Illustrative image, not a photograph
← Back to Thailand

Tarutao National Marine Park

A rugged, jungle-covered island at the southern tip of Thailand, still more forest and coast than resort

Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
Half a day to reach the main viewpoints and waterfalls; the island rewards a multi-day stay

Tarutao anchors a national marine park of 51 islands near the Malaysian border, once a political prison island and now the least developed of Thailand’s major island parks. Beyond its beaches, the main island holds jungle trekking routes to waterfalls, limestone caves and viewpoints, and its own small mountain range crosses the interior. It rewards visitors willing to stay a few days over a rushed day trip.

Highlights

  • Jungle trekking routes to waterfalls and limestone caves on the main island
  • Ao Phante Malacca lagoon and its mangrove-lined canal
  • A former political prisoner camp with preserved buildings and displays
  • One of Thailand’s least developed and least crowded major island parks

Getting there

Ferries to Ko Tarutao depart from Pak Bara pier in Satun province, about an hour’s drive from Satun town or two and a half hours from Hat Yai. The crossing takes around an hour depending on the boat and sea conditions.

Safety tips

Trails on the main island are genuinely remote once away from the ranger station; carry more water than you think you need and tell park staff your planned route. Between islands, always check that your boat operator is a registered park concessionaire rather than an informal arrangement, especially outside the main December to April season.

What to bring

  • Cash, since card acceptance is limited on the island
  • A dry bag for the ferry crossing
  • Insect repellent for the jungle trekking routes
  • Snorkelling gear if heading to the outer islands in season