Mae Haad Pier

Stepping onto Mae Haad Pier on the idyllic island of Koh Tao, is like entering into a world that perfectly encapsulates the serene charm of Southeast Asia. Framed by the crystal-clear turquoise waters. The pier is the main point of access to Koh Tao, and a bustling hub of activity offering an intriguing glimpse into local life on this beautiful island.

Located in the heart of Mae Haad village, this pier has been an integral part of Koh Tao’s history for many decades. Back in the day, when Koh Tao was a little-known gem, Mae Haad Pier served as the primary entry point for intrepid travellers seeking untouched beaches and pristine waters. It was here that fishermen would dock their boats and unload their catch, and locals would congregate to trade goods and exchange stories. Over the years, as Koh Tao blossomed into a popular tourist destination, Mae Haad Pier adapted to meet the changing needs, evolving from a simple docking point to a vibrant centre of commerce and visitors transportation.

Today, Mae Haad Pier is primarily used for ferry arrivals and departures, connecting Koh Tao to other islands and mainland Thailand. It’s the main gateway to the island, with ferries run by several operators, including Lomprayah, Songserm, and Seatran Discovery. These ferries offer multiple daily services to destinations such as Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Chumphon.

A visit to Mae Haad Pier is an experience in itself. The bustling atmosphere is palpable, with ferries docking, tourists alighting, food vendors serving up local delicacies, and dive shops offering exciting underwater adventures. The pier is also home to a host of facilities such as restaurants, cafes, travel agencies, and convenience stores, catering to the needs of incoming and outgoing travellers.

While the pier is often viewed simply as a transit point, it’s worthwhile to spend some time exploring its surroundings. Mae Haad village is a charming place, offering an array of restaurants, bars, shops, and accommodation options. The nearby Mae Haad Beach is a stunning spot to relax, swim, and soak up the sun.

When planning your visit to Mae Haad Pier, there are several tips and pieces of advice to keep in mind. First, it’s recommended to arrive at the pier well ahead of your ferry departure time to avoid last-minute stress. It’s also worth noting that while the pier is bustling during ferry arrival and departure times, it tends to be quieter in between, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a meal, a drink, or a stroll. Book in advance to avoid disappointment or stress, as Koh Tao gets busy specially during peak season. Use our booking facility on the right column to find guaranteed tickets.

One interesting fact about Mae Haad Pier is that it’s also the starting point for many scuba diving trips. Koh Tao is renowned worldwide as a premier diving destination, and many diving schools operate right from the pier, offering courses and excursions for divers of all levels.

Moreover, Mae Haad Pier is a place of transit and also a place of connection. It’s where people from all corners of the world converge, united by their love for travel and adventure. It’s a place of hellos and goodbyes, of beginnings and endings, and of countless stories waiting to be told.

Mae Haad Pier is a vibrant, dynamic space that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Koh Tao. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Mae Haad Pier is sure to add a dash of color, excitement, and authenticity as a welcome to your Koh Tao experience.