Similan Islands
Southern Thailand Region
The Similan Islands, located in the Andaman Sea off southern Thailand's Phang Nga Province, form a protected national park established in 1982. This continental archipelago consists of 11 islands known for their remarkable underwater rock formations and coral reefs resembling natural shapes like deer and brains. The islands host diverse wildlife including Nicobar pigeons, mangrove monitor lizards, and flying foxes. Ko Similan is the largest island, while Ko Huyong features the park's longest beach but remains off-limits to protect turtle nesting grounds. The park is accessible mainly from Tab Lamu Port near Khao Lak, with regular boat services operating during the dry season from October to May. Due to high visitor numbers, strict regulations limit daily visitors and prohibit overnight stays to protect the environment. Several islands are closed to the public to support turtle conservation and reef protection efforts. The Similan Islands offer exceptional opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and appreciating pristine natural beauty in a tropical marine setting.
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Tip: Visit the Similan Islands during the dry season between mid-October and mid-May for the best weather and diving conditions. Booking tickets in advance is recommended due to daily visitor limits. Note that overnight stays on the islands are no longer permitted, so plan accommodations on the mainland. Respect wildlife protection rules by avoiding restricted islands and nesting beaches. Consider joining liveaboard dive tours departing from Tab Lamu, Ko Lanta, or Phuket for multi-day underwater exploration.
Interesting facts
- •The name 'Similan' comes from the Yawi word meaning 'nine', referring to the original nine islands in the archipelago.
- •Ko Huyong island is closed to visitors because its beach is an important nesting site for sea turtles.
- •The underwater rock formations and coral reefs in the Similan Islands resemble natural shapes such as deer, leaves, and mushrooms.
- •Island number 3, Ko Payan, is privately owned by a member of the Thai royal family.
- •Visitor numbers were reduced from about 7,000 to 3,850 daily to protect the park's delicate environment.
History
The Similan Islands were declared a national park in 1982 following an assessment by Thailand's forestry department.
Originally consisting of nine islands, Ko Bon and Ko Tachai were added in 1998 to expand the protected area.
The park has faced challenges from heavy tourist traffic, leading to visitor limits and the removal of overnight accommodations to mitigate environmental degradation.
Ko Tachai island was closed indefinitely in 2016 to allow ecological recovery and reopened in 2018 with restricted access.
These measures reflect ongoing efforts to balance conservation with tourism.
Place Guide
Ko Similan Island
The largest island in the archipelago, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and underwater rock formations that create a spectacular diving environment.
Ko Huyong Island
Known for having the longest and widest beach in the park, this island is closed to visitors to protect turtle nesting sites.
Tab Lamu Port
The main access point to the Similan Islands, located near Khao Lak, serving as the departure hub for boats and liveaboard dive vessels.
