The Similan Islands

The Similan Islands

When it comes to scuba diving and snorkelling in Thailand, there is no better place to visit than the Similan Islands. The National Park is located just 84 KM north of the island of Phuket, and the Similans rank amongst the world's top 10 dive sites, alongside such places as The Great Barrier Reef in Australia and west coast of Grand Turk in The Turks and Caicos. There are several dive companies offering day trips as well as live aboard trips departing from both Phuket in the south as well as Khao Lak just 50 KM away.

The Similan Islands are a group that consists of 9 islands with different names, however they are commonly referred to as "Islands #1,#2,#3" and so forth. The southernmost island, "Koh Huyong" is also known as Similan Island #1, and the numbers increase as the islands go north. There are ranger stations on Islands #4 and #8, with the only available overnight accommodation available only on Island #4. The island of Koh Bon, located approximately 17 nautical miles north, is a part of the Similan National Park and in the future may be granted honorary status as Island #10.

The Similan National Park is closed every year between May 1st until November 1st, and it is illegal to visit during this time. During the high season that begins November 1st, the island is open to visitors, however there are no resorts or stores at the National Park, only a few ranger stations and a handful of bungalows available for rent. The bungalows are quite modest, and they rent for over 2000 THB per night, however tents are available at a much lower price for those who are traveling on a budget.

The wide variety of marine life that are found living near The Similan Islands are what attracts scuba divers and snorkelers from all over the world. You will find Sea Turtles, Manta Rays, Barracuda, sharks, and a wide variety of other creatures that you don't find at most other dive sites in Thailand. Fishing in the waters near the National Park is illegal, however big game fisherman target Marlin and Sailfish just outside the immediate area of the marine park. Fishing charter companies often advertise day trips to The Similan islands, fishing in the waters nearby, getting as close to the marine park as the possibly can.

The crystal clear blue waters and glistening white sandy beaches of The Similans appear in postcards and travel brochures around the world, known as one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet, and the premier location for diving and snorkelling in Thailand. Nowhere else in Southeast Asia will you see the wide variety of marine life, and the natural beauty that you see while diving and snorkelling in The Similan Islands.