• The Similan Islands

The Similan Islands, 90 km northwest of Phuket, are a chain of nine granite and coral islands forming the Mu Ko Similan National Marine Park. The park is home to one of Thailand’s most pristine marine ecosystems, offering excellent diving and snorkeling conditions, and open only from mid-October to mid-May.
The spectacular and unique Granite boulder formations stacked on the beaches and cliffsides, the white sand and clear turquoise water, and the coral reefs and abundant marine life, all make the Similian islands a favorable destination for those prioritizing natural beauty and underwater life over convenience.


The underwater environment with the perfect visibility include hard and soft coral gardens, dramatic swim-throughs and boulder formations, and rich marine life. Explore manta rays, whale sharks, sea turtles, leopard sharks, massive schools of fish, and countless smaller reef species.
Many dive sites are accessible for snorkeling, with healthy corals and diverse fish populations visible in the shallow water.
The islands, part of the archipelago, are numbered 1-9;
Island #4, Koh Miang, is home to the park headquarters including visitor’s facilities, beach restaurants, and overnight camping areas requiring permits.
Island #8, Koh Similan, is the most visited island with the iconic Sailing Rock boulder formation, the Donald Duck Bay, a magnificent viewpoint, and overnight camping area.
Island #5, #6, #7 offer excellent snorkeling sites, and Island #9, Koh Ba Ngu, is the northernmost island offering some of the best diving sites.

One day trip from Phuket is a 14 hours trip leaving only 6 hours on the islands for 3-4 snorkeling stops or 2 dives, hence somewhat extensive.
Multi day liveaboard trips for 2-4 days are also available. Overnight camping is allowed on Islands #4 and #8 with advance permits.

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Similan-Islands heaven for divers near Phuket, Thailand, Travel with Joy

Similan-Islands heaven for divers near Phuket, Thailand, Travel with Joy