Congratulations, you’ve found Freedom Beach, one of Koh Tao’s most beautiful beaches with crystal clear water perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
In just a short swim, you’ll find a shallow coral reef teeming with marine life, and from shore you can spot the unique Old Thaa Toh, or Buddha Rock, standing tall on the headland.
Although Freedom Beach is private and has a small entrance fee, it’s one of those rare places where I think it’s worth paying.Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy one of Koh Tao’s most beautiful beaches.
Freedom Beach. Overview & Things to Know:
Freedom Beach is a secluded, sandy cove owned by the Relax Freedom Beach Resort (one of Koh Tao’s top resorts).
This makes it one of the few private beaches on Koh Tao, although it is well maintained and offers several other attractions and facilities.
- Location:South of Koh Tao, near Chalok Bay
- Access:Accessible by motorbike or taxi; a short walk from the parking lot to the beach
- Distance from SaireeAbout 15 minutes by motorbike
- For greatSwimming, snorkeling, scenic views and relaxing in a quieter, more beautiful location
- Entrance fee100 THB (also gives access to Taa Toh Bay and John Suwan Viewpoint)
- Amenities:Restaurant and small beach bar, toilets, shaded area, hammocks, beach chairs
- Motorcycle parking. Park your motorbike near Taa Toh Bay and walk 3 minutes to the beach
Hint: This beach faces almost directly west, which is great for sunsets. It’s also a sheltered spot to visit when the wind blows from the east. If it’s windy at Sairee, it’s likely to be windy at Freedom Beach to visit Aow Leuk Beach or Tanote Bay instead if that is the case.
How to get to Liberty Beach?
Liberty Beach is about a 10-15 minute drive from both Sairee Beach and Mae Haad Pier, which are located at the southern tip of Koh Tao on the main road that runs north-south through the island.
I recommend renting a motorbike (usually 250 THB per day) and driving yourself here or paying for a taxi.
Directions: As you head south and pass Chalok Village, look out for signs directing you to Jeon-Suwan Viewpoint; Freedom Beach is just around the corner.You can set directions to Taa Toh Lagoon Beach and park your bike there.
If you arrive early, you may not find anyone there to collect the entrance fee, and it’s worth noting that John-Suwan Viewpoint is a great sunrise spot. Just remember that both Freedom Beach and the viewpoint are guarded by the resort, so a small fee goes towards maintenance.
What to expect at Freedom Beach?
Freedom Beach is a white sand beach with the cleanest, powderiest sand on Koh Tao.
In my experience it is always well maintained by the resort with cleaners keeping it spotless.The beach has a shallow, sandy entrance which is perfect for snorkeling whether it is low tide or high tide at a really high tide and as you can see from the photos most of the beach was under water.
However, I recommend swimming a little further out to find a decent coral reef, and if you’re up for a little more adventure, the snorkeling at Buddha Rock is actually really good, I think because of the location near the tip , the currents bring large schools of fish and lots of nutrients for the corals.
Just note that it is a deeper area so make sure conditions are calm and you are comfortable in the water.
There are plenty of shady spots along the sand for a relaxing day, as well as some cool hammocks in the trees, which are included in the entrance fee.The resort’s beach chairs also seem fair game; I have used them without asking anyone extra.
There is also a restaurant near the resort, I didn’t eat there but my friends Jake and Georgie who stayed recently said the food was good, just a bit pricey as you would expect.
All in all, Liberty Beach is one of the best spots on Koh Tao if you’re taking a break from a chilly day at the beach and off shore for some great snorkeling.
What to do after Liberty Beach?
After a day at Freedom Beach, be sure to stop by John Tiff’s point of view. This is one of the best viewpoints on Koh Tao, offering spectacular views of both Chalok Baan Khao Bay and Shark Bay from the southernmost tip of the island.
You can get to the John Suwan Lookout by continuing on the unpaved road just behind the beach and climbing up a few boulders to the top.
Another must visit is just around the corner Shark Bay. Known for its great snorkeling, you can often spot tip sharks here, and I’ve almost always seen turtles roaming the bay too.Plus, there’s no entrance fee for Shark Bay, which is a bonus.
Check to complete the day 360 Viewpointa newer view bar located high above John Suwan and between Liberty Beach and Shark Bay entrance, you get a killer view of southern Koh Tao and a free drink. It’s easily one of the best views on Koh Tao and the perfect place to hang out , before returning to your hotel.
Check out my guide to the best things to do in Koh Tao for unique adventures and hidden gems you won’t want to miss.Oh, and if you haven’t made it to the island yet, here are some tips for getting to Koh Tao easily and affordably.