Similan Islands

Similan Islands Review

The Mu Koh Similan National Marine Park consists of the nine Similan Islands, as well as Koh Tachai and Koh Bon, which are located farther north. The diving around the Similan Islands is world class, with visibility of up to 120 feet; abundant blue, green, and purple coral; and rare marine life, such as the whale shark, the world's largest fish. In addition to sparkling, crystal-clear water, the Similan Islands also have ultrafine, powdery white-sand beaches and lush tropical forests. The national park service allows visitors to stay on the beaches of Koh Miang (Island 4) and Koh Similan (Island 8).

The tsunami had a considerable effect on the islands. Shallow reefs were particularly hard hit, and as of this writing islands 1, 2, and 3 were indefinitely closed to divers, snorkelers, and visitors. However, many reefs were less affected and the underwater experience on the Similan Islands is fantastic. If you plan to dive, contact a dive operator in Phuket or Khao Lak; there are no dive shops on the islands, though snorkeling gear is available for rent from the ranger stations.

Koh Miang, where the park headquarters is located, has bungalows with 24-hour electricity and even some with air-conditioning (B2,000 with air-conditioning, B1,000 without); some bungalows have ocean views as well. Beachside camping is also available on Koh Miang (the park rents out roomy tents, large enough to stand in, which have two camping cots, for B450). Koh Similan has no bungalows, but has the same large tents for rent (B450), as well as an area for visitors to set up their own tents for B80 per person. If you choose to visit the island to stay at the park, expect to pay B1,800 to B2,000 for a round-trip boat transfer. Once on the island, you can hire a longtail boat to explore the other islands for about B500 per day. Alternatively, tour groups, such as Jack's Similan (076/443205. www.jacksimilan.com), have their own smaller tents set up in this area and rent them out for the same fee charged by the national park. There are also overnight packages, which include tours of the islands, as well as camping and food. The park is extremely popular with Thais, so book well in advance if you're planning a visit during a Thai holiday. The islands are more enjoyable, and more explorable, if visited midweek. The park entrance fee is B200 per visit. Note that the islands are normally closed to visitors from mid-May until early November.