Ang Thong National Marine Park rules

Mu Ko Ang Thong National Marine Park - 42 limestone islands about 30 km northwest of Samui - was established on 12 November 1980 as Thailand's 21st national park, is a Ramsar wetland site (2002), and an ASEAN Heritage Park (2019). Before 1980 it was a restricted Royal Thai Navy zone, which accidentally kept it pristine. Rules that matter for visitors: entry fee is 300 baht for foreign adults, 150 baht for children (Thai citizens pay 50/25); fees were doubled for foreigners in late 2022. Access is only by licensed boat tour or DNP-arranged stay. Fishing is prohibited inside park boundaries. Do not touch or stand on coral, do not collect shells or marine life, do not feed animals (including the island monkeys), stay on marked trails (the viewpoint climbs are steep - proper footwear), and take all rubbish back with you. The park closes for several weeks each year during the northeast monsoon - sources variously state 20 October-20 December or roughly November to mid-December - and trips cancel in rough seas. Check the closure dates with the DNP before planning a November-December visit.

Dates

Established 12 Nov 1980; annual monsoon closure roughly late Oct-late Dec

Highlights

• Established 12 November 1980; Ramsar site 2002; ASEAN Heritage Park 2019
• Entry fee: 300 baht foreign adult / 150 child (since late 2022)
• No fishing, no touching coral, no collecting, no feeding wildlife
• Annual monsoon closure - verify exact dates with DNP

Local tips

• Book November-December trips flexibly - the park may be closed or seas rough
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen only; harmful sunscreens are banned in Thai marine parks

Frequently asked questions

How much is the Ang Thong entry fee?

300 baht for foreign adults and 150 baht for foreign children (50/25 for Thai citizens), set by the Department of National Parks.

When is Ang Thong closed?

For several weeks each monsoon season - sources say roughly late October to late December; exact dates vary yearly, so confirm with the DNP or operators.

Can I fish or snorkel freely in the park?

Fishing is prohibited inside park boundaries. Snorkelling is allowed in designated areas, without touching coral or feeding fish.