Similan Islands
The Similan Islands are an archipelago in the Andaman Sea, set well off Phuket's coast and protected as a national marine park. They are famous for some of Thailand's clearest water, granite boulders the size of houses and reefs that draw divers and snorkellers from around the world. For many, a day here is the highlight of a Phuket trip.
Above the water you will find blindingly white beaches and shallow turquoise bays; below it, soft and hard corals, schooling fish and the chance of turtles, reef sharks and the occasional manta. The park's strict rules keep the place pristine, which is exactly why it feels so special.
It is a boat day-trip rather than a road destination, so a little planning pays off. Tours leave early and the sea conditions are at their best in the cooler, calmer months when the park is open.
Highlights
- Crystal-clear Andaman Sea visibility
- Powder-white beaches and turquoise bays
- Dramatic granite boulder seascapes
- Vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish
- Turtles, reef sharks and possible mantas
- Protected national marine park
Getting there
The Similans are reached only by boat, usually a speedboat day tour from a Phuket pier such as Thap Lamu, or via transfers from points like Chalong or Bang Rong. Most tours include hotel pick-up, but driving yourself to the meeting point gives you flexibility on these early starts, and having your own rented scooter or car makes the dawn run to the pier far easier than waiting on a shared shuttle. From the pier, the crossing takes a couple of hours each way, so arrive on time.
Best time to visit
The park is typically open in the cooler dry season, roughly late October to mid-May, and closed during the monsoon. Aim for an early-morning departure for the calmest seas and clearest water.
Good to know
- The park closes for part of the year during the monsoon, so check it is open before booking
- A national park entrance fee applies and is often paid separately from your tour
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and water; sun and glare are intense out at sea
- Visitor numbers are managed, so popular dates can sell out in peak season
- Single-use plastics and removing shells, coral or sand are not permitted
Frequently asked
Can you visit the Similan Islands on a day trip from Phuket?+
Yes. Speedboat day tours run from Phuket-area piers and cover the crossing, snorkelling stops and usually lunch, returning the same evening. Liveaboard trips are the alternative for serious divers.
Are the Similan Islands good for snorkelling as well as diving?+
Very. The shallow reefs and clear water make it one of the best snorkelling spots in Thailand, while the deeper sites and boulder swim-throughs are world-class for scuba diving.
Do you need to pay a national park fee?+
Yes, a park entrance fee applies on top of the tour cost and is sometimes collected on arrival. Confirm with your operator whether it is included.
