Ko Libong (Libong Island)

History & Significance

Ko Libong has long been an important coastal settlement in the Andaman region. In 1979, the Mu Ko Libong Non-hunting Area was established, covering 447 square kilometers of terrestrial and marine habitats. The island was designated an ASEAN Heritage Park at the 15th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment in October 2019. Beyond its natural conservation history, Ko Libong is home to a close-knit Muslim community that preserves traditional customs, such as burning coconut shells before the end of the Ramadan fast in Ban Mod Tanoi village.

Highlights & What to See

The island is globally celebrated as the primary home of Thailand's wild dugong population. Around 180 dugongs out of the estimated 200 remaining in Thai waters inhabit the waters around Ko Libong, sustained by more than 12,000 rai of seagrass meadows containing 11 of Thailand's 13 seagrass species. Key attractions include:

• Dugong Sanctuary & Seagrass Meadows: Local residents maintain a dedicated preservation zone and operate a watchtower to monitor dugong safety and prevent marine plastic debris.
• Laem Ju Hoi Mangrove Reserve: A protected mangrove forest on the island's eastern shore managed as part of the Libong Islands Wildlife Reserve.
• Important Bird Area (IBA): Recognized by BirdLife International for supporting significant wintering populations of spotted greenshanks.
• Local Food & Muslim Culture: The island's cultural influence extends to Trang city, where popular Muslim-style eateries serve traditional roti, seafood, and tea in a warm, relaxed atmosphere.

Visitor Information

Ko Libong is open to visitors year-round. There is no official entry fee to access the island itself. Visitors are encouraged to respect local Muslim customs, maintain eco-friendly practices, and follow marine protection guidelines while taking dugong-watching tours.

How to Get There

Ko Libong is located off the coast of Kantang District in Trang Province. Travelers can take a 30-minute long-tail boat ride from Hat Yao Ban Chao Mai Pier to reach the island's western shores.