Full Day Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan Samui

This Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan day trip goes by speedboat from Koh Samui to two of the Gulf of Thailand’s best spots for clear water and snorkelling. Koh Nang Yuan is three small islets joined by a white sandbar, with a viewpoint that is one of the most photographed in Thailand. Koh Tao is world-famous for diving and has colourful shallow reefs that are perfect for snorkelling.

Updated October 2026 by the Phuket Dream Company team (TAT licensed).

Please note: this is a day trip from Koh Samui, with pickup from Samui hotels. If you are staying in Phuket, Koh Tao is on the opposite coast and too far for a day trip. Ask our team about a multi-day Samui and Koh Tao stay instead.

Highlights

• A Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan day trip by speedboat, with hotel pickup on Koh Samui.
• Snorkelling in Koh Tao’s shallow coral bays.
• The Koh Nang Yuan sandbar and the hike to its famous viewpoint.
• Lunch on Koh Nang Yuan.
• Plenty of free time to swim or simply relax.

What to expect on the Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan day trip

1. Morning pickup from your hotel in Lamai, Chaweng, Bophut, Maenam or nearby (times in the table below).
2. Light breakfast at the pier, then board the speedboat.
3. Short stop at Koh Phangan to collect other guests joining the same tour.
4. Koh Tao – swimming and snorkelling in clear, shallow bays.
5. Koh Nang Yuan – lunch, then time to swim and snorkel off the sandbar or climb to the viewpoint.
6. Return to Koh Samui in the late afternoon and transfer back to your hotel.

The speedboat crossing from Samui takes roughly 1.5–2 hours each way, depending on the sea. The order of stops may change with the weather.

About Koh Nang Yuan

Koh Nang Yuan sits just off the north-west tip of Koh Tao. It is privately run and charges its own entrance fee, which is not included in the tour price and is paid in cash at the pier. To protect the reef, the island has strict rules:

• No single-use plastic bottles or bags can be brought onto the island – bring a refillable bottle.
• Swim fins are usually not allowed in the snorkelling area by the sandbar.
• Don’t touch or stand on coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen.

The viewpoint climb is short (about 15–25 minutes) but steep, with wooden steps and some rock scrambling at the top. Wear proper footwear rather than flip-flops.

Best time to go

The Gulf of Thailand has a different weather pattern from Phuket. Calm seas are most likely from about February to September. From late October to December the north-east monsoon brings the roughest seas and heaviest rain, and boat trips can be cancelled at short notice.

What to bring

• Swimwear, towel and a change of clothes.
• Reef-safe sunscreen, hat and sunglasses.
• Trainers or sturdy sandals for the viewpoint.
• Cash for the Koh Nang Yuan entrance fee, drinks and tips.
• A refillable water bottle (no plastic bottles on Koh Nang Yuan).

FAQ

Can I do a Koh Tao day trip from Phuket?
No. Koh Tao is in the Gulf of Thailand, on the other side of the country from Phuket. This tour departs from Koh Samui.

Is the Koh Nang Yuan entrance fee included?
No. It is paid in cash on arrival. Our team will confirm the current amount when you book.

How long is the speedboat ride?
Around 1.5–2 hours each way from Koh Samui, depending on sea conditions and the stop at Koh Phangan.

Is the trip suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes. Life jackets are provided, and you can relax on the beach instead of snorkelling.

Is it suitable for pregnant women or people with back problems?
Speedboat trips can be bumpy and are generally not recommended. Ask our team about calmer options.

What happens if the sea is too rough?
Safety comes first. The operator may change the route or cancel, and our team will help you rebook or arrange a refund under the booking terms.

How to book

Book online on this page. Our team then confirms availability with the operator and stays in touch on WhatsApp (+66 95 038 5535) with your pickup time.

GDM: Samui: Full day trip
Koh Tao & Koh Nang Yuan
by speedboat
*Operate Everyday*
*This price is from 1 January 2025 – 30 November 2025*
Pickup from Koh Samui (in the area)

Pickup Time Transfer (Area 1.)

*All price NOT Include for National Park Fee*
(Pay at he the pier)