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Ko Wua Ta Lap Island

Ko Wua Ta Lap Island

Ko Wua Ta Lap Island
4.5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

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4.5
4.5 of 5 bubbles78 reviews
Excellent
58
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16
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Vinanda S
Enschede, The Netherlands383 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2019 • Couples
If you visit Angthong marine park make sure you go to the Ko Wua Talap Viewpoint as well. It is absolutely magical. Have to be fit though, its a real workout! Got some energy left? Visit the cave, its at the end of the beach and a fun climb as well.
Written 13 April 2019
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Cyfran101
Worcester, UK23 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2014 • Couples
Firstly this island appears to go under a number of spellings Ko(h) Wua (or Wau) Ta Lap (or Talab) Island but has the universal nickname Sleeping Cow Island.

This is a fixture of most day trips along with Ko Mae Ko (Mother Island) i.e. the island with the lake in the middle.

Once disembarked you mainly have three options. Either take advantage of the restaurant, beach and swimming/snorkelling, hike to caves ( I was not given this option) or hike up to the top of the islands Pha Jun-Jaras viewpoint.

You will have very little time to do the hike and anything else if on an organised day trip.

This review is my experience of the hike to the top and felt my mistakes could aid others.

There are three view points. One at 100 metres and gives a narrow view with a path that resembles a dried up stream, one at 200 metres that gives a reasonable view but is rockier to climb or do you gamble and go for the 450 metre view point?

The climb in total up and down is circa an hour but in the heat a number, particularly older day trippers felt 200 metres was enough. The climb past 200 metres is arduous and at some points dangerous.

Past 100 metres a rope is available to assist, past 200 metres it's required, in the last 50 metres it's a necessity.

I foolishly felt that in my medium fitness I could, with effort, get swiftly up and down with no water, a camera swinging from my wrist and could be completed in flip flops from the hotel. Oh dear.

You will sweat...buckets. Even the mountain goat Thai lads bravado was slipping towards the end and they realised this may actually require a little collaboration. Water therefore is required but as you will need BOTH hands a back pack is a great idea particularly as a camera swinging off your wrist is likely to break before getting the photos you are aiming for.

A reasonably fit 30 year old remarked it's the hardest thing she has ever done and I believe it contributed heavily to my first ever bout of prickly heat due to prodigious water loss.

You will require proper shoes. Tricky this as I ditched my trainers in Thailand the second my feet felt like boil in a bag fish but flip flops just aren't suitable. The rockier climb after 200 metres often snagged my flip flops, the steep climb required grip and the final 20 metres over the baking hot limestone jagged edges made me question my intelligence.

The view is stunning, allows you to take in many of the islands and you will feel like you earned it.

If you are lucky enough you may even spot some monkeys. Our guide found a dead baby monkey down the ravine sides but the mother jumped him and took the dead baby into the trees.

Deserves a dive in to the sea afterwards.
Written 3 January 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

blackeldo
Kiama, Australia2,235 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Mar 2017 • Solo
PLUS SOME GENERAL INFO ON WUA TALAP

Back in the 90s I called in at WUA TALAP on a daytrip and did the usual 3 hours. I was impressed – I’ve not seen a better VIEWPOINT in Thailand, the climb to and around LOTUS CAVE was value and I thought the beach and camping area behind it pretty nice. One problem – my stay was a bit short: there is much to do/see and 3 hours kinda rushed things. So I made a promise to return – but to stay longer - overnight, allowing more time to experience the scene. It took over a dozen return visits to Thailand the next 20 years before I actually made it back, but I gotta say the wait was well worth it.

TIMETABLE - 1215: Following a comprehensive briefing of main island features by our SIMILAN ISLAND TOUR CO trip leader we piled into the longtail shuttles and headed for the beach. He showed daytrippers where to meet at 1445 and me (the only overnighter) the same place/time next day.

THE BEACH - this is one nice strip of sand: 250m long, sufficiently wide even at full tide, fine white sand, backed by the headquarters flat in the northern quarter and steep rainforested hillside/mountainside the rest, plenty of shade back of beach, a small busy NP CANTEEN behind the sand with some nearby shaded picnic tables on the hillside and a big swimming enclosure to separate swimmers/snorkelers from incoming boats. I’ve visited in 2 types of weather where the winds would normally create surf, but close surrounding islands give good shelter making conditions very benign.
There seemed to be as many trip boats as at the busiest NATIONAL PARK BEACH I’ve seen (the SIMILAN’s NP headquarters beach) and yet WUA TALAP’s beach was relatively uncrowded – I think a majority of visitors was off doing the time-consuming climbs to the HIGH VIEWPOINT and LOTUS CAVE, in the RESTAURANT or at the MUSEUM.

SNORKELLING - our tour leader said incoming boats disturbed visibility, so I grabbed my mask before they arrived next morning. But as said earlier, this part of the GULF is not known for good snorkeling. But novices will enjoy the fish and scattered coral available.

NATIONAL PARKS HQ AREA LAYOUT- the HEADQUARTERS area is a gently sloping amphitheater behind the northern beach: 250m across, 200m deep and surrounded by steep mountainsides. The RESTAURANT is in the north-west, 70m from the beach, the PARKS OFFICE AND MUSEUM maybe 50m towards the center, the camping area another 30m. NP BUNGALOWS are scattered around the higher perimeter slopes. AMENITIES BLOCKS are near the RESTAURANT and another is 70m on from the camping site near the southern side of the area. The latter is further from the beach and less busy – the one near the restaurant looks a bit second hand at the end of the day. Cleaning staff have both pretty spic next morning. Note both have western WCs and Asian squat-types. Plenty of showers.
The path to the HIGH VIEWPOINT takes off not far from the beach on the southern side. There is a FIRST AID BUILDING closer the beach.

THE VIEWPOINT – the best I’ve seen in Thailand. And I’ve seen a few. Plus the trek up is a real good work out. 450m total distance in which you start 20m above sea level and finish at 220m. That’s an average gradient of 1 in 2.5; pretty steep. But the stone steps are mostly well formed, there are helper ropes at the side and about 5 rest stops with good views. I approached it as a fitness workout and was determined to make the top non-stop without using the ropes. Seemed more than 450m. I have to tell you I was a bit used up at the top. Then again, I’m 71.
Thing is, I reckon even unfit dudes would make this if they stopped often for a rest. NP staff are stationed at difficult areas to help. VERY unfit types like my pal BIG TONY, the only LIVING person who can completely surround a 22” pizza in under 30 seconds, should give it a miss.
The view at the top of surrounding islands is worth the climb. Views from intermediate rest stops include the NP AMPHITHEATER and the BEACH/BAY and are also excellent.

LOTUS CAVE - this is not mind-blowing: I’ve seen way better stalactites/stalagmites yada. But it’s kinda interesting clambering around in there. The track leaves near the far end of the beach and again we are talking WORKOUT with some very steep sections up to and inside the cave.It's shorter but TECHNICALY a lot more difficult being rough underfoot and having fewer HAND ROPE sections.
Pretty good natural light in the cave but a torch won’t be wasted.
BTW – a short detour well before the cave signposted BEACH VIEWPOINT; very good – see pic.

WHICH ONE MUM?
First visit I was very fit younger dude – did BOTH climbs the one afternoon. Second time I’m a very fit OLD dude – was glad I had next day to do the CAVE. People of AVERAGE FITNESS with only the afternoon should consider dropping one. Our tour leader suggested the CAVE – the climb is just as tough and the rewards less.
BTW – proper footwear is a must for the CAVE – a good idea for the VIEWPOINT.

NATIONAL PARK OFFICE and MUSEUM - the staff here was the most pleasant and efficient of any NP I’ve visited bar KO ROK NP.
A bonus is the small MUSEUM – displays showing geology of the area, more recent history, lotsa big pics (including a VIEWPOINT PANORAMA which visitors could insert themselves to appear like they had been up there – great for mobility impaireds' snaps ) and a real good WHALE SKELETON from a nearby beach.

CAMPING – a nice area on the lower slopes about 120m in from the beach. NP had only 4 tents: I was the only taker. If a big group comes they can quickly erect more. A lower area had plenty of room for people bringing their own tents – a group of FRENCH KAYAKERS paddled in late in the day and set up here – left next morning. Neat.
My tent in good condition, enough room for 2+gear, thin sleeping mattress and small hard pillow. Sleeping bag provided (not used). I was comfy, slept well. 250 baht – wasn’t charged 300b NP entry – I think that was included in my daytrip fee.

BUNGALOWS- looked nice, are situated back and up from the beach, not closely spaced and seemed less expensive than I remembered other NPs’. But only about half a dozen and seem to book out a long way ahead. You don’t have to book the tents.

RESTAURANT - one of the better NP HQ restaurants – prices reasonable, food selection, portion size and prices ok, service friendly. Note NP restaurant quality varies with the contractor, which can change year to year.
Wasn’t too crowded although I didn’t show up at peak times.

WILDLIFE - steep slopes and thick vegetation don’t support large wildlife, but there is no shortage of monkeys, reptiles, birds and of course sea creatures. LANGUR MONKEYS hang around the camping area, back of beach trees and clamber over the restaurant roof. PARK RANGERS will fine you if you feed them, but they were pretty slick at raiding unattended food as the FRENCH KAYAKERS found out. I made sure my tent was zipped tightly.

WHEN TO AVOID + GETTING THERE - to save space seee my review on TRIPADVISOR’s main MU KO ANG THONG page – there are 2 (????) = the one with more reviews.

SUM UP - I’ve visited all the popular island national parks, some several times, stayed overnight on all but one. WUA TALAP is the best HQ ISLAND I’ve experience. Highly recommended.
Written 2 May 2017
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rajiv M
3 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2018 • Friends
Reached the island during lunch time and was advised that the vertical trek was quite long, tiring and could be tight to complete within the stipulated time given (was told that the climb and descent together would account for 1hr 45 mins). But I was quite adamant on making the climb. Did finish the round trip back within 1hr with decent 5-10 mins breaks at the various view points.
About the trek: The stone stairs can become steep and slippery in most places. Would recommend footwear with good grip, if not shoes. Also carry enough water to last 500m vertical trek since you will not find water anywhere once you begin the climb. The trek itself may feel difficult even for people with intermediate fitness levels, but trust me, the view and the satisfaction of finishing the trek is worth all of it. Also there are people along who keep encouraging you to finish the trek along the way which is a great thing. I was about to give up mid-way when one person told me "The view is what I will remember next week when I'm sitting behind my desk at work.". This kept me going for a while.
If you are travelling to Ko Samui/Ko Pha Ngan, I will recommend that you reserve one day for the Ang Thong Park.
Written 10 July 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

EvangelineFaith
West Yorkshire, UK50 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2016 • Friends
This is apart of the Angthong national marine park trip- you visit the island for a few hours and you can relax or eat or swim, kayak or snorkel.

The main attraction is the Pha Jun-Jaras hike up to the stunning viewpoint! It can take around an hour to get up- MUST bring water!!- but I promise you it is so worth it!

It took me and my friends and hour and a half total to climb up and back down- not including a luxurious relaxation at the top! The views send a shiver down your spine...

Please wear appropriate shoes- I fell and hurt myself badly. Especially at the top the path disappears and you are climbing over and on rocks it is can be quite dangerous.

Stunning views though, a must do!!
Written 27 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Miki
Bucharest, Romania10,486 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2016 • Couples
Ko Wua Talap should not be missed by anyone travelling to Koh Samui because it has the best views of the limestone islands of the Marine Park and also it has a great viewpoint at 100 m altitude with the island's best beach fringed by tall coconut trees. Local authorities are building now steps up to the top and the viewpoints are enlarged so if you visit this time of year you might find works in progress on the hike. You can also encounter cute dusky leaf monkeys which are gentle quite opposite to the macaques. There is also a shop on the beach where you can enjoy a coffee or a soft drink.
Written 23 August 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Justine W
Surfers Paradise, Australia20 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2016 • Family
Had a fantastic tour of this area. Kayaking snorkeling and swimming . The tour company was called samui island tours
Written 11 May 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

luda62uk
England55 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2015 • Couples
Paradise , monkeys all around, beach is magnificent views from view points are mind blowing
For the young at heart u can stay here for £5 a night .
Written 6 October 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

riccardo_fresa
22 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2018 • Family
You're not in a movie ... it's reality! The archipelago is beautiful, the lush vegetation is amazing, the visit requires a whole day. Don't forget bottles of water, the weather is hot
Written 22 September 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

saschastreule
Chur, Switzerland607 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2018 • Couples
It’s for me one of the nicest places on Koh Samui.
We went with a long tail boat just great experience with local peoples.
We had the chance to fishing from the boat we catch our lunch;)
Just a great experience.
Written 8 January 2018
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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KO WUA TA LAP ISLAND (2024) All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos) - Tripadvisor

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