The largest primary mangrove forest in all of Thailand, Ao Phang-Nga National Park is renowned for its iconic karst scenery.

Nearest to: Phucket & Krabi

Explore by: Speedboat/Longboat & Kayak

Best for: Nature, Wildlife & Caves

Larger than life vertical cliffs jolt out of the still sea casting shadows over the quiet waters. The park encompasses 42 small islands sprinkled across the green ocean, many with angular white caves and others dusted in overgrown vegetation. The caves (known as hongs) are often semi-submerged and only accessible at low tide. These small tidal channels exist as a transport system for fisherman and locals who share the mangrove with local exotic creatures who swim, crawl and climb the land-before-time limestone rocks and murky turquoise waters.

Swerve around the limestone cliffs & take in the views at

Phang Nga Bay

Arranging a day trip with a tour company (we booked via our hotel in Phucket), or even hiring a personal longboat and guide to weave you around the national park will be sure to inspire you. We arranged a trip via speedboat which did just this, gliding us through the marine park, where we could peacefully take in the views of the prehistorical landscape and snap sun-drenched photographs. If you choose to travel by speedboat, shun the main seating area for soaking up the sun at the open air front seats. The journey is part of the experience, and why spend any time closed off from the views and the beaming sun? Breathe in the peaceful atmosphere and untouched scenery. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for two eyes peering out of the water back at you, rare birds flying overhead and ever curious creatures clumsily climbing the limestone karsts.

Kayak through the semi-submerged island caves

Get up close and personal with the dramatic limestone islets. As well as gliding the waters via speedboat, we also clambered into a two person Kayak (plus driver) to dip in and out of the sporadic hongs (caves). A spectacular vision, the hongs (meaning ‘rooms’) are so small and intricate that we were often directed to lay back completely flat so that we could squeeze into the private space. Not as claustrophobic as it may sound, once inside, the caves are much larger and provide a more than worthwhile vision of the vibrant waters dancing on the darkened, stone walls. The views from inside the cave looking out across the park frame the picturesque landscape perfectly – a truly unmissable experience of Thailand waters.

Visit Khao Phing Kan and discover the unusual and iconic Ko Tapu

The small island of Koh Phing Kan is an iconic Thai landmark. The striking vision of Ko Tapu – the triangular shape islet that guards the bay steals the attention of every explorer. The setting for James Bond’s The Man with the Golden Gun, the island itself is unsurprisingly a buzzing tourist spot, so unfortunately, the area becomes overrun by selfie stick wielding visitors, especially during high season. We learnt this on arrival, where there were ques forming to sit at the best view points and overrun market stalls made some areas near inaccessible. Therefore, if you have plans to make this trip – which oh you should- try and arrive as early as possible. Beating the crowds is sure to make the experience that bit more personal and breath-taking for you.

Have you been to Ao Phang Nga National Park before? If not, do you think you’ll be adding it to your bucket list?