Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park,Thailand

• Ko Wua Talap (park headquarters & main viewpoint)
• Ko Mae Ko (home of the famous Emerald/Blue Lagoon — Talay Nai)
• Scenic limestone cliffs and panoramic viewpoints across multiple islands
• Clear snorkelling sites with coral gardens and abundant fishlife
• Secluded white-sand beaches and hidden coves perfect for swimming and kayaking

• Dramatic limestone karst islands rising from turquoise seas
• The Emerald Lake (Talay Nai) — a photogenic inland lagoon on Ko Mae Ko
• Healthy coral reefs and seagrass meadows that support marine biodiversity
• Excellent viewpoints offering sweeping island panoramas
• Opportunities for low-impact wildlife viewing (sea birds, marine life, occasional dolphins)

• Day trips and island-hopping by speedboat or longtail
• Snorkeling at shallow coral sites; bring or rent a mask and snorkel
• Sea kayaking around sheltered bays and limestone outcrops
• Short hikes to viewpoints (notably on Ko Wua Talap and Ko Mae Ko)
• Photography of dramatic karsts, lagoons and sunsets
• Guided nature talks and conservation-focused tours offered by park staff

November to April (dry season) — calm seas, clearer water and more reliable boats. Monsoon season (May–October) brings rougher seas and many operators reduce or suspend trips.

Tropical maritime climate: warm year-round (highs ~28–33°C). Rainy season with heavier showers and choppy seas from May through October; dry, sunnier conditions November–April.

The park charges an entrance fee (different rates for Thai nationals and foreign visitors) and often a small fee per camera or drone—fees and opening hours are subject to change; park office is on Ko Wua Talap. Typical day-trip schedule runs early morning departures and returns by late afternoon.

Access is by boat only. Common departure points: Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Donsak/Surat Thani mainland piers. Day trips are typically 1–2 hours by speedboat from Koh Samui; private charters and liveaboard options increase flexibility. Some islands have basic park facilities but limited or no overnight accommodation.

A typical day trip is 6–10 hours and covers highlights; to explore more calmly and enjoy snorkeling/kayaking without rushing, 1–2 nights (staying on nearby Koh Samui or a private boat/overnight on the park's basic facilities) is recommended.

Light, breathable clothing; swimwear; sunhat; reef‑safe sunscreen (important for reef protection); water shoes for rocky shores; a light rain jacket in shoulder seasons; a dry bag for cameras and valuables; reusable water bottle.

On-site food is limited—most day trips include a simple lunch (often basic Thai dishes). Bring snacks and plenty of drinking water. For a wider range of food, plan meals on Koh Samui or Koh Phangan. Souvenirs and handicrafts are best purchased on the larger nearby islands rather than within the marine park.