Best Value Hotels in Koh Tao

This small resort is one of the most popular mid-range picks on the island, thanks largely to its great views of the Chalok Baan Khao Bay. It is located up a steep drive, away from the village and beach crowds, giving it a secluded feel. Those looking for a quieter tropical getaway will appreciate it here, as long as they don't mind huffing and puffing up the hill after going to town and beach. The pool is quite small (though the outlook is truly terrific), the restaurant food gets high marks from guests, and rooms are simple but clean and charming. Comparable options in this price range include Ban's Diving Resort and the aptly named View Point Resort. 

The View Point Resort certainly lives up to its name. The location high atop a hill at the end of Chalok Baan Khao Beach makes for great views and plenty of privacy, and it is a short (steep) stroll down to the sand and village. The restaurant here is quite atmospheric, set at the bottom of the hill next to the sea. Cottages have charming, rustic Thai stye, but note that cheapest cottages overlook the gardens; you'll have to upgrade for sunset views over the sea. The Pool Villas are the best, but priciest, bet. Arriving to the resort by road is a twisting, torturous trek, but for some guests, that's all part of the adventure. It may also be worth considering the similarly priced Chintakiri Resort, which has a pool (which View Point lacks) in addition to great views.

While it can be crowded and chaotic, Ban's offers a vast selection of rooms located smack in the center of Haad Sairee's tourist zone. The restaurant on the beach is always a scene, and the resort's diving instruction programs are arguably the best in the country. Keep in mind, though, that this longtime Koh Tao mainstay is almost like two different properties, consisting of the more elegant upper zone --  with updated rooms, a pool, and quiet spaces -- and the older wing by the beach, which is of more limited value. 

This small, 17-room boutique resort overlooking the beautiful sea and Nang Yuan Island below is a fabulous, secluded romantic getaway. It's built into into a hillside, and almost the last resort up a mountain road toward the northern end of the island. Views from the infinity-edge pool are hard to top anywhere on Koh Tao. The resort's Ocean Lounge is as romantic as they come, perfect for sunset cocktails and gourmet candlelit dinners. Rooms have attractive (if not quite luxurious) Thai decor and free Wi-Fi; some have private pools. The small size means that guests can expect plenty of personalized staff attention. Just note that the resort is not on the beach. Those who don't mind the out-of-the-way locale will be rewarded with extremely affordable rates.