Fodor's Expert Review Sairee Beach

Palm trees at crescent-shaped Sairee, Koh Tao's most popular beach, arch over the aquamarine water as if yearning to sip from the sea. Along the thin sliver of golden sand sit rustic, traditional wooden beach huts with bohemian youths lounging in hammocks, novice divers practicing in seaside pools, and European students sampling cocktails at basic beach bars. On the far northern end of the beach, a few resorts nestle amid manicured landscapes. Sairee faces west, making it great for watching the sunset and for kayaking to Koh Nang Yuan. Amenities: food and drink; water sports. Best for: partiers; sunset.