Ang Thong Marine Park
Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park is a breathtaking pristine archipelago of 42 tropical islands located in the Gulf of Thailand. Characterized by towering limestone cliffs, thick jungle, white-sand beaches, and hidden lagoons, this 102-square-kilometer protected paradise is a top day-trip destination.
Essential Visitor Information
Opening Hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Annual Closure: The park usually closes from November 1 to December 15 due to rough weather during the peak monsoon season.Park Entry Fees: Cash is required upon arrival as entry fees are typically excluded from tour packages.
Foreign Adults: 300 THB.
Foreign Children (ages 3–14): 150 THB.
Thai Citizens: 40 THB for adults, 20 THB for children.
Top Things to Do
Pha Chan Charat Viewpoint (Koh Wua Ta Lap): Climb a steep, challenging 500-meter trail equipped with ropes for assistance. It takes roughly 30 minutes to summit and rewards you with the park's most iconic panoramic view over the 42 islands.
The Emerald Lagoon (Koh Mae Koh): Walk up permanently installed wooden staircases to overlook Thale Nai, a spectacular saltwater lake completely enclosed by limestone cliffs and connected to the open sea via underwater caves. Note: Swimming is strictly prohibited in the lagoon itself.
Sea Kayaking & Snorkeling: Rent a kayak or join a guided excursion to paddle along massive rock formations, hidden coves, and caves. Popular snorkeling spots like Koh Wao offer vibrant coral reefs and rich marine life.
Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wild dusky leaf monkeys (langurs) resting in the trees around the park headquarters on Koh Wua Ta Lap. [
How to Get There
Because there is no public ferry service to the archipelago, access is exclusively via licensed tour operators departing from nearby islands.
From Koh Samui & Koh Phangan: Most travelers book organized day tours. Standard group "big boats" offer a relaxed 90-minute to 2-hour cruise with breakfast and lunch included. Speedboats cut travel time down to roughly 1 hour for smaller groups.
Private Charters: Speedboats or luxury yachts are available for private booking if you prefer a customizable itinerary that avoids midday tour crowds.