Similan Islands

The Similan Islands is one of the best-known island groups in the Andaman Sea, largely because of the wonders that await beneath the clear-blue waters surrounding it. They're around 84 km northwest of Phuket. This little archipelago is one of the most interesting diving areas in the world, as well as a favourite destination for yachties and boat tours. 

The islands were created by upwellings of hot magma during the Tertiary-Cretaceous period some 65 million years ago, then smoothed by glacial ice and the erosion by the sea. The coral reefs are about 5,000 years old and hence the oldest in Thailand. In 1982, the national park was established and now it is scheduled to become a UNESCO World Herittage Site.

The 2004 tsunami left the islands and the underwater landscape almost unharmed, since the waters are very deep around the islands.

There is no regular boat service for visitors to the island. During the low season (May–October), boats may stop running altogether due to unfavourable weather conditions. Thap Lamu Pier, in the Thai Muang district of Phang Nga province, is the nearest launching point to the Similans, with boat trips taking about 3 hours.

Snorkelling the Similan Islands
This is one of the most common ways to discover the islands. Sometimes on giant snorkeling boats operating daily, to the more intimate nights on the Similans in your own tent or bungalows.  Check out our Similan Snorkelling page

Similan Islands Diving
The other big attraction for the Similans. With many different Liveaboards operating as well as day trips from Khao Lak it is bewildering array of choices. We have a few Similan Dive Centers listed.

Please also check out our Dive site information.

Hiking/TrekkingThe islands are not large and not really meant for long treks. They are, however, great for exploring and taking your time. There are several small trails on Similan Island #4 and #8. There is also a long trail on Island #8

 Similan Islands – Bird Watching
The Similan Islands are home to s really amazing animal life. Not the least of which are some rare and exotic birds. The Nicobar Pigeon is extremely rare. As is the White-tailed Tropicbird. In addition look for our Sea eagles and Kingfishers.
While the birds are amazing, we also have Flying Foxes, Hairy-Legged Crabs, Mangrove Monitor Lizards and many more amazing species of life on the islands.

 Take some time out and look around. The Similan Islands are an incredible  source of life.

 Similan Islands – Sun Bathing
Who could overlook this! The white, Coral sand beaches make for some extraordinary sun-bathing opportunities. After a day of running around, diving, snorkeling, birdwatching and hiking – Why not just throw down a  towel and enjoy the equatorial sun?

 Similan Islands Safety

The Similan Islands do not feature a medical center of doctors – so alwyas stay clear-headed!
Wear sun screen, drink lots of water and eat well.
Try to avoid touching any of the marine life – some things sting!
You should have Travel Insurance that covers you for accidents that occur while snorkelling or diving.