Mao Bay Beach – All You Need to Know Before You Go 2024

Welcome to Mao Bay Beach, a peaceful haven hidden away on the beautiful coast of Thailand. With its soft white sands, clear blue waters, and lush green surroundings, Mao Bay Beach offers a peaceful getaway from the busy pace of daily life. Whether you’re looking to unwind under the shade of palm trees, try exciting water activities, or simply enjoy some quiet time by the sea, Mao Bay Beach has it all. Explore the natural beauty and relaxed environment of this hidden paradise along Thailand’s breathtaking coastline.

Quick Facts: Mao Bay Beach

• • Location: East Coast of Koh Tao, approximately halfway along the coastline.
  • Length: Small bay.
  • Sand: White sand.
  • Water: Clear, calm water.
  • Activities: Hiking, Scuba Diving (healthy coral reefs with little dive traffic), Snorkelling (great for spotting marine life).
  • Restaurants: There are no restaurants at Mao Bay Beach due to its remote location.

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What To Expect Mao Bay Beach

Here’s what you can expect at Mao Bay Beach, Koh Tao:

• • Remote beach with pristine beauty: Mao Bay is one of the most remote beaches on Koh Tao. This means it’s not very crowded and offers a serene atmosphere. The beach itself is a small cove lined with granite rocks and clear turquoise water.
  • Great for hiking and diving: The only way to access Mao Bay is by boat or on foot through the jungle. A hiking trail leads to the beach, which is a great way to see the island’s interior. The underwater world at Mao Bay is also relatively untouched, making it a great spot for diving and snorkeling. There’s an artificial reef that’s teeming with marine life.
  • Limited amenities: Since it’s so remote, there are no amenities available at Mao Bay Beach.  Unfortunately, you won’t find any restaurants, shops, or places to stay here. It’s best to bring your food and drinks if you plan on spending a day there.
  • Can be polluted: Due to the lack of visitors, Mao Bay can be quite polluted. However, some local businesses and residents regularly clean the beach.

Overall, Mao Bay Beach is a great option for travelers who are looking for a secluded and beautiful beach. Just be sure to come prepared, as there are no amenities available.

Where To Stay In Mao Bay Beach

There’s no accommodation available directly at Mao Bay Beach due to its remoteness.  However, depending on your needs, there are some great options nearby:

1. Chalok Baan Kao Bay: This is the closest beach, with a good selection of resorts and bungalows. It offers a good mix of relaxation and activity, with a laid-back vibe and some restaurants and bars.

• • Family-friendly option: Tanote Bay Resort offers a beautiful beachfront location, comfortable rooms, and a pool, making it a great choice for families.

2. Sairee Beach: If you’re looking for more action and nightlife, Sairee Beach is the place to be. It’s the most popular beach on Koh Tao, with a wide range of restaurants, bars, and shops.

• • MaeMid-range option: Simple Life Resort offers a good balance of value and amenities, with an outdoor pool, dive center, and free breakfast.

3. Mae Haad: This is the main arrival point for ferries on Koh Tao. It has a quieter vibe than Sairee Beach, but there are still plenty of restaurants and shops to choose from.

4. Luxury option: The Plantation Koh Tao is a luxurious resort located on a private beachfront. It boasts breathtaking views, comfortable private villas with pools, and all the amenities you could ever want.

No matter where you choose to stay, you’ll be able to enjoy the beauty of Mao Bay Beach with a short boat trip or hike.

Best Time To Visit Mao Bay Beach

Choosing the best time to visit Mao Bay Beach really depends on what you’re looking to get out of your trip.  Here’s a breakdown of the factors to consider:

Weather:

• • Dry season (February to April): This is generally considered the best time to visit Koh Tao, with sunny skies and calm seas. This makes it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving around Mao Bay Beach.
  • Shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and October): You can expect some occasional rain showers during these months, but they usually don’t last long and the humidity is lower than the peak season.
  • Wet season (July and August): This is the wettest time of year on Koh Tao, with frequent rain showers and higher humidity. However, the island is still beautiful and the crowds are smaller. Visibility underwater can be better during this time due to less plankton.

Activities:

• • Hiking: If you plan on hiking to Mao Bay Beach, cooler weather during the dry season might be more enjoyable.
  • Snorkeling and diving: The underwater world is always a sight to see, but visibility can be slightly better during the shoulder seasons (May, June, September, and October) due to fewer plankton in the water.

Mao Bay Beach 2-Day Itinerary

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a fun-filled 2-day trip to Maho Bay Beach:

How to Reach Mao Bay Beach

Mao Bay Beach is one of Koh Tao’s most remote beaches, so getting there is a bit of an adventure. There are two ways to get there: by boat or by foot.

By Boat

This is the easiest way to reach Mao Bay Beach. You can charter a private longtail boat from Sairee Beach or Mae Haad Pier. Expect a friendly 30-minute journey!

By Foot

This is a more challenging option but a great way to see the island’s interior. The hike to Mao Bay Beach is about 2 kilometers long and takes around 1 hour to complete. The trail begins at Sairee Beach and leads you through the jungle. The path can be a bit steep and slippery in some places, so be sure to wear sturdy shoes.

Here’s a more detailed guide on how to reach Mao Bay Beach by foot

1. 1. Set off from Sairee Beach and take the Hin Wong Bay road out of the village.
   2. Take a right at Tarna Align Resort. This is the same path you’d take to get to Laem Thien Bay.
   3. Towards the end of the track, take a small exit on the left that snakes down the steep hillside onto the beach at Mao Bay Beach. This path can be a bit tricky to spot, so after you pass the markers for Secret Steps and Tanote Peak, make sure to stay alert and keep your eyes peeled!

Know Before You Go Mao Bay Beach

• • Weather Check: Mao Bay Beach experiences a tropical climate, so it’s wise to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Avoid monsoon seasons or severe weather conditions for a safer and more pleasant visit.
  • Pack Essentials: Remember to pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and light clothing to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Additionally, bring along insect repellent to ward off any pesky bugs.
  • Stay Hydrated: The tropical heat can be intense, so it’s crucial to stay hydrated throughout your visit. Carry an adequate supply of water and hydrating beverages to avoid dehydration.
  • Footwear: While the sandy shores of Mao Bay Beach are perfect for barefoot strolls, consider bringing water shoes if you plan to explore rocky areas or coral reefs. They’ll protect your feet and provide a better grip on slippery surfaces.
  • Respect Nature: Mao Bay Beach is renowned for its pristine environment and diverse marine life. Help preserve this natural treasure by refraining from littering, touching, or damaging coral reefs, and respecting wildlife from a safe distance.
  • Snorkeling Gear: Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the underwater wonders of Mao Bay Beach. Bring your snorkeling gear or rent it from nearby vendors to see the vibrant marine ecosystem that thrives beneath the crystal-clear waters.
  • Local Regulations: Be aware of any local regulations or guidelines that may be in effect at Mao Bay Beach. This includes designated swimming areas, prohibited activities, and conservation efforts aimed at protecting the marine environment.
  • Transportation: Plan your transportation to Mao Bay Beach in advance. Whether you are driving, taking a taxi, or using public transportation, make sure you have a safe way to get to and from the beach.
  • Leave No Trace: As you bid farewell to Mao Bay Beach, remember to leave no trace of your presence. Dispose of trash responsibly and leave the beach as pristine as you found it, ensuring future generations can enjoy its beauty.