Within the beautiful sightings of Koh Samui lies the evergreen Ang Thong park, a postcard-perfect archipelago of 42 islands in the Gulf of Thailand. It features more than a whopping 100 square kilometers of pristine land and sea that are somewhat reminiscent of Vietnam’s Halong Bay, wherein towering limestone mountains, white-sand beaches, and vibrant jungles abound.

While tourists flock the islands in Ang Thong, it remains a place of beauty as it offers vacationers and locals alike a taste of tropical paradise. Hidden gems like likes and coves are waiting to be explored, while thrill-seekers can enjoy the fun-filled activities and spectacular snorkeling spots around Ang Thong.

What to Bring to Ang Thong National Park

If you want to make the most of what Ang Thong has to offer, it’s best to pack with all the beach essentials such as the following:

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Swimsuit
• Camera and a waterproof bag
• Shoes for swimming
• Cash tour payment of 300 Baht per person for the Ang Thong National Park entrance fee

Must-Visit Places in Ang Thong National Marine Park

1. Wua Ta Lap Viewpoint

Considered as the main attraction of the park, the Wua Ta Lap viewpoint offers a breathtaking and panoramic view of the Ang Thong islands. Rock formations, limestones, and lush islands pepper the scene, making it a postcard image of an oasis.

The journey to the top will take around 25 to 30 minutes as it is a 500m-long trail, so be sure to wear the proper gear to ensure a smooth-sailing climb. The hike up itself offers a unique experience as it immerses tourists in exotic flora and fauna along the way.

2. Ko Mae Ko (Mother Island)

Wua Ta Lap may offer an overview of Ang Thong’s beauty, but Ko Mae Ko takes a closer look at its hidden gems. Mother Island provides a glimpse of the sparkling, emerald seawater lake set smack in the middle of surrounding landscapes. Impressive, limestone cliffs encircle the lake, making it one of the best views for relaxation and dreams of a tropical escape. Similar to the Wua Ta Lap viewpoint, it will take quite a hike, but the strenuous climb is worth every step once you reach the top.

3. Sam Sao Island (The Three Ladies)

Explorers who want to take a break from hiking can still enjoy an action-packed afternoon in Sam Sao Island. The unique rock formations look hauntingly like faces of three ladies. Hence, the island is also dubbed as The Three Ladies. With that in mind, the pristine waters and impressive underwater visibility make it an excellent spot for kayaking, swimming, or snorkeling.

Wrapping Up

Ang Thong islands offer a unique perspective on the raw, natural beauty of Koh Samui. With plenty of islands to explore, fun-filled excursions are waiting for every kind of traveler. Keep in mind that the park is typically closed during November and December due to its crashing monsoon waves, so it’s best to set your sights on Ang Thong during February, March, and April.