Mae Haad Bay

You’d think that the beach at Koh Tao’s main port town would not be among the best Koh Tao beaches, but in the case of Mae Haad Bay, you’d be wrong. The sands away from the pier areas are just as soft and golden as elsewhere on the island. The water is crystal clear, and even with boat traffic considered, it’s never really that noisy.

Access

Mae Haad Bay can be accessed from either side of the pier. There are plenty of places to park if you are travelling by scooter. Mae Haad is easily reached on the main road from both Sairee and Chalok Baan Kao. If you are coming from Sairee, you can also follow the small paved road that runs parallel to the beach. It’s often dubbed ‘the yellow brick road” by residents. Despite this nickname, there is nothing remotely yellow about this route. It takes you along Sairee Beach, up a small hill, and past the back of the local school and temple before dropping down a small incline into Mae Haad. 

Fees

There are no charges for using Mae Haad Bay. However, if you decide to relax on one of the deckchairs or loungers at one of the beach bars, you will be expected to purchase some refreshments or food. 

Services & Facilities

Several beachside cafes offer a range of Thai and Western food, refreshing shakes, and alcoholic beverages. South of the pier, you’ll find Coconut Monkey and Tattoo Bar, and just north of the pier is Breeze. 

Swimming and Snorkeling

North of the pier close to Crystal Dive, there is a sectioned-off area where you can snorkel and swim without needing to concern yourself with boat traffic. The southern side of the beach gives way to a rocky coastline where it is safe to swim and snorkel. Just be careful not to swim directly out from the beach into the boat channel, as this is a heavily used waterway frequented by dive boats, passenger ferries, and cargo ships alike.  

Right in the southern corner of Mae Haad Bay, there is a wreck of a small boat that is easily accessible just a 50 metre swim from shore. Exploring the wreck and rocky coastline, you’ll see many small varieties of tropical fish.

Recommended for… Afternoon Snorkeling & Sunset

Although on the southernmost section of the vast curve that encompasses both Sairee Beach and Mae Haad. The bay still faces west and therefore provides some stunning sunset panoramas. This combined with the unique shallow wreck just a short swim away makes it a great place to spend a chilled-out afternoon.