The 5 Best Hostels in Koh Tao: 2025 Edition

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• Best Overall Hostel in Koh Tao – Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant
• Best Hostel in Koh Tao for Solo Travellers – Wonderland Jungle Hostel
• Best Cheap Hostel in Koh Tao – Islander Hostel & Dive School
• Best Party Hostel in Koh Tao – Revolution Koh Tao
• Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Koh Tao – Savage Hostel Koh Tao

If you are backpacking Thailand then you will probably run the full gauntlet of hostel standards. From sublime to shitty, there are hostels in Thailand that can cater to any type of traveller.

Lucky for you I’ve picked out the the crème de la crème of Koh Tao’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring this beautiful island ASAP.

1. Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant – Best Overall Hostel in Koh Tao

• Dorm (mixed): From $12
• Private Room: From $30
• Address: 27/11 Moo 1, Koh Tao, Thailand

Taco Shack, a hostel and dive school, has earned a special place in my backpacker heart. It’s one of those rare gems that hits the sweet spot between having a killer social vibe without turning into a non-stop party. Which, trust me, on this island is pretty hard. The secret sauce? Probably the steady stream of divers who crash here. They’re up at the crack of dawn, ready to hit the water, but by night, they’re all about chilling rather than going full throttle. Don’t worry though, there’s still plenty of fun – daily events run every evening, so you can dive into the social scene as much or as little as you like.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. The FRIENDLIEST Staff
2. Pool Table
3. Mega Mexican Food

And, of course, there’s the tacos. You don’t slap “taco” in the name and then not deliver, and Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant goes all out with some surprisingly solid Mexican grub. Tacos, burritos, quesadillas – the works. You’d expect Western food to be pricey, especially on a small island like Koh Tao, but seriously you get a lot of bang for your buck here. The portions are HUGE. Seriously, even the “mini quesadillas” could feed a small village. It’s exactly what you need after a day of diving.

There’s a variety of dorms here, from mixed to female only with up to eight beds in each. They all come with privacy curtains on each bed and a locker big enough for your backpack. Ensuite bathrooms stay impressively clean, but fair warning – there’s a chance your room might have that “drain-y” smell. It’s a Koh Tao quirk, not just a Taco Shack, so consider it part of the island’s… charm.

You’re not just diving – you’re living with your dive buddies, doing nightly homework (yeah, really), and running those buddy checks like your life depends on it (because, well, it kinda does). By the time you’re done, you’ve not only earned your dive certification – you’ve probably bagged some friends for life.

2. Wonderland Jungle Hostel – Best Hostel in Koh Tao for Solo Travellers

• Dorm (mixed): From $18
• Private Room: From $56
• Address: 3/1 Moo 3 Koh Tao Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Thailand

Wonderland Jungle Hostel is one of those magical places where people show up for a few nights and end up staying… well, forever. It just has that pull. This spot proves that social hostels don’t have to be raging party hubs. It’s all about good vibes, great people, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stick around.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Tons of Cosy Spaces
2. Friendly Staff & Reps
3. Pool Table

The social area is absolute magic. There’s a ridiculous amount of comfy seating – whether you want to chill solo or dive headfirst into a group of soon-to-be mates, it’s all set up for both, making it perfect for solo travellers in Thailand. The staff and reps are absolute legends, always working to get everyone involved with the nightly events. They’ll even try to rope you into a game of cards – fair warning. Add in a pool table, a TV, and a bunch of cosy corners, and you’ll find yourself happily sucked into the laid-back jungle pace before you even realise it.

The hostel itself is a legit jungle oasis. Perched on a hill with panoramic views, it gives you that proper island feel, especially when those insane sunsets start kicking off. It’s the perfect spot to escape the madness of the main strip and just unwind. The dorms are RIDICULOUSLY comfy. The mattresses are next-level, and the rugs and throws just add to that snug, homey vibe.

Just a word of warning, Wonderland Jungle Hostel is out of the main Sairee strip on a pretty mega hill. The benefits of this are some all-round stunning views, but if you don’t drive a motorbike then this place might not be for you as it’s a bit of a bitch to get to. Climbing that beast in Thai heat? Hard pass from me, but hey, whatever floats your boat. If you’re up for it, you’ll be rewarded with one of the most chill spots on the island. Seriously, it’s a must see in Thailand.

3. Islander Hostel & Dive School – Best Cheap Hostel in Koh Tao

• Dorm (mixed): From $10
• Address: 9/27 Moo 2, Koh Tao, Thailand

Islander Hostel & Dive School is a solid pick if you want to dive into both the island’s underwater world and its buzzing social scene. Right by the pier, it’s a dream for those early dive boat mornings, trips to Mango Bay or onward travel to Koh Samui and Koh Phangan (check out my favourite Koh Phangan hostels here). Plus you’ve got a load of bars and restaurants just a short stumble away. With daily happy hours and food that won’t break the bank, it’s a win for anyone trying to stretch that backpacker budget to the absolute limit.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Daily Events
2. Weekly BBQs
3. Epic Beer Pong Tournaments

For one of the cheapest hostels on Koh Tao, you get way more bang for your baht than you’d expect. There’s something going on every night – from BBQs a couple of times a week (perfect for making new mates) to beer pong tournaments, live music, and pre-parties for the island’s main events like the jungle party and Leo Beach party. The vibe’s always lively, so whether you’re a party fiend or just dipping a toe in, you’re in for a good time.

And it’s not all about diving and drinking – Islander’s got you covered with discounted activities like Thai boxing, cooking classes, yoga, and massages. Plus, they’ll sort you out with snorkel tours, onward travel, and diving courses through their dive school. Whatever you’re into, they’ve got something to keep you busy.

The dorms are pretty basic, but honestly, for the price, who’s complaining? You’ve got a bed, a locker, air con, and an ensuite bathroom. Sure, it’s not luxury living, but for an island as notoriously pricey as Koh Tao, this place is absolute value for money.

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4. Revolution Koh Tao – Best Party Hostel in Koh Tao

• Dorm (mixed): From $15
• Private Room: From $45
• Address: 17/50 Moo 1 Ko Pha Ngan District, Koh Tao, Thailand

If Koh Tao’s got a rep for wild nights, then Revolution Koh Tao is its poster child. On Sairee Beach by day, party by night – you’re getting the full-on, classic Koh Tao experience here, and trust me, it’s a ride.

Revolution Koh Tao is famous for its twice-weekly booze cruise, and things get wild – DJs spinning, beer bongs flowing, and drinking games that always cross the line into absolute chaos. And don’t worry if you miss the boat; they’ve got nightly events that double as pre-drinks for whatever party’s popping off on the island. This place pulls in a younger, party-loving crowd, so YES, someone WILL be doing that joss shot with you.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Free Family Dinner
2. Happy Hours
3. Always a Party

Alcohol aside, Revolution’s got a free family dinner every night, which is another great way to meet other people backpacking Thailand. They’ve also got daytime events like beach trips to places like Mango Bay and Shark Island, snorkel tours, and hikes, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained between hangovers. The reps are absolute gems and make sure no one gets left out.

The rooms are solid, with ensuite bathrooms and curtains on each bed which is a joy for nursing your hangover in the dark (I feel ya). The common area’s got a pool table, beer pong, card games, and enough bean bags to sink into for days, so even when you’re taking it easy, there’s no shortage of stuff to do.

Location-wise, you’re bang in the middle of the action. It’s just off Sairee’s main strip, a stone’s throw from Walking Street and 7/11. Wanna escape the party atmosphere? Sairee Beach is less than a five-minute walk away and has the best sunsets on the island. They’re not to be missed. All in all Revolution’s chain of party hostels always seems to bring the energy, and Revolution Koh Tao is one of the best in the game.

5. Savage Hostel Koh Tao – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Koh Tao

• Dorm (mixed): From $18
• Private Room: From $72
• Address: 9/295 Moo 1, Sairee Beach, Koh Tao, Thailand

Savage Hostel Koh Tao is an oasis in the mad party that is this beautiful lil Thai island. Literally steps away from Sairee Beach, it’s centrally located from all of the best things to do in Sairee whilst still ensuring you have a good night’s kip if you’re escaping the party. Considering how little infrastructure Koh Tao has for digital nomads, Savage Hostel Koh Tao is by faaaaaar the best place for nomads looking the juggle work and that sweet ‘ol island lifestyle.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

1. Free Wi-Fi
2. Daily Events
3. Hotel-Like Amenities

The amenities here are a serious level up from your typical hostel offerings. Think hotel vibes on a hostel budget – something that truly didn’t exist on the island prior to Savage’s opening. We’re talking pod-style beds, decent showers (a luxury on Koh Tao), and let’s not forget the rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views of Sairee Beach. Honestly, that rooftop swimming pool alone is worth the stay, but throw in the rooftop bar, happy hours, and a crowd that’s as cool as the sea breeze, and you’ve got a winner here.

When you’re not working or having a dip in the pool, Savage Hostel Koh Tao also sets up some pretty swanky events too. They’ve got yoga, movie nights, DJ sets on the rooftop, and hikes throughout the week too. Of course, if the hostel life is getting to you, there are a TON of good cafes you can work from too. My personal fave? Factory Cafe – just up the road, air-conned and blessed with a generator for those inevitable island power cuts. OR you could go old school and head to a cafe on Sairee beach and get that au naturale air con via sea breeze.

Savage Hostel’s chilled vibe makes it a haven for digital nomads. The WiFi’s solid, there’s a mix of seating in the common area downstairs, and the overall vibe actually lets you get work done – a rare find in a place known for its party hostels. It’s the perfect balance: relaxed enough to focus during the day, social enough to hang out in the evenings. Basically, you’re getting the best of both worlds here, and that’s no easy feat on Koh Tao.

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So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top Koh Tao hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the island.

6. Deishaview Jungle Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $13
• Address: Ko Tao, Ko Pha-ngan District, Surat Thani 84280, Koh Tao, Thailand

If you’re after a killer social hostel, Deishaview Jungle Hostel is where it’s at. Perched up in the jungle with insane panoramic views of Koh Tao, it’s a proper escape from the Sairee chaos. The location is half the charm – breathing in that fresh jungle air is a total reset. Just a heads up, though: you’re gonna want a scooter to get around. But honestly, if you’re on Koh Tao, a scooter’s basically a necessity anyway.

The staff and reps are absolute gems at Deishaview Jungle Hostel – really chill and always welcome to give out travel tips for Thailand. They try really hard to get everyone involved with the events they set up every night. As a solo traveller, you’ll find it ridiculously easy to meet people, and before you know it, you’ll have a whole crew. All-round good vibes here.

7. Good Dream Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $12
• Private Room: From $30
• Address: 15/96-97 moo 1, sairee beach, Koh Tao, Thailand

After too many sleepless nights in party hostels, crashing at Good Dream was the break I didn’t know I needed. It’s tucked just far enough from Sairee’s main strip to let you catch some actual sleep, but still close enough that you’re not missing out on the action if you fancy dipping back in. It’s not the most social spot, but trust me, it more than makes up for it with the comfiest dorms I’ve stayed in for a while. Each dorm has a massive ensuite bathroom – and I mean huge – with hairdryers and everything. It’s the kind of luxury you don’t expect in Koh Tao.

Even though it’s quieter, I still ended up meeting some pretty solid people backpacking South East Asia in my dorm. There’s also an on-site gym downstairs if you’re feeling like working off the Pad Thai, plus plenty of chill-out spaces. Quiet, comfortable, and after going hard for too many nights, Good Dream is the reset you definitely need.

8. Summer Hostel Koh Tao

• Private Room: From $45
• Address: 52/1 Moo 1, Sairee, Koh Tao, Thailand

Summer Hostel Koh Tao is just up the road from the main Sairee strip but quiet enough that you can get some actual sleep. It’s not a party hostel but it’s actually super social as people chill on the bean bags in the common area in the evening with a couple of Changs and doobies. The main thing I love about this place is the cafe connected next door, Summer Cafe – it’s one of my favourites on the island.

They’ve got a mix of private and dorm rooms, so they can sort you out no matter how you travel. The private rooms are pretty swanky too. Some of their highlights include a fridge (for snacks and beer, duh), AC, kettle, free tea and coffee and water, en-suite bathrooms, private balconies, and extra comfy extra large beds. There’s even a 24-hour supermarket across the street for those midnight munchies. No complaints from me here!

9. The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel -5 Star PADI Dive Resort

• Dorm (mixed): From $15
• Private Room: From $30
• Address: 14/55 Moo 3, Chalok Baan Kao Beach, Koh Tao, Thailand

The Dearly Koh Tao Hostel is the perfect mix of chill island vibes and diving adventure, tucked away in a quieter corner of Thailand. Even if you don’t have a scooter, no worries – they’ve got free daily shuttles to beaches and sunset spots, so you’ll still get to soak in the best of Koh Tao without breaking a sweat. The dive school here is solid too, whether you’re just dipping your toes in or going full throttle for certifications, they’ve got you covered.

The dorm setup is an absolute game-changer. No more battling for the bottom bunk – you can pick a dorm with only single beds, each with its own little divider for that extra touch of privacy. Combine that with a swimming pool, jungle backdrop, and all-round laid-back vibes, and you’ve got yourself a dreamy island escape.

10. White Jail @ Koh Tao Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $10
• Private Room: From $25
• Address: 25/46 Moo. 2, Mea Haad, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan, Koh Tao, Thailand

White Jail Hostel is a pretty sweet spot with some standout features. The open-air showers are a nice touch, the beds are seriously comfy, and everything is spotlessly clean. They throw in free bottled water every day – an absolute lifesaver in the heat. Plus, there’s free breakfast and rock-solid free Wi-Fi, making it a solid pick for digital nomads in Thailand looking for a balance between work and island life.

The location is bang on, right by Mae Haad Beach, so you’re in the thick of things and can easily hop to other islands like Koh Samui from the pier. But heads up: you might catch some tunes drifting over from the bar next door – not too loud and it doesn’t go too late, but worth knowing. Fun fact: it’s called White Jail since it’s in an area of Koh Tao that was used as a political prison from 1932 to 1943. How fun! Its prison days are long gone, and now it’s all about chilled vibes and a perfect location to kick back after a day of exploring.

11. CK Hostel

• Dorm (mixed): From $11
• Private Room: From $36
• Address: 30/3 Moo 1, Hat Sairee, Koh Tao, Thailand

CK Hostel is a solid base for your Koh Tao adventure, right near the heart of all the action in Sairee. Fair warning – it’s not exactly the quietest spot, but if you’re here to party rather than sleep, you’ll fit right in. The dorms are pretty basic but have everything you need, and for the price, there’s really nothing to complain about.

The restaurant/bar downstairs is a chilled place to hang out, complete with a pool table, bean bags, and plenty of space to kick back. The staff are super friendly and always up for a chat, which adds to the laid-back vibe. They’re connected to a dive school too, so you can see the best dive sites in Koh Tao pretty cheap with them. They also run a same-day laundry service, which is a lifesaver for those last-minute backpackers who’ve been putting off laundry for a bit too long (yeah, you know who you are).

12. Loft Hostel Koh Tao

• Dorm (mixed): From $8
• Address: 8/7 Moo.2 , Mae Haad, Koh Tao, Koh Phangan District, Koh Tao, Thailand

Polished grey plaster, plywood, painted white breezeblocks – yes, it’s a hipster haven in the form of a Koh Tao youth hostel. I can’t lie I am a sucker for its minimalist style. Aside from aesthetics, the place is clean, newly renovated, and features a great little bar area where you can talk and drink and drink and talk some more. Location-wise, it’s just off Mae Haad Beach, making finding this place after coming from Koh Samui and arriving at the pier a breeze.

13. Carabao Diving Resort

• Dorm (mixed): From $14
• Private Room: From $39
• Address: 50/1 Moo 3 Chalok Baan Kao, Koh Tao, Koh Tao, Thailand

Carabao Diving Resort is the spot if you’re all about that dive life. It’s super chill and laser-focused on diving, so if you’re looking for cheap dives and hanging with people who want to swap tales of lionfish, reef sharks, and the salty deep, this is your place. It’s the perfect hub for dive enthusiasts who want to geek out over underwater adventures. The vibe is laid-back, and while the on-site restaurant is a bit on the pricey side, it’s convenient for when you surface from a day in the water and need to refuel.

14. Sleep Inn Hostel

I can confirm: it’s cheap, it’s basic, but it gets the job done. The private rooms are surprisingly decent, and the dorms, while a bit cramped, come with curtained beds, personal lights, and plug sockets, giving you your own little corner of privacy. There’s 24 hour security so you can feel safe on this Thai island, but TBH I always feel safe here – always a nice extra though. Location-wise, it’s right by the pier and Mae Haad Beach – no need to fork out for a taxi. For the price, it’s hands down the best budget youth hostel on Koh Tao. Simple, straightforward, and easy on the wallet.

15. Neptune Hostel

Neptune Hostel is just a stone’s throw from the pier, making it a great spot if you’re looking to crash for a few nights before catching a ferry to your next Thai island adventure. The hostel itself is clean, cool, and minimalist with a bit of a boutique vibe, which I dig. The staff are friendly and keep things running smoothly, adding to the relaxed atmosphere. The on-site restaurant and cafe is a decent hangout spot if you’ve got time to kill or you’re just recovering from all the fun. A nice hostel in Koh Tao. However, be warned: beds are a lil’ hard.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Koh Tao

Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Koh Tao.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Koh Tao.

Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.

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Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!

How much does a hostel cost in Koh Tao?

The average price of a dorm room in Koh Tao is $12 per night. That being said, there are some epic hostels starting at just $5 per night, so you can snag a steal if you look in the right places.

What is the best party hostel in Koh Tao?

Revolution Koh Tao is the most obvious answer if you’re here to party. With wild reps, constant happy hours, and the infamous booze cruise, you’re guaranteed a good time – and probably a rough morning after. If you’re looking for non-stop fun, this is the place to be.

What are the best hostels in Koh Tao for couples?

Savage Hostel Koh Tao has some pretty insane private rooms that feel like you’re staying more on a resort than in a hostel. It’s in a killer location with great amenities – I deff recommend it for a romantic getaway to this beauuuutiful island.

People rave about the infamous Pai hole, but I’ll die on this hill any day – the Koh Tao pull is stronger. Trust me, I’m currently sitting by the beach writing this, five weeks after I was supposed to leave… still very much here.

So there you have it – the ultimate guide to the best hostels on this magical speck of an island. You’re in for one hell of a time. Go too hard at Fishbowl, fry yourself on the beaches, attempt diving and realise snorkelling just doesn’t hit the same anymore. Pour your heart into this place, because Koh Tao has a funny way of rewarding whatever energy you throw its way.

Still undecided? Taco Shack Diving Hostel & Restaurant has my vote every time. I got my Open Water Diver certification here, made some stellar mates, and played many a game of pool. They’ve nailed the balance between social and party vibes – you’ll feel it.

And if you stumble across any hidden gems, drop me a line – always on the hunt for new favourites. Who knows? I might still be here when you show up. Happy travels!

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