Looking for Thailand’s clearest water and bucket-list dive sites? The Similan Islands (หมู่เกาะสิมิลัน, Mu Koh Similan) are a protected marine park of granite boulders, white-powder beaches, and reefs bursting with life. Think manta rays, whale sharks in season, and visibility that makes even snorkelers feel like divers.
Best for: certified divers, snorkelers, photographers, and eco-minded travelers who prefer nature over nightlife. Families with water-confident kids also love the calm bays on good-weather days.
Set in the Andaman Sea about 70 km off Thailand’s Phang Nga coast, the Similans are typically accessed from Khao Lak or Phuket. The islands operate on a limited, conservation-first schedule, which keeps them pristine and crowd-light compared to many Thai beaches.
Where Is It?
The Similan Islands sit in the Andaman Sea about 70 km off the coast of Phang Nga province, roughly 1.5–2 hours by speedboat from the mainland. Most trips depart from Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak; Phuket is the other common gateway. The archipelago forms Mu Koh Similan National Park, a compact protected area of small granite islands with coral reefs and shallow, sandy bays.
Quick orientation
- Province: Phang Nga (south of Ranong, north of Phuket)
- Mainland base: Khao Lak (closest), alternative base in Phuket
- Nearest airports: Phuket International (HKT); Krabi (KBV) as a secondary option
- Distance guide: Khao Lak → Thap Lamu Pier ~20–30 min by road; Thap Lamu → Similans ~70–80 km by sea
Similan Islands on the Map
Curious where the Similan Islands sit? This protected marine park lies about 70 km off Thailand’s Phang Nga coast in the Andaman Sea, with most boats departing from Khao Lak’s Thap Lamu Pier. Phuket is another popular launch point.
Click the image below to open the Similan Islands National Park location in Google Maps in a new tab.
Best Time to Visit
The Similan Islands are unique among Thailand’s destinations because they’re not open year-round. To protect the fragile reefs and wildlife, the national park allows visitors only during the dry season.
Photo by Roma Neus on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 3.0
- Open season: October 15 – May 15
- Peak conditions: November to April – calm seas, sunshine, and world-class visibility for diving (often 20–30 meters).
- Closed season: May to mid-October – the park shuts completely during the southwest monsoon for safety and conservation.
📌 Book tours and liveaboards early if you plan to visit in December–March, as spots sell out quickly. If you prefer fewer crowds but still great conditions, aim for late October/early November or late April before closure.
✅ For calmer seas within the open season, check monthly patterns for Khao Lak in our Thailand Monsoon Weather Checker (climate guide, not a forecast; the Similans close outside Oct 15–May 15 regardless of weather).
How to Get There
Reaching the Similan Islands is part of the adventure. Since the islands are about 70 km offshore, you’ll need to combine air, land, and sea travel.
By Air
- Phuket International Airport (HKT): The most convenient entry point, with domestic and international flights.
- Krabi Airport (KBV): Another option, about 2–3 hours’ drive from Khao Lak.
By Land
- From Phuket Airport to Khao Lak: 1.5–2 hours by private transfer, taxi, or shared minivan.
- From Krabi: 2.5–3 hours by car or minivan.
By Sea
- Thap Lamu Pier near Khao Lak is the main departure point.
- Speedboat transfers take about 1.5–2 hours to reach the islands.
- Liveaboard diving boats depart from Khao Lak and Phuket, offering 3–5 night trips.
📌 Many day tours and liveaboards include hotel pickup from Khao Lak or Phuket, so you rarely need to arrange separate transfers.
Photo by KOSIN SUKHUM on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Route at a Glance: How to Reach the Similan Islands
Option A — Day Trip via Khao Lak (Fastest)
1) Bangkok → Phuket (HKT) – 1h15m flight
2) Phuket Airport → Khao Lak – 1.5–2h by private transfer/minivan
3) Khao Lak → Thap Lamu Pier – 20–30 min by road
4) Thap Lamu Pier → Similan Islands – 1.5–2h by speedboat
✅ Most tour operators include hotel pickup in Khao Lak and round-trip boat transfers.
Option B — Liveaboard via Phuket (Dive Focus)
1) Bangkok → Phuket (HKT) – 1h15m flight
2) Phuket Hotel/Marina – 15–60 min transfer depending on departure point
3) Board liveaboard – 3–5 night itinerary covering Similan & nearby sites (often incl. hotel pickup)
✅ Liveaboards may also visit Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, and Richelieu Rock (conditions/permits allowing).
Alternatives
• Bangkok → Krabi (KBV) – 1h20m flight → 2.5–3h drive to Khao Lak → Thap Lamu Pier → Similans
• From Phuket Town/Patong – 2–2.5h road transfer direct to Thap Lamu Pier for day tours.
📌 If you’re prone to seasickness, choose a larger boat or a calmer-season date (Nov–Apr) and sit toward the stern.
Photo by Fred von Lohmann on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 2.0
Travel Time & Costs to the Similan Islands
| Item | Typical Time | Typical Cost (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Flight: Bangkok (BKK/DMK) → Phuket (HKT) | ~1h15m | 800–2,500 (promo–typical) |
| Phuket Airport → Khao Lak (car/minivan) | 1.5–2h | 900–2,000 (shared–private) |
| Khao Lak → Thap Lamu Pier (road) | 20–30m | 200–500 |
| Speedboat: Thap Lamu → Similan Islands | 1.5–2h | Included in tour / 1,500–2,500 (transfer-only) |
| Day Tour (snorkel) | Full day | 2,500–4,000 (incl. boat & lunch) |
| Liveaboard (3–5 nights) | 3–5 days | 15,000–30,000+ (boat class & season) |
| National Park Entry (foreigner) | — | ~500 (diving surcharges extra) |
| Khao Lak Hotel (per night) | — | Budget 600–1,200 • Mid-range 2,000–3,500 • Resort 4,000+ |
Getting Around
The Similan Islands are a protected park with no public transport or rentals. Movement is by tour boat or liveaboard only, with limited access to shore on Koh Similan (8) and Koh Miang (4/5). Trails are short but uneven—bring sturdy sandals/shoes.
Good to know
- Overnights: Only on Koh Miang; very limited tents/bungalows, book early.
- Weather rules: Park rangers may change routes or close sites on short notice.
- Seasickness: Consider medication—speedboat rides can be bumpy.
Photo by Kaewfreedom on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Getting Around the Similan Islands: At a Glance
Day Tours
• Speedboat trips from Khao Lak or Phuket
• Visit 2–3 islands in one day
• Includes snorkeling stops, lunch, and hotel pickup
✅ Best for travelers short on time.
Liveaboards
• 3–5 night itineraries on dive boats
• Access to remote sites like Koh Bon, Koh Tachai, Richelieu Rock
• All meals, dives/snorkels, and cabins included
✅ Best for divers and serious marine explorers.
Overnight Camping / Bungalows
• Only available on Koh Miang (Island 4)
• Limited park-run tents and simple bungalows
• Must be booked well in advance
✅ Best for eco-travelers who want to stay in the park overnight.
Top Things to Do
The Similan Islands are all about nature above and below the water. Most visitors come for the reefs, but there’s plenty more to enjoy if you know where to look.
1. Scuba Diving
Photo by Bernd on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0
- Consistently ranked among the top 10 dive sites in the world.
- Highlights include Elephant Head Rock, North Point, and the legendary Richelieu Rock (just outside the park but often included in liveaboards).
- Expect manta rays, whale sharks (seasonal), turtles, and dense coral gardens.
2. Snorkeling
- Ideal for beginners and families.
- Shallow reefs around Koh Similan and Koh Miang teem with parrotfish, clownfish, and colorful soft corals.
- Day tours include multiple snorkel stops with guides.
3. Hiking & Viewpoints
Photo by Maxmajestic on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5
- Donald Duck Bay (Koh Similan, Island 8): A short hike to a granite viewpoint overlooking turquoise waters.
- Koh Miang (Islands 4 & 5): Nature trails through jungle and small bays.
4. Wildlife Spotting
Photo by Abe Khao Lak on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
- Beyond fish: keep an eye out for reef sharks, sea turtles, and moray eels.
- On land: monitor lizards, fruit bats, and tropical birds inhabit the forested areas.
5. Eco-Education
- National park rangers and some tours provide background on reef conservation and the park’s fragile ecosystems.
- Staying overnight on Koh Miang is a chance to see how the park is managed.
📌 Conditions vary by site. Some dives are advanced due to currents and depth—check with your operator if you’re a beginner.
Best Beaches
While the Similan Islands are world-famous for diving, their beaches are just as breathtaking. Expect powdery white sand, dramatic granite boulders, and turquoise water so clear it feels unreal. Each accessible island has its own vibe:
Donald Duck Bay – Koh Similan (Island 8)
Photo by KOSIN SUKHUM on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
- The most iconic beach in the park, named after a cartoon-like granite rock formation.
- Calm bay with white sand, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
- Short hike to the viewpoint gives postcard-perfect views of the bay.
- Can be busy during day tours but worth the stop.
Honeymoon Bay & Princess Bay – Koh Miang (Islands 4 & 5)
- Twin bays on the park’s headquarters island, quieter than Koh Similan.
- Great for overnight campers and bungalow guests.
- Smaller coves with soft sand and relaxed swimming.
- Good for families with kids due to calm conditions.
Koh Tachai (Island 9)
- Famous for its long, wide stretch of powdery sand and shallow turquoise water.
- Closed for conservation during some seasons—check current park status.
- When open, it’s among the most beautiful “deserted island” beaches in Thailand.
📌 Access is limited, and you won’t find beach bars or sunbeds here. That’s part of the appeal—pristine nature without commercial clutter.
What & Where to Eat
The Similan Islands are a protected national park, so food options are very limited. Don’t expect restaurants or beach bars—the focus here is nature and conservation.
Meals on Day Tours
- Most day trips include a packed Thai lunch, fruit, and drinking water.
- Expect simple dishes like fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or curry with rice.
- Snacks and cold drinks are sometimes available at the ranger station on Koh Miang.
Liveaboard Dining
- Liveaboard boats provide full-board meals: buffet-style Thai and Western dishes.
- Fresh seafood, curries, and noodle dishes are common.
- Vegetarian or special dietary requests are usually accommodated if arranged in advance.
On the Mainland (Before & After Your Trip)
- Khao Lak: The main hub for tours, offering everything from Thai street food to seafood restaurants and international cafés.
- Phuket: More variety with beachside dining, night markets, and upscale restaurants.
📌 Bring along your own snacks (energy bars, fruit, nuts) and refillable water bottle. Food waste is tightly managed in the park, so leave no trash behind.
Photo by KOSIN SUKHUM on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Where to Eat in Khao Lak (Before & After Your Similan Trip)
| Restaurant | Location | Price Range (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Go Pong Restaurant Local seafood & southern Thai dishes |
Phetkasem Road, near Bang Niang Market | 120–250 |
| Kung Seafood Fresh grilled prawns & fish |
South of Bang Niang Market, main highway | 300–600 (platters) |
| Qcumber Healthy Thai-Western fusion café |
Nang Thong Beach area | 150–250 |
| Everyday Lazy House Pizza, burgers, pasta |
Bang Niang Beach, near night market | 200–350 |
| Moose Bar Lively bar with food & live music |
Bang Niang Beach Road | Mains 200–400 • Cocktails ~180 |
Where to Stay
Accommodation in the Similan Islands is very limited, so most travelers base themselves on the mainland and visit by day tour or liveaboard. Here are your main options:
On the Islands
- Camping (Koh Miang, Island 4): National park tents available for rent. Basic facilities, great for those who want the “sleep on the islands” experience.
- Bungalows (Koh Miang): A handful of simple park-run bungalows; bookable through the National Park office. Availability is extremely limited.
📌 Overnight stays are tightly regulated. Book far in advance, and expect simple facilities (cold showers, no luxury).
Photo by KOSIN SUKHUM on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Mainland Base – Khao Lak
The most popular base for Similan trips, with easy access to Thap Lamu Pier.
- Budget (600–1,200 THB): Guesthouses and hostels near Bang Niang and Nang Thong.
- Mid-Range (2,000–3,500 THB): Comfortable resorts with pools and beach access.
- Luxury (4,000+ THB): High-end beachfront resorts offering spa packages and dive tour arrangements.
Mainland Alternative – Phuket
Further away but with more variety. Best if you want nightlife or plan to combine your Similan trip with Phuket beaches.
- Wide range from backpacker hostels to five-star luxury.
- Longer transfer time to Thap Lamu Pier (2–2.5 hours).
Recommended Hotels in Khao Lak (Best Base for the Similan Islands)
| Hotel | Location | Price Range (THB) |
|---|---|---|
|
Riverside Guesthouse Budget-friendly guesthouse with clean rooms and easy access to Bang Niang Market. |
Bang Niang area | 600–1,200 |
|
Moracea by Khao Lak Resort Mid-range resort set on Nang Thong Beach with pool villas and sea views. |
Nang Thong Beach | 2,500–3,500 |
|
The Sands Khao Lak by Katathani Popular beachfront resort offering family facilities, spa, and direct beach access. |
Nang Thong Beach | 3,500–5,000 |
|
La Vela Khao Lak Stylish 4-star resort with modern design, infinity pools, and beachside dining. |
Bang Niang Beach | 4,000–6,000 |
|
Devasom Khao Lak Beach Resort & Villas Luxury boutique resort with private villas, fine dining, and a secluded beachfront. |
Khuk Khak Beach | 7,000+ |
Shopping & Local Markets
The Similan Islands themselves have no shops, markets, or souvenir stalls—everything is kept minimal to protect the environment. If you want to shop, you’ll need to do it in Khao Lak or Phuket before or after your trip.
In Khao Lak
- Bang Niang Market – The main night market, open several evenings a week. Great for cheap eats, casual souvenirs, and beachwear.
- Nang Thong Supermarket & Shops – Small cluster of stores selling snacks, toiletries, and travel essentials.
- Dive Shops – Khao Lak has many specialist outlets for snorkel gear, dive equipment, and underwater cameras.
What to Buy
- Practical items: Dry bags, reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, mosquito repellent.
- Souvenirs: Handmade crafts, sarongs, wooden carvings, and Thai jewelry.
- Food specialties: Southern Thai snacks, dried fruits, and locally made chili pastes.
📌 Bargaining is expected at night markets for souvenirs, but not at supermarkets or dive shops where prices are fixed.
Nearby Highlights from Khao Lak
Since the Similan Islands are a destination in themselves, most travelers use Khao Lak as their base before or after visiting the marine park. If you’ve got extra days in the area, here are some worthwhile nearby highlights:
Photo by วราชัย เคร่งวิรัตน์ on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Surin Islands
Another protected marine park further north, the Surin Islands are famous for snorkeling, clear lagoons, and the traditional Moken sea gypsy community. They’re quieter than the Similans, with fewer day-trippers.
Khao Lak Waterfalls
- Sai Rung (Rainbow) Waterfall – A scenic single-drop fall, best visited in the rainy season.
- Chong Fah Waterfall – Multi-tiered falls in a jungle setting, with cool pools for swimming.
- Lampi Waterfall – Easy access off the highway, popular with locals on weekends.
Tsunami Memorials
Khao Lak was one of the worst-hit areas in the 2004 tsunami. The Police Boat 813 Memorial and the International Tsunami Museum offer a sobering but important look at local resilience and history.
Phang Nga Bay
If you want a different kind of island scenery, day tours run from Khao Lak to Phang Nga Bay, with its towering limestone cliffs, sea caves, and the famous James Bond Island.
📌 These side trips are perfect for padding your Khao Lak stay—do them either before your Similan excursion or as a wind-down afterward.
Cost Snapshot: Similan Islands Trip
Here’s a quick look at what you can expect to spend on a Similan Islands trip, from tours and park fees to meals and hotels in Khao Lak.
| Item | Typical Cost (THB) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| National Park Entry Fee | ~500 (foreigners) / 100 (Thai) | Diving surcharges 200–400 THB per day |
| Day Tour (Snorkeling) | 2,500–4,000 | Includes transfers, boat, gear, lunch, guide |
| Liveaboard (3–5 nights) | 15,000–30,000+ | Meals, dives, and cabin included |
| Meals in Khao Lak | Street food 50–80 • Restaurants 150–400 | Seafood restaurants higher, 300–600+ per dish |
| Hotels in Khao Lak | Budget 600–1,200 • Mid-range 2,500–3,500 • Luxury 4,000+ | Peak season (Dec–Mar) = highest rates |
| Transport (Airport → Khao Lak) | 900–2,000 | Shared minivan vs. private taxi |
Daily Budgets
- Backpacker: 2,000–3,000
- Mid-range: 4,000–6,000
- Luxury: 10,000+ (incl. tours/hotel)
Photo by Somphop Nithipaichit on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0
Money-Saving Tips:
• Book tours and hotels early for December–March to avoid peak surcharges.
• Shared minivans from Phuket Airport are cheaper than private taxis.
• Liveaboards sometimes offer discounts in late April before park closure.
• Buy reef-safe sunscreen and snacks in Khao Lak supermarkets instead of tour kiosks.
Family-Friendliness
The Similan Islands work well for water-confident kids who enjoy snorkeling, beach time, and short hikes. Facilities are basic and transfers can be bumpy, so it’s best for families comfortable on boats.
Photo by Christoph Schuetzenhofer on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY 3.0
Good to know
- Ages: Best for children ~6+ who can swim with a life vest.
- Shade & breaks: Limited shade on beaches; pack hats, rash guards, and water.
- Strollers: Not practical on sand or trails.
- Overnights: Park tents/bungalows on Koh Miang are very simple. Most families base in Khao Lak and do a day tour.
Local Services & Emergency Info
Most services are on the mainland (Khao Lak/Phuket). On the islands you’ll find ranger stations, first aid, and evacuation support only.
Photo by Manuel Heinrich Emha on Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.5
Key Services (Similan Trip via Khao Lak)
| Service | Where | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ranger Station & First Aid | Koh Miang (Island 4), Koh Similan (Island 8) | Basic first aid, safety briefings, limited supplies |
| Hospitals & Clinics | Khao Lak & Takua Pa (mainland) | Go ashore for non-urgent care; tour operators assist with transfers |
| Tourist Police | Khao Lak / Phang Nga | English support for incidents and lost property |
| Immigration | Phang Nga / Phuket | For visa extensions or reporting (plan on a mainland day) |
| Post & Couriers | Khao Lak town | Send/receive parcels before boat days |
| Pharmacies | Bang Niang / Nang Thong | Seasickness tablets, reef-safe sunscreen, basic meds |
FAQs
Quick, practical answers to common Similan questions not already covered in this guide.
📌 Can I visit without a tour?
No—access is via licensed operators only. Private charters exist, but the company still handles permits and park rules.
📌 Are drones allowed in the Similan Islands?
Drones are restricted in Thai national parks and usually require permits. Check with your tour operator and the park office before bringing one.
📌 Will my phone work and can I charge devices?
Expect patchy or no mobile signal on the islands and limited charging (often none) on day boats. Bring a power bank and download offline maps/confirmations.
📌 Where is the nearest hyperbaric (recompression) chamber?
Facilities are available in Phuket, and reputable dive operators coordinate evacuation if needed. Ensure your dive/travel insurance covers hyperbaric treatment and boat transfers.
📌 Can non-swimmers or beginners join snorkeling trips?
Yes, but tell the operator in advance. Tours provide life jackets and choose calmer sites; consider a snorkel vest and stay close to the guide.
📌 How are park fees paid—cash or card?
Policies vary by operator, but many collect cash or include fees in your booking. Carry some cash in THB on boat day in case on-site payment is required.
📌 Is marine life (like jellyfish) a concern?
Stings can happen anywhere in the tropics. Wear a rash guard/leggings, avoid touching wildlife, and follow crew instructions—boats typically carry vinegar for treatment.
Related Guides & Further Reading
Travel in Thailand is easier when you have the right balance of practical advice and destination inspiration. Below you’ll find useful travel resources to help you prepare smoothly, plus nearby destinations worth adding to your journey.
Thailand Travel Essentials: Plan Smarter, Travel Easier
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Your Next Thai Adventure Awaits
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💬 Been to the Similans or planning a trip soon? Share your tips, experiences, or suggestions in the comments to help fellow readers.