Ang Thong Marine Park kayaking
A full-day guided sea-kayaking and island-hopping experience inside Ang Thong National Marine Park, exploring limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons (including the famous Emerald Lake / Talay Nai), secluded beaches and vibrant snorkeling spots. Ideal for active travelers who want a mix of paddling, short hikes and snorkeling in a protected marine environment.
Location
Ang Thong National Marine Park, Departure from Koh Samui, Thailand
Duration
Full-day (approximately 8–10 hours) — typical pickup early morning and return late afternoon.
Best Time to Visit
November to April (dry season) for the calmest seas, clearer skies and best visibility. Monsoon months (May–October) bring rougher seas and many operators reduce trips or cancel.
Pricing
Typical group day-trip prices range from 1,500–3,000 THB per person (approx. $45–$90 USD). Private or premium packages (including private boat, small group, or hotel transfers) can cost 3,500–8,000+ THB. Price usually includes: speedboat transfer, park entrance fee, kayak & snorkel gear, lunch, and guide.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Paddle through limestone karsts, caves and mangrove-lined inlets
Visit Talay Nai (Emerald Lake) — a photogenic inland lagoon
Snorkel over reefs to see colorful fish and corals
Short hike to a panoramic viewpoint with sweeping views over the archipelago
Relax on quiet white-sand beaches and swim in turquoise water
Wildlife sightings: birds, reef fish, occasional dolphins or flying fish
Small-group guided kayaking with bilingual guides (usually Thai + English)
Itinerary
Hotel pickup and transfer to the pier
Pickup times vary by hotel location. Be ready early; transfers can take longer from distant hotels.
Speedboat transfer to Ang Thong Marine Park and briefing
Park entrance fee often included. Guides give kayaking and safety instructions, hand out equipment.
First kayaking leg and snorkeling stop
Paddle around karst formations, enter sea caves where possible; stop to snorkel from the boat or shore. Expect paddling in sheltered bays and short ferrying between islands by boat for certain legs.
Beach lunch on one of the islands
Thai-style buffet or boxed lunch provided; many operators offer vegetarian options if requested in advance.
Hike to the viewpoint (Talay Nai / Emerald Lake) and exploration
Short but sometimes steep trail (10–20 minutes) to a viewpoint overlooking the lagoon. Time to swim or relax afterwards.
Afternoon kayaking/snorkeling or beach time
More paddling through sheltered channels or additional snorkeling depending on itinerary and sea conditions.
Return by speedboat to Koh Samui & hotel drop-off
Expect arrival back in the late afternoon; freshen up before dinner.
Safety Requirements
Basic swimming ability recommended — you will be wearing a life jacket but must be comfortable in the water
Wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times during kayaking
Listen to the guide’s instructions for launching, landing and entering caves
Not recommended for people with severe mobility issues, recent surgeries, or who are pregnant
Be aware of sun exposure — bring and reapply reef-safe sunscreen
Operators will monitor weather and sea conditions — trips can be shortened or cancelled for safety
Bring medication if prone to seasickness; operators sometimes have limited assistance for severe cases
Tips
Bring a small dry bag for phone, camera and essentials (many operators provide or rent one)
Use reef-safe sunscreen and bring a hat, sunglasses with strap, and quick-dry clothing
Pack a change of clothes and a towel in your hotel pickup bag
Bring cash for tips, souvenirs, park fees (if not included) and extra snacks/drinks
Book with a reputable eco-conscious operator that follows park rules to protect corals and wildlife
Check pickup time carefully — tours start early due to the speedboat transfer
If you want fewer people in kayaks, choose a small-group or private tour (costs more)
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication at least 30–60 minutes before departure
Respect marine park rules: don’t touch coral, don’t feed wildlife, and take all trash with you
