Ang Thong National Marine Park

1. Visit the Emerald Lake

The Emerald Lagoon is situated in Ko Mae Ko (Mother Island) and is a must-visit. The Movie ‘The Beach’ was shot in this very spot. It is in the middle of the island surrounded by Limestone cliffs and linked to the sea through an underground tunnel due to which it’s a salt lake. You can reach this spot after a climb of nearly 40 minutes. The climb is worth the panoramic view of the Park offered by the lake spot. However, swimming is not allowed in the lake. 

2. Kayaking

There are several kayaking trails through the Marine Park which provides spectacular sights of the Park. You can stop your kayak on an island and enjoy the beaches. 

3. Snorkelling

Snorkelling is one of the many water-sports offered here. Some areas have clear shallow waters perfect for snorkelling. The coral reefs in the Park can be explored through snorkelling and scuba diving. 

4. Camping
Camping gear and tents can be rented out from headquarters in Ko Wua Talap. Only certain designated spots are available for camping. Check with the authorities about them. 

5. Immerse in the Viewpoint

On the island of Ko Wua Talap, there is a 30-minute hike to the iconic picture-perfect view of the entire stretch of the island in the Gulf of Thailand.

6. Cruise Along

Ang Thong National Marine Park hosts an hour-long cruise from Koh Samui. You could also book a semi-private sunset cruise along the Emerald Lake. However, there may be a few exclusions among the stopovers in a semi-private cruise.

7. Thai Yacht
Thai yacht rides such as the Blue Dragon Boat are available as private trips as well. These cruises would take you across the 42 islands of the Ang Thong National Marine Park archipelago; inclusive of the activities, restro and gastronomical experiences each one has to offer.

One Day Trips from Koh Samui

1. Tours Koh Samui

Visitors could book their semi-private Ang Thong Marine National Park cruise on the famous Blue Dragon Boat. This cruise is said to be one of the best and well-known ways of exploring the region. There are plenty of accommodative facilities at Koh Samui depending on your choice of view, facilities and services at affordable rates. Tours Koh Samui hosts an array of activities along the cruise such as kayaking, snorkelling etc.

2. Blue Star Tours
Blue Star Tours composes of a tour package from Koh Samui to Ang Thong Marine National Park. The tour is inclusive of all the main things to do at the Park such as water sports, a visit to Koh Wua Talap and Emerald Lake. 

3. Boat Tour from Koh Phangan

Visitors from Koh Phangan are recommended to take a ferry ride or a speed boat from Koh Phangan to Ang Thong Marine National Park, which would be a 45-minute ride. Through this boat tour, tourists would visit Talay Nai or the "Inner Emerald Lake", which offers a stunning view of all the 42-islands of this Marine archipelago.

• Avoid travelling between November and December as the Park is closed during these months due to hide tides and unfavourable climatic conditions. 
• There are no pets allowed in the Marine Park.
• Refrain from touching the corals too often.
• Ensure to carry back plastics, wrappers and other leftovers back with you. Do not leave anything in the premises.
• Remember to carry a lot of water and a high SPF sunscreen.
  
• Although tipping the cruiser is not mandatory, it is appreciated. 
• You can priorly book bungalows at Ang Thong National Marine Park only via the official Thai government website. 
• Always wear comfortable footwear.

Day 1
Reaching Ang Thong National Marine Park
Book a cruise or a speed boat from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan, with a morning departure. The ride would be a 45-minute to an hour-long trip to reach Ang Thong National Marine Park.
Koh Mae Ko
Touch upon Koh Mae Ko to witness the stunning Emerald Lake. Take some time out to enjoy the breathtaking views from the famous viewpoint here as well.
Lunch
Lunch out on exclusive Thai cuisine on the voyage.
Snorkelling
You could either go snorkelling at Koh Wao or relax by the beach after your satisfying meal.
You could either choose to go back to the resort at Koh Samui or camp on the islands.
Camping
Camping tents and accommodative bungalows are provided at the Park Headquarters in Koh Wua Talab.

Day 2
Hiking
Wake up to an amazing view and feeling from this Thai nature camp. Hike up from Koh Wua Talab to an exciting viewpoint at the end, which can be a tiring walk for amateurs and first-timers.
Koh Phaluai
Visit Thailand’s only untouched island, Koh Phaluai. Inhabited by the traditional sea gipsies, Koh Phaluai is said to be the only and biggest Thai island kept intact without a glitch of development. Since the island mostly hosts the fisher community, you could tour across the local fisherman villages, take a local fishing tour, trek and even kayak at Koh Phaluai.
Lunch
You could either lunch on the island or the cruise.
Sea Canoeing
Go sea canoeing across the archipelago. This kayaking tour would take you across fascinating rock formations and limestone structures of the islands. You may also come across dolphins and whales on your canoeing trip!
Return
Sail back to Koh Samui or Koh Phangan just in time to enjoy the sunset while at sea!

The beaches can get overcrowded during the peak seasons. Since not all beaches here are clean, snorkelling and other aqua sports can become a disappointing experience.

Nature enthusiasts and water-sport adventure lovers ought to visit Ang Thong National Marine Park.