If you are looking for an escape from the usual crowds of Koh Tao, Sai Nuan Beach is the place to go.
Tucked away in the quieter southwest corner of the island, this hidden gem looks like a postcard, with clear turquoise waters, soft sand and a super-chill atmosphere that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Sai Nuan has become one of my favorite beaches on Koh Tao for just that reason. Whether you’re here to snorkel on the healthy coral reefs, relax under the swaying palm trees, or just enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, this guide will show you exactly how to get there. there, what to expect and why Sai Nuan is worth it. the journey.
Sai Nuan. General overview
Sai Nuan Beach is one of the quietest beaches on the island, ideal for a peaceful getaway, although it attracts a lively crowd for the occasional beach party that goes really late into the night.
Here’s some basic information, below I’ll walk you through how to get there and what to expect.
- Location: On the west side of Koh Tao, south of Jansom Bay
- Entry: Closed (steep) road all the way
- Distance from Sairee. 15 minute motorbike ride
- Great for. Snorkeling, relaxing on a quiet beach, scenic views
- Amenities: Small local restaurant, Banana Rock Bar (with toilets)
Hint: This beach is best visited when there is an easterly wind as it is very sheltered.Visit Aow Leuk Beach or Tanote Bay if the wind is blowing from the west.
How to get to Sai Nuan Beach?
There are no tours that visit Sai Nuan Beach, so if you want to get here, you either need to rent a motorbike and drive yourself, or arrange a taxi.
To reach Sai Nuan Beach from Sairee, head south on the main road to Chalok.
Search for “So Much Color – Serious nail salon“And right by the steep, hilly road. Follow this winding route over the mountain; it’s a bit steep and winding but manageable if you’re comfortable with a motorbike Babalu restaurant (Great place for a return stop) and High Moon BarOne of the best views of Koh Tao.
Continue straight past the turn off to Tha Thong Beach. At the end of the road you will see a small sign for Sai Nuan Beach. Park in the sandy motorbike area and follow the signposted path which takes you past some villas and a picturesque restaurant right on the sand.
There is there is no entrance or parking fee here, so it’s easy and budget-friendly to visit. Google Maps will guide you most of the way, but be aware that the turnoff is easy to miss.
What to expect at Sai Nuan Beach?
Sai Nuan Beach is a curved stretch of soft, white sand interspersed with bits of coral, giving it the perfect rustic vibe. There are a few palm trees along the shore, and you’ll get a real local feel here, with children playing in the shallow bay and chickens roaming around.
In the middle of the bay, you’ll find a huge rock that adds a bit of character to the scene, as well as the quirky, pirate-style Banana Rock Bar, a prime spot for sunset drinks.
The water is shallow and easy to access, with sandy areas perfect for wading right in. On most days, it’s well protected as long as there’s no strong westerly wind, making it an ideal spot for a chilly beach day on Koh Tao.
Snorkeling at Sai Nuan Beach
The reef near Sai Nuan Beach is a bit bleached, but if you swim a little further it really starts to improve.
The cove around the big rocks in the bay is also nice, but if you head north to Sai Thong beach it’s much better in my opinion. are along, probably rising from Shark Bay.
Another solid option is to head south to Cape Ja Te Kang (big peak). The water is a little deeper this way, but the corals are healthier and make for some pretty spectacular snorkeling off Sai Nuan Beach.
Short walk to Sai Thong Beach
Just outside Banana Rock Bar, I noticed a sandy path winding through the banana trees. Naturally, I followed it and after a short walk I ended up at Sai Thong Beach. This beach is just as stunning as Sai Nuan, albeit a little smaller, with soft white sand and luxuriant palm trees lining the shore. It’s pinned as Benjamin Baer Beach on Google Maps.
Like Sai Nuan, there is no entrance fee and it is also a great place for snorkeling.
Hike to Jansom Bay
From Sai Thong Beach, the trail continues for about 600m to Jansom Bay. It’s only a 10-15 minute walk along the way, and you’ll also pass the deserted Charm Churee Resort.
Once you get to Jansom Bay, you need to pay an entrance fee of 100 THB, but in my opinion, it’s worth it. Jansom Bay has its own charm that makes it one of Koh Tao’s special beaches.
Hint: Alternatively, you can ride your motorbike right past Sensi Paradise Resort and walk to Jansom Bay, from here you can walk to Sai Nuan Beach in the other direction.
Plan where to stay in 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.
And that’s my travel guide for visiting Sai Nuan Beach. I hope my photos, tips and insights have helped you plan an epic beach day in Koh Tao.
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.