If you are looking to spend a few days on some postcard beaches in Thailand, we discover the Similan Islands. In them you will find white sand, coral reefs and a great diversity of underwater flora and fauna. The Similan Islands are an archipelago made up of nine islands located in southern Thailand. At Directia Travel we offer you the possibility of taking boat trips to do scuba diving where you can see white sharks or manta rays. In addition, if you are interested, you can spend a few days staying on board to see the seabed without time limits, doing two to four daily dives. A luxury for lovers of diving. If you want to know other beaches in Thailand, we recommend that you see our article Beaches in Thailand: the definitive guide.
The Similan Islands: which ones to visit?
Of the nine islands that make up the archipelago, only six can be visited. The reason is simple: the objective of the premises is to be able to preserve the natural environment as much as possible. The other 3 islands are totally protected since their beaches are usually used by turtles to lay eggs and the coral areas that surround them are not open to visitors. The Similan Islands are part of the Mu Koh Similan National Marine Park. Of the six islands that can be visited in the Similan Islands, there are two that are especially suitable for spending the night or enjoying a local meal: Koh Similan and Koh Miang. The other islands are much smaller and although they are a good option for water sports, you will not be able to stay on them.
Koh Similan
The largest island in Similan
Koh Similan Island is the largest in the archipelago. It is also known as island number 8. It is a good place for snorkeling and diving and, if you want to see one of the most emblematic places, you cannot miss the Sailing Rock , a rock placed in a very peculiar way, as if defying gravity. . From there you will see beautiful views of the beach. If you fancy spending a night on the island, there are tents and bungalows behind the beach that can be booked for the night. You will like it especially if you enjoy adventure and it is worth it if you are looking for absolute relaxation in a little crowded place. In this area of the island you will also find a restaurant.
Koh Miang
perfect to stay
Koh Miang Island, also known as Island Number 4, offers one of the best accommodation possibilities , if you fancy spending a night in the Similan Islands. On this island are the Chomview Bungalows , which have the basic amenities to spend one or two nights. If price is a determining factor for you, there is a more affordable option: Bamboo bungalows . In Koh Miang you can enjoy two beaches and on the island there is also a Thai food restaurant to try the typical gastronomy of the place.
Other islands of the archipelago
- Huyong Island: Huyong Island has a long beach where it is also possible to spot turtles. If you enjoy water sports, a recommended option is to practice diving, since it is a good area to practice this sport.
- Ha Island: Ha Island is a small island where you can practice diving.
- Payang Island: It is an island with a very natural environment, especially ideal for travelers who love nature.
- Pa Yu Island: also known as island number 7. It is one of the favorite islands for divers because it has a beautiful seabed with many marine species and a coral reef. Still, you should keep in mind that this island does not have a beach.
- Payu Island: It is a recommended island for travelers who want to snorkel.
- Bon Island: it is an island with a beach where you can enjoy snorkeling or diving and observe its marine fauna.
- Hin Poussar Island: This island is known for having a rock in the shape of an elephant’s head. It also has some caves in which it is especially recommended to swim, since it is a very attractive environment.
How to get to the Similan Islands?
If you doubt about how to get to the Similan Islands, we explain how you can access them from the main points in the surroundings:
- From Phuket: a 3:30-4 hour journey by boat or speedboat.
- From Thap Lamu Pier , in Phang Nga province. The tour is also by boat and the journey lasts 3 hours
- From Kaoh Lak : You will need to take a 1.5-hour boat ride. To get to Kaoh Lak it is done from Phuket or Krabi by bus or minivan.
Excursions usually arrive at the Similan Islands around 11am.
When to go to the Similan Islands?
Before going to the Similan Islands you should keep in mind that they are part of a natural park. It is closed in low season (June, July and August). Therefore, it is not possible to visit the islands during this time. To know the exact dates of its opening, the ideal is to consult the website of the Mu Ko Similan National Park where they usually indicate that it opens from September 1 to May 30.
The best time to visit the Similan Islands
The best time to visit the Similan Islands is from September to January. From February to May is the rainy season and it is possible that during your stay there will be intermittent rains. Despite this, they most likely won’t stop you from enjoying a few days in the Similan Islands. If you want to spend a particularly quiet stay, choose to spend a night in Koh Similan and not just do the excursion. In the afternoon the boats with the tourists return to their origin and the island is practically alone. Would you like to travel to Thailand and discover the Similan Islands? Here you can see our routes through the beaches of Thailand