Part of the Ko Tarutao National Marine Park, the 151 sq. km Ko Tarutao features waterfalls, streams, beaches, and caves. Protected dolphins, lobsters, and dugongs reside here as well, along with other wildlife such as mousedeer, wild pigs, fishing cats and crab-eating macaque. This place is also a ground for sea turtles such as the Pacific ridley, hawksbill, green and leatherback, especially during the months of September and April when they come up to lay their eggs.

The park's pier, headquarters and bungalows are located at Ao Phante Malaka where the entrance fee is 50B. Some of the best camping areas are at the beaches of Ao Jak and Ao San and both bays are located south of the park's headquarters. For a marvelous view of the two bays, climb Topu Hill, which is 500m north of the park office. Another camping ground is the Ao Makham (Tamarind Bay) at the southwestern end of the island.

Good coral reefs can be found at the northwestern part of Ko Tarutao at Pha Papinyong (Papillon Cliffs), at Ao San, and in the channel between Ko Tarutao and Ko Takiang (Ko Lela) off the northeastern shore. Another interesting feature that might interest Chinese diners would be in Ao Talo Udang on Ko Rang Nok (Bird Nest Island) where expensive swiftlet nests can be found.