If you’re looking for an escape from the usual crowds on Koh Tao, Sai Nuan Beach is the place to go.
Tucked away on the island’s quieter southwest corner, this hidden gem feels like stepping into a postcard—clear turquoise waters, soft sand, and a super chill vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.
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, lounge under swaying palm trees, or just soak up the laid-back atmosphere, this guide will show you exactly how to get there, what to expect, and why Sai Nuan is worth the trip.
Sai Nuan: Overview
Sai Nuan Beach is one of the quietest beaches on the island, ideal for a peaceful escape, though it does draw a lively crowd for occasional beach parties that go real late into the night.
Here's some basic info, below I'll teach you how to get there and what to expect.
- Location: On the western side of Koh Tao, south of Jansom Bay
- Access: Sealed (steep) road the entire way
- Distance from Sairee: 15-minute motorbike ride
- Great for: Snorkeling, unwinding at a quiet beach, scenic views
- Facilities: Small local restaurant, Banana Rock Bar (with restrooms)
Tip: This beach is great to visit when there is an easterly wind, as it's 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'd like to get here, you'll 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 toward Chalok.
Look for “So Much Color - A Serious Nail Salon” and take the steep, hilly road right next to it. Follow this winding route over the mountain – it’s a bit steep and curvy, but manageable if you’re comfortable on a motorbike. Along the way, you’ll pass Babaloo Restaurant (a great spot for a return stop) and High the Moon Bar, one of the best viewpoints on Koh Tao.
Continue straight past the turn-off for Tha Thong Beach. Near the end of the road, you’ll see a small sign for Sai Nuan Beach. Park in the sandy motorbike area and follow the signposted path, a quick minute’s walk that takes you past a few villas and a quaint restaurant right onto the sand.
There’s 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 keep in mind the turn-off is easy to miss.
Tip: The popular Koh Tao snorkeling tour stops at some reefs near Sai Nuan daily.
What to Expect at Sai Nuan Beach
Sai Nuan Beach is a laidback, curved strip of soft white sand mixed with bits of coral, giving it that perfect rustic vibe. There are a few palm trees along the shore, and you’ll get a real local feel here with kids playing in the shallow bay and chickens wandering around.
In the middle of the bay, you’ll spot a massive boulder, adding a bit of character to the scene, along with the quirky, pirate-style Banana Rock Bar—a top spot for sunset drinks.
The water’s shallow and easy to access, with sandy patches perfect for walking right in. It’s well-sheltered most days unless there’s a strong westerly breeze, making it an ideal spot for a chill beach day on Koh Tao.
Snorkeling at Sai Nuan Beach
The reef just off Sai Nuan Beach is a bit bleached up close, but if you swim out a little further, it really starts to improve.
Snorkeling around the big boulders in the bay is also nice, but if you head north toward Sai Thong Beach, it’s much better in my opinion. I’ve spotted turtles here more than once and even a few small reef sharks cruising along, likely making their way up from Shark Bay.
Another solid option is to head south, toward Cape Ja Te Kang (the big headland). The water’s a bit deeper in this direction, but the corals are healthier and make for some pretty impressive snorkeling from Sai Nuan Beach.
Short Walk to Sai Thong Beach
Just beside Banana Rock Bar, I noticed a sandy path winding into the banana trees. Naturally, I followed it, and after a short walk, I found myself at Sai Thong Beach. This beach is just as stunning as Sai Nuan, though a bit smaller, with soft white sand and gorgeous palms framing the shoreline. On Google Maps, it’s pinned as Benjamin Baer Beach.
Like Sai Nuan, there’s no entrance fee here, and it’s also a great spot for snorkeling.
Hiking on to Jansom Bay
From Sai Thong Beach, the trail continues on for about 600 m, leading to Jansom Bay. The path is easy to follow, with some nice coastal views along the way. It’s just a 10-15 minute walk, and the trail is straightforward enough. You'll also pass around the abandoned Charm Churee resort on the way.
Once you arrive at Jansom Bay, you’ll need to pay a 100 THB entrance fee, but in my opinion, it’s worth it. Jansom Bay has its own unique charm, making it one of Koh Tao’s standout beaches in its own right.
Tip: Alternatively, you can drive your motorbike just past Sensi Paradise Resort and walk down to Jansom Bay. From here, you can hike all the way 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 Island and you want to be close to the main activities and beaches, pick a stay near Sairee Beach.
However, other great options include Mae Haad, or for a more secluded vibe, check out the southern beaches or even the east coast around Tanote Bay. Below are my top picks.
1. Jamahkiri Resort & Spa Luxury
A great bang-for-buck luxury dive resort at the beachfront of Shark Bay in a quiet and secluded location away from the hustle and bustle.
2. Phandara Pool Villas Mid-Range
A luxury villa option for those who want their own kitchen & pool. Located on the hill up to Wooden Rock Viewpoint.
3. Summer Guesthouse Budget
Located within walking distance of the dive shops and pub crawls on Sairee Beach, this is the top-budget hostel option with a great vibe.
And that's a wrap for my travel guide to visiting Sai Nuan Beach. I hope that my photos, tips, and insights have helped you plan an epic beach day on 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! Oh and if you haven't made it to the island yet, here are some tips on getting to Koh Tao easily and affordably.