Is Koh Tao Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Koh Tao, is generally safe for solo female travelers. However, safety can largely depend on personal vigilance. The island is known for its friendly locals and tranquil atmosphere, but still, it is important to exercise caution. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can be an occasional occurrence. Always make sure to secure your belongings, avoid isolated areas at night, and use only licensed taxis or transport services. Overall, with the right precautions, a trip to Koh Tao can be a memorable experience.

Safety rating

3.8 /5

Based on 4 experiences from female travelers

3.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

Koh Tao is currently ranked #29 safest place in Thailand for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is Koh Tao?

Safety at night:Moderate

Koh Tao can generally be considered moderately safe at night. It's imperative to stay in well-lit and populated areas as much as possible and keep a mindful eye on your surroundings. However, avoid walking alone too late in isolated places or beaches, as there aren't as many people around. Utilise reliable transportation when possible, particularly when returning home late at night.

Public transportation:Safe

In Koh Tao, public transportation is generally regarded as fairly safe. Options primarily include taxis, motorbike rentals, bicycles, and longtail boats for transport around the islands. The locals are often friendly and helpful. However, be watchful of prices for transport as they can fluctuate without notice, and ensure to wear helmets when using motorbikes. Always remember to lock up rental bikes and motorbikes to prevent theft.

Street harassment:Low

Koh Tao generally provides a safe and welcoming environment for solo female travelers. While occasional heckling and stares, especially in areas with nightlife, may occur, instances of serious street harassment are rare. Locals are often friendly and respect personal boundaries, but it's always a good practice to be vigilant, especially during late-night outings.

Petty crimes:Low

Koh Tao generally carries a low risk of petty crimes. The locals are friendly and considerate, although you should still exercise normal precautions to avoid falling victim to opportunistic crimes. These may include pickpocketing or theft, particularly in crowded areas or unattended belongings at the beach. As it's a popular tourist destination, always keep belongings secure and stay mindful of your surroundings.

Is Koh Tao worth visiting?

Overall rating

4 /5

based on 4 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.4/5

Safety

3.8/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

2.9/5

Angela

Spain

Couple travel

Koh Tao was amazing! I meet a lot of woman solo traveler! It’s a safe place to travel alone ! It’s cheap and a small island! I stay there 4 weeks and I really enjoy it! Go go go go! 100% recommended!

Posted: July 16, 2024

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Milena

Australia

Solo travel

Koh Tao was my favourite destination in Thailand. The snorkelling and scuba is amazing, the Escobar party is better than the full moon, you’re never far from the beach. There are two things I didn’t like. 1, there is no Grab and the roads are poor so it’s a bit dangerous to drive. 2, as a queer woman I was harassed by tourists and locals when I was with my girlfriend. They would stare, ask inappropriate questions, follow us, touch us, try to get us to do things we didn’t want to do. That disappointed me a lot so me and her needed to act like “friends” to feel comfortable. Aside from that, Koh Tao is a great time.

Posted: May 26, 2024

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Léa

France

Group travel

I stayed in koh tao with my best friend for 3 weeks in total. Completely fell in love with the beauty of the island but also because i think it has the best balance for me. Very chill vibe, cute coffee and restaurants, amazing beaches and activities for the day, but also great nightlife without pushing everyone to party to much ! Just as you wish.

Posted: April 22, 2024

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Alejandra

United States

Solo travel

One of the best places for scuba diving certifications. Very affordable, all of the academies are professional. I did my open water with Nitro, it was a such beautiful experience. Overall the island is amazing. You can rent a bike and explore by yourself

Posted: April 13, 2024