Bali Snorkeling

. Last visited February 2015   Shark Bay (Thian Og)/Ao Thian Ok from John-Suwan Rock viewpoint. Click to expand shot. Saireee and Ko Nangyuan (background) from the walking trail near Two Views Ko Tao is a relatively small mountainous island to the north of Samui and the closer Phangan, with a variety of beaches and bays. It is worth visiting over its neighbours in that it has the best coral by far and the best trekking imho. Its compact size makes it possible to explore the island by foot, bicycle or motorcycle in say 3 days. It has good partying but nothing sophisticated like some Samui options. Although known as a divers' island, there are plenty of options for both budget travellers and midrange-upmarket holidayers. And for people who want to escape from the crowds there are some very laid back locations on the east and north coasts plus the south-east and south-west. Downsides include being a more expensive island than its southern neighbours by maybe 10-20%; the beaches alth...