This beach runs to the north and south of Koh Tao's main town, Mae Haad, where the ferry piers are also located. The town is typical of those on heavily touristed Thai islands, with a cluster of dive shops, exchange kiosks, travel agents, Internet cafes, bakeries, restaurants and bars. It's dusty during the day, chaotic when the ferries come and go, and otherwise sleepy and largely deserted.

Around the piers the beach is grubby and littered but both the northern and southern extremes are quite pleasant. To the south, there is some good snorkelling and comfortable resorts. If you're looking for something secluded however, this is not your best choice.