Angthong National Marine Park by Highsea Tour Official

Planning a day at Angthong National Marine Park? This tour promises a mix of sightseeing, hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling—offering an active way to experience Koh Samui’s natural beauty. While some travelers find the blend of adventure and relaxation appealing, others might be disappointed if snorkeling isn’t as prominent as expected. Still, with its breathtaking views and engaging excursions, it’s a trip that has something for those wanting to explore Thailand’s rugged coastline.

What we love about this tour are the spectacular viewpoints, the well-organized itinerary, and the friendly guides who bring local stories and tips to life. The inclusive meals and snacks also add great value, ensuring you stay energized throughout the day. However, a key consideration is the discrepancy between expectations and actual snorkeling opportunities, which some guests found lacking. This tour suits travelers craving a comprehensive day of outdoor activities amid stunning scenery, especially those eager to hike, kayak, and see the archipelago from above.

Good To Know

• Stunning panoramic views from Jan Jan Ras and Pha Jan Ja Ras viewpoints.
• Well-rounded itinerary combining hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and sightseeing.
• Inclusive meals and snacks add convenience and value.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights and safety tips.
• Some reviews highlight limited snorkeling, so don’t expect a diving-heavy trip.
• Comfortable boat design with spacious decks and sunbathing areas.

What to Expect from the Tour

This day-long adventure begins bright and early, with hotel pickup in air-conditioned vans and a friendly reception at Nathon Pier. For just $34.79 per person, you get a comprehensive experience that includes transport, meals, equipment, and guided activities—making it surprisingly affordable given the variety offered.

The Journey Begins at Nathon Pier

You’ll start your day with a light breakfast of bakery items, coffee, tea, and fresh fruit. The boat itself is designed for comfort, with three spacious decks—perfect for sunbathing or relaxing between stops. The boat’s design emphasizes security and comfort, and you’ll likely spend some time lounging on the roof deck enjoying the sea breeze.

Ko Wua Ta Lap: The Heart of the Action

The first island stop, Ko Wua Ta Lap, is the central hub of the park. Here, the main draw is the JanJaras Nature Trail, a challenging hike up to a viewpoint at 500 meters. The views from the top are truly worth the effort, offering a sweeping panorama of 42 islands across the archipelago.

Reviewer insights highlight the beauty of the trail and the spectacular vistas—one even called it “the most spectacular natural mountain trekking trail in Thailand.” Besides hiking, you can relax on white sandy beaches or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. The Lotus Cave (Bua Bok) nearby is worth exploring for its stalactite and stalagmite formations, making for a fun short hike.

Pha Jan Ja Ras Viewpoint: A Breathtaking Climb

Next, the tour takes you to Pha Jan Ja Ras, famed for its stunning mountain views. The trek involves some ladders and fixed ropes, so it’s a bit of a physical challenge, but the views over the archipelago make it worthwhile. This spot is perfect for snapping photos and appreciating the scale of this natural wonder.

Ko Mae Ko & Kayaking Adventures

Moving to Ko Mae Ko, the tour turns to more interactive fun with kayaking. Beginners are particularly welcome, as the guides offer a full kayaking tutorial with equipment provided. The route takes you through caves and limestone formations, offering a close-up view of the coastline’s geological features.

Following kayaking, snorkeling is available for those eager to explore underwater life. Many reviews mention the diverse marine life and the stunning coral reefs, though some travelers noted they were surprised by the limited snorkeling time, as it’s not the main focus of the trip.

The Blue Lagoon & Emerald Lake

The highlight for many is the Blue Lagoon (Talay Nai), an emerald-green freshwater lake surrounded by lush mountains. It’s a great spot for photos, relaxing, and snorkeling again if you wish. You can walk up to the top in approximately 10 minutes, and the view over the lagoon is simply breathtaking.

The Farewell Cruise and Return

The day concludes with a short cruise to Koh Sam Sao, where you can admire the iconic natural arch bridge. Then, it’s back to Nathon Pier, with snacks and drinks served onboard to unwind from a full day of activity.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $34.79 per person, this tour offers quite a lot—transport, meals, equipment, and multiple sightseeing points. The inclusion of breakfast, buffet lunch, snacks, and soft drinks makes it a good value for a full day of exploring. The guided experience and safety measures, like life jackets and first aid, make it suitable for most travelers.

However, the admission fee for the national park (300 THB) is paid separately at check-in, so budget for that. Some reviews mention that snorkeling equipment is provided, but the main focus on activities is hiking and kayaking, not diving or snorkeling extensively.

Comfort & Group Size

With a maximum of 80 travelers, the boat can feel a bit crowded, especially on the decks. But the large boat design helps maintain a sense of space. The air-conditioned vans for pickup are a plus for comfort, and the guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, adding a personal touch.

Highlights & Drawbacks

Highlights

• Spectacular viewpoints from Jan Jan Ras and Pha Jan Ja Ras.
• Engaging hikes that are suitable for reasonably fit travelers.
• Kayaking routes through caves and limestone formations.
• Delicious meals with vegetarian options available.
• Comfortable boat with sunbathing decks and scenic cruising.
• Professional guides making the experience safe and informative.

Drawbacks

• Limited snorkeling opportunities despite some reviews expecting more underwater activity.
• The group size (up to 80 people) might impact intimacy and flexibility.
• Some guests felt that the snorkeling was not emphasized enough or was difficult to coordinate.
• The hiking trails can be challenging for those with mobility issues or fear of heights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a mix of hikes, kayaking, and sightseeing in a stunning natural setting. It’s well-suited for family groups, active couples, or solo explorers eager to see a different side of Koh Samui. If your main goal is extensive snorkeling or diving, you might find this tour somewhat lacking.

Those interested in beautiful viewpoints and geological wonders will enjoy the scenic hikes and boat rides. The inclusive meals and safety features make it a practical choice for those seeking an all-in-one day trip with manageable logistics.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour? Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making transportation easy and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience takes approximately 8 to 9 hours, starting around 8:30 am and ending back at your hotel.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes for hiking, swimwear for snorkeling, sun protection, and possibly a light jacket for cooler viewpoints.

Are vegetarian meal options available? Yes, vegetarian options can be requested for the buffet lunch.

What’s the maximum group size? Up to 80 travelers, so it can be lively but somewhat crowded.

Is snorkeling worth it? While snorkeling equipment is provided, reviews indicate it’s not the main focus. If underwater exploration is your priority, consider other tours.

Do I need to be physically fit? Some hiking trails involve ladders and fixed ropes, so a reasonable level of fitness and comfort with heights is recommended.

How much does national park entry cost? The entry fee is 300 THB per adult and 150 THB per child, payable at check-in.

Final Thoughts

The Angthong National Marine Park tour with Highsea offers a well-organized, active day immersed in incredible scenery. The combination of hiking, kayaking, and sightseeing creates a dynamic experience, perfect for those who love outdoor adventures. The inclusion of meals and helpful guides adds to the overall value, making it a good option for travelers seeking a full day of exploration without breaking the bank.

While snorkeling isn’t the main highlight, the stunning viewpoints and engaging activities compensate for that. The tour suits active, nature-loving visitors eager to see the archipelago’s geological and scenic wonders. If you’re after a comfortable, affordable way to explore Koh Samui’s natural gems with a knowledgeable crew, this tour is worth considering.

In summary, this trip is best for those wanting an active, scenic escape that combines gentle hikes, kayaking, and breathtaking views. It’s less ideal for travelers whose main goal is underwater exploration, but the overall experience is full of memorable moments and photo-worthy sights. With friendly guides and a well-balanced itinerary, it offers good value and authentic adventure in Thailand’s stunning Angthong Marine Park.