Information: This popular day excursion takes you to some 40 protected limestone islands about 30 km northwest of Ko Samui, the tallest reaching up to 400m and mostly covered in tropical rain forest; altogether beautiful and safe sanctuaries to dozens of bird species and other mammals.

The park headquarters (where most boats stop) is on Ko Wua Talab and a 400 metre climb to the peak offers superb panoramic views. Other islands have spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations, and there is a lovely saltwater lake on Ko Mae Ko; a major attraction, but requiring a fairly strenuous climb in the heat of the day. For those in shape, a better and more adventurous way to explore this area is to book a one-day Kayaking Tour around the marine park, admiring the attractions close up, including fascinating rock formations, limestone cliffs, secret caves and alluring grottoes. Big Game Fishing day trips can also be arranged during your stay on Samui.

If time permits, visitors might want to visit the island of Pha Ngan, 15 kilometres to the north which is almost as large as Samui, and easily accessed by daily ferry boats. This island is high and rugged, with rocky granite headlands separating many palm- fringed beaches hiding in secluded coves. Another option is Koh Tao, the smallest and remotest of the three major islands, but sharing the same geological structure, with spectacular beaches, and dramatic rocky headlands dominated by huge granite boulders.