TRAVELThailand Has Islands Most Tourists Never Find8 min read

The Ang Thong Islands — A Protected Archipelago Worth the Detour

Declared a national park in the 1980s, the Ang Thong Islands — translated as Golden Bowl Islands — form a group of more than 40 isles defined by limestone cliffs, coral reefs, dense jungle, and white sand beaches. Most of the smaller islands are off-limits to tourists, but several larger ones are accessible via day trips from Ko Samui or Ko Phangan. Ko Paluay is the only inhabited island in the archipelago, home to a community of sea gypsies. Ko Mae, known as the Mother Island, holds a beautiful beach and the striking Emerald Lake. Ko Sam Sao has a notable coral reef, and Ko Wua Ta Lap offers rustic overnight bungalows for those who want to stay beyond the day-trip crowd. Wildlife across the park includes langurs, otters, sea turtles, and over a hundred bird species.

Ko Samet Stays Dry When Every Other Island Gets Rained On

Ko Samet sits along Thailand’s eastern seaboard, roughly three hours from Bangkok, and records less rainfall than almost any other island in the country. That weather advantage makes it a reliable weekend escape year-round, which explains its popularity with Bangkok residents. Part of a national park and named after the cajeput trees that grow there, Ko Samet balances protected nature with a lively social scene — fire juggling and beach barbecues are regular fixtures. Haad Sai Kaew, known as Diamond Beach, is the most popular stretch, lined with bars and restaurants. The 19th-century poet Sunthorn Phu set scenes from his epic Phra Aphai Mani on this beach, and statues from the poem still stand here. For quieter options, Ao Hin Khok and Ao Tubtim offer more seclusion. Jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, and diving fill out the activity list.