The viewpoint on Koh Wua Ta Lap is the reason to go: a steep 15-minute climb with ropes to the view over the whole archipelago. If someone in your group cannot do the climb, they can snorkel or kayak instead. Note that the park is closed from 1 November to 15 December 2026. This guide covers the Ang Thong Marine Park by Speedboat from the pickup to the last stop — the mood, the route and the tips guides mention in passing.
By SB Excursions · Published 24 October 2026 · Updated 24 October 2026
Tour on this route: Ang Thong Marine Park by Speedboat — From $50 per person, about 8-9 hours.
Is Ang Thong open in November 2026?
No. The national park is closed to visitors from 1 November to 15 December 2026. The tour runs again from 16 December.
This guide also answers:
- How hard is the climb to the viewpoint?
What makes the Ang Thong Marine Park by Speedboat worth your time
Pickup from your hotel on Koh Samui is between about 7:30 and 8:30 am, and the speedboat with up to 35 guests leaves the pier in the north of the island at about 9:00 after a light breakfast. After about an hour you snorkel and walk up to the Emerald Lake, or kayak in the mangroves instead. Next is Koh Wua Ta Lap for the viewpoint and a Thai buffet lunch, with free time for snorkeling, kayaking or the beach. The boat leaves at about 3:00 pm and you are back at your hotel by 5:00 pm.
Route highlights at a glance
The standout moments of the Ang Thong Marine Park by Speedboat.
- Emerald Lake — A bright green saltwater lake enclosed by limestone cliffs, reached by a short walk from the beach.
- Viewpoint over 42 isles — A steep 15-minute climb with ropes on Koh Wua Ta Lap to the view over the whole park.
- Kayak and snorkel — Kayaks and snorkeling gear are in the price; paddle along the mangroves or snorkel off the beach.
- Lunch on the beach — A Thai buffet lunch on Koh Wua Ta Lap, then free time before the ride back.
How the day unfolds, step by step
The route in order; exact pickup times and what shifts by season are in the schedule.
- Hotel pickup — Air-conditioned minivan from your hotel on Koh Samui, about 7:30-8:30 am.
- Pier in the north of Samui — Light breakfast with coffee or tea; the speedboat leaves at about 9:00 am.
- Koh Wao — Snorkeling on the reef or time on the beach.
- Emerald Lake — A short hike to the lake, or kayaking in the mangroves instead.
- Koh Wua Ta Lap — Climb to the viewpoint, then a Thai buffet lunch and free time for snorkeling, kayaking or the beach.
- Back to Samui — The boat leaves at about 3:00 pm; you are at your hotel by about 5:00 pm.
Insider tips
The details a guide mentions on the day — worth knowing before it.
- The park is closed to visitors from 1 November to 15 December 2026.
- The national park fee is paid on the day and is not included in the price.
- Wear shoes with grip: the climb to the viewpoint is steep and the path to the Emerald Lake is rocky.
- The breakfast at the pier is light: eat at your hotel if you can.
- Kayaks and snorkeling gear are included; you can kayak instead of the climb.
- Swimming in the Emerald Lake is not allowed.
Best time of year
February to August is usually the calmest time for the boat crossing from Koh Samui; from about October to December the sea can be rough, and in 2026 the park is closed from 1 November to 15 December.
Whether it is worth the money and what the price covers is in why book it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ang Thong open in November 2026?
No. The national park is closed to visitors from 1 November to 15 December 2026. The tour runs again from 16 December.
How hard is the climb to the viewpoint?
Steep: about 15 minutes up wooden steps and rocks with ropes to hold. It is worth it for fit guests; children and older guests can snorkel or rest on the beach instead.
Can I swim in the Emerald Lake?
No, the lake is protected and swimming is not allowed. You see it from the walkway and swim at the beaches instead.
How long is the boat ride?
About an hour each way between Koh Samui and the park.