Angthong National Marine Park

Mu Koh Angthong National Park is 42 preserved islands in the Gulf of Siam, a part of the Angthong archipelago of which Koh Samui is part. The islands are visually stunning, and are popular as day trip excursion from Samui, with opportunities for kayaking, snorkeling and photography.

The main islands at the marine park are Phaluai Island, Wua Chio Island, Wua Talap Island, Mae Koh Island, Samsao Island, Phai Luak Island, Kha Island, Hindap Island, Phi Island, Wua Kantang Island, Mae Yat Island, Wua Te Island, Naiphut Island, Changsom Island, Hanuman Island, Thaiphlao Island, Huaklong Island, and Kho Ban Island.

Angthong National Marine Park is 102 sq.km in area. It’s a landscape dominated by clear blue water. The islands that make up a small land percentage of the area are limestone mountains with mysterious looking caves and cliffs. Some of the islands have been compared in appearance to ancient Angkor Wat in Cambodia and Prasart Hin Pimai.

When to visit Angthong National Marine Park

The best time to visiting the park is between February and April. The temperature is hot but the sea is calm and excellent for sailing. The park is usually closed during November and December for restoration. This is the rainy season, and so conditions would not be suitable for visits at such a time.

Flora & Fauna of Angthong National Marine Park

On the larger islands of Wua Ta Lap, Phaluai and Sam Sao, the principle tree species are Memecylon sp., Barringtonia fusiformis, Semecarpus curtisii, Cinnamomum sp., Caryota spp., Calamus spp. and Paphio- pedilum niveum "Ang Thong" Pfitz. Species occurring in a narrow line around most of the larger islands include; Terrminalia catappa, Thespesia populnea, Carophyllum inophyllum, Scaevola taccada, Erythrina fusea, Pandanus monotheca and Crinum sp. Limestone forest occurs on the exposed cliff faces. Many animals live on the larger islands, including spectacled langurs, hairy-nosed otters and bats.

Attractions of Angthong National Marine Park

Wua Talap Island

National Park Headquarters is based on this island, which features a white sandy beach and an impressive viewpoint. The Bua Bok Cave is one kilometer from the office.

Samsao Island

Samsao Island, opposite Mae Koh Island, has beautiful coral, a natural rock bridge stretching out to the sea, and beaches that are wonderful for camping and swimming

Thaiphlao Island and Wua Kantang Island

Thaiphlao Island and Wua Kantang Island have white sandy beaches and wonderful coral.

Angthong National Marine Park Accommodation

Although Angthong is a National Marine Park, there are excursions that allow over-night bungalow or tent stays. For comfort, though, you can always stay in a luxury villas on Koh Samui, from which Angthong National Marine Park is easily accessible. Most boat trips leave from the north/west of the island, so for maximum convenience search for Samui accommodation in these areas. Prime accommodation on the north-west of the island affords views of Angthong National Marine Park, a particularly moving sight at dusk and dawn. Accommodation for Angthong is available online.