Koh Tao is a small, beautiful island in the Gulf of Thailand, renowned for its clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back vibe. It is a paradise for divers, snorkellers, and beach lovers, attracting travellers from all over the world. Whether you are visiting for an underwater adventure or to enjoy its tropical charm, finding the best hostels in Koh Tao can make your stay even more memorable.
Hostels on Koh Tao cater to a variety of travellers, from budget-conscious backpackers to those seeking a more luxurious experience. They are not just a place to sleep but a hub where you can meet fellow travellers, share stories, and create lasting memories. The island is home to hostels that range from lively social hubs to peaceful retreats.
What makes Koh Tao hostels special is their focus on community and comfort. Many hostels offer organised activities like group dinners, diving courses, and beach yoga. This makes it easy to meet people while enjoying your stay. The staff in these hostels are often locals or long-term expats who know the island well and can offer great recommendations.
Location is another highlight of hostels in Koh Tao. Most are conveniently situated near popular beaches, dive centres, and lively nightlife spots. Whether you want to wake up to ocean views, explore the best dive sites, or simply relax, there is a hostel that fits your preferences.
Staying in a hostel on Koh Tao is about more than saving money. It is about immersing yourself in the island’s unique culture and forming connections with like-minded travellers. Choosing the right hostel will enhance your experience and help you make the most of your time on this stunning island.
Here are the main backpacker districts in Koh Tao:
- Sairee Beach: The most popular area for backpackers, known for its lively nightlife, stunning beach, and great range of hostels, bars, and restaurants. It’s the perfect spot if you love socialising and staying close to the action.
- Mae Haad: This is where the ferry arrives, making it a convenient spot for travellers. It has a mix of affordable hostels, dive centres, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Sairee Beach.
- Chalok Baan Kao: A quieter alternative for backpackers who prefer a laid-back vibe. This area offers peaceful beaches, cosy hostels, and a chance to experience Koh Tao away from the party scene.
- Ao Leuk: Ideal for those seeking a more secluded experience. It’s home to stunning beaches and an opportunity to enjoy snorkelling or relaxing in nature.
- Tanote Bay: A tranquil escape with fewer crowds, this area appeals to travellers looking for picturesque views, great snorkelling spots, and a more relaxed pace of life.
General Information on Hostels in Koh Tao
Koh Tao’s hostels are an ideal choice for travellers looking to experience the island’s beauty on a budget. These hostels here cater to all styles, from lively social spaces to peaceful retreats.
Here are a few things you should consider before booking a hostel in Koh Tao:
Price - Hostels in Koh Tao are very affordable, offering excellent value for money. Dorm beds are available for as little as €8 per night, with more upscale options going up to €30. Private rooms provide more comfort and privacy, with prices ranging between €30 and €75, depending on the location and amenities.
Location - Most hostels are situated in convenient areas close to beaches, dive centres, and nightlife. Sairee Beach is perfect for those wanting a lively atmosphere, while Chalok Baan Kao and Ao Leuk offer more peaceful surroundings. Whatever your preference, there is a location that suits your needs.
Amenities and Services - Koh Tao hostels are well-equipped with modern conveniences to make your stay comfortable. Many offer free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, swimming pools, and organised activities like yoga or diving trips. Social events such as barbecues and pub crawls are common, creating an atmosphere where it’s easy to connect with others.
Staff - The staff in Koh Tao hostels are known for their warmth and helpfulness. Whether they are locals or seasoned travellers, they bring a personal touch to your stay. They can help with everything from booking dive trips to recommending the best spots to eat and explore, ensuring you feel at home.
Best Hostels in Koh Tao - Quick Answers
Here's a summary of the best hostels in Koh Tao organized into different categories:
- Overall Best Hostel in Koh Tao - Savage Hostel
- Best Cheap Hostel in Koh Tao - Summer Hostel Koh Tao
- Best Party Hostel in Koh Tao - Islander Hostel
- Best Hostel in Koh Tao for Couples - Savage Hostel
- Best Hostel in Koh Tao for Digital Nomads - Deishaview Jungle
- Best Hostel in Koh Tao for Solo Female Travellers - The Dearly Koh Tao
The Best Hostels in Koh Tao, Thailand
Here’s my comprehensive guide to the 10 best hostels in Koh Tao:
1. Savage Hostel Koh Tao
Savage Hostel Koh Tao is a stylish accommodation located in the heart of Sairee Beach, offering direct access to the island's most popular attractions. Its modern design and vibrant atmosphere make it a favourite among travellers seeking both comfort and a social environment. The hostel's unique feature is its rooftop pool and bar, providing stunning views of the ocean and a perfect spot to unwind. With its prime location and excellent amenities, Savage Hostel is an ideal choice for those looking to experience the best of Koh Tao.
The hostel offers a variety of rooms to suit different preferences. Guests can choose from designer pods in shared dormitories, private rooms, or the more luxurious Savage Suites. All accommodations are equipped with comfortable bedding and modern facilities to ensure a pleasant stay.
Savage Hostel provides a range of services and facilities to enhance the guest experience. These include a delicious on-site restaurant, a rooftop swimming pool with a bar-lounge offering sublime views, a pool table for entertainment, and multiple chill-out zones for relaxation. Additionally, the hostel boasts high-speed Wi-Fi accessible throughout the property.
Quick Overview of Savage Hostel Koh Tao
- Rooftop swimming pool with panoramic ocean views
- On-site restaurant serving a variety of dishes
- Designer pods and private rooms with comfortable bedding
- Central location near bars, cafés, and dive schools
- High-speed Wi-Fi available throughout the hostel
- Regular social events and activities for guests
Dorm beds from €19, Private rooms from €66
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
2. Wonderland Jungle Hostel
Wonderland Jungle Hostel is situated in the lush hillside jungles of Koh Tao, offering guests a tranquil retreat just a short three-minute drive from the pier. The hostel exudes a warm and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of community among travellers. Its unique setting provides stunning panoramic views of the island, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both relaxation and social interaction.
The hostel's design harmoniously blends with its natural surroundings, creating a serene environment that encourages guests to unwind and connect with nature. The rooftop terrace serves as a central gathering point, featuring comfortable seating and spaces for social activities. This combination of natural beauty and thoughtful design makes Wonderland Jungle Hostel a standout choice for visitors to Koh Tao.
Guests can choose from spacious dormitory rooms equipped with air conditioning, personal lockers, and comfortable bedding to ensure a restful night's sleep. The accommodations are designed with the traveller's comfort in mind, providing a cosy and secure environment.
Wonderland Jungle Hostel offers a range of amenities to enhance the guest experience, including a fully equipped guest kitchen, free water refill stations, and a rooftop bar. The hostel also organises activities such as sunrise meditation sessions and weekly island tours, providing opportunities for guests to engage and explore.
Quick Overview of Wonderland Jungle Hostel
- Rooftop terrace with panoramic island views
- Fully equipped guest kitchen available 24/7
- Organised activities, including sunrise meditation and island tours
- Proximity to a local restaurant offering diverse Thai cuisine
- Eco-friendly practices, including free water refill stations
- Community-focused atmosphere fostering connections among travellers
Dorm beds from €30, Private rooms from €75
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
3. Deishaview Jungle Hostel
Deishaview Jungle Hostel is perched atop a hill in Koh Tao's lush jungle, offering guests breathtaking panoramic views of the island and ocean. Its secluded location provides a peaceful retreat, ideal for travellers seeking tranquillity away from the bustling tourist areas. The hostel fosters a warm and communal atmosphere, encouraging social interaction among guests.
The hostel's unique setting requires a short walk through the jungle and ascending approximately 100 steps, adding a sense of adventure to your stay. This distinctive approach enhances the feeling of being immersed in nature, making it a memorable experience for those who appreciate the outdoors. Deishaview's commitment to creating a community-focused environment makes it a standout choice for travellers seeking meaningful connections.
Deishaview offers dormitory-style accommodations, including 8-bed, 9-bed, and 16-bed mixed dorms. Each bed is equipped with a power socket, reading light, and towel. All dorms are air-conditioned, and en-suite bathrooms are available in certain dorms. Please note that the showers provide cold water.
The hostel boasts a spacious common area with comfortable seating, a pool table, a 55" TV with Chromecast, and a Nintendo Wii for entertainment. Guests can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property, as well as complimentary instant coffee, tea, and drinking water available 24/7. The on-site bar and restaurant serve delicious food and drinks throughout the day.
Quick Overview of Deishaview Jungle Hostel
- Panoramic views of Koh Tao and neighbouring islands
- Spacious common area with various entertainment options
- Organised activities, including scuba diving and yoga
- Free Wi-Fi and complimentary beverages available 24/7
- On-site bar and restaurant serving delicious meals
- Community-focused atmosphere encouraging social interaction
Dorm beds from €19
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
4. Summer Hostel Koh Tao
Summer Hostel Koh Tao is conveniently located in the heart of Koh Tao, providing easy access to the island's main attractions, including beaches, restaurants, and dive centres. The hostel offers a warm and social atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking both comfort and community. Its spacious common areas encourage interaction among guests, fostering a sense of camaraderie.
The hostel's design focuses on simplicity and functionality, ensuring a comfortable stay without unnecessary frills. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained facilities, which contribute to a pleasant experience. The combination of affordability and quality services makes Summer Hostel a popular choice among budget-conscious travellers.
Summer Hostel's commitment to guest satisfaction is evident in its attentive staff, who are always ready to assist with travel plans and local recommendations. This personalised service enhances the overall experience, making it a standout option for those visiting Koh Tao.
The hostel offers three 6-bed air-conditioned dorm rooms, each equipped with an en-suite bathroom featuring a hot shower. Additionally, there is a 6-bed air-conditioned dorm and an 8-bed fan dorm, both sharing newly renovated bathroom facilities with multiple toilets and hot showers. Each bed includes a personal light, power socket, and secure locker for personal belongings.
Guests can enjoy a large common area furnished with bean bags, a refrigerator, and essential dining utensils. The hostel provides a kitchen equipped with a microwave, toaster, and both hot and cold water. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and towels are available for hire.
Quick Overview of Summer Hostel Koh Tao
- Central location with easy access to beaches and amenities
- Spacious common area with comfortable seating
- Fully equipped kitchen for guest use
- Personal light and power socket for each bed
- Secure lockers for personal belongings
- Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the hostel
Dorm beds from €8, Private rooms from €42
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
5. Revolution Koh Tao
Revolution Koh Tao is centrally located, just 200 metres from the beautiful Sairee Beach, placing guests within easy reach of the island's vibrant nightlife and stunning coastline. The hostel exudes a lively and social atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking both adventure and community. Its proximity to popular attractions ensures that guests can fully immerse themselves in the local scene.
The hostel is renowned for its engaging social events, including boat parties, pool gatherings, and group hikes, fostering a sense of camaraderie among guests. The communal areas are designed to encourage interaction, with activities like beer pong and nightly events enhancing the social experience. This vibrant setting makes Revolution Koh Tao a standout choice for those looking to connect with fellow travellers.
Revolution Koh Tao offers discounted diving packages with multiple companies, catering to both novice and experienced divers. The staff are dedicated to assisting guests in booking various activities, ensuring a personalised and memorable stay. This commitment to guest satisfaction, combined with the hostel's dynamic environment, makes it a top choice for visitors to Koh Tao.
Accommodation options include 6-bed mixed dormitories and private double rooms, all featuring en-suite bathrooms. Each bed is equipped with personal reading lights and power sockets, ensuring comfort and convenience for every guest.
Facilities at the hostel encompass a shared lounge, a terrace, and an on-site restaurant and bar. Guests benefit from free Wi-Fi throughout the property, complimentary family dinners each evening, and the availability of snorkel and beach towel rentals at reception.
Quick Overview of Revolution Koh Tao
- Prime location, 200 metres from Sairee Beach
- Engaging social events, including boat and pool parties
- Discounted diving packages with reputable companies
- Complimentary nightly family dinners
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
Dorm beds from €28, Private rooms from €69
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
6. The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel-5 Star PADI Dive Resort
The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel is located in the tranquil Chalok Baan Kao area, offering a peaceful retreat while still being close to the island's attractions. The hostel exudes a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy for guests to connect and share experiences. Its unique feature as a 5-star PADI Dive Resort allows guests to explore the underwater beauty of Koh Tao directly from their accommodation. This combination of serene location and diving opportunities makes it an excellent choice for travellers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
The hostel's design blends modern comfort with eco-friendly practices, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Guests can enjoy communal spaces like the rooftop terrace, which offers stunning views and a perfect spot to unwind. The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel's dedication to creating a community-focused environment enhances the overall experience, making it a standout option for visitors to the island.
Operated by friendly Thai locals, the hostel provides a genuine and warm experience, ensuring guests feel at home. The staff's local knowledge and passion for the island add a personal touch, helping guests discover hidden gems and make the most of their stay. This personalised service, combined with the hostel's amenities, contributes to its reputation as a top choice for travellers.
Accommodation options include both shared dormitories and private rooms, all designed with comfort in mind. Each room features air conditioning, comfortable bedding, and access to balconies, providing a cosy and relaxing environment for guests.
The hostel offers a range of facilities to enhance the guest experience, including a swimming pool, common rooms, and rooftop terraces. As an eco-friendly establishment, it operates sustainably with its own solar cells, generator, and water storage and treatment systems, ensuring 24/7 utilities.
Quick Overview of The Dearly Koh Tao
- On-site 5-star PADI Dive Centre
- Eco-friendly operations with sustainable utilities
- Swimming pool for relaxation
- Rooftop terraces with stunning views
- Common rooms fostering social interaction
- Operated by friendly Thai locals offering personalised service
Dorm beds from €15, Private rooms from €49
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
7. Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant
Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant is conveniently located just a five-minute walk from Sairee Beach, offering easy access to both the serene daytime beach scene and the vibrant nightlife. The hostel boasts a lively and social atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for travellers looking to meet new people and enjoy group activities. Its on-site Mexican restaurant adds a unique flavour, providing a delightful alternative to traditional Thai cuisine.
The hostel's proximity to various shops and restaurants makes it a convenient base for exploring Koh Tao. Guests can enjoy breathtaking sunset views from the two garden terraces and the expansive rooftop, perfect for unwinding after a day of adventure. The combination of comfortable accommodations and engaging social events makes Taco Shack a popular choice among backpackers.
Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant also offers diving courses through Taco Divers, allowing guests to discover the underwater beauty of Koh Tao. The friendly staff are dedicated to ensuring a memorable stay, assisting with activity bookings and providing local insights. This all-in-one approach makes it a standout option for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Accommodation options include mixed air-conditioned dorm rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each bed features a comfortable mattress, personal power outlets, a nightlight, and a phone holder, ensuring a restful and convenient stay.
Facilities encompass fast free Wi-Fi throughout the building, hot showers, and metal lockers for security. The rooms have balconies with fantastic sea views, and the on-site restaurant serves delicious Mexican cuisine with an island twist.
Quick Overview of Taco Shack Diving Hostel
- Proximity to Sairee Beach and local amenities
- On-site Mexican restaurant offering unique cuisine
- Breathtaking sunset views from the rooftop and terraces
- Diving courses available through Taco Divers
- Engaging in social events and group activities
- Comfortable dorms with personal amenities
Dorm beds from €14, Private rooms from €33
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
8. Islander Hostel & Dive School
Islander Hostel & Dive School is centrally located in Mae Haad, just a two-minute walk from the main pier, making it easily accessible for travellers arriving by boat. The hostel offers a vibrant and social atmosphere, ideal for those looking to meet fellow adventurers. Its on-site dive school, Finsanity Dive School, provides guests with the opportunity to explore Koh Tao's underwater beauty, enhancing the overall experience.
The hostel's proximity to Sairee Beach and various local attractions allows guests to immerse themselves in the island's offerings. The communal areas, including a central open patio shaded by a tree canopy and a lounge with bean bags and a projector screen, encourage social interaction among guests. This combination of location and community-focused design makes Islander Hostel a popular choice for backpackers.
Finsanity Dive School, situated within the hostel, boasts brand-new diving equipment and utilises the facilities of a 5-star resort. With flexible boat schedules and luxury classrooms, the dive school ensures a stress-free and enjoyable learning environment. This integration of accommodation and diving instruction makes Islander Hostel & Dive School a standout option for diving enthusiasts.
The hostel features spacious air-conditioned dormitories with 10 to 12 beds, each equipped with two electrical outlets for charging devices and personal night lamps. Secure lockers are provided for personal belongings, and the comfortable mattresses ensure a restful sleep.
Facilities include multiple hot showers and toilets, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site bar and restaurant offering affordable Thai and Western cuisine. Guests can also enjoy free drinking water refills to reduce plastic waste, and participate in weekly beer pong tournaments and other social events.
Quick Overview of Islander Hostel
- On-site Finsanity Dive School with brand-new equipment
- Utilisation of 5-star resort facilities for dive courses
- Central location near Mae Haad Pier and Sairee Beach
- Spacious dormitories with personal charging outlets
- Affordable on-site bar and restaurant with daily happy hours
- Engaging social events, including beer pong tournaments
Dorm beds from €14
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
9. CK Hostel
CK Hostel is situated in the lively Central Sairee Crossroads, placing guests within a short walk of Sairee Beach, various bars, international and Thai restaurants, and shops. This prime location makes it an excellent choice for travellers seeking to be at the heart of Koh Tao's vibrant scene. The hostel fosters a fun and social atmosphere, encouraging guests to connect and share experiences.
The hostel's design focuses on comfort and convenience, offering a range of accommodations to suit different traveller preferences. Its proximity to the beach and local amenities ensures that guests have easy access to both relaxation and entertainment options. CK Hostel's commitment to customer service and creating a welcoming environment makes it a standout choice for visitors to Koh Tao.
Guests appreciate the hostel's efforts to maintain a clean and comfortable setting, with attentive staff ready to assist with any needs. The combination of a central location, social atmosphere, and dedicated service contributes to a memorable stay for those exploring the island.
CK Hostel offers a variety of accommodations, including private double rooms and dormitories ranging from 6 to 20 beds. All rooms are equipped with 24/7 air conditioning, lockers, and hot showers. Private rooms also feature a television, fridge, and private bathroom.
Facilities include free Wi-Fi throughout the property, a shared lounge area for socialising, and an on-site bar and restaurant serving both international and Thai cuisine. Guests can also take advantage of the tour desk and luggage storage services.
Quick Overview of CK Hostel
- Prime location near Sairee Beach and local amenities
- Variety of room options to suit different traveller needs
- 24/7 air conditioning in all rooms
- On-site bar and restaurant offering diverse cuisine
- Shared lounge area fostering social interaction
- Tour desk and luggage storage services for convenience
Dorm beds from €11, Private rooms from €33
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
10. Good Dream Hotel
Good Dream Hotel is centrally located, just a two-minute walk from Sairee Beach and the bustling town centre, providing guests with easy access to essential amenities and attractions. The hotel offers a friendly and welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for travellers seeking comfort and convenience. Its proximity to the beach and local shops ensures that guests can fully enjoy the vibrant surroundings.
The hotel's design caters to a variety of budgets, offering both dormitory and private rooms to accommodate different preferences. Guests appreciate the clean and well-maintained facilities, which contribute to a pleasant stay. The communal area provides an excellent space for meeting fellow travellers, fostering a sense of community among guests.
Good Dream Hotel's courteous and informative staff, proficient in English, are always ready to assist guests, enhancing the overall experience. Their dedication to customer service ensures that visitors feel at home and well-supported during their stay. This commitment to guest satisfaction makes Good Dream Hotel a standout choice for those visiting Koh Tao.
The hotel offers seven different room types across three main buildings, ranging from basic private rooms with fans to deluxe double rooms with balconies. All rooms are equipped with amenities such as en-suite bathrooms, TVs with cable satellite, digital safety boxes, and hot showers.
Facilities include a communal area for socialising, a climbing frame for exercise, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel also provides luggage storage and tour booking services to assist guests in exploring the island.
Quick Overview of Good Dream Hotel
- Prime location, just a two-minute walk to Sairee Beach and town centre
- Variety of room types to suit different budgets
- Friendly and informative English-speaking staff
- Communal area for socialising
- Climbing frame for exercise
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the property
Dorm beds from €12, Private rooms from €30
Check Prices on Hostelworld!
Final Thoughts on the Best Hostels in Koh Tao
Koh Tao is an island that promises adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Choosing from the best hostels in Koh Tao ensures you make the most of your experience, whether you are exploring its famous dive sites, enjoying the vibrant nightlife, or soaking up the serene beaches. These hostels provide more than just a place to sleep; they create a sense of community and make your trip even more special.
Hostels in Koh Tao cater to a variety of travellers, from solo backpackers to groups of friends and couples. With options ranging from lively social hubs to tranquil spots near secluded beaches, you are sure to find one that matches your travel style. Staying in a hostel also gives you the chance to connect with other travellers, share stories, and even plan adventures together.
The affordability of hostels on Koh Tao means you can stretch your travel budget further while still enjoying clean, comfortable accommodation. Many hostels go above and beyond with thoughtful amenities like free Wi-Fi, organised activities, and helpful staff who are always ready to share tips on making the most of your stay. They offer a great balance of value, comfort, and convenience.
Koh Tao’s hostels are a reflection of the island’s welcoming vibe and laid-back charm. No matter which hostel you choose, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s unique culture, enjoy its natural beauty, and meet like-minded travellers. With so many excellent options, finding the perfect place to stay is easy, leaving you free to focus on creating memories that last a lifetime.
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