Tarutao National Marine Park | Trang

Tarutao National Marine Park is a stunning protected area located in the Andaman Sea, off the southwestern coast of Thailand. Established in 1974, it was Thailand's first marine national park and spans an area of approximately 1,490 square kilometers, including both land and marine environments. The park is situated in Satun Province, near the border with Malaysia, and consists of 51 islands, with the largest being Koh Tarutao. Known for its pristine natural beauty, diverse marine life, and lush forests, Tarutao National Marine Park is a haven for nature lovers, divers, and those looking for a quiet, untouched destination.

Location:

Tarutao National Marine Park is located about 30 kilometers off the coast of Satun Province, in southern Thailand. The park is made up of a group of islands scattered throughout the Andaman Sea, including Koh Tarutao, Koh Lipe, Koh Adang, Koh Rawi, and several smaller islands. The park is accessible by boat from Pak Bara Pier in Satun, which serves as the main gateway for visitors traveling to the islands.

Islands and Geography:

Tarutao National Marine Park encompasses both land and sea, with its islands offering a mix of tropical rainforests, beaches, rocky cliffs, and mangrove swamps. The islands are surrounded by crystal-clear waters teeming with diverse marine life, making the park a popular spot for snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching.

Koh Tarutao: The park's largest island, Koh Tarutao, is the most developed and visited island in the marine park. It is known for its beautiful beaches, jungle-covered hills, and a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and reptiles. The island has eco-friendly accommodations and several walking trails for visitors to explore its natural beauty.

Koh Lipe: Often considered one of Thailand’s most beautiful islands, Koh Lipe is part of Tarutao National Marine Park and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. The island offers a variety of activities such as snorkeling, diving, and kayaking. Its Pattaya Beach is a popular spot for tourists, offering a laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking views.

Koh Adang: Just a short boat ride from Koh Lipe, Koh Adang is less developed and offers a more tranquil experience. The island is known for its jungle trails, which lead to panoramic viewpoints with stunning views of the surrounding islands and turquoise waters.

Koh Rawi: Known for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Koh Rawi is a smaller, lesser-known island in the park. It is an excellent spot for snorkeling and swimming, offering quiet beaches where visitors can relax in a more remote setting.

Flora and Fauna:

Tarutao National Marine Park is home to a wide range of wildlife, both on land and in the sea. The park's diverse ecosystems include mangrove forests, rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches, providing habitats for many species of plants and animals.

Land Wildlife: The islands in the park support a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, lizards, civets, and macaques. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to many species of birds, including hornbills, kingfishers, and seabirds. The lush rainforests also support a variety of tropical plants, such as coconut trees, mangroves, and wild orchids.

Marine Life: The marine life in Tarutao National Marine Park is equally diverse and rich. The waters surrounding the islands are home to vibrant coral reefs, where visitors can spot a variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, clownfish, triggerfish, and batfish. The area is also known for sightings of sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays, and other larger marine creatures. The clear, warm waters make it an ideal location for scuba diving and snorkeling.

Coral Reefs: The coral reefs surrounding the islands in the park are among the most vibrant in Thailand. They are home to a rich diversity of coral species, providing important habitats for marine life. The reefs are relatively untouched, making the park a great spot for eco-tourism and sustainable diving.

Activities:

Tarutao National Marine Park offers a variety of activities for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. While it remains largely undeveloped compared to other tourist destinations in Thailand, the park offers numerous opportunities for exploration and relaxation in a pristine, natural setting.

Snorkeling and Diving: The crystal-clear waters and healthy coral reefs make the park an excellent location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Popular dive sites around the park include Koh Lipe, Koh Adang, and Koh Rawi, where divers can explore vibrant coral gardens and encounter diverse marine species.

Island Hopping: The islands of Tarutao National Marine Park are easily accessible by boat, and many visitors choose to explore the surrounding islands. Visitors can go on boat tours, visiting uninhabited islands, swimming in secluded bays, and enjoying the peaceful environment.

Hiking and Trekking: On Koh Tarutao, there are several hiking trails that take visitors through the island’s tropical rainforest, leading to scenic viewpoints with spectacular views of the surrounding islands and sea. The park is also home to several waterfalls that can be explored on foot.

Camping: For nature lovers, the park offers camping opportunities on certain islands, particularly Koh Tarutao. Visitors can camp on the beach or in the forest, enjoying a more rustic, off-the-beaten-path experience surrounded by nature.

Kayaking: Visitors can rent kayaks to explore the coastline and nearby islands. Kayaking offers a quiet and intimate way to experience the natural beauty of the area, with opportunities to explore hidden coves, caves, and beaches.

Accommodation:

While Tarutao National Marine Park is not heavily developed, there are a few eco-friendly resorts and camping options available for visitors. Most accommodations are on Koh Tarutao and Koh Lipe, with simple, comfortable bungalows and beachfront resorts. These accommodations are designed to blend with the natural environment, providing a peaceful and rustic experience.

Koh Tarutao: On Koh Tarutao, visitors can stay in simple bungalows or tents provided by the park. There are also a few small guesthouses that offer basic amenities.

Koh Lipe: Koh Lipe offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to more upscale beachfront resorts. It is more developed than Koh Tarutao but still maintains a relatively laid-back atmosphere.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Tarutao National Marine Park is during the dry season, from November to April. During this period, the weather is sunny and pleasant, with little rain and calm seas. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking.

The rainy season (from May to October) brings heavy rains and rough seas, which may make travel to the park more difficult and limit some activities. However, this is also the off-season, meaning fewer tourists and a quieter experience.

How to Get There:

To reach Tarutao National Marine Park, visitors typically take a boat from Pak Bara Pier in Satun, which is accessible by car or bus from Trang Town or Hat Yai. Boats regularly depart for Koh Tarutao and Koh Lipe, with travel times ranging from 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on the island.

Conclusion:

Tarutao National Marine Park is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and pristine marine environments, offering visitors a chance to explore lush jungles, crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and untouched islands. The park is a haven for nature lovers, divers, and adventurers, providing a perfect escape from the crowds and a chance to experience Thailand’s natural beauty in its purest form. Whether you want to hike, dive, kayak, or simply relax on a secluded beach, Tarutao National Marine Park is an unforgettable destination.