An exotic tropical paradise, situated in the Gulf of Thailand, Ang Thong National Marine Park is a protected archipelago of 42 islands. With unusually spectacular scenery, the Marine Park features Limestone Mountains, thick jungles, white-sand beaches, waterfalls, surreal lakes, unexplored caves and small hikes leading up to breathtaking viewpoints. The serenity of these islands is so captivating that one of the island’s lake – Lake Emerald – was featured in the movie ‘The Beach’ starring Leonardo Dicaprio.
A protected 100-square-kilometre island, Ang Thong National Marine Park houses a variety of exotic species of mammals, sea creatures, birds, reptiles and trees. Although a fantastic tourist destination, only a few tour operators have a license to the park and its affiliated islands.
The Park aims at preserving its landscapes from the dilution of modern development. The Ang Thong National Marine Park and its 42-island archipelago would indulge you through numerous adventures such as hiking, snorkelling, kayaking and diving. If you’re not an adventurous person, you can choose to relax by the beach amidst all the tropical beauty and have an equally great time.
SourceThe 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
SourceThere 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
SourceSnorkelling 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
SourceOn 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
SourceAng 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.
Tours of the National Park
One Day Trips from Koh Samui
1. Tours Koh Samui
SourceVisitors 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
SourceVisitors 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.
Flora and Fauna of the Marine Park
The forests found here are Limestone Mountain forests, Beach forests, dry evergreen forests and very little Mangrove forests. Ang Thong Lady’s Slipper Orchid is an endemic species of plant found here. The islands consist of smaller animals with 16 species of mammals, more than 50 species of birds, 14 species of reptiles, and 5 species of amphibians. Some of these include Langurs, crab-eating monkeys, silver-haired bats, little herons, oriental pied hornbills, hill mynas, lizards, iguanas, Green turtles, hawksbill turtles, butterfly fish, angel fish, parrot fish, blue-spotted fantail rays, black-tip reef sharks, snappers and many more variety of species.
Tips While Visiting Ang Thong National Marine Park
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.
Suggested Itinerary for Ang Thong National Marine Park
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!
Best Time to Visit Ang Thong National Marine Park
How to Reach Ang Thong National Marine Park
How to Reach Overview
Since the islands are a protected area, there are only government approved tour boats allowed here. There are day-tours organized from Koh, Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. These boats can be anything from a liveaboard cruise ship to speedboats to sailboats. There are many types of boats suiting your group-size, your budget and needs. If you would like to have more control on your stops, time and activities then it is best to go for a more privatized tour by hiring a private charter for your own group.
Local transport in Ang Thong National Marine Park
Each of the islands of the Marine Park is tiny and the only way to move around on these islands is by foot. The boat you hire to get to the Marine Park will take you from island to another, stop by a stop or you could rent your own kayak or a long tail boat.
What are the places near Ang thong national marine park?
The top places near to Ang thong national marine park are Pattaya which is 184 km from Ang thong national marine park, Bangkok which is located 273 km from Ang thong national marine park, Koh samui which is located 379 km from Ang thong national marine park, Hua hin which is located 263 km from Ang thong national marine park, Koh chang which is located 1 km from Ang thong national marine park
What is the best way to reach Ang thong national marine park?
Since the islands are a protected area, there are only government approved tour boats allowed here. There are day-tours organized from Koh, Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao. These boats can be anything from a liveaboard cruise ship to speedboats to sailboats. There are many types of boats suiting your group-size, your budget and needs. If you would like to have more control on your stops, time and activities then it is best to go for a more privatized tour by hiring a private charter for your own group. Read More
What is the best time to visit Ang thong national marine park?
The best time to visit the Ang Thong National Marine Park is from February to October. The park is closed during the winter months of November to January due to weather conditions. The seas are calm during the months of February to October and the weather would be more conducive for exploring and experiencing the islands.
Nature enthusiasts and water-sport adventure lovers ought to visit Ang Thong National Marine Park.
What is not so good about Ang thong national marine park?
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.
What is famous about Ang thong national marine park?
Fuelled in scenic landscapes and fun-filled water sports and hikes at each of the islands, Ang Thong National Marine Park is a great destination for those looking for a pure beach vacation.
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