The ultimate day trip from Koh Samui: Explore Thailand’s stunning Ang Thong National Marine Park

With Thailand’s popular Maya Bay currently closed to tourists until at least 2021 to help restore its damaged coral reefs, fans of the famous cove from the 2000 film 'The Beach' might want to consider visiting the eastern coast instead.

More specifically, head to Ang Thong National Marine Park, located approximately 40 kilometers from Koh Samui in the Gulf of Thailand.

Although 'The Beach' movie, starring Leonardo DiCaprio, was filmed in Maya Bay on Phi Phi Island in the Andaman Sea, the novel by Alex Garland that inspired the film was actually set in Ang Thong, located on the opposite side of the country.

In both the book and the film, a group of adventurous backpackers establishes their own village on a secluded island within this protected marine park.

For most visitors, the best way to explore Ang Thong National Marine Park is through a day trip from Koh Samui, as there are limited options for overnight stays in the area.

Emerald-colored lagoons, secluded beaches

Established in 1980, Ang Thong – not to be confused with the central Thai province – spans 102 square kilometers (about 39 square miles) and includes 42 islands. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, dramatic limestone cliffs, caves, and unique rock formations.

Due to the distance from Koh Samui, it’s not feasible to use Thailand’s traditional long-tail boats. The journey by speedboat takes over an hour.

This option gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, avoiding the crowds of day-trippers who flock to the area daily.

Mark Peter, owner of Samui Boat Charter, explains, 'We have access to many small, secluded beaches that typical tours can’t reach, giving us the chance to explore and relax in complete solitude.'

The company has been in business for over 15 years, offering a fleet of 10 luxury speedboats and a high-end Fairline Targa 52 yacht for discerning travelers.

On a recent private tour with the company, we managed to avoid the majority of other tour boats. However, at some of the more popular spots, you won’t have the place entirely to yourself. That said, with proper timing, your guide will make sure you arrive either before or after the crowds.

One of the park's most iconic islands is Mae Koh, home to the famous Emerald Lake, a stunning inland lagoon that makes the trip well worth it.

Most tours also include a stop at Koh Phaluai, the park’s largest island, where visitors can savor a fresh seafood lunch at a charming stilted restaurant in the island’s fishing village.

Another must-visit island is Koh Wua Talap, renowned for its abundant wildlife and perhaps the most breathtaking viewpoint in all of Ang Thong.

Beyond beach-hopping and hiking, popular activities in the park include snorkeling and kayaking in its crystal-clear waters.

To explore Thailand’s Ang Thong National Marine Park in more detail, take a look at the video above.