After hours of travel and sitting in planes, busses, and boats, to get to the little island of Koh Tao it’s time to treat yo self and go get a massage. Koh Toa has tons of massage places to choose from and each place has different offerings, but they all have Thai Massage. Something to note is that Thai massages a little different than what you are probably used to at home, and I’m not just talking about the happy ending stuff.
The first thing you should know about Thai massage is that it is an ancient practice and was started as a Buddhist tradition over 2,500 years ago, and it is considered a vital part of one’s health, just like eating well and exercising. The Thai’s take their massage very seriously.
The second thing you should know is that when you go to get a Thai massage it’s not going to be like the typical Swedish one you are used to. You will most likely be in a large room with other people, you will lay down on a mat on the floor, and you will keep your clothes on, or the masseuse will give you loose clothes to wear. The actual massage is much more intense than a regular one as well. It’s almost like yoga and massage combined, they really work you out. It can be a little awkward and uncomfortable at times but if you go with it you’ll feel great afterward.
Royal Thai Massage (Manara Massage) – Mae Haad
Royal Thai Massage is consistently rated one of the best places in Koh Tao to get a massage, and for good reason, it’s conveniently located on the “Up Road” from the pier, they offer a variety of services, their prices are awesome, and their massage rooms are air-conditioned, which is a major plus. Their masseuse are contractors, so you might have to wait a few minutes for the front desk to call someone to come in for you, but I never waited more than 5 minutes. You also don’t need to worry about making an appointment, I always just walked in.
What to get: Thai massage (60 min.) | back neck and head massage (60 min.) | foot massage (60 min.)
Cost: 300 to 350 Baht
Paradise Massage – Sairee Beach
Paradise Massage is located along the brick road in Sairee and if you aren’t paying attention you could walk right past it. The building is right on the beach and you can hear the sounds of the waves on the sand while you are relaxing and getting worked out. I also got the best Thai massage here! It was seriously amazing. The masseuse was friendly and always making sure I was alright and good with the pressure. They are also fully staffed so as soon as you walk in there is a masseuse ready for you.
What to get: Thai massage (60 min.)
Cost: 300 Baht
Kayo Massage – Sairee Beach
Kayo Massage is the big massage place on the brick road in Sairee, they offer a ton of services and are fully staffed so there is no generally no waiting. It is one large room so there is not a lot of privacy. For my massage they had me take off my shirt and undid my bathing suit top while I was laying down, so if you are uncomfortable getting semi undressed in public maybe opt for a smaller place. But the massage is good and the price is decent.
Side note: I also got a mani-pedi there but it wasn’t the best, I’d go for one of the massages instead
What to get: Back shoulder and neck massage (30 min.)
Cost: 250 Baht
Leelawadee Thai Massage – Mae Haad
This little place is right by the pier in Mae Haad, while it can get a bit noisy when a boat comes in and there’s a ton a people milling around outside, the best thing about this place is the price. I think it might be the cheapest price I found on Koh Tao and the massage is good too!
What to get: Back neck and head massage (30 min.)
Cost: 200 Baht
I like the idea that massages are good for your health, and with that in mind, you should probably treat yourself to one (or ten) while on Koh Tao. It really is relaxing and your body will thank you for it, especially if you need some kinks worked out.
READ MORE:
A Hipster’s Guide to Koh Tao
Hiking on Koh Tao
Where to Find the Best Views in Koh Tao
Packing for the Thai Islands
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