Similan Islands

Thailand's beauty is well-known around the world. Its rich culture, wonderful cuisine, and breathtaking vistas make it an ideal destination for people from all over the world. Among its numerous assets, the Similan Islands are a tribute to the country's natural beauty. These islands, located in the Andaman Sea off the coast of Phang Nga Province, are well-known for their crystal-clear seas, beautiful beaches, and vibrant marine life.

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About Similan Islands

Similan Islands, an archipelago of 11 islands in the Andaman Sea located 70 kilometers off the coast of Phang Nga Province, was designated a national park in 1982. The park comprises 140 km², with 26 km² of land.

About Similan Islands (cre: Thailandstarthere)

Similan Islands are regarded as one of the top diving places in the world, because of its diverse marine life, which includes both hard and soft coral reefs, crystal blue seas, and white beaches. The islands' principal features are the rock formations, which consist of massive boulders, shallow seas, and lush tropical vegetation.

What to do in Similan Islands

The Similan Islands offer a diverse range of activities that cater to both adventure enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation in a stunning natural setting.

Diving and Snorkelling

Diving and Snorkelling (cre: Thailandstarthere)

The Similan Islands are well-known for its world-class diving, with prominent spots including Richelieu Rock, Elephant Head Rock, and East of Eden, which are known for vivid coral reefs, rich marine life, and underwater rock formations. Snorkeling in the clean, shallow seas is a great opportunity to discover the diverse undersea world bursting with colorful fish and coral.

Beach Activities

Beach Activities on Similan Islands (cre: Thailandstarthere)

Beyond diving and snorkeling, the Similan Islands include gorgeous beaches including Donald Duck Bay and Honeymoon Bay, which are great for resting and swimming. Hiking routes to Sailing Rock Viewpoint and Sunset Point provide panoramic views. Exploring lush woods, secret beaches, and isolated coves enhances the journey.

Wildlife Watching

Wildlife viewing is popular on the Similan Islands, where visitors may see a variety of bird species, dolphins, and, on occasion, whales. Day tours include snorkeling, diving, and sightseeing, whilst liveaboard cruises give an immersive experience by visiting various islands and dive locations over many days.

Photography

Photography aficionados may photograph breathtaking vistas, rock formations, clean beaches, and crystal blue waterways. Underwater photography is rewarding because of the abundant marine life and gorgeous coral reefs. At the national park's visitor centers, tourists interested in conservation can participate in marine programs and learn about how to conserve the islands' ecosystems.

Read  more: A-Z Thailand travel guide for first-time visitors

What to eat in Similan Islands

When visiting the Similan Islands, you may sample a variety of native Thai cuisine and fresh fish. While eating options on the islands may be limited when compared to mainland towns, you can anticipate fresh and excellent Thai food that emphasizes local tastes and ingredients, making dining on the Similan Islands a memorable experience.

What to eat in Similan Islands

• Freshly caught seafood is plentiful, including grilled fish, prawns, squid, and crab. Many seaside restaurants and resorts provide Thai-style seafood meals, such as stir-fries, curries, and steamed with herbs.
• Thai Curries: Traditional Thai curries include green curry (kaeng khiao wan), red curry (kaeng phet), and yellow curry (kaeng kari). These savory recipes are often served with rice and may contain seafood or poultry.
• Tom Yum Goong is a spicy, sour shrimp soup containing lemongrass, lime leaves, galangal, and chili peppers. Tom Yum is a traditional Thai cuisine that is ideal for eating by the beach.

Where to stay in Similan Islands

The Similan Islands have restricted accommodation alternatives due to their protected status as part of Mu Ko Similan National Park. Staying overnight provides a unique opportunity to experience their natural beauty and solitude after day-trippers have departed.

• Camping in National Park Tents: Basic tents are offered on Ko Miang (Island No. 4) and Ko Similan (Island No. 8), providing an immersive natural experience with shared toilet facilities.
• National Park Bungalows: Simple bungalows on Ko Miang are more comfortable than tents, having beds and private bathrooms. Reservations are available through the Thai National Parks website or at national park offices.
• Liveaboard Boats: Many guests choose liveaboard boats, which provide pleasant lodgings and diving/snorkeling trips over several days. Options range from inexpensive to luxurious, and often include meals and diving equipment.

Traveling cost in Similan Islands

Getting to and around the Similan Islands requires various expenses like transportation, lodging, tours, and entrance fees. Below is a list detailing common costs:

Admission Cost: The entry fee to access Mu Ko Similan National Park is 500 THB (around $15 USD) for adults and 300 THB (around $9 USD) for children.

Activities costs:

• Day trips for diving or snorkeling, which include equipment rental, usually range from 3,500 to 6,000 THB (about $100 to $180 USD) per person.
• If snorkeling gear is not provided on your tour, you can rent it for about 200 to 300 THB per day, which is equivalent to $6 to $9 USD.

Food and beverages are frequently provided as part of liveaboard packages. On the islands, simple meals typically range from 100 to 300 THB (equal to about $3 to $9 USD) per meal.

Best time to visit Similan Islands

One of the Similan Islands' main attractions is its fragile and unique ecosystem. However, due to the natural reserve's vulnerability, it cannot withstand the large tourism sector. 

As a result, the Thai government is preserving the islands by shutting them to the public during the Monsoon season, which begins in May and lasts until October. Between these days, the park is closed to both tourists and other visitors. Unfortunately, the islands' remoteness does not provide adequate protection. 

Best time to visit Similan Islands (cre: Thailandstarthere)

Since the monsoon season, local fishermen engage in a large quantity of illicit fishing, which unfortunately harms the delicate coral reefs. Furthermore, several of the Similan Islands are closed to visitors all year because distinct kinds of sea turtles breed on their beaches.

How to get to Similan Islands

There are two routes to reach the Similan Islands. Most people will take a day excursion from Phuket, which is convenient but does not allow them to spend much time on the islands owing to the distance traveled. The best way to see Koh Similan is on a day excursion from Phang Nga province's Khao Lak National Park, but you'll have a great time regardless of how you get to the islands.

Read more: Thailand Tours 20 days