Ko Tapu

Ko Tapu is a small limestone islet in Ao Phang Nga Bay within Ao Phang Nga National Park, off the coast of Phang Nga Province, Thailand. Rising about 20 meters from the sea near Khao Phing Kan, it is famous for its distinctive nail-like shape and its appearance in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun, which earned it the nickname James Bond Island. It is viewed by boat as part of bay tours.

Visitors can expect to view a dramatic 20-meter limestone karst tower rising vertically from emerald-green water in Ao Phang Nga Bay. Ko Tapu itself cannot be landed on; it is observed from tour boats and from the beach and viewpoint on the nearby island of Khao Phing Kan. The setting includes mangroves, limestone cliffs, and calm bay waters with longtail and speedboat traffic. The visit is typically a short photo stop as part of a guided bay tour, with souvenir stalls and small food vendors on Khao Phing Kan.

Ko Tapu is a limestone karst formation in Ao Phang Nga Bay, formed by karst processes. It gained international fame after appearing in the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun as the hideout of the character Scaramanga, leading to its widespread nickname James Bond Island. It has since been protected as part of Ao Phang Nga National Park established in 1981.

The name Ko Tapu means Nail Island in Thai, referring to its nail-like shape. As part of Ao Phang Nga National Park, it is an iconic natural landmark and symbol of Phang Nga Bay tourism, closely associated with the nearby Muslim fishing community of Ko Panyi and local boat-tour culture.