
Angthong (or Golden Bowl in Thai) Marine Park is located west of Koh Samui and is an archipelago of 42 islands (it is also known by this name) in the Gulf of Thailand. The islands covers around 102 square kilometers and are known for their stunning limestone cliffs, with white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters and lush tropical forests. Trips to Angthong are the best selling Koh Samui Tours.
Ang Thong Marine Park is located in the Gulf of Thailand, about 20 kilometers west of Koh Samui. The park consists of 42 islands, spread over 102 square kilometers of the sea. The name Ang Thong means “bowl of gold” in Thai, and it refers to the unique geological features of the islands. The park was established in 1980 and has been a popular tourist destination since then.
Ang Thong Marine Park is a geological wonderland, with dramatic cliffs, hidden lagoons, and stunning rock formations. The islands are mainly composed of limestone, which has been shaped by the elements over millions of years.
The park also has a rich biodiversity, with over 50 species of mammals, 16 species of reptiles, and more than 150 species of birds.

The marine life in Ang Thong Marine Park is diverse and abundant, with over 80 species of fish, 5 species of sea turtles, and many other marine creatures. The coral reefs around the islands are also worth exploring, with a wide variety of hard and soft corals, sponges, and other invertebrates.

The islands of Ang Thong Marine Park offer some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand, with crystal-clear waters and white-sand shores. Each island has its unique features, from the towering cliffs of Koh Mae Ko to the hidden lagoons of Koh Sam Sao.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Ang Thong Marine Park. Here are some of the popular activities and attractions:
Kayaking and snorkeling are the best ways to explore the park’s marine life and coral reefs. You can rent a kayak or snorkeling gear from the park’s headquarters or take a guided tour.
The islands of Ang Thong Marine Park offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in Thailand. You can hike to the top of the islands and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, gibbons, and hornbills. You can observe these animals in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and ecology.
If you want to spend more time in the park, you can camp on one of the islands or stay in a bungalow or a resort. There are several options for accommodation, depending on your budget and preferences.
There are plenty of things to see and do in Ang Thong Marine Park. Here are some of the popular activities and attractions:
Kayaking and snorkeling are the best ways to explore the park’s marine life and coral reefs. You can rent a kayak or snorkeling gear from the park’s headquarters or take a guided tour.
The islands of Ang Thong Marine Park offer some of the most scenic hiking trails in Thailand. You can hike to the top of the islands and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the surrounding islands.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, gibbons, and hornbills. You can observe these animals in their natural habitat and learn about their behavior and ecology.
If you want to spend more time in the park, you can camp on one of the islands or stay in a bungalow or a resort. There are several options for accommodation, depending on your budget and preferences.
The easiest way to get to Ang Thong Marine Park is by boat from Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. You can also join a guided tour from these islands or from the mainland, which you can book for the best price on Kohtour.com. The boat ride takes about 1-2 hours, depending on the weather conditions and the type of boat you are using. The big boat and junk yacht take about 1,5 hours, while the speedboat takes around 45 minutes- 1 hour to arrive at the national park.

The best time to visit Ang Thong Marine Park is from March to October when the weather is dry and sunny. The peak season is from December to February when the weather is cooler, but the park can be crowded with tourists.

Angthong National Marine Park closes each year during the rainy season, usually from 16 October until 15 December, but these dates vary every year. It gives nature time to restore. Around this time it’s usually not safe to take a boat to the park due to high waves.
Yes, there are several campsites on the islands of Ang Thong Marine Park where you can spend the night. However, if you prefer more luxurious accommodations, you can stay in Koh Samui and take a day trip to the park.
If you join a guided tour, the tour company will provide snorkeling gear (mask + snorkel. No fins to protect the coral). However, if you rent a private boat or go on your own, you will need to bring your own gear.
There are a few restaurants on the islands of Ang Thong Marine Park, but the selection is limited. On our tours we provide lunch and most tours include a light breakfast. You will be back on Koh Samui in time for dinner.
Swimming with the marine creatures is not allowed in Ang Thong Marine Park to protect the fragile ecosystem. However, you can snorkel and observe the creatures from a safe distance.
The national park fee is THB 300 per adult and THB 150 per child (2 years and up). The fees are used by the national park organization to protect the marine life, preserve the area and to keep Angthong Marine park clean. This fee can only be paid in cash at the start of the tour and is excluded from the price in most of our Angthong Marine Park tours.