Mu Koh Ang Thong National Marine Park

This comprises some 40 islands about 20 kilometres or two hours by boat northwest of Koh Samui. The park covers 250 square kilometres, of which approximately one fifth is land mass. The most attractive islands include Ko Wua Ta Lap, Ko Mae Ko, Ko Prayat. Ko Sam Sao, Ko Nai Put and Ko Wua Te. Most islands comprise limestone masses reaching heights of up to 400 metres, and fringed by beaches and rain forest.

An emerald saltwater lake known as Tha-le Nai (Inland Sea) on Ko Mae is the park’s major scenic attraction, and entails a mildly strenuous climb. The resultant views are well worth the effort.

Another popular venue is Ko Sam Sao where an extensive span of coral reef and a huge rock arch offer scenic fascination. The park office is on Ko Wua Ta Lap where bungalow slyle accommodation is available. Visitors wishing to slay overnight should make advance bookings and specify whether meal services are required.

Getting There: A ferry departs from Koh Samui’s Na Thon pier daily at 8.30 a.m. and arrives at Mu Ko Ang Thong at 10.30 a.m. The fare is 550 baht. On return, the ferry departs from the Ang Thong National Park at 3 p.m. A one-day tour package to Mu Koh Ang Thong is also organised by travel agents on Koh Samui.

Famous for: Wua Talap Island Viewpoint (Traveler can see all 42 islands of Mu Koh Ang Thong National Marine Park)
Province: Surat Thani, Southern Thailand.