Ao Phang Nga National Park covers about 400 square kilometres of limestone islands, mangrove forest and open sea in Phang Nga province, on the Andaman coast of southern Thailand. Boat trips are the usual way to see it. Towering limestone cliffs rise from green water, and boats reach hidden lagoons, sea caves and James Bond Island, the islet that appeared in The Man with the Golden Gun. The park also takes in Koh Panyee, a floating village. Plan a full day, and go early for calmer water.
Limestone, mangroves and open sea
The park covers about 400 square kilometres of mangrove forest, limestone karst, islands and open sea in Phang Nga province. It has been a national park since 1981. The limestone formations rise out of the sea with mangroves at their base, and in places the cliffs stand up to 300 metres high.
The mangroves are the park's ecological core. The park protects the largest remaining mangrove forest in Thailand, and it is home to a good number of bird species that depend on this habitat. The shallow waters of the wider bay hold 28 mangrove species.
James Bond Island
The islet known as James Bond Island is also called Khao Phing Kan or Khao Tapu. It rises about 20 metres above the seabed. Its fame grew after it was used as a filming location for The Man with the Golden Gun.
Boats usually stop here briefly, and the rock formation is the main photo stop of many tours. Keep your visit short and follow the boatmen's instructions, as the surrounding waters are busy in the middle of the day.
Koh Panyee floating village
Koh Panyee is a village built over the water, and it is a living community. Walking through it gives a glimpse of daily life on the water rather than a staged display.
Keep your voice down, dress modestly and ask before photographing people or their homes. A slow visit is the most respectful way to see the village.
Boats, kayaks and other activities
Long-tail boats are the usual way to explore the park. Sea kayaks suit the calm lagoons and caves, and they let you reach places a larger boat cannot enter.
Beyond the park, the wider region offers bird watching, sailing, fishing, jungle trekking and diving. The Similan Islands are known for their reefs and marine life.
Drones and the rules
Drone flights are allowed over the mangrove forest inside the park. They are not allowed around James Bond Island. Rules can change, so confirm them with park rangers before you fly.
A protected bay
The bay was listed as a Ramsar wetland in 2002, which recognises its importance under the Ramsar Convention. The park's islands and mangroves are protected, and visitors are asked to respect that protection.
The bay was also among the areas hit hardest by the 2004 tsunami, which killed thousands of people across the region. Many visitors today come to see the recovery of the landscape and the communities that live beside it.
Häufige Fragen
How long do you need at Ao Phang Nga National Park?
A full day is typical for a boat trip that covers the main stops. Staying longer gives you more time on the water and a slower pace among the islands.
Can I fly a drone in Ao Phang Nga National Park?
Drone flights are allowed over the mangrove forest within the park. They are not allowed around James Bond Island, so confirm the rules with park rangers before you fly.
Where is Ao Phang Nga National Park?
The park is in Phang Nga province on the Andaman coast of southern Thailand, between Phuket Island and the mainland.
What is James Bond Island called?
The islet is known as Khao Phing Kan, and it is also called Khao Tapu.
