| The setting for the eponymous 'perfect' beach in Alex Garland's book, Anthong really was once home to a group of travellers who'd permanently dropped out of society. They've now moved on to Ko Pha Ngan, but Ang Thong remains as stunning as ever.
Exuding a primordial beauty, the park's 42 jungle-shrouded islands are inhabited by a variety of wildlife, including langurs and macaques. Many have spectacular rock formations, secret caves and hidden lagoons.
One of the islands, Koh Mae, or Island Mother, contains an unusual saltwater lake hidden inside a hill in the landscape. To reach the Emerald Lake, so called after the colour, it's possible to climb up the hill and squeeze through an opening where small steps have been carved out to take a look. (It's not an easy climb but worth it for magnificent scenery.)
Ko Wao and Hin Yippon in the north of the park are excellent for diving and snorkelling. The best way to explore the rest of the park is by sea kayak. Blue Stars and Sea Canoe both run a variety of day and overnight trips from Samui. |
