Ang thong Marine Park is an archipelago in Thailand, which consists of 42 islands. With its rich biodiversity, travellers have the opportunity to become spectators of 400 m high limestone mountains, steep rocks, waterfalls, white-sand beaches, thick jungles and lakes.
It is a marine park and because of this its natural beauty is still well preserved. This is why island-hopping is limited. The status of the national park requires minimal tourist development since 1980.
It became very well known after the release of the book The Beach by Alex Garland. Thefilm shootings with Leonardo Di Caprio were done on an island nearby, Koh Phi Phi Leh.
To actually travel around all the 42 islands can take weeks. I booked a tour, which –among others, included watching multicolored fish and coral reefs, visiting the beaches of Koh Mae (the Mother Island) and climbing the stairs that lead to Thale Nai (Emerald Lake).
The Emerald Lake is shining bright green like a glass and, to remain this way, nobody is allowed to swim or snorkel in it. I was told by the tour guides that there are jellyfishes in it.
What to do in Ang thong Marine Park
There are many adventurous activities to do, like diving, swimming, snorkelling, hiking, sea kayaking, sightseeing, relaxing and sunbathing. The Park has also a restaurant and a bar.
Make sure to have sneakers shoes with you, not just flip-flops, in order to go for a 30-40 minutes hiking journey up the mountains for a breathtaking view of the whole park.
How to go to Ang thong Marine Park
Most travellers choose a one-day journey to these heavenly islands by boat charter from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Bungalows and camping tents are available for the travellers who wish to stay the night or more.
Most tours stop at a few different locations. The tours can be private or join-in.The price includes the entrance to the Marine Park, lunch, kayaking, and snorkelling.
When to visit Ang thong Marine Park
The best time to visit Ang thong Marine Park is from March to October when the water is calmer. Choose the perfect day without a hot sun and much air, so that you can enjoy it more. From November to December is the monsoon season with dangerous high waves, so it is closed at this time of the year.
What to be careful of in Ang thong Marine Park
Snakes and insects can give you a fright, but they might not be as dangerous as the jellyfish. Box Jellyfish inhabit the waters. If you want to go swimming, wear the appropriate clothing, do not swim at night, near estuaries or after the rain. Maybe ask your guides about the possible sites of the jellyfish.
There are also sea urchins, so don’t forget to protect your feet.
