Why choose a hostel in Koh Tao?
Koh Tao has built its name on diving and snorkeling, drawing travellers from every corner of the world to its clear Gulf of Thailand waters. Sairee Beach is the island's longest stretch of sand, and Shark Bay offers reliable sightings of blacktip reef sharks in their natural habitat. The island moves at an easy pace, and keeping accommodation costs low means more budget for dive courses and water activities. Hostels in Koh Tao fit that approach well.
Shared dorms keep nightly costs well below what hotels or private rentals charge, freeing up money for experiences. Private rooms are available too, giving you more space without the premium of hotel-style stays. The social side is a genuine draw here. Common areas and communal kitchens put you around other divers and backpackers, making it easy to find a buddy for your next trip out to the reef.
How to find the best hostel deals in Koh Tao
Want to use the same magic that powers our award-winning flight search to find amazing room rates online? Try these tips to find the perfect stay and save in no time.
Book in advance
The sooner you book, the better. You're more likely to land a cheaper price on a hostel in Koh Tao and have a greater range of choice.
…or bag a last-minute Koh Tao hostel deal.
Prices tend to rise as your travel dates get closer. But in low season, last-minute offers can still pop up when hostels have rooms to fill.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
Cheap hostels can be easier to find if you're not tied to specific dates. Play around with different seasons or months, or go during the week instead of weekends to save money.
Where to base yourself in Koh Tao
Sairee Beach is where you'll find most hostels in Koh Tao, and it earns its place as the go-to area for first-time visitors. The main strip runs along a long stretch of sand and is lined with casual restaurants, beach bars, and dive shops. Getting around is easy on foot or by songthaew. Nights here stay lively, with open-air bars drawing a young, social crowd well into the evening. Mae Haad, the main ferry pier village, suits travellers who want to be close to boat connections and keep spending low. Small food stalls and local restaurants sit right on your doorstep. It's a short walk or ride to Sairee if you want the beach scene, but Mae Haad itself has a quieter pace. The right choice depends on whether you're after nightlife or an early start.
Best hostels in Koh Tao
Some hostels are better than others, and the ratings on Skyscanner help you compare. Every score is based on actual guest reviews, covering the things worth knowing before you book. Think location, service, cleanliness, value and overall experience.
Best all-rounder hostels
For a stay that ticks all the boxes, you can't go wrong with Tiger House Hostel Koh Tao. It gets glowing reviews for its cleanliness, location and service.
Wonderland Jungle Hostel is another option worth checking out. It earns strong ratings for its cleanliness, location and rooms.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
Tiger House Hostel Koh Tao is big on the little things. Guests rate this accommodation option as one of the best in the city for cleanliness. You'll find amenities like a games room and Wi-Fi.
Wonderland Jungle Hostel sets the same high standard, with guests giving it strong cleanliness ratings. Here you'll have access to a nightclub, a games room and more.
Hostels with the best customer service
Good hospitality goes a long way at Tiger House Hostel Koh Tao. This hostel in Koh Tao is highly rated for its customer service and comes with a games room and Wi-Fi.
Travellers also often highlight the customer service at Wonderland Jungle Hostel in their reviews. Billiards and a bar are some amenities on offer here.
Centrally located hostels
A convenient location is a big part of the appeal at Tiger House Hostel Koh Tao. With a lounge, a games room and plenty more, you get everything you need to settle in.
Or check out Wonderland Jungle Hostel. This well-located stay features a pool and billiards.
Hostels close to Ko Tao Deep Diving
With Ko Tao Deep Diving on the agenda, Tiger House Hostel Koh Tao makes a smart base. This hostel in Koh Tao features a lounge and Wi-Fi.
Another solid option a short distance from this attraction is Koh Tao Silver Na’s Hostel. This hostel comes with amenities like a lounge and a laundry.
Paradise View Point Koh Tao hostels
Spend more time exploring at De Coco Hostel Koh Tao. This hostel in Koh Tao comes with tour services, a nightclub and more.
Staying close to this well-known sight is just as easy at Malila Sea Breeze Hostel. There are amenities like parking and an outdoor swimming pool here.
