Koh Tao is the third of a chain of islands after Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, extending out into the gulf of Thailand. Situated around 500 km south of Bangkok, Koh Tao is a "picture postcard" tropical getaway.

Formally a penal colony, Koh Tao is now world famous for its scuba diving and stunning beaches, with thousands of visitors arriving every year.

The island is just 21 km², but is blessed with golden beaches and stunning bays. The "capital" of Koh Tao is Mae Haad, where all boats arrive and depart from.

In Mae Haad Square you can find the post office, money exchange, shops, internet cafes, supermarkets and numerous restaurants.

The Koh Tao Dive Center @ Crystal Dive Resort is also in Mae Haad, in the heart of the square.

Unlike neighbouring Koh Samui and Koh Phangan, Koh Tao remained untouched by tourism for many years.....

Then, in the late 1980's the first Samui based dive operators began running overnight live-aboard trips and were amazed by what they saw.

Crystal clear waters boasting a splendid array of colour and coral reefs alive with an incredible diversity of marine life.

Soon dive operations began re-locating to Koh Tao realizing they had uncovered a wealth of untouched beauty.