Among the many islands in the Gulf of Thailand known for their over-water and underwater beauty is Koh Tan, situated just 2 km away from the coast of Samui. Spread out over 7.5 sq km, it is part of the Samui archipelago and is getting to be recognised as an untouched natural enclave with ample diving and snorkelling features. With a dwindling population of a few souls, the island does not sport many facilities. At present, there are only a few rustic bungalows for visitors who may wish to stay overnight. There are no roads, no traffic, no regular boat service and no power, all of which presents the ultimate oasis in idyllic retreats.
The small island features 3 distinct heavily wooded hills that are home to several species of birds, small mammals like fruit bats, and large, colourful butterflies. The flat areas between the hills exhibit a combination of forest and coconut groves while some trees are found right at the water’s edge, growing on rocky outcrops. Hiking trails crisscross the island allowing access to its interior where there is a lake and a small temple. While visitors enjoy the tranquil landscape free from the usual hoards of holidaymakers, the reefs around the island bursting with marine life is the larger draw. The eastern shore of the island boasts a sandy beach fringed by a coral reef, which is where most day trippers head to, while the western shore encompasses a sheltered bay with a remnant mangrove forest, a rocky shore not suitable for swimming and a fringing reef.
Snorkelers and divers make day trips from Samui attracted by the calm blue waters affording clear visibility and interesting underwater landscapes of coral-studded walls and caves, colourful reefs teeming with equally colorful fish, and giant clams. Many a visitor has been able to spy reef fish from the boat due to the crystalline quality of the water around the island. Wooden platforms built into the mangrove forest allow visitors to walk under its dense canopy. For those who enjoy communing with nature and are looking for some welcome alone time in which to reflect and contemplate, even for an hour or two, Koh Tan offers the best option amidst a gorgeous tropical setting.
To enjoy one of the best beach locations on the island and a spate of other advantages, consider a stay at the Anantara Lawana Resort & Spa Koh Samui. Affording all its guests spacious contemporary accommodation incorporating plunge pools, terraces and balconies, this Koh Samui resort is the perfect oasis for rest and relaxation. Well-designed restaurants reveal wonderful views in addition to a range of traditional Thai and other cuisines to suit any palate, while specially formulated spa treatments and a range of in house activities help guests to unwind and enjoy their surroundings at this prominent hotel in Samui.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday.
You might also like
