Destination Guide · Gulf of Thailand
Koh Tan (Coral Island) by Private Boat from Koh Samui
One of the best-kept secrets near Koh Samui — unspoiled coral reefs, calm turquoise water, and secluded beaches just 25 minutes from shore.
- ~20–30 Min by Private Boat
- Half Day or Full Day Tours
- Best Snorkeling Near Samui
Travel Time
20 – 30 Min
Best For
Snorkeling & Reef
Access Fee
~100–200 THB
Tours Available
Half & Full Day
Koh Tan, also known as Koh Taen or Coral Island, is a small, largely undeveloped island just 20 to 30 minutes south of Koh Samui. What it lacks in facilities it more than makes up for in natural beauty — the island is ringed by some of the healthiest and most varied coral reef in the area, making it the top snorkeling destination near Samui for those who know where to look.
Unlike the resort-heavy beaches of Koh Samui itself, Koh Tan has remained remarkably quiet and unspoiled. A handful of simple beachside restaurants serve fresh seafood; beyond that, the island is all soft sand, shallow clear water, and the sound of waves. The reef begins just metres from shore in places, with excellent visibility and a wide variety of coral formations, reef fish, and occasional sea turtles.
Koh Tan is most often visited as part of a full-day combination trip with neighbouring Koh Madsum (Pig Island), though it can also be included in shorter half-day charters. Its proximity to Samui makes it one of the easiest full-day escapes available on a private boat.
World-Class Snorkeling
Healthy coral reefs just metres from the beach, with excellent visibility year-round.
Secluded White-Sand Beach
Quiet, undeveloped shoreline free from the crowds of the main Samui beaches.
Rich Marine Life
Reef fish, sea turtles, and diverse coral formations across multiple snorkel spots.
Fresh Seafood Restaurants
Simple beachside spots serving grilled fish and local dishes with an ocean view.
Combines with Koh Madsum
Perfectly paired with Pig Island next door for a full-day twin-island adventure.
Close & Easy to Reach
Only 20 to 30 minutes from Koh Samui — one of the nearest unspoiled islands.
Best Months
December – April
Clearest water, calmest seas, and the best snorkeling visibility of the year.
Best Time of Day
Morning Arrival
Calmer water and better reef visibility before afternoon winds pick up.
Avoid
Oct – Nov Monsoon
Rougher seas reduce visibility; routes may be adjusted for safety.
- Departure from Naval Base, Koh Samui Koh Tan (Coral Island), approx. 20–30 minutes by private boat
Travel Time
1. Approx. 20–30 minutes by private boat from Koh Samui
2. Often combined with Koh Madsum on the same trip
Admission Fees
1. Conservation/beach fee approx. 100–200 THB per person
2. Paid locally, not included in charter price
What to Bring
1. Reef-safe sunscreen and a hat
2. Swimwear and an underwater camera
Swimwear and an underwater camera
3. Cash for the access fee and local restaurants
Visit Koh Tan
Half Day Morning
65K
Full Day — Pig Island & Koh Tan
125K
Best Snorkeling
Dec – Apr
Good to Know
- Best snorkeling near Koh Samui
- Suits all snorkeling levels including beginners.
- Most popular combined with ~ Koh Madsum
- Routes may adjust due to weather conditions
- Price based on 25 guests +1,500 THB per extra guest.
How far is Koh Tan from Koh Samui?
Koh Tan is one of the closest islands to Koh Samui, roughly 20 to 30 minutes by private boat from the main departure points on the south coast.
Is Koh Tan the same as Coral Island?
Yes. Koh Tan, also written Koh Taen, is commonly called Coral Island due to the healthy coral reefs surrounding its shores. It is a different island from the ‘Coral Island’ near Phuket.
Can Koh Tan be combined with Koh Madsum (Pig Island)?
Yes, and this is the most popular combination. The two islands sit close together and our Full Day Pig Island and Koh Tan charter visits both on a single 9-hour trip.
Is the snorkeling at Koh Tan good?
Koh Tan is considered one of the best snorkeling spots near Koh Samui. The surrounding reef is healthy and shallow in places, with good visibility and a wide variety of reef fish and coral formations.
Is there an entrance fee for Koh Tan?
A small conservation or beach access fee may apply, typically around 100 to 200 THB per person, collected locally on arrival. This is separate from your charter price.
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