility of minor itinerary adjustments, this trip will suit you well.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, lunch, and photos make this a hassle-free experience.
• Multiple snorkeling stops: See turtles, tropical fish, and coral reefs in several prime locations.
• Scenic viewpoints: Climb to the Nangyuan Island viewpoint for panoramic views.
• Flexible itinerary: Weather can influence which spots are visited, ensuring safety and comfort.
• Affordable value: At just $26.89, it offers excellent value for a full-day tour.
• Supportive guides: Friendly, professional staff enhance the experience, often taking photos and giving expert advice.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The day kicks off with a hotel pickup, which is a significant plus—no need to worry about finding your way to the pier early morning. The tour departs from Mae Haad Pier, a central point on Koh Tao, making it easy to access if you’re staying nearby. The transportation is smooth, with round-trip transfers included (excluding Mango Bay and Lighthouse Beach), ensuring a stress-free start to your day.

Once at the pier, you’ll meet the crew of Sangthong Tours, who are described as friendly and supportive. This sets a welcoming tone for the day ahead. The boat itself is a modified fishing cutter, which means it’s not a massive tour boat but more intimate and authentic—adding to the charm of the experience. During peak days, the group size can be up to 45 travelers, but the reviews suggest it never feels crowded, especially with the boat’s spacious design.

Snorkeling in Koh Nangyuan and Nang Yuan Island

The first stop is off Koh Tao’s northwest coast, at Koh Nangyuan. This spot is famous for its iconic linked beaches and breathtaking viewpoints. The walk on the sand connecting the three islands is stunning, with some reviews noting the clear waters and vibrant marine life below.

The highlight for many is the opportunity to snorkel at Japanese Garden, where the underwater visibility is reportedly excellent, with many tropical fish and coral. Reviewers mention that guides like “Oleg” and other staff are supportive and help you find the best spots to see turtles and colorful fish. One guest beautifully described snorkeling here as “like swimming in an aquarium,” and it’s easy to see why.

Island Climbing and Scenic Views

Climbing up to the Nangyuan viewpoint offers panoramic vistas that are well worth the effort. The view over the three islands is one of those moments you’ll want to capture on camera—especially since the guides will often take underwater and scenic photos, which are sent afterward for free. This is a thoughtful touch that many reviewers appreciated, noting that the photos serve as lasting memories of their day.

Delicious Thai Lunch at Mango Bay

Lunch is served onboard with a Thai-style lunch box—an opportunity to refuel for the next stretch of the day. Mango Bay is the next stop, renowned for its calm, turquoise waters and sandy seafloor. The bay’s shallow waters and gentle currents make it an ideal snorkeling spot, especially for those less confident swimmers. Here, guests can relax on the beach, swim, or explore the vibrant marine life.

A few reviews mention that weather can influence whether Mango Bay is visited—sometimes another bay replaces it if conditions are rough. The replacement spots tend to be equally beautiful, with one reviewer noting that they ended up favoring the alternative bay even more.

Hin Wong Bay and Aow Leuk Beach

Continuing east, Hin Wong Bay offers a more boulder-strewn environment with underwater pinnacles covered in coral and teeming with fish. The clear waters here create excellent snorkeling opportunities, and lucky visitors might spot schools of sardines or even larger fish chasing prey.

Next is Aow Leuk Beach, famous for its deep, wide, and quiet waters, making it safe for snorkeling even at low tide. The backdrop of Shark Island adds an extra element of thrill, although sharks are more likely to be observed from a safe distance rather than swimming alongside.

Shark Bay and Marine Encounters

The final snorkeling stop is Shark Bay, where guests can swim alongside blacktip reef sharks and sea turtles. This spot is often highlighted in reviews as a favorite for its abundant marine life and the chance to see gentle sharks in their natural habitat. Many guests mention that guides like “Nok” and “Oleg” are attentive, helping everyone find the best spots and encouraging safe snorkeling practices.

Wrap-up and Return

After about 45 minutes at Shark Bay, the tour winds down and heads back to the pier. The entire experience wraps up with the return transfer to your accommodation. Guests leave with plenty of photos, memories, and a sense of having seen some of Koh Tao’s most stunning spots—all at a very reasonable price point.

What the Reviews Reveal About the Tour

Feedback from previous travelers paints a clear picture: this tour is highly valued for its friendly guides, stunning snorkeling spots, and delicious, well-organized meals. Many reviewers note that the guides, such as “Oleg,” “Nok,” and others, go above and beyond to make sure everyone is comfortable, whether that’s helping to find turtles or taking photos underwater.

A recurring theme is the high-quality snorkeling, with many guests raving about the visibility and marine life, including turtles and small sharks. Several reviews mention the supportive and cheerful staff, who are eager to show guests the best spots and ensure they get the most out of the trip.

Some minor drawbacks include the weather’s influence on the itinerary—on days with rough seas or cloudy conditions, certain stops like Mango Bay might be skipped or replaced. One review pointed out that the group size can sometimes feel larger than the 15 people advertised, but even then, the staff manage to keep the atmosphere friendly and non-crowded.

Value and Practical Considerations

At just $26.89, this tour offers a remarkable value considering the inclusions—a full day of guided snorkeling, multiple stops, local Thai lunch, photos, and hotel transfers. For travelers on a budget, it’s a fantastic way to see Koh Tao’s top spots without paying for multiple separate excursions or private tours.

The price does not include entrance fees for Koh Nangyuan (around 250 Baht), but overall, most reviewers felt it was money well spent. The tour runs most days, booked around 11 days in advance on average, giving plenty of planning time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is designed for most travelers—most reviews mention that it suits a wide age range and fitness levels, but some stops involve a bit of walking or climbing. If you’re prone to seasickness or prefer calmer waters, it’s worth considering the sea conditions forecasted for the day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re after an affordable, well-organized day of snorkeling and island exploring, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a guided experience with a knowledgeable crew, and for those interested in underwater photography and seeing turtles.

Travelers who appreciate scenic viewpoints—like the Nangyuan Island summit—will find this tour provides plenty of opportunities for breathtaking views. It’s also great for anyone who wants a flexible itinerary, with most stops offering the chance to relax, snorkel, or take photos.

That said, if you’re a seasoned snorkeler or diver seeking independent exploration or specialized underwater experiences, this might not be your best fit. Also, if weather conditions look particularly rough, be prepared for potential changes to the planned stops.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour around Koh Tao and Koh Nangyuan offers a fantastic balance of snorkeling, sightseeing, and local flavor—all without breaking the bank. The inclusion of hotel transfers, snorkeling gear, Thai lunch, and underwater photos ensures a comfortable and memorable experience, making it a worthwhile option for most visitors.

The knowledgeable guides and well-chosen stops allow you to experience the best marine life and scenic vistas Koh Tao has to offer. Whether you’re eager to spot turtles, take stunning photos, or simply relax on beautiful beaches, this tour delivers a comprehensive day out.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want convenience, great value, and an authentic touch to their island adventure. Just keep in mind that weather can influence the day’s plan, but the crew’s flexibility means you’ll still enjoy a remarkable experience, no matter what.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, most travelers are picked up from their hotel, making the start of the day stress-free.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience is approximately 7 hours, including transfers, snorkeling, and lunch.

What’s included in the price? Hotel transfers (except Mango Bay and Lighthouse Beach), snorkeling gear, a Thai lunch box, water, coffee, tea, fresh fruits, and underwater photos.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, the entrance fee to Koh Nangyuan (around 250 Baht) is not included. Tips are also not included.

Can I snorkel with turtles? Yes, many reviews mention guided snorkels specifically at Shark Bay and other spots where turtles are frequently seen.

Is snorkeling equipment provided? Yes, snorkeling gear and life jackets are supplied, so you don’t need to bring your own unless preferred.

What if the weather is bad? The itinerary is flexible and may shift due to sea and weather conditions. If conditions are poor, some stops might be skipped or replaced.

How many people are on the tour? The maximum group size is 45, but reviews indicate that even on larger days, the crew manages to keep the experience intimate and enjoyable.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead, as spots can fill quickly, especially during peak season.

What’s the best thing about this tour? It’s the combination of friendly guides, stunning locations, and the convenience of everything included for a set price—making your Koh Tao adventure truly memorable.

This tour offers an experience packed with natural beauty, engaging marine adventures, and local hospitality, all at an accessible price point. Whether you’re a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned explorer, it’s a fantastic way to uncover some of Koh Tao’s most iconic spots in just one day.