Similan Islands is one of Thailand's most beautiful marine destinations and ranks among the top in the world for diving and snorkeling.
General Information
Location: Andaman Sea, Phang Nga Province (closer to Khao Lak than Phuket)
Consists of the main islands: Island 1: Huyong – Long, beautiful sandy beach, but access is restricted to protect sea turtles.
Island 4: Miang – Location of the park office, with accommodation and restaurants.
Island 8: Similan – The largest island, featuring "Sail Rock," a highlight viewpoint, and fine white sand beaches.
Island 9: Bangu
Includes Koh Bon and Koh Tachai (but Koh Tachai has been permanently closed since 2016 for natural regeneration).
Highlights: White sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, beautiful coral reefs, and abundant marine life such as turtles, colorful fish, stingrays, and whale sharks (high chance of sighting during certain periods).
Opening Hours (Updated 2026): Similan Islands National Park is open only during the dry season. For safety and nature restoration: Open: October 15, 2025 – May 15, 2026
Closed: May 16 – October 14 (Monsoon season, rough seas)
Currently (January 2026) it's open and high season. The weather is good, the water is clear, ideal, but it may be crowded.
Most trips are day trips: Take a speedboat from Tap Lamu Pier (near Khao Lak, Phang Nga). It takes 1-1.5 hours. From Phuket: Transfer + boat, total approximately 8-10 hours.
From Khao Lak: Closer and more convenient.
Liveaboard trips (sleeping on a boat): 2-7 days, good for scuba diving, more dive sites to see.
No overnight stays on the island: Overnight stays have been prohibited since 2018 to reduce environmental impact (except for some liveaboard trips).
Main activities:
Snorkeling and scuba diving – popular spots like Christmas Point, Elephant Head Rock, Richelieu Rock.
Hike up to the Sail Rock viewpoint on Island 8.
Relax on the white sandy beaches.
Accommodation on Similan Islands (Very Limited, Advance Booking Required)
The national park allows accommodation on only certain islands (mainly Island 4 - Koh Miang and parts of Island 8) during high season (approximately October-May). It's closed during low season (May-October) due to the monsoon.
-Bungalows/Park Rooms (Air-conditioned/Fan) on Island 4: Approximately 1,000-2,000 THB/night (per room for 2 people). Very limited (around 35 rooms). Bookings must be made through the Department of National Parks website (dnp.go.th) several months in advance. They fill up very quickly in some years.
-Park Tents: Approximately 500-1,000 THB/person/night, including 3 meals. Extremely close to nature, with stargazing opportunities and the chance to see turtles walking on the beach.
-There are no luxury private resorts on the islands due to legal restrictions preventing the construction of large hotels.
If you really want to stay on the island → it's suitable for nature lovers and those who want to go diving for several days (liveaboard or day trip + overnight stay). However, there are simple conditions: no WiFi, limited electricity (generator), and few restaurants. You need to be prepared.
Recommended accommodations for a Similan Islands trip... (Most people stay in Khao Lak)
Most people stay in Khao Lak, which is about 30-60 minutes by car from the main pier (Thap Lamu Pier), then take a speedboat or longtail boat to the islands (day trip or multi-day trip).
There are many good resorts here, close to the sea, convenient, and easy to book.
Luxury/High-end Resorts (5 stars, beautiful views, good atmosphere)
1. JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa — Private beach, infinity pool, excellent spa, delicious food, close to the pier, suitable for families/couples.
2. Khao Lak Marriott Beach Resort & Spa — Relaxing atmosphere, long beach for walking, offers snorkeling activities and Similan Islands trips.
Mid-range to Good (4 stars, good value)
1. Kalima Resort and Villa Khao Lak — Beautiful views, private pool villas. Some options are near the beach:
Budget-to-mid range (near the pier, convenient):
Hotels/guest houses within Khao Lak itself, such as Poseidon or the Nang Thong Beach area — Prices range from 1,000-4,000 baht/night, easy access to Similan Islands.
Tips for Visiting Similan Islands
-Season: Approximately October 2025 - May 2026 (Check with the National Park Department for the latest information, as prices vary each year).
-Transportation: Fly from Phuket → take a minivan/taxi to Khao Lak (1-1.5 hours) or drive directly from Bangkok (approximately 10-12 hours).
-Recommended Trip: Day trip (snorkeling/diving for 1 day) priced at 2,500-4,000 THB/person, including food and boat transfers, or a 3-5 day Liveaboard (more expensive, but offers views of more locations).
-Estimated Budget (per night for 2 people): Luxury 6,000-15,000+ THB, Mid-range 3,000-7,000 THB, Budget 1,500-4,000 THB (Khao Lak side).
-Book in advance. High season fills up very quickly, especially for boat trips.
Recommendations:
Book in advance, especially during high season, as the number of tourists per day is limited (approximately 3,000-4,000 people).
Bring sunscreen, long-sleeved shirts, and a hat (the sun is very strong).
Do not feed marine animals or litter.
If you want to avoid crowds, consider an early bird trip or choose the Surin Islands instead (similar but less crowded).
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