Drifting serenely in the Gulf of Thailand, the palm-fringed island of Ko Tao takes its name from the abundant sea turtles that reside on its shores. White sand beaches sheltered by steep hills – some only accessible with four-wheel drive vehicles – and 300 days of sun invite long afternoons of lounging. Sea kayaking and snorkeling provide close encounters with black-tip reef sharks, abundant tropical fish and a wooden shipwreck. Speed boats connect the island to the mainland.