Best Bars Koh Tao

What You Should Remember

Discovering the bar scene on the island is like going on a journey. Every location has its own distinct charm and experience, making it a must-see for anyone who visits the island. Whether it’s the pulsating beats of live music or the clinking of glasses under a starry sky, you won’t want to miss the nightlife on Koh Tao.

“Bars in Koh Tao are not just places to drink, they are places where memories are created.”

The Reason Koh Tao is a Nightlife Hotspot

Its lively blend of bars and entertainment venues has made Koh Tao a nightlife hotspot. The small size of the island makes it easy to bar-hop, giving you the chance to sample different atmospheres in one night. From live music and DJ sets to fire shows and themed nights, there’s always something going on in the bars here.

What’s more, you won’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy Koh Tao’s nightlife. Most places offer free entry and drinks at reasonable prices. So, prepare yourself to discover and enjoy the best of Koh Tao when the sun goes down.

Best Bars to Visit in Koh Tao

There’s an array of bars on Koh Tao, and it can be hard to know where to begin. That’s why I’ve put together a list of some of the best bars you should definitely check out while you’re here. Each one offers a unique experience, so you’re guaranteed a night to remember.

Chopper’s Sports Bar

Chopper’s Sports Bar is the life and soul of Koh Tao’s nightlife. Situated in lively Sairee, it’s a favourite spot for both residents and visitors. With its energetic vibe and a wide selection of drinks, the party at Chopper’s never ends.

If you’re exploring the island’s vibrant nightlife, don’t miss out on the best nighttime entertainment Koh Tao has to offer.

Feel and Ambiance – All About Sports

The bar is roomy, offering ample seating both downstairs and upstairs. It’s an ideal place to reconnect with old friends or make new ones. The walls are decorated with music memorabilia, and there are over 20 TV screens and projectors showing all kinds of live sports, making it a paradise for sports fans.

Specialty Drinks and Food

While Chopper’s has a wide variety of beverages, their specialty cocktails are a must-try. Whether you’re a fan of the classic mojito or prefer to try something a bit more adventurous, there’s a drink for you. Don’t forget to try their tasty pub grub – The Grubhouse, with options ranging from bangers and mash, burgers and tacos to traditional Thai dishes.

Things to Do

Famous Koh Tao Pub Crawl: This event is held several times a week and it starts at Chopper’s. It’s a must-attend!
Live Music and Open Mic Nights: Listen to local and international artists perform or get involved yourself.
Friday Pub Quiz: Show off your trivia skills and you might just win a prize.

For more information on the best sports bars Koh Tao, click here.

Maya Beach Club

For those who prefer a laid-back yet lively ambiance, Maya Beach Club is the perfect spot. Situated on the beautiful Sairee Beach, this club provides an ideal mix of live music, beverages, and beautiful scenery.

Prime Location and Beachfront Vibes

“Sipping a cocktail with your toes in the sand as the sun sets over the horizon is a unique experience.”

Maya Beach Club capitalizes on its excellent beachfront location. It’s a perfect place to relax with its comfortable seating and chill atmosphere after a day of adventure. The beachside location provides an unparalleled setting for having drinks with friends.

This club is known for having live sunset DJ sets every day from 5 PM and their stand up paddle board rental service – SUP TAO. The mix of good tunes, tasty beverages, and the paddle in the sea makes for an unforgettable day.

For more insights on the best bars to visit, check out the best beach bars Koh Tao.

The Local

When you want to immerse yourself in the real Koh Tao, you should head to The Local. This bar is all about the island, serving local drinks and creating a friendly, community vibe.

Experience Local Flavors

At The Local, they pride themselves on offering a range of drinks. From local beers to distinctive cocktails made with Thai ingredients, you’re sure to find a drink that embodies the spirit of the island. It’s the perfect place to experiment and broaden your taste horizons.

A Gathering Place for Everyone

The Local is not just a bar, it’s a place where everyone in the community can gather. The welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to start a conversation with fellow travelers or locals. It’s a place where you can feel like you’re at home, even if you’re not.

Regulars often become friends, and the bar hosts different events every day that encourage socializing. Whether you’re just hanging out or celebrating a special occasion, The Local is a welcoming space for all.

For those interested in exploring more, check out the best bars for activities Koh Tao has to offer.

Local Experiences

At The Local, you’ll often find events and activities that will ensure you have something to do every night. Whether it’s quiz nights or live bands, the bar always has something going on. It’s an excellent way to soak up the local culture while sipping on a drink.

Here’s what happens:

Mondays – Drink exchange, live music and DJ.
Tuesdays – Pub quiz and live DJ
Wednesdays – Karaoke
Thursdays – Music bingo, live music and DJ.
Fridays – Live music
Saturdays – Live music and karaoke
Sundays – Live international bands

For more options, check out the best nighttime entertainment Koh Tao.

Goodtime Adventures

For those who love a bit of thrill in their life, Goodtime Adventures is the place to be. This bar is a unique blend of outdoor adventure and a vibrant bar scene, making it a popular choice for adrenaline seekers.

Drinks for the Adventurous

Goodtime Adventures is a bar that captures the spirit of the island, with a drink menu that reflects the adventurous nature of its patrons. Whether you’re in the mood for a daring cocktail with bold flavors or a refreshing beverage after a long day of island activities, you’ll find something to enjoy.

Whether you’ve spent the day diving or successfully climbing, Goodtime Adventures has a drink menu that embodies the adventurous spirit.

Adventure and Alcohol

Abseiling adventures with a side of beach cocktails
Rock climbing capped off with a cool beverage
Scuba diving trips finished with a celebratory bar drink

Goodtime Adventures is more than just a bar; it’s a lifestyle. Picture starting your day with an exhilarating private boat adventure around the island, then returning to the bar to relax with a cocktail on the beach. It’s the ideal combination of thrill and chill.

Goodtime Adventures also offers rock climbing sessions, where you can scale Koh Tao’s rugged cliffs. Then, reward yourself with a refreshing drink at the bar.

Another beloved pastime is scuba diving, and the bar offers special deals for divers. After discovering the underwater magic of Koh Tao, you can head to the bar for a well-earned drink. It’s an excellent way to connect with other explorers and share tales of your day.

Goodtime Adventures is a great place to visit if you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to try something new, as it combines outdoor activities with drinking.

If you’re interested in exploring more exciting spots, check out the best bars with activities on Koh Tao.

The Smoking Dead Craft Bar & Grill

The Smoking Dead is a bar that is known for its great location and deadly craft beer selection. This bar is perfect for those who enjoy a unique experience and love trying something different.

Craft Beer Selection

The bar’s drink menu is like no other bar on Koh Tao. The Smoking Dead is famous for its craft beer selection with beers and IPAs from around the world on tap or in cans. I recommend Vedett IPA and Heart of Darkness.

What’s Happening?

There’s never a dull moment at The Smoking Dead. Happy hour from 5 PM – 7PM every day with lots of space to drink at the bar or on the beach, a pool table and live MotoGP shown on their big screen, it’s a great place for those that love racing. The bar is usually packed during these events, making it a great place to mingle and meet new people.

For other chill out spots to visit, check out the best chill out bars Koh Tao.

Lotus Bar

Lotus Bar is a place you cannot afford to miss if you want to immerse yourself in Koh Tao’s dynamic beach bar culture. Its location on Sairee Beach, combined with its breathtaking views and energetic atmosphere, keeps tourists returning for more.

Many visitors consider the nightly fire shows to be a highlight of their visit to the bar. As dusk falls, talented performers head to the beach to show off their skills, resulting in a captivating spectacle of light and motion.

Lotus Bar is a hot spot for both locals and tourists thanks to its prime location and lively entertainment.

Beachside Bar Experience

Beachside seating with cozy cushions
Great place for sunset cocktails
Fire shows every night

The Lotus Bar offers a classic beachside experience. The bar is set up on the sand with cozy cushions that beckon you to sit back and take in the scenery. It’s the ideal place to chill out with a cocktail while watching the sun set over the sea.

Fire Shows and Performances

Lotus Bar’s fire shows are an experience you won’t want to miss. When the sun goes down, the beach lights up with the flicker of fire as talented performers take the stage. Their skilled routines captivate audiences, creating a mesmerizing display that’s both exciting and beautiful.

For many tourists, the shows are a must-see, bringing a thrilling end to the day. It’s an ideal way to wrap up a day on the island, watching the performers set the night sky ablaze.

Night-time Drinks and Deals

Lotus Bar has a variety of drinks and cocktails to cater to every individual’s preference. Whether you’re a fan of traditional mojitos or you’re looking for something more innovative, the drink list is as varied as the customers it draws in.

Lotus Bar is the perfect spot to grab a cold beer or fruity cocktail and take in the lively beach scene of Koh Tao.

Fishbowl Beach Bar

When it comes to nightlife in Koh Tao, Fishbowl Beach Bar is a must-visit. Known for its energetic atmosphere and beachfront location, this bar is where the party never ends. It’s a popular spot for those who want to have a good time.

This bar is a unique hybrid of a bar and a club, featuring a lively dance floor and a large outdoor space. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a night of dancing and mingling.

Top Spot for Nightlife

This bar is famous for its vibrant energy, boasting a crowded dance floor and an enthusiastic audience. It’s a spot where you can dance until dawn to the most recent popular songs, surrounded by other party animals.

Bar and Club in One

At Fishbowl Beach Bar, you get the best of both worlds. There’s a bar area where you can chill out, and a club area where you can dance the night away. The large outdoor area gives you plenty of space to mingle and take in the beach views, while inside there’s a buzzing dance floor, live bands and a DJ booth.

With a unique layout that encourages patrons to move from one area to another, the Fishbowl Beach Bar provides an energetic and lively environment. Whether you want to relax with a cocktail or dance the night away, this bar has everything you could want.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Not only does Fishbowl Beach Bar offer a vibrant ambiance, but it also offers a variety of games and activities to keep its patrons entertained. Whether it’s a beer pong tournament or live sports to watch, there’s always something going on at the bar.

For more live entertainment choices, click here.

The Hacienda

The Hacienda is a lively bar and restaurant that has all sorts of things to do. The bar restaurants boasts an extensive selection of unique selling points with live sports, tenpin bowling, mini golf, pool tables, a cinema and legendary weekend roats dinners.

Koh Tao Cinema

The only cinema on Koh Tao which shows new and old classics alike. With comfortable seating and airconditioning, it’s a refreshing place to unwind and see a movie. Tickets are free (at least buy a drink).

Mini Golf

Their 18 hole mini golf course is just opposite the main restaurant. The course is a great fun with all different kinds of twists and turns and little gaps to overcome, it’ll put your putting skills to the test.

Tenpin Bowling

The only bowling alley on Koh Tao – This opened up in August 2024 and has quickly become a popular thing to do. Situated right inside the restaurant so you can bowl and enjoy a meal at the same time (if that’s your kind of thing).

If want more to do, check out the best bars with activities on Koh Tao.

Escobar

Jungle Parties

If you want to go on an adventure away from the typical tourist spots, you must try the Escobar Jungle Party. These jungle parties take place in the jungle, providing a one-of-a-kind environment. Party-goers can dance under the stars to techno, Drum and Bass and house music, with the sounds of the jungle adding to the magical atmosphere.

5 Stages of Live DJs

These gatherings frequently showcase both local and international DJs, promising a varied and thrilling musical selection. It’s a fantastic chance to make new friends and appreciate the natural splendor of the island in a lively and celebratory atmosphere.

They offer a free one-way taxi service from the 7-Eleven in Sairee until midnight and ticket prices change so it’s best to check their website for more information.

Bucking Bronco

For an added bonus, check out their bucking bronco for the chance to win some free drinks. It’s not as easy as it looks, especially after a few cocktails.

For more information on the best parties Koh Tao, click here.

AC Bar

AC Bar is a vibrant and exciting place known for its lively atmosphere and pool parties. It is situated on Sairee beach and is a popular choice for those who want to enjoy a night of games, drinks, and dancing. For more options on where to spend your evenings, check out the best nighttime entertainment in Koh Tao.

Fun and Games in a Welcoming Environment

AC Bar is the place to be if you want to party all night. The bar’s fun and welcoming atmosphere, along with its friendly staff, make it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy yourself. And with everything from pool to beer pong on offer, you’ll never be bored.

AC Bar is the place to be for a fun night out with friends, whether you’re challenging them to a game or just enjoying the lively atmosphere.

AC Bar Dance Floor Fun

AC Bar is always pulsating with energy, thanks to the live DJs who are always spinning the latest hits and golden oldies. Whether you’re a pro on the dance floor or just want to shake a leg, the dance floor is the perfect place to strut your stuff. With its high-octane music and lively crowd, AC Bar guarantees a night of merriment and revelry.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re planning a night out on Koh Tao, you probably have some questions. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions about the island’s nightlife.

When is the prime time to hit up the bars in Koh Tao?

After the sun goes down is usually the best time to hit up Koh Tao’s bars. This is when the island really starts to buzz with music and entertainment. Most bars start to fill up around 8 PM and the party usually goes on until the wee hours of the morning. For more information, check out the best bars on Koh Tao.

Can families enjoy the bars in Koh Tao?

Although Koh Tao is famous for its bustling nightlife, it also caters to families. A number of bars provide a calmer environment that is perfect for families, often with live bands or seats by the beach.

Find bars that offer early evening entertainment
Search for places that have outdoor seating and a chill atmosphere
Certain beach bars host events during the day that are suitable for the whole family

These choices make sure that everyone, no matter how old, can have fun with the island’s social scene.

How much does a night out cost?

Going out at night in Koh Tao can be as cheap or as expensive as you want it to be. Typically, you can expect to pay anywhere from 100-300 THB for a drink. Look out for happy hour deals to save some money. Compared to other places, Koh Tao is quite affordable for nightlife.

Can I use my credit card at bars in Koh Tao?

Yes, some bars in Koh Tao do accept credit cards but not many. It’s probably best to assume they don’t and always have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller bars that might not accept cards. Plus, using cash can help you steer clear of any extra card transaction fees.

What should I wear to the bars?

For the most part, the bars in Koh Tao are pretty relaxed when it comes to dress codes, fitting in with the overall chilled out island atmosphere. That being said, you should always dress comfortably and appropriately for the venue you’re going to. Beachwear is acceptable in many places, but some bars may have specific dress requirements for theme nights or special events.

This guide will help you discover the top bars in Koh Tao. Whether you’re in the mood for a chill drink by the beach or a night of dancing, the island’s exciting nightlife scene guarantees a night to remember.