Koh Tao, also known as Thailand's Turtle Island, is one of Southeast Asia's most unique and attractive tourist destinations. Its rich biodiversity, crystal-clear waters, jungle habitats, and famous coral reefs draw between 300,000 to 500,000 tourists annually. Many come to enjoy the island’s world-renowned dive sites and various attractions, but the increasing number of visitors has created significant environmental challenges.
Tourism activities on the island, while beneficial for the local economy, are taking a toll on Koh Tao’s delicate marine ecosystems, particularly the coral reefs. Damage from boat anchoring, kicking and trampling during dives, littering, and wastewater discharge are all contributing to the degradation of this once-pristine underwater world.
Unlike Thailand’s national parks, which collect entrance fees ranging from US$6 to $12 per visitor, Koh Tao, being outside the protected area network, did not have a formal user fee system. As a result, the funds generated by tourism on the island have been insufficient to cover the costs of biodiversity conservation. This lack of financing has contributed to the slow deterioration of the coral reefs, while waste has become a widespread issue threatening the island's marine environment.
In April 2022, Koh Tao municipality responded by introducing a modest fee of 20 baht (about US$0.60) per visitor. Since then, this initiative has raised over $450,000, with expectations of generating around $360,000 annually. The funds are being directed towards the restoration of coral reefs and improvements in waste management, offering a much-needed boost to the island’s conservation efforts.