Ang Thong National Marine Park

Angthong National Marine Park

Welcome to the spectacular Angthong National Marine Park, a true gem nestled in the Gulf of Thailand. This breathtaking archipelago consists of 42 islands, each offering a unique blend of unspoiled natural beauty, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. Angthong, meaning “golden bowl,” aptly describes the stunning landscapes that await you here.

From towering limestone cliffs and hidden lagoons to vibrant coral reefs and pristine beaches, Angthong National Marine Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventurers, and those seeking tranquility. Join us as we embark on a journey to explore the wonders of this majestic marine park.

The Golden Bowl: Angthong translates as “golden bowl”. It occupies almost 250 sq km and includes 50 sq km of limestone islands and karst topography which rise from the sea as dramatic rock cliffs and bizarre rock formations. Caves, hidden lagoons, and white sand beaches are there to be explored. While snorkelling among the shallow coral gardens makes for a popular and fascinating day trip.

Protected: Angthong National Marine Park is a protected nature area consisting of over 40 islands. Most noteworthy it’s famous for its natural beauty. All of the islands are uninhabited and undeveloped except for two. One being Koh Wua Talap and other, Koh Paluay. Inhabited by sea gypsies who still earn a living from the fishing.

Fauna: The woods in this national park can be classified as dry evergreen forest, beach forest, and limestone forest. Dry evergreen forests are found in larger islands like Wuatalab, Paluay and Samsao. Beach forests are lighter woods and found in small stretches along the beaches. Limestone forests are found on limestone mountains with thin soil layer. Plants here are much smaller.

Animals: Larger animals do not thrive on these islands as they are small and dominated mostly by steep limestone mountains. With only few lightly to moderately slanted plains. Sixteen species of mammals like otters, langurs, crab eating monkeys, hogs and silver haired bats can be found here. Similarly, other inhabitants include at least 54 species of birds. Such as little herons, Brahminy kites, common sandpipers, oriental pied and hornbill drongoes.

Reptiles and Marine Life: Fourteen species of reptiles are also found. Such as ground lizards, iguanas, green turtles, hawksbill turtles, pythons, and cobras. Only five species of amphibians are found: common Asian toads, tiger frogs, rugose frogs, grass frogs, and tree frogs. The waters of Angthong National Marine Park are home to butterfly fish, angel fish, parrot fish. As well as blue-spotted fantail rays, black tip reef sharks, snappers, groupers, sea slugs, blue swimming crabs, sea fans, sea whips, giant clams, oysters, and coral.

Koh Mae Koh: A must visit area of Angthong National Marine Park is Koh Mae Koh (Mother Island). Here there is an emerald seawater lake in the middle of the island. The lake is encircled on all sides by limestone cliffs and linked by an underground tunnel to the sea. Reaching the lake entails a strenuous climb of 40 minutes or so. But is rewarded with a spectacular view across Angthong National Marine Park.

Stunning Views: The climb is up a series of staircases wonderfully combined into the natural landscape of the karst. Threading through a narrow opening in the rock face at one point. Entailing minimum exertion if you pace yourself and are in decent physical shape. The final series of steps are a bit steep and caution should be exercised when descending the steps. The entire trip up and down should not take more than 40 minutes. Excluding the time you stop and enjoy the spectacular Emerald Lagoon.

Visit the Caves: Caves on many of the islands around Angthong National Marine Park have intriguing rock formations. Certainly well worth visiting for an awesome experience. Also the beaches are surrounded with excellent coral reefs which make for perfect swimming and snorkelling.

Snorkeling: Ang Thong Marine Park is a stunning archipelago of about 40 limestone islands in the Gulf of Thailand (near Koh Samui). Snorkeling here means clear turquoise water, coral gardens, sheltered bays and lots of colorful reef fish – perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. Most trips are day tours by boat, with calm early-morning conditions giving the best visibility.

More to See: Other popular sites are Koh Sam Sao (Tripod Island), with an extensive coral reef, and Wua Talap Island or “sleeping cow”. It takes some effort to climb up the steep 430m hill to a viewpoint offering great scenery of the entire archipelago and the mainland. Probably one of the best hikes in Thailand ca be found at Angthong National Marine Park. At park headquarters there is a path leading up the side of the rocks. This will take maybe 25-30 minutes to walk up and is well worth it. But be warned, this is not a hike for the faint hearted. Therefore, make sure you have good footwear as there are sharp limestone crags which will be your foothold, especially towards the peak.

Stay Overnight at Angthong National Marine Park

If you wish to stay overnight at Angthong National Marine Park then there are a few bungalows. The costs are quite low at 600 THB per night for a 2 bedroom bungalow. While the bungalows are set against a beautiful backdrop and the park staff are very friendly. However, please note that the park is not for the resort seeker. Facilities are basic with no hot water. And the park shuts off its generator at 23:00. Hence there’s no electricity at night (which only adds to the appeal of the place). You can book an overnight trip direct here.