Koh Samui: Angthong Marine Park Small Group Tour & Snorkeling

Summary

Angthong’s islands by boat with snorkeling, kayaking and lunch

You’ll join a small group from Koh Samui for a full day exploring Angthong by speedboat—snorkeling at Koh Wao with guides in the water, relaxing over homemade Thai lunch on a quiet beach, then kayaking or lounging under trees before hiking up to see the Emerald Lagoon’s unreal colors. Expect easygoing company, honest local food, and moments you’ll want to replay long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was how quiet Maenam Beach felt that morning — just a handful of us blinking at the water while the 100 Degrees East crew loaded up the speedboat. Our guide, Nok, handed out cold towels and grinned like she’d done this a thousand times (she probably has). We set off along Koh Samui’s north coast, spray in our faces, and I caught this whiff of salt and sunscreen that always means you’re about to have a good day. No crowds — just twelve of us plus the crew, which honestly made it feel more like a day out with friends than anything official.

We reached Koh Wao for our first snorkeling stop. Nok gave us a quick rundown — she even jumped in first to show us how to use the fins right (I still managed to flail around but she didn’t seem to mind). The water was clearer than I expected, little flickers of silver darting between coral. At one point I lost track of time just watching these parrotfish nibble at rocks. There were lifejackets for everyone who wanted them, and someone’s kid floated past me laughing like he was on another planet. It felt safe but not hand-holdy, if that makes sense.

Afterwards we drifted past these wild limestone cliffs — some looked like sleeping animals or maybe that’s just what my brain does after too much sun. Lunch came next: homemade Thai food on this beach where the sand squeaked underfoot and there was shade if you needed it. I tried something spicy (Nok warned me but I didn’t listen) and ended up chasing it with sweet pineapple slices. Some people kayaked with the guides under these rock arches; I just sat back for a bit and watched tiny crabs scuttle sideways near my toes.

The Emerald Lagoon hike wasn’t long but it got my heart going — humid air, cicadas buzzing, steps cut into stone. When we reached the top, Nok pointed out where you could see half the archipelago at once. Everyone went quiet for a second except for one guy who kept snapping photos. The lagoon itself glowed green in this weirdly peaceful way; I’m not sure any picture would do it justice. On the ride back we were all sun-tired and salty-haired, trading stories about which fish we saw or which snack was best. That view from the boat as Angthong faded behind us… yeah, I still think about it sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Angthong National Marine Park day tour

• Cruise past northern coast of Samui
• Snorkel at Koh Wao with guide
• Boat cruise along Marine Park coastlines
• Enjoy homemade lunch at tranquil beach
• Kayak along Angthong island coastline
• Walk to Emerald Lagoon viewing platform
• Depart Angthong National Marine Park by speedboat
• Return to 100 Degrees East centre on Koh Samui

Top questions

How many people are on this Angthong Marine Park tour?

The tour has a maximum of 12 adults or 14 guests if children are included.

Is hotel pickup included from Koh Samui?

Yes, roundtrip transfer from your accommodation is included in the price.

What activities are part of this small group tour?

You’ll snorkel at Koh Wao, kayak along island coasts with guides, relax on beaches, enjoy lunch, and hike to Emerald Lagoon.

Are snorkeling equipment and life jackets provided?

Yes—all snorkel gear including fins plus life jackets are provided for everyone.

Is lunch included during the Angthong tour?

Yes—a homemade Thai lunch is served on a tranquil beach as part of your day trip.

How long does the tour last?

The tour starts in the morning from Maenam Beach and returns around 5:30pm.

Can non-swimmers join this snorkeling trip?

Yes—guides assist all abilities in-water; life jackets and rings are available for non-swimmers.

Are there any health restrictions?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues; moderate fitness is needed.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from anywhere on Koh Samui, all entry fees and taxes covered upfront so there’s nothing extra to pay later, full use of snorkeling equipment (fins too), life jackets for anyone who wants them, bottled water and soft drinks throughout the trip plus seasonal fruit snacks onboard. A homemade Thai lunch is served right on an uncrowded beach before kayaking or relaxing under shady trees—and you’ll be dropped back at your hotel by early evening feeling sun-warmed and happily tired.