Koh Tao is famous for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back island vibe. It’s a perfect place to spend three days learning to explore the underwater world or just soaking in the scenery. If you’re interested in becoming a certified diver, Koh Tao offers some of the best options globally, thanks to its calm waters and excellent visibility. We especially like the Become certified diver in 3 days – PADI Open Water Diver course on Koh Tao because it combines quality instruction with practical dives, all at an affordable price.
Beyond diving courses, Koh Tao also excels in small-group and personalized experiences that make learning and exploring more intimate and flexible. Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to deepen your skills, this list covers the best 3-day tours to help you make the most of your time in paradise.
Quick Overview
This guide features three top 3-day tours in Koh Tao, including comprehensive PADI dive courses, small-group instruction with all-inclusive amenities, and budget-friendly options with personalized attention. Each tour offers a unique way to experience Koh Tao’s underwater beauty or gain diving certification, making it easier to choose based on your preferences and budget.
Now, let’s dive into the details of each experience.
1. Become certified diver in 3 days – PADI Open Water Diver course on Koh Tao
At number 1, the Become certified diver in 3 days – PADI Open Water Diver course on Koh Tao offers a well-rounded introduction to scuba diving. This course is perfect for first-timers who want a solid foundation, and it’s rated 5.0/5 from 101 reviews, which speaks to its popularity and quality. For $336.50, you get full instruction over three days, including four open-water dives, where you’ll encounter Koh Tao’s colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
The course combines classroom theory—covering topics like equipment use and safety procedures—with practical sessions in shallow water, such as learning basic skills in the Japanese Garden bay on Nang Yuan Island. The final day involves completing four dives, each helping you build confidence and experience underwater. The instructors are praised for their clarity and patience; one reviewer noted, “My instructor was Dominik Maier, who was hilarious and stern when needed—made me feel safe but also confident.” The included certification allows you to dive around the world, and you’ll take home a diving log book to record your new adventures.
Bottom line: This course is ideal if you want a structured, certified experience with a convenient location close to the pier. It balances instructional quality with affordability, making it the top pick for beginners.
2. 3 Days PADI Open Water Scuba Diving in Koh Tao
Next on our list is the 3 Days PADI Open Water Scuba Diving in Koh Tao, which also scores a perfect 5.0/5 from 11 reviews. This more personalized option is priced at $423.04 and includes a thorough, hands-on approach to learning. The course emphasizes safety and confidence, combining theory, pool sessions, and open-water dives in small groups—capped at four students—to ensure plenty of instructor attention.
What makes this tour stand out is its inclusiveness: all necessary equipment is provided, and lunches are included, saving you time and hassle. Day 1 kicks off with a classroom review of e-learning material, followed by practical skills in shallow water near Koh Tao’s beaches. Days 2 and 3 involve visiting two dive sites each, putting your new skills to the test amid Koh Tao’s famous coral reefs. The itinerary emphasizes real-world experience in a relaxed setting, ideal for nervous first-timers or those wanting more personal guidance. One happy diver noted, “The instructor was knowledgeable and patient, making every step easy to understand.” With private transport and all meals, this tour offers excellent value for a tailored diving experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for small groups seeking personalized attention, this tour combines quality instruction with convenience and comfort, making it a smart choice for those wanting a more intimate course.
3. Open Water Course – Become certified diver in 3 days
Lastly, the Open Water Course – Become certified diver in 3 days offers a proven track record with over 1,000 reviews and a 5.0/5 rating. At $346.25, this course provides an intensive yet friendly environment to earn your diving certification. The small group format (max 4 participants) ensures personalized guidance from experienced instructors who focus on safety and skill-building.
The program includes three full days of instruction, blending classroom sessions, confined water training, and four open-water dives. Reviewers highlight instructor Tom’s calm, approachable manner, which helps nervous divers relax and learn effectively. The course is well-suited for travelers seeking a reliable, cost-effective way to get certified without sacrificing quality. Besides the core training, students receive a digital achievement certificate, ideal for sharing your accomplishment online. The reviews emphasize the engaging teaching style and the strong focus on safety, making this a dependable choice for first-time divers.
Bottom line: For travelers on a budget who want thorough training with flexible scheduling, this course offers great value with a high success rate and lots of personalized attention.
$346.25 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Koh Tao 3-Day Tour
When selecting the best experience, consider your budget, comfort level, and what you want to get out of your trip. If you’re eager to earn your diving certification quickly and affordably, the PADI Open Water Diver courses are excellent options. For a more intimate, personalized experience, the second option with small-group dives provides extra attention, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace with all meals included. If you’re on a tighter budget but still want a certified course, the Open Water Course offers a solid foundation with strong reviews.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (November to April), to secure your preferred dates and ensure a spot in small-group classes. Keep in mind, the best choice depends on your comfort with water, your interest in certification, and your desire for convenience or affordability.
Final thoughts
Koh Tao’s reputation as a world-class diving destination makes it a top choice for a 3-day tour. Whether you’re looking to earn your certification, improve your skills in a small group, or simply enjoy guided dives, there’s an option suited for you. For first-timers eager to get certified without breaking the bank, the first or third options are reliable bets. Those wanting a more personalized touch should consider the second tour, which emphasizes small group sizes and all-inclusive comfort.
Whatever your preference, the key is to book early, pack your enthusiasm, and prepare for unforgettable underwater adventures. Koh Tao’s promise of clear waters and lively reefs is waiting—don’t delay in making that trip happen.