Koh Tarutao

In 1974 the Koh Tarutao group of islands near the Malayan border was declared a national park; only a decade earlier pirates were terrorizing the region. The island is one of the few remaining paradises of Thailand. However, it is feared that this archipelago of 51 islands, with Koh Tarutao being the main island, awaits the same fate as the island of Koh Samui - once popular with backpackers but now even planes land there. The almost exclusively indigenous population make the visitor very welcome. The rather arduous journey is rewarded by unspoilt beaches and luxuriant flora and fauna. As yet there is no tourist development.

From Pak Bara harbor (65 km (40 mi.)) north of Satun; passenger boats twice daily during the season November-April). At weekends and during the Thai holiday period (May-Jun.) early booking through travel agents is recommended.