This article will take you through what we beleive to be the best beachfront restaurants in Koh Tao
Essential Points
- Koh Tao boasts a variety of beachfront restaurant options, each offering unique views and menus.
- Sairee Beach is home to popular spots such as Fizz Beachlounge and Sairee Cottage Restaurant, known for their atmosphere and tasty food.
- Chalok Baan Kao Bay is home to The Cape Restaurant and Taatoh Seaview Restaurant, both of which offer stunning views and signature dishes.
- Mae Haad Bay’s Seaside Restaurant and Breeze offer a mix of local and international cuisine.
- The east coast of Koh Tao offers sophisticated dining at places like The Terrace at Jamahkiri and Baan Talay Restaurant.
Enjoying Coastal Delicacies at the Best Beachfront Restaurants Koh Tao
Koh Tao is not only a paradise for divers but also a sanctuary for food enthusiasts; the island provides a unique dining experience by the sea. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Thai food or international dishes, Koh Tao’s beachfront restaurants promise to tease your palate while you enjoy stunning views.
Distinctive Dining Experiences
Every restaurant in Koh Tao has its own unique style. Whether it’s the freshest seafood caught each day or traditional Thai dishes made with local herbs and spices, there’s a dish for everyone. Many restaurants also offer international dishes, providing a varied menu that suits all tastes. It’s this mix of local and international cuisine that makes eating in Koh Tao so special.
Enchanting Sairee Beachfront Restaurants
Sairee Beach, the island’s most frequented beach, is a hotspot of activity from sunrise to sunset. Its beachfront eateries are just as bustling, offering a vibrant ambiance and some of the finest cuisine on the island. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back place to relax or a more sophisticated dining experience, Sairee Beach has it all.
What to Expect at Fizz Beachlounge
If you’re searching for a chill spot to spend your evening by the ocean, Fizz Beachlounge is a top choice. The casual atmosphere and cozy seating make it an ideal location to catch a sunset. The food menu is diverse, offering everything from seafood to vegetarian dishes, so all diners can find something they’ll enjoy. And don’t forget to try one of their cocktails, made with fresh ingredients and a dash of imagination. If you’re planning a visit, here’s their website.
Enjoy Romantic Sunsets at Charcoal Bay Wine and Grill
Charcoal Bay Wine and Grill offers a unique dining experience, specializing in high-quality grilled meats and seafood. While many restaurants on the island focus on Thai cuisine, Charcoal stands out with its emphasis on premium cuts of meat cooked over a charcoal grill, giving them a distinct smoky flavor. They also offer a selection of fresh seafood, cooked to perfection. The atmosphere is relaxed yet stylish, making it a great option for a special occasion or a treat yourself meal. While it’s definitely pricier than your average Thai restaurant on Koh Tao, the quality of the ingredients and the expertise in grilling make it a worthwhile splurge for meat lovers.
Incredible Food and Drinks at Sandbar
Fresh local products and seafood are sourced from local farmers and fishermen in Sandbar’s European-inspired restaurant and wine bar, which is situated in the centre of Sairee Beach. Their in-house sommelier regularly imports new wines to go with their meal and offers wine tasting sessions every Wednesday. Additionally, they provide a range of premium liquors for their speciality cocktails as well as a selection of regional draught beers.
The Whitening Bar & Restaurant
The Whitening Restaurant in Koh Tao offers a unique dining experience with its stunning beachfront location and all-white decor. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or a special occasion, with tables right on the sand offering amazing sunset views. Expect slightly higher prices than other restaurants on the island, reflecting the upscale atmosphere and prime location. If you’re looking for a memorable dining experience with a touch of elegance, The Whitening is worth considering.
Local Dishes You Can’t Miss
There are a few dishes you simply must try when dining in Sairee Beach. Fresh seafood, such as grilled prawns or fish curry, is a staple. If you’re looking to try something uniquely Thai, dishes like Som Tam (spicy papaya salad) or Pad Thai are a must. And don’t forget to wash it all down with a refreshing drink, like a coconut shake or a Thai iced tea.
Delicious Cuisine at Chalok Baan Kao Bay
Heading down to the southern part of the island, Chalok Baan Kao Bay provides a more peaceful dining atmosphere. With its calm beaches and green surroundings, this area is ideal for those wanting to get away from the busy Sairee Beach. The restaurants here prioritize fresh, top-notch ingredients, making sure every meal is a treat.
The Cape Restaurant’s Top Choices
At View Point Resort, you will find The Cape Restaurant, which is known for its unique dishes that combine Thai and Western tastes. Their grilled barracuda is one of their top choices, served with a lime and chili sauce that is tangy and delicious. This dish represents Thai food at its best—fresh, lively, and flavorful. Another popular choice is their seafood platter, which includes a variety of the freshest seafood available, all cooked with a careful balance of spices and herbs.
Not only is The Cape Restaurant known for its food, but it also provides a unique dining experience. Located on the beach, customers can savor their food while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean and watching the breathtaking sunset.
Take in the Sights at Taatoh Seaview Restaurant
Located on a hill with a view of the pristine waters of Shark Bay, Taatoh Seaview Restaurant is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys a good meal with a great view. The restaurant’s open-air layout lets you take in the full beauty of the natural surroundings. You can enjoy your meal while watching the sun cast a beautiful golden light over the bay, a sight you won’t soon forget.
The chefs take pleasure in obtaining fresh, local fruits, vegetables, and seafood, guaranteeing that each meal is of the finest quality. Their fusion meals, like the Thai-style seafood pasta or the coconut curry risotto, demonstrate their inventiveness and culinary skills. These meals not only demonstrate the adaptability of Thai ingredients but also provide a fresh take on traditional recipes.
Barracuda On The Beach
Barracuda on the Beach in Chalok Bay, Koh Tao, offers a more laid-back and rustic beachfront dining experience compared to some of the island’s fancier options. Located right on the sand, it’s a great place to enjoy fresh seafood, fusion and Thai dishes with your toes in the sand. The atmosphere is relaxed and casual, perfect for a chilled-out lunch or dinner. While the menu features a variety of options, the grilled seafood is often recommended. Expect reasonable prices and a friendly service style. Barracuda on the Beach is a solid choice for those seeking authentic Thai flavors and a relaxed beach vibe without breaking the bank. Barracuda also have two other restaurants. located in Sairee, with different menus so you can always try something new.
Yummy Discoveries at Mae Haad Bay
As a lively place with a busy pier, Mae Haad Bay is a foodie’s paradise. The area is home to a wide range of restaurants serving both traditional Thai food and international dishes. So, whether you’re after a quick snack or a long, relaxed meal, Mae Haad Bay has something to tickle everyone’s taste buds.
Not only is the bay a wonderful location to delve into the local culture, but the majority of the eateries are family-owned, providing a homey and inviting environment. As you eat, you can take in the sights at the bay, complete with boats arriving and departing, and locals going about their everyday routines. It’s a dining experience that provides a peek into the soul of Koh Tao.
If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, Mae Haad Bay also boasts a range of markets and shops. After you’ve eaten, why not take a walk around the local area and find a range of souvenirs, from handmade crafts to local delicacies?
Foodie Heaven at Seaside Restaurant
Seaside Restaurant is a favorite among both locals and visitors. With its relaxed atmosphere and tasty food, it’s the ideal spot to relax after a day of island adventures. The menu offers a variety of Thai and Western dishes, all made with a commitment to fresh, top-notch ingredients.
Seaside Restaurant not only boasts a delicious menu but also a comfortable beachfront location. You can eat your meal at tables set up on the sand, with the soothing sea breeze and the sound of the waves providing the perfect backdrop. It’s a dining experience that truly encapsulates island living.
Breeze Koh Tao
Breeze Restaurant in Koh Tao offers diners a delightful combination of stunning views and tasty Thai cuisine. They provide a panoramic vista of the beach heading to Sairee, especially beautiful at sunset. The restaurant’s open-air design enhances the tropical ambiance. While the view is a definite highlight, the menu features a good selection of classic Thai dishes, often praised for their authentic flavors and fresh ingredients.
Prices are generally mid-range, offering good value for the quality of food and the spectacular setting. Breeze is a great choice for a relaxed and memorable meal with a view, whether you’re enjoying a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends.
Coconut Monkey
Coconut Monkey is a popular spot for those seeking healthy and tasty options with a laid-back beach vibe. Located right on Mae Haad beach, it’s a great place to grab breakfast, lunch, or an early dinner while enjoying the ocean view.
They have a strong focus on fresh, local ingredients and offer a variety of dishes with plenty of vegetarian and vegan choices clearly marked on the menu. Think smoothie bowls, wraps, salads, and flavorful Thai dishes. Coconut Monkey is known for its relaxed atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to chill out with a book or catch up with friends. While not the cheapest option on the island, the quality of the food and the beachfront location make it a worthwhile choice.
East Coast Koh Tao Dining
If you’re looking for a high-end dining experience, the east coast of Koh Tao is the place to be. With its lavish resorts and incredible views, the area is home to a variety of sophisticated restaurants that will satisfy even the most discerning food connoisseurs.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy meal or a casual bite by the beach, the east coast has got you covered. It’s all about high-quality, sophisticated dining here, with a mix of traditional and modern dishes on the menu. So whether you’re marking a milestone or just want to treat yourself, you’re in for a culinary treat on the east coast.
Experience luxury at The Terrace at Jamahkiri
For those looking for a taste of the east coast’s best, The Terrace at Jamahkiri is the place to be. Nestled within the opulent Jamahkiri Resort near Shark Bay, this restaurant provides a dining experience that is both sophisticated and memorable. With an array of gourmet dishes on offer and a wine list to complement them, The Terrace is the ideal spot for a special evening.
Ocean-Inspired Delicacies at Baan Talay Restaurant
Baan Talay Restaurant is a little-known treasure that provides a dining experience like no other. With a menu featuring dishes inspired by the sea, the restaurant takes pride in using the freshest ingredients sourced straight from the ocean. Their crab curry is a signature dish that is rich in flavor and is a true representation of Thai seafood at its finest. The culinary team at Baan Talay skillfully combines traditional Thai flavors with contemporary cooking methods, creating dishes that are both inventive and true to their roots.
Chabalay Restaurant: Where Old Meets New
Another must-visit location on the east coast of Koh Tao is Chabalay Restaurant at Aow Leuk beach. This restaurant is famous for its ability to perfectly balance traditional and modern elements in its menu. The chefs at Chabalay use traditional Thai recipes as a starting point and then add their own unique flair, creating dishes that are both comforting and thrilling.
Chabalay’s menu is chock-full of mouthwatering dishes, but the Tom Yum Goong is a standout. This traditional Thai soup is taken to the next level with the addition of fresh herbs and spices. Another crowd-pleaser is the grilled snapper, which is served with a zesty mango salsa that brings a pop of flavor to the plate. Whether you’re a lover of classic Thai dishes or you’re in the mood to try something different, Chabalay Restaurant is sure to wow you.
Common Questions
As you prepare for your foodie journey in Koh Tao, you may have a few inquiries. Here are some commonly asked questions to help you maximize your dining experience on the island.
When is the best time to eat at these places?
Early evening, around sunset, on the is the best time to eat at beachfront restaurants in Koh Tao. You can enjoy the incredible views and the enchanting atmosphere as the sun sets over the sea. Most restaurants serve lunch and dinner, so you can also choose to have a meal at noon if you like a more peaceful environment. Remember, the sun sets in the west so Sairee and Mae Haad are your best options for sunset drinks and food at the beach.
What’s the best way to reserve a table at these beachfront restaurants?
Although most Koh Tao restaurants accept customers who just walk in, it’s best to reserve a table, especially during the busy tourist season. You can typically reserve a table by calling the restaurant or contacting them through their social media pages, most commonly – Facebook. Some restaurants also let you book a table on their website. If you’re planning a visit, make sure to check out how to get to Koh Tao from anywhere in Thailand.
Can I get vegetarian food?
Absolutely! Many of the beachfront restaurants in Koh Tao cater to vegetarians. You’ll find items like vegetable stir-fry, tofu curries, and fresh salads on most menus. If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, it’s always a good idea to let the restaurant staff know ahead of time, and they’ll be more than willing to accommodate you. Coconut Monkey is a great choice for beachside vegan and vegetarian food – their satay tofu with rice and roasted vegetables is one of my favourite.
What dishes should I try at these restaurants?
“If you’re in Koh Tao, don’t miss out on the grilled seafood platter at Seaside Restaurant, the crab curry at Baan Talay, and the Tom Yum Goong at Chabalay. These dishes are the epitome of Thai cuisine and will definitely be memorable.” – A local foodie
Can families dine at the beachfront restaurants?
Definitely! Numerous beachfront restaurants in Koh Tao are suitable for families and provide a relaxed and inviting ambiance. Here are some suggestions for family dining:
- See if the restaurant offers a kids’ menu or options suitable for children.
- Opt for a restaurant that has outdoor seating so your kids can play in the sand while you enjoy your meal.
- Find restaurants that have high chairs and are equipped for little ones.
By keeping these suggestions in mind, you can guarantee a delightful meal for everyone in the family.