About Ao Phang Nga National Park
Ao Phang Nga National Park is a marine national park in Phang Nga Province, southern Thailand, covering about 400 sq km of Phang Nga Bay. Established in 1981, it is renowned for its dramatic limestone karst towers, emerald-green waters, mangrove forests, sea caves and around 42 islands, including the famous Khao Phing Kan (James Bond Island).
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a seascape of towering limestone karsts rising from shallow bay waters, explored primarily by longtail boat or sea kayak. The park features hidden lagoons, sea caves, mangrove channels, small beaches and fishing villages such as Ko Panyi. Facilities are centered at the park headquarters and piers, with most sightseeing done on guided boat tours around islands and caves.
Key highlights
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Dramatic limestone karst towers and islets scattered across Phang Nga Bay
- 02
Khao Phing Kan and Khao Tapu (James Bond Island)
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Ko Panyi floating Muslim fishing village built on stilts
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Sea caves, hongs (collapsed cave lagoons) and mangrove forests
- 05
Kayaking through caves and lagoons at Ko Hong and Ko Panak
History of Ao Phang Nga National Park
Established on 29 April 1981 as Thailand's second marine national park and the 13th national park overall, covering 400 sq km. Designated as a Ramsar Wetland of international importance on 14 August 2002 for its mangrove and bay ecosystem. Khao Phing Kan gained international fame after appearing in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun.
Culture & Context
The bay is home to the stilted fishing community of Ko Panyi, established in the late 18th century by Muslim fishermen, which remains a cultural landmark within the park. The area reflects traditional southern Thai sea-based livelihoods, mangrove resource use and local boat-building traditions.
Route
| By air | Nearest major airport is Phuket International Airport, about 70-80 km southwest, with road transfer to piers for boat access to the park |
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