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.
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).