Koh Wua Ta Lap
Anchorage Review: Koh Wua Ta Lap, Ang Thong, Thailand
09°38.097N, 99°40.479E – anchorage A on the Ang Thong Islands chart
Mooring buoys
Use a suitable National Park mooring in preference to anchoring when one is available. Mooring condition, intended vessel size and permitted use can change without warning. The skipper remains responsible for inspecting the tackle, checking depth and swinging room, and moving if requested by park staff. If no suitable mooring is available, anchor on the muddy bottom as described below and keep clear of coral.
Overview
Koh Wua Ta Lap is the principal visitor island in Mu Ko Ang Thong Marine National Park, west of Koh Samui. Forested limestone islands, pale beaches and steep-sided channels surround the anchorage, while the National Park headquarters provides straightforward access ashore.
Day boats bring visitors for the famous viewpoint, but a yacht offers the chance to experience the island in the quieter hours and to use it as a base for exploring the southern part of the group.
Anchoring
The anchorage is at 09°38.097N, 99°40.479E, marked A on the Southeast Asia Pilot chart. Pick up an appropriate mooring where possible or anchor in approximately 8m on mud on the northeast side of the island.
Approach from the north or east and give Koh Phi ample clearance because reefs extend underwater. When continuing north towards Koh Mae Ko, be aware of the coral head in the passage north of the southernmost beach. Conditions can change quickly around the exposed islands, so check the forecast and maintain an escape plan.
For guidance only, not for navigation.
Facilities
The National Park headquarters has a jetty, visitor facilities, basic accommodation, a restaurant and a small shop. Availability and opening hours can vary, and the island should not be treated as a reliable place for yacht fuel, water, repairs or waste disposal.
National Park entry charges and local procedures apply. Fees and arrangements change, so confirm the current position with park staff or official sources rather than relying on an old published figure.
Eating & drinking ashore
The park restaurant normally provides simple Thai meals and drinks during visitor hours. Carry cash and keep food aboard in case the restaurant is closed, busy or operating on reduced hours.
Highlights
A climb of roughly 345 steps leads to the celebrated viewpoint over the Ang Thong archipelago. The ascent takes around 45 minutes for many visitors and is steep in places; wear proper shoes, carry water and allow extra time in heat or wet conditions.
A large cave lies south of the main beach, and monkeys and bats may be encountered around the island. Give wildlife space, secure food and follow any instructions from park staff.
Why we like it
Koh Wua Ta Lap places a usable park anchorage beneath one of the finest viewpoints in the Gulf of Thailand. The combination of island scenery, walking ashore and a practical base within the Ang Thong group makes it far more than a photographic day stop.
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