KOH MAE KO
Approach from the northeast, on a course of approximately 230°, north of Koh Sam Sao and Koh Ao Raet, avoids all rocks on the way into the anchorage. Koh Ao Raet is called ‘Sphinx Island’ or ‘Koh Hanuman’ by local tour operators due to its rock formation profile.
Approaching from the southeast, there’s a large rock mid-channel, which should be left to starboard. Off a small beach is a red buoy, which marks an underwater rock. Here there’s a small platform which offers access to a path leading to an inner lake, and a cave under the mountain (Emerald Lake).
The next beach northwards now has a small jetty giving access to the island and jungle pathways and is the main tourist drop‑off, making this the better option. Look for a good anchorage in about 7-8 metres off this third beach coming from the south, on the east side of the island.
