Ko Phra Thong

Ko Phra Thong is a large coastal island in Khura Buri District, Phang Nga Province, southern Thailand, within Mu Ko Ra-Ko Phra Thong National Park. Known for its unusual savanna-like interior, extensive mangroves, and 15-kilometre west-facing beach, it is notable for seasonal sea turtle nesting, diverse birdlife, and a small Moken fishing community. The island remains largely undeveloped, offering a remote natural setting near the Andaman Sea.

Visitors can expect a remote, low-developed island with a long sandy beach on the west coast, interior savanna grasslands, mangrove channels on the east, and small fishing villages. Exploration is by sandy tracks on foot or bicycle and by longtail boat through mangroves. Facilities are limited to small homestays, guesthouses and local restaurants. Activities focus on nature observation, beach walking, birdwatching and seasonal turtle nesting areas within the national park.

Ko Phra Thong is historically known for its small Moken and Thai fishing settlements and for its inclusion in Mu Ko Ra-Ko Phra Thong National Park established to protect coastal ecosystems. The island was significantly affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, which reshaped coastal areas and is documented in local visitor information.

The island is home to a Moken (sea gypsy) fishing community at Ao Yai and Thai fishing villages, preserving traditional fishing and boat-building practices. The name Ko Phra Thong refers to a local legend of a golden Buddha image, reflected in the alternate name Golden Buddha Island.