Old Wong Bay, located on the eastern side of Koh Tao, just opposite Saire, is one of the best places on the island for snorkeling. Its remote location means fewer crowds, making it an ideal escape for a peaceful day by the water.
With a few small restaurants, a pier and calm, sheltered waters, it’s one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao, especially if the wind is strong on the west coast.
In this guide, I’ll show you how to get to Hin Wong Bay, what to expect when you arrive, and my favorite snorkeling spots to explore.
Hin Wong Bay Overview:
Old Wong Bay is easy to reach by scooter, with a fully sealed road leading up to the bay from Sairee. However, the road is steep and winding, so it’s best to have experience riding a bike before driving.
If you are not sure about the scooter, don’t worry. Depending on the conditions, Koh Tao snorkeling usually includes Hin Wong Bay as a stop. Also, many dive boats leave here when the wind makes it difficult to leave Sair, so if you’re doing a dive course or fun dive, you can Have you strolled here to jump on your dive boat?
- Location:East side of Koh Tao, the cove directly across the island from Sairee.
- Access:On the steep Sairee to Hin Wong Bay road, follow it to the end where there is a motorbike parking lot.
- Entrance fee50 THB for motorcycle parking.
- Amenities:A small wooden pier giving access to boats, a few small restaurants and reggae bars offering food, drinks and toilets.
- BeachThe small sandy beach is private property. there is no entrance fee but they ask you to buy something if you use the beach which i’m not a big fan of but it is what it is.
How to get to Old Wong Bay?
You can either take a speed boat or taxi for about 300 THB or board yourself here for a more adventurous trip. To start, take the main road from Sairee Beach (same road as 995 Duck, one of my favorite places to eat in Koh Tao). one) and follow it to the end.
The road will turn left and begin to climb a steep hill with several switchbacks.Continue to the Mango Bay turnoff on your left and Fraggle Rock Viewpoint on your right.
Keep going and the path gets pretty steep as you descend to Old Wong Bay, so take it slow, but trust me, the views of the turquoise waters and palm fringed shores make this one of my favorite walks on the island.
You will soon reach a large clearing where you can park your motorbike. There is usually a guy at a small desk where you have to pay 50 THB to park. From here, walk to the makeshift ‘pier’ next to the restaurant.
Snorkeling in Old Wong Bay
It’s no secret that Old Wong Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on Koh Tao.
You can snorkel right off the dock or head down to the beach.
The beach is on the north side of the bay (on the left) accessed by a small road past the reggae bar.There are small beach chairs and cushions to sit on and although it’s free, they do ask for something to buy. , if you use the beach facilities.
Snorkeling at the southern end of Old Wong Bay
The southern end is the best place for snorkeling in Old Wong Bay. You can easily access the water from the jetty. I have visited Old Wong many times and usually just leave my stuff at the dock with no problem.
Once you’re in the water, swim to the right and examine the huge boulders.
in 5-8 meter depth rangeYou will find some great swimming paths under the rocks, but be careful. they can be a bit tricky if you are not experienced.
Around the rocks you will also find patches of healthy coral and if you continue up the coast you will reach better spots. This area is also known as the Old Wong Bay dive site, a shallow place with a maximum depth of about 18 meters, but you can dive and still see all the best spots on the site if you can dive down.
Snorkeling from Old Wong Beach
You can access Old Wong Beach by walking past the reggae bar, just be careful. there are two naughty dogs hanging around that can bite but they usually leave you alone if you don’t bother them.You will see the beach from the pier and although I think the cove is better at the south end of the bay, the north end near the beach is still good place to study.
This area contains some large rocks, although I haven’t found any cool swims like on the south side. That said, you’ll often see large schools of fish passing through, and it’s common to spot fish in the shallows. Turtles and sharks here are rare, but may occur occasionally.
Hint:If it’s windy on the Saiyan side of Koh Tao, dive boats tend to flock to Hin Wong Bay for shelter, so it can get a bit busy. If you find it too crowded, head to Aow Leuk Beach or Tanote Bay for more relaxed snorkeling.
Marine life in Old Wong Bay
- Blue Spotted StingrayOften seen near sandy bottoms or hiding under coral ledges.
- Parrot fishA colorful fish that grazes on coral, leaving sandy tracks.
- Fish fishBeware of these guys; they can be a bit territorial around their nests.
- Anemonefish (clown)Often found around anemones nesting in coral.
- Brain coralLarge, round coral formations provide a home for a variety of small marine species.
Can you stay at Hin Wong Bay?
Yes, you can stay there Hin Wong Bay Apartmentswhich offers sea view apartments. And since it’s a dive school, you’ll also have the chance to get your open water certification.
While the location is convenient if you want to be right by the water, the reviews aren’t the best and there are better options for accommodation on Koh Tao.
If you’re wondering where to stay on Koh Tao and want to be close to the main activities and beaches, choose a stay near Sairee Beach.
However, other great options include Mae Haad, or for a more secluded atmosphere, check out the southern beaches or even the east coast around Tanote Bay. Below are my top picks.
1. Jamakhiri Resort & Spa Luxury
A wonderful luxury dive resort in a quiet and secluded location on the beach of Shark Bay, away from the hustle and bustle.
2. Fandara Pool Villas Medium range
A luxury villa option for those who want their own kitchen and pool.Located on the hill to Wooden Rock Viewpoint.
3. Summer guest house Budget:
Located within walking distance of the dive shops and pubs on Saire Beach, this is the cheapest hostel option with a great atmosphere.
I hope this guide to visiting Hin Wong Bay on Koh Tao has helped you plan a great snorkeling or beach day trip.
Check out my guide to the best things to do on Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.