SIMILAN & SURIN ISLANDS
This archipelago is Thailand’s premier marine sanctuary, a spectacle of pristine white sands, granite boulders, and underwater visibility that rivals the world’s best. It is a dual national park that promises an ultimate escape to nature.
The islands offer an unparalleled showcase of Andaman Sea biodiversity, from vibrant, shallow-water coral gardens to famous deep-sea dive sites. It is a protected haven for migratory marine megafauna and the unique Moken ‘Sea Gypsy’ culture.
Most Popular Attractions
Iconic Islands & Viewpoints:
Koh Similan (Island #8): The largest island, home to the iconic viewpoint and one of the main visitor beaches.
Sail Rock (at Koh Similan): A famous, massive granite boulder on Island #8 that offers a spectacular panoramic viewpoint over the Andaman Sea.
Donald Duck Bay (at Koh Similan): A picturesque bay known for its distinctive rock formation and a primary relaxation spot.
Koh Miang (Island #4): The park’s main visitor centre island, offering beautiful beaches like Honeymoon Bay and Princess Bay.
Koh Surin Nuea (North Surin): The largest of the Surin Islands, housing the national park headquarters and visitor facilities.
Koh Surin Tai (South Surin): Home to the traditional settlement of the nomadic Moken Sea Gypsies.
Richelieu Rock: A horseshoe-shaped pinnacle and a world-famous, isolated dive site, technically within the Surin Islands National Park area.
Snorkelling & Beaches (Shallow Marine Life):
Ao Mae Yai (Surin Islands): A large, sheltered bay on Koh Surin Nuea known for its diverse and colourful shallow coral reefs, perfect for snorkelling.
Ao Chong Khad (Surin Islands): The main bay at the park headquarters, ideal for swimming and easy, close-to-shore snorkelling.
East of Eden (Similan Islands): A classic snorkelling and diving site on the east side of Koh Payu (#6) famed for its soft coral gardens.
Ao Luek (Surin Islands): Known for its shallow coral and abundant marine life near Koh Surin Nuea.
Elephant Head Rock (Similan Islands): A collection of giant boulders forming arches and swim-throughs for divers and a scenic snorkelling area.
Hin Pousar (Island #7): Also known as the “Christmas Point” area, it is famous for its rocky underwater landscape and vibrant marine fauna.
Ao Tao (Turtle Bay): Located on Koh Surin Tai, a prime spot for viewing and protecting sea turtles, with healthy reef.
Cultural & Natural Sites:
Moken Village (on Koh Surin Tai): The traditional home of the semi-nomadic Moken ‘Sea Gypsies’, offering a glimpse into their unique, sea-dependent culture.
National Park Headquarters (on Koh Miang and Koh Surin Nuea): The administrative and visitor hub where you can find facilities and information.
Ko Bon (Island #10): A northern extension of the Similans known for its spectacular ‘West Ridge’ dive site, frequently visited by manta rays.
Rainforest Hiking Trails (on Koh Miang & Koh Surin Nuea): Short, easy trails offering glimpses of native island flora and fauna, including monitor lizards and various bird species.
Deep Diving & Pelagic Encounters:
Richelieu Rock (Dive Site): The number one dive site for spotting Whale Sharks and Manta Rays during the peak season (Feb-May).
Ko Bon West Ridge: Renowned specifically as a key location for regular sightings of Manta Rays.
Deep Six (Dive Site): Famed for its collection of towering rock pinnacles and diverse large marine life.
Shark Fin Reef: A long granite reef offering great chances to see leopard sharks and other pelagic fish.
Ko Tachai (Island #11): Though the island is closed, its former dive site, Twin Peaks, remains a renowned spot for experienced divers (currents permitting).
Activities & Experiences
Go Scuba Diving at Richelieu Rock: Experience one of Thailand’s most famous dive sites, known for its horseshoe shape and high probability of spotting Whale Sharks and Manta Rays (especially from February to May).
Snorkel the Shallow Coral Reefs: The Surin Islands, in particular, are renowned for their extensive, shallow coral gardens and clear, calm waters, making them ideal for all levels of snorkelers.
Hike to Donald Duck Bay Viewpoint: Climb the famous Sailing Boat Rock (Ko Similan, Island No. 8) to capture panoramic, postcard-perfect views of the bay and the Andaman Sea.
Visit the Moken Sea Gypsy Village: On Ko Surin Tai, you can visit the small village of the Moken, or “Sea Gypsies,” to observe their unique, traditional nomadic culture (please be respectful).
Enjoy a Liveaboard Dive Trip: For serious divers, book a multi-day liveaboard boat trip that allows you to explore the best dive and snorkel sites in both the Similan and Surin archipelagos.
Search for Wildlife on Land: Take a short jungle walk on one of the main islands to look for indigenous wildlife like Nicobar pigeons, sea eagles, monitor lizards, and flying lemurs.
Relax on Pristine Beaches: Spend time on the unspoiled, white-sand beaches of islands like Ko Miang (Island No. 4), which offer incredible tranquility and natural beauty.
Spot Sea Turtles and Leopard Sharks: Both groups of islands are crucial habitats for sea turtles (hawksbill and green) and leopard sharks, which are frequently spotted on dives and snorkels.
Explore Underwater Rock Formations: Dive or snorkel around the Similan Islands’ granite boulder sites, such as Elephant Head Rock or Christmas Point, for dramatic swim-throughs and topography.
Photography Expedition: Bring an underwater camera to capture the extraordinary visibility and colorful marine life, and a regular camera for the iconic island landscapes.
Take a Day Trip from Khao Lak: Choose between an “Early Bird” fast-speed boat or a more comfortable catamaran day trip from Khao Lak to maximize your time in the National Park.
Local Tips & Transport
Access is by Tour Boat Only: There are no public ferries or longtail boat services to either the Similan or Surin Islands. All travel is via organized speedboat, catamaran, or liveaboard tours, typically departing from Khao Lak (Tap Lamu Pier or Kuraburi Pier) or sometimes Phuket.
Khao Lak is the Main Hub: Khao Lak is significantly closer to both island groups than Phuket and is the most common and convenient base for booking your trip. Transfers from your hotel are usually included in the tour price.
Speedboat vs. Catamaran: Speedboats are faster, but catamarans are generally more stable and offer a more comfortable journey across the open sea, which is often preferred for those prone to seasickness.
No Inter-Island Public Transport: Once you are in the National Park, your boat operator will handle all inter-island transportation as part of the tour itinerary. You cannot hire separate boats for island-hopping.
Know the Season: The entire Mu Ko Similan and Mu Ko Surin National Parks are strictly closed during the monsoon season, typically from May 16th to October 14th each year, to allow the ecosystems to recover. The best time to visit is November to April.
National Park Fees: A National Park entry fee is mandatory for all visitors (typically a separate charge or included in your tour package). This fee is vital for conservation efforts.
No Shoes on the Islands: In the spirit of conservation and respect for the pristine environment, visitors are often asked to remove their shoes before stepping onto the white-sand beaches.
Respect the Moken Culture: If you visit the Moken village on Surin Tai, remember that this is a home to the local “Sea Gypsies.” Be respectful of their privacy and traditions, and always ask permission before taking photos.
Conservation First: Both islands are heavily protected. Do not touch the coral or marine life (including turtles), do not feed the fish, and only swim or snorkel in designated areas. Fishing is strictly prohibited.
Accommodation is Limited: Staying overnight is only permitted in designated National Park facilities (tents or bungalows) on a few islands in the Surin group, or on a liveaboard boat. No private hotels or resorts exist in the parks.
Tipping is Appreciated: Tipping your tour boat crew and dive guides for good service is customary in Thailand and much appreciated.
Top Restaurants
National Park Restaurant (Similan Island #4) [$5-$12] – The main canteen on Koh Miang, offering a buffet or à la carte menu of simple, traditional Thai dishes (rice, noodles, curries, basic meat/seafood) primarily catering to day-trippers and overnighters.
National Park Restaurant (Surin Nuea) [$5-$10] – A covered dining area on the main island of the Surin archipelago, providing set meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) of traditional Thai cuisine at set times for campers and park guests.
Moken Village Canteen (Koh Surin Tai) [$5-$15] – A small, informal, and non-touristic local operation providing basic meals to visitors, offering a unique chance to try simple, authentic Moken (sea-nomad) cuisine and fresh-caught fare.
Liveaboard Meal Service (Various Operators) [$100-$180/day – Included in Tour Price] – Catering on dive/snorkel liveaboard vessels, typically offering a mix of Western and Thai cuisine (often excellent quality) with full-board (3 meals plus snacks) for multi-day trips.
Day-Trip Boat Lunch (Various Operators) [$15-$30 – Included in Tour Price] – A pre-packaged or on-board buffet lunch provided by day-trip speedboats, usually consisting of basic Thai food, rice, fruits, and water/soft drinks.
Bai Ya Restaurant (Khuraburi Town) [$8-$15] – A popular, non-touristic local spot in the small town of Khuraburi (the pier for Surin Islands), known for authentic, inexpensive Southern Thai dishes and frequented by locals and park staff.
Mojo Thai Restaurant (Khao Lak) [$10-$20] – A highly-rated restaurant in the main gateway town for Similan, offering high-quality traditional Thai cuisine and excellent seafood, a great choice before or after an island trip.
KruaThai (Khao Lak) [$10-$20] – Known for authentic Thai flavors in a pleasant setting near the main tourist strip of Khao Lak, but retaining a focus on traditional recipes and fresh ingredients.
Rim Lay (Khao Lak) [$8-$15] – A straightforward, reliable beachfront or waterside restaurant often popular with locals and known for its fresh seafood and classic Thai beach fare.
Takiang Restaurant (Khao Lak) [$15-$30] – Located in Khao Lak, this spot is recognized for serving authentic and refined Southern and Northern Thai specialties in a more upscale, yet still local-focused, setting.
Gold Elephant (Khao Lak) [$10-$20] – A well-regarded local restaurant in Khuk Khak (near Khao Lak) focusing on authentic Thai dishes and fresh seafood, with a strong following among residents.
Pinky Restaurant (Bang Sak Beach, Khao Lak) [$10-$25] – A classic beachside eatery famed for its fresh seafood, simple setup, and stunning ocean views, popular with those seeking a laid-back local beach vibe.
ThaiLife Restaurant & Mookata (Khao Lak) [$10-$25] – Offers traditional Thai dishes and also features Mookata (Thai BBQ/hot pot), providing a fun, interactive, and less tourist-heavy dining experience.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Memories Beach Bar: An iconic, rustic, bamboo-and-thatch beach bar on Khuk Khak Beach (towards Pakarang Cape). Known for its incredibly relaxed, tropical vibe, stunning sunsets, and live music, making it a perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail.
Monkey Bar Khao Lak: A vibrant, colorful, and popular spot located in the center of La On Village on Phetkasem Road. It is famous for its laid-back Reggae style, affordable drinks (including cocktails), and frequently features live music, attracting both locals and tourists.
The Happy Snapper: More than just a bar, this is a well-known institution in Bang Niang (on the main Phetkasem Road) famous for its excellent live band playing classic rock, blues, and funk. They serve a range of drinks, including cocktails, in a lively, music-focused atmosphere.
Tiki Bar Bang Niang: Found on Bang Niang Beach Road, this tropical grill and bar offers a fun atmosphere, delicious BBQ, and a selection of refreshing cocktails, often with live music to set the mood.
Devasom Beach Grill | Bar: A sophisticated, high-end beachfront bar within the Devasom resort on Khuk Khak Beach. It offers a beautiful setting for enjoying exquisite cocktails with a view of the Andaman Sea and is highly recommended for sunset happy hour.
Moose’s Pub: Located in Khuk Khak, this spot provides a vibrant nightlife experience with good drinks and regular live entertainment in a friendly setting.
Landing Bar: Situated in the Phang-nga region, it is known for its lively atmosphere and a cocktail scene that incorporates local flavors.
Gecko Bar, Khaolak: A chilled-out and lively bar on Bang Niang Beach Road. It’s popular for its festive atmosphere, pool table, and good drinks, making it a great place for meeting fellow travelers and expats.
Canal Bar: A relaxing venue in Khuekkhak known for offering refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a casual evening out.
Mr. Chay Bar: Located in Phang-nga (accessible from Khao Lak), this bar is known for its creative cocktails and friendly service, creating memorable nights for its guests.
DREAM BAR: Found in the Khuekkhak area, it’s a lively bar offering refreshing drinks and a friendly, unpretentious atmosphere.
Piranha Bar: A lively and well-regarded bar in Khuekkhak, offering an eclectic blend of local and international beverages in a relaxed setting.
Chang Bar: A tropical escape in the Phang-nga area with a vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks.
Senses Beach Bar: Offers the ultimate beachside retreat in Phang-nga, providing stunning views and a wide selection of refreshing drinks right on the sand.
Lion bar Khaolak: Known for its great drinks and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Khao Lak, it’s a popular choice for tourists.
Spunky Monkey Khao Lak: A lively bar in Khao Lak that offers creative cocktails and a welcoming environment for all tourists.