Koh Hong Island in Phang Nga National Park is one of the most amazing ecotourism destinations in Thailand. While most tourists aim to see the famous James Bond Island (Koh Tapu), it`s canoeing that truly reveals the magic of this nature reserve. Here you`ll find hidden lagoons, mysterious caves, and secluded bays accessible only by small boats.
A canoe tour around Hong isn`t just a stroll - it`s a real adventure. You`ll paddle through narrow cave tunnels carved by waves into limestone cliffs and discover lost lagoons surrounded by vertical walls. The water here is turquoise, with only the sound of water, birds calling, and rustling mangrove forests around you.
Like the entire Phang Nga Bay, Koh Hong consists of karst limestone cliffs formed 250 million years ago. They contain numerous hidden cavities called "hongs" (meaning "room" in Thai). These formations were created by:
• Limestone erosion - rainwater saturated with carbon dioxide dissolved softer rocks, creating cracks
• Tidal action - waves eroded the cliffs over millennia, widening caves and carving arched passages
• Ceiling collapses - in some places cave roofs collapsed, forming open-air hidden lagoons
During low tide, many caves (hongs) become exposed, revealing their intricate vaults covered with stalactites and mollusk shells. These caves become accessible for Canoeing only during low tide (check with guides).
What to expect during the tour:
• Canoeing through caves and cavities - Some tunnels are so narrow you`ll need to lie back in the canoe to slip under low ceilings
• "Hong" lagoons - Inside, you`ll find circular lakes surrounded by 100-meter cliffs
• Mangrove forests - Quiet coves contain root labyrinths where crabs and fishes
