Similan Islands of Thailand: Full Information and Excursions

Similan Islands Overview

The Similans are famous for their genuine beauty, natural purity and rich wildlife. They are deservedly included in the top 10 most beautiful islands on the planet according to UNESCO ratings. 

General information

The Similan Islands stretch along the Andaman Sea coast for 20 km, parallel to the mainland. The highest of them rises 244 m above sea level. Each island has its own number and name (counting starts from the north, ends in the south): 

• Huyong (1); 
• Payang (2); 
• Payan (3); 
• Miang (4); 
• Yes (5); 
• Hin-Pusar (6); 
• Payu (7);
• Similan (8)
• Bangu (9);
• Bon (10);
• Tachay (11).

The largest is Similan (No. 8), its width is 1.4 km, and its length is 4.3 km. The Thai princess liked Miang Island (No. 4) more than the others. She did everything to preserve the beauty of the pristine nature of the archipelago.

Visiting the Similan Islands is only possible between October 15 and May 15, when the National Park is open to tourists. The rest of the year, the archipelago is closed to visitors in order to preserve their ecological balance and the safety of guests due to difficult weather conditions at this time.

Climate and weather

The Similan Islands have a tropical monsoon climate. The rainy season here lasts from May to October, with most of the precipitation falling in July-August. On average, about 3,560 mm of precipitation falls per year. Storms and strong winds are possible during the rainy season. The dry period begins in November and ends in April. At this time, the archipelago is dry, sunny, the air warms up to +33-35ºC, and the water – up to +28-30ºC. 

Location on the map of Thailand

The Similan Islands cover an area of ​​140 km². They are located 70 km from the Phang Nga area and 90 km northwest of Phuket . The main islands are Similan (8), Miang (4) and Tachai (11), although the latter was closed to tourists a couple of years ago.

How to get to the Similan Islands

There are several routes to get to Similan.

Travel options

1. If you are in Krabi Province or Khao Lak, find a tour operator or agency offering tours to the Similans from these areas.
2. You can rent a yacht or catamaran for direct sailing from Phuket or other nearby ports to the Similans . This is a more expensive option, but in this case you have more freedom and comfort.

In any case, it is recommended to contact tour operators and agencies in advance to clarify the schedule and availability of tours to the Similan Islands .

Ticket and transport prices

The cost of tickets and transportation to the Similan Islands depends on the chosen travel option. 

1. The most common option is to get there as part of a tour; often, a trip to the pier is included in the tour price. 
2. Take a bus to Khao Lak and then to one of the piers where you can join a boat excursion and head to the islands. 
3. Not the most budget-friendly, but very comfortable way to get to the Similan Islands is to rent a yacht. The price of the trip depends on the type of vessel chosen, its size and rental conditions. 

Accommodation in Similans

There are no resorts, hotels or inns on the Similans, and overnight stops are prohibited here. Previously, it was possible to spend the night on the largest and most developed islands in terms of civilization – Similan and Mian. Tourists were provided with tents or bungalows, and it was also possible to spend the night on ships anchored near the islands . However, since 2019, the Thai authorities have prohibited this due to the greatly deteriorated environmental situation.  

Prices and accommodation options

At present, only excursions are possible  in the Similan Islands , without overnight accommodation.

Excursions to the Similan Islands

Excursions to the Similans are the main activity among travelers. There are enough tour options here so that everyone can choose what they like.

Description of available excursions

List of the most popular tours to the Similan Islands . 

1. One of the most popular activities in the Similans is exploring the underwater world . The islands are famous for their crystal clear waters and rich marine fauna. During underwater excursions, you can explore colorful coral reefs, “get acquainted” with bright tropical fish and other inhabitants of the Andaman Sea. 
2. Hiking along the trails is also popular . During such hikes, you can enjoy picturesque views and natural attractions: high cliffs, white sand beaches, luxurious forest thickets, creating a stunning atmosphere for photographs and relaxation. 

To organize excursions to the Similan Islands, you should contact local tour operators/travel agencies that offer various programs and tours. Usually, transportation, food and guide services are already included.

Prices and conditions

The cost of excursions depends on the season and the route. Individual tours are provided, as well as the cost of the tour not per person, but per group. The price of a 1-day excursion from Phuket, from Khao Lak or from Taplamu pier (by boat) to Similan is approximately 2,500 baht on average.

We recommend checking the relevance of excursion prices to the islands in advance of the trip. Excursions are held daily. 

Activities and entertainment on the islands

There are few activities on the Similan Islands , mainly hiking, beach relaxation, photography and video shooting, as well as diving and snorkeling. 

Beaches and water sports

The Similan Islands have several wonderful beaches that are attractive for their cleanliness and privacy. The most popular are located on islands No. 4 (Miang) and No. 8 (Similan). Here you can enjoy white sand, bright blue water and breathtaking views of the ocean. There are no other entertainment or water sports on the Similan Islands . 

Snorkeling and diving

Perhaps the most favorite and popular activity among tourists is diving into the sea abyss. Thanks to the crystal clear waters and the diversity of underwater flora and fauna, the Similan Islands are an ideal place for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. 

1. Snorkeling is the easiest way to explore the underwater world of the islands . To dive, you need to put on a mask, snorkel and fins. Get ready to see something that will cause unprecedented delight and will remain in your memory for a long time. You will see unusual coral gardens of different shapes and sizes with schools of colorful fish; leisurely, huge turtles; starfish and moray eels; various mollusks and other creatures.
2. Diving is a more advanced way of exploring the underwater world, for experienced divers. The Similan Islands offer many stunning dive sites, including deep walls, caves and shipwrecks. Here you can see sharks, rays and barracudas, starfish and sea urchins, and a variety of corals.

For the turtles

The main “living attraction” of the archipelago has been and remains for many years giant turtles. They are most often found on the Similans and the island of Tao in tourist Thailand . The length of these giants reaches 50-100 cm, and the weight – 50-100 kg. To establish acquaintance and friendship, it is enough to treat the turtles with fresh fruit. 

The giant “tortillas” nest mainly on Huyong Island , whose beach is closed to visitors. However, divers have every chance of encountering turtles in the underwater depths near other islands.

For both snorkeling and diving, the Similan Islands offer excursions with experienced guides and instructors. They help tourists choose suitable diving spots, ensure safety, and share interesting facts about the underwater life of the islands . 

Other types of active recreation

There are other types of active recreation in the Similan Islands .

1. Swimming and beach relaxation . Undoubtedly, the main types of active recreation in the Similans are swimming and beach relaxation. There are very beautiful coastlines with clear water, where you can enjoy the sun, swimming or “doing nothing”.
2. Hiking . In the Similan Islands, there is a trail to the Similan Island Viewpoint . It offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is also a great place to take cool photos. An equally interesting route leads to Honeymoon Beach on Koh Miang, where you can swim and sunbathe. 
3. Snorkeling. One of the fascinating and favorite tourist activities, capable of immersing you in a completely different world. Schools of nimble tropical fish, moray eels, turtles and mollusks await you when diving into the warm waters of the Andaman Sea.
4. Fishing. Fishing is not allowed near the Similan Islands , as the territory is a National Park. Fishing is allowed at a distance of at least 3 miles from the islands and is usually calculated for 2 days. Due to the large depth differences, there are good places to catch such trophies as tuna, marlin, snapper, etc. Fishing is not included in the price of excursions to the Similans, this is a separate event for which you need to rent a boat. 

The Similan Islands are suitable for tourists of all ages (including children).

Useful information about the Similans

We share important information with tourists departing for the shores of the Andaman Sea.

Travel recommendations

It is advisable to do this when traveling to the Similans :

• familiarize yourself with the rules and requirements of the National Park;
• Book a tour or cruise to the islands in advance , as the number of visitors on one excursion is limited;
• take the necessary things (we will give a detailed list below);
• go to the Similans in November-April; 
• There are no shops or ATMs on the Similan Islands , so we recommend that you bring enough cash with you.

Travel tips and warnings

Useful tips for tourists planning to go to the Similans :

• Be careful when in contact with animals, do not try to feed them or touch them;
• keep the islands clean , throw away your trash in special bins (keep an eye on children, they usually throw candy/chocolate wrappers wherever they like); 
• respect local traditions, customs and culture; 
• Be polite to locals and other tourists;
• Do not smoke or make fires on the islands without permission;
• To avoid unpleasant situations, follow the instructions of the guides – do not risk your own or someone else’s life.

By following these simple rules, you can create the most comfortable conditions for a pleasant pastime. 

Photos of the Similan Islands

Bright, colorful photos of the Similan Islands:

FAQ

We answer frequently asked questions from readers and those who are planning to visit the Similans for the first time .

1. What to take with you on a trip to the Similans ? When traveling to the Similan Islands, be sure to take identification documents, air tickets, hotel reservations, and a phone. Also, do not forget medications, sunscreen, swimwear, comfortable shoes, a hat, casual clothes, chargers for gadgets, a camera, and a bottle of drinking water. 
2. Is it possible to rent snorkeling and diving equipment on the islands ? No, there is no diving equipment rental   on the islands .
3. Are there sharks in the Similan Islands ? Yes, there are sharks in the Similan Islands . There are sharks in the Andaman Sea, as in almost any other sea, but they do not swim up to the coast of Similan Island. There are also reef sharks, but they are not dangerous to humans. 
4. Where to eat in Similan? There are no restaurants or cafes on the Similan Islands , as there are no long-term stops or overnight stays for tourists. 
5. How long does a Similan excursion last ? The duration and program of excursions to the Similan Islands depends on the tour operator and the selected package. Travel companies offer 1-day tours with a trip to the islands and back within one day, since accommodation and overnight stays on the Similan Islands are prohibited.
6. Is it possible to collect shells on the islands ? No, it is not possible. Similan is a National Park in Thailand. Collecting shells, mollusks, as well as plants or animals is prohibited here. Such measures help preserve the nature of Thailand in its original form and prevent the reduction/disappearance of many representatives of fauna and flora. 

Conclusion

The Similan Islands are a true paradise for lovers of beach holidays, water activities (including night ones), and new discoveries. Walks around the islands , incredibly beautiful landscapes, marvelous sunsets, a lot of entertainment for every taste – all this and much more is available to anyone who wants to visit a paradise and absorb all the beauty of the Andaman Sea coast.