The
Ang Thong Marine National Park
Around 42 islands make up the
Ang Thong National Marine Park,
northwest of Samui. Geographically
different, this fascinating
group of islands have spectacular
limestone formations, caves,
lagoons and beautiful beaches.
Many islands are uninhabited
with bays and colorful coral
formations. Other islands rise
from the sea as dramatic walls
of rock hundreds of metres high.
Besides the many small coves
and secluded beaches, erosion
has shaped some interesting
formations which give some of
the islands their names, such
as 'Sleeping Cow Island' and
'Three Pillar Island'. Accessible
on day trips by boat.
Koh
Phangan
Famous for its Full Moon Parties,
Koh Phangan also offers a beach
lifestyle, "New Age"
culture, inexpensive local Thai
food, and relatively cheap accommodation.
It's a place to go walking,
snorkelling, swimming, or try
new things. From belly dancing
courses to Full Moon parties,
to lazing on the beach or snorkelling.
It's all about taking it easy
and leaving mainstream life
behind.
Ko
Tao
"Discovered" by travellers
in the 80's Ko Tao has been
gradually gaining popularity.
More remote than Samui, faster
and safer boats now allow easier
access to the island and new
resorts with 24 hour air-conditioning
are adding to the old basic
bungalows. Since the main attraction
is diving - the beaches remain
tranquil and uncrowded. Check
out the underwater scenery -
it's what Ko Tao is famous for!
Sharks, stingrays, pufferfish,
various groupers and triggerfish
are just some of the locals.
The east of the island has some
of the best snorkelling sites
- spectacular coral reefs, sea
fans and colourful fish.