How to get to Mango Bay Koh Tao and where to snorkel

Mango Bay is one of Koh Tao’s most remote beaches, tucked away on the far north coast and untouched by the crowds of Sairee.

Known as one of the best snorkeling spots on the island, with crystal clear waters, healthy corals and marine life, you can reach Mango Bay by long boat, snorkeling tour, or if you’re feeling adventurous, ride a motorbike or walk there.

In this guide, I will show you exactly How to get to Mango Bay?what to expect when you arrive and share some of my favorite snorkeling spots in the area.

Mango Bay Overview:

Mango Bay, or: Aow Muang:is a large, sheltered bay at the northern end of Koh Tao with the clearest, turquoise waters you’ll find on the island.

Its small white beach and coral reefs on either side make it a prime spot for snorkeling. Getting here can be a real adventure if you ride a motorcycle as the road is steep and rough, best for experienced riders no, you can hop on a daily snorkeling tour that also stops at Mango Bay and nearby Lighthouse Bay and Koh Nang Yuan.

  • Location:The northernmost bay on Koh Tao.
  • Access:By motorbike or trekking, turning off the road from Sairee to Hin Wong Bay to Mango Bay.Or by boat from Sairee.
  • Best forSnorkeling, clear water and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • SnorkelingCoral reefs on both sides of the bay, the best spots are on the east side of the bay (details below).
  • Entrance fee. 100 THB per person payable at Mango Bay Resort
  • Amenities:A small resort cafe with food, drinks and toilets
Beach at Mango BayBeach at Mango BayBeach at Mango Bay
Mango Bay is one of the best beaches on Koh Tao.Although it is remote, it is popular for snorkeling and diving boats.

How to get to Mango Bay?

If you are confident with a motorcycle, I would recommend going to Mango Bay. it’s a bit of an adventure, but worth it.However, note that the road is one of the steepest on Koh Tao, with some unsealed and bumpy sections, so only try it if you’re comfortable with a scooter.

Start by taking the main road out of Sairee (same road as 995 Duck) towards Hin Wong Bay.

After a few sharp turns, look for a turn off to the left with signs pointing to Jim’s Bar and the summit view. This is the road to Mango Bay. If you don’t feel confident on the bike, you can leave it at the turn and walk the rest of the way.

The road starts off bumpy but soon turns to a newly paved concrete road.It is narrow and steep so take it slow.

Finally, you will come to a small bar called “Tar Bar” where you can have snacks or gas if necessary. At this point the road splits. take the right fork and continue to Mango Bay.

The left fork leads to Vine Lookout and other amazing Koh Tao views like Summit View.If you have time, you can even take a nice walk to Top Point or Grandfather Rock Bay for stunning views of Koh Nan Yuan.

However, to reach Mango Bay, stay to the right. The road now descends steeply. Ignore the right turn at Lighthouse Bay and continue until you reach Mango Bay Resort, where the road ends.

Jungle Road on Koh Tao IslandJungle Road on Koh Tao IslandJungle Road on Koh Tao Island
The road is steep but manageable if you are confident with a scooter or motorbike.

Here you have to pay a small entrance fee before going down to the beach (about 300 meters).

Once on the beach, you’ll be free to relax, explore and breathe in one of Koh Tao’s most beautiful and secluded spots.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Mango Bay

There are two main snorkeling areas in Mango Bay. The most popular and “safe” spot is the eastern side of the bay, where a roped section stretches several hundred meters along the shore. While Mango Bay is secluded, most of the island’s boat tours stop here, so it can get a little busy at times.

The eastern side offers huge rock formations for fun swimming, and the depth drops quickly to about 20 meters, making it great for freediving. You’ll find healthy patches of coral and plenty of marine life.

While I haven’t personally spotted one, I’ve heard of blacktip sharks hanging around the rocks, and it’s common to see turtles in the area as well.

The area on the west side of the bay is less protected by ropes, but I’ve poked around the coast here and found some incredible rock formations, coral reefs and schools of fish.

Hint: I recommend snorkeling in the 5-10 meter depth range at Mango Bay. This is where the corals are the healthiest and there is the most marine life. There are no corals in the shallows near the beach, so swim along the rocky shore. :

Fish in Thailand coralFish in Thailand coralFish in Thailand coral

Marine life, you can spot snorkeling at Mango Bay

  • Parrot fishA brightly colored fish that often feeds on coral, it is easy to spot along the coast.
  • BannerfishLong fins with black and white stripes, often found in small schools near coral formations.
  • AngelfishLarge and graceful, usually seen gliding around rocks.
  • Wrasses:A small, colorful fish that flies in and out of crevices in the coral.
  • Groupers:Often hidden near reefs, these large, slow-moving fish are common in deeper areas.
  • Butterfly fishBright yellow and black fish that travel in pairs feeding on coral.
  • TurtlesUsually seen in the deeper parts of the bay.
  • Staghorn CoralBranching corals that provide habitat for many smaller fish species.
  • Brain coralRounded coral formations that resemble a brain, often found in deeper waters.
Bubble fish in coralBubble fish in coralBubble fish in coral

Can you stay at Mango Bay?

Yes, you can stay at Mango Bay Boutique Resort, which is located right out of the ocean on the north coast of Koh Tao, it’s one of the most secluded places to stay on the island, making it perfect if you’re after a vacation where you’re truly away from it all.

Features of the hotelThe resort offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with sea views, perfect for soaking up the beauty of the bay. You’ll have direct access to the clear, emerald waters for kayaking, swimming and snorkeling. There’s also a sun barrel and restaurant on site to complete the experience.

Personally, I like to explore when I travel, so I would recommend staying somewhere a little more central in Koh Tao for easy access to the whole island is to relax, Mango Bay is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful places on Koh Tao for just that.

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